Singing and Making Melody to the Lord with [My] Heart, BECAUSE the LORD is good; His Steadfast Love Endures Forever, and His Faithfulness to All Generations!”

Dear Fellow Children of God, 

On Saturday, September 26 I had the joy of attending the retirement ceremony of Pastors Tim and Leisa Carrick as they complete their 35(!) years of ministry at Palmer United Protestant (Presbyterian) Church in Palmer.  Palmer UP and St. John Lutheran are neighbors (along with St. Michael Roman Catholic), sharing a city block.  In spite of our different denominations, we have over the years, found ways to work together in serving the Lord.  Tim and Leisa arrived in Palmer in October 1991, the same year which Kathy and I arrived.  Both spoke near the end of their retirement ceremony, but something Tim said touched me.  He quoted a Dolly Parton song, “I Will Always Love You.”  (As Pastor Tim read these lyrics, a cello group played the melody.)

If I should stay I would only be in your way

So I'll go, but I know I'll think of you each step of the way

And I will always love you

I will always love you

Those words seemed to me just the right words at this time when relationships were changing.  Sometimes, music often speaks more than just words can say.  I have previously shared in these devotions that I believe that songs speak words to the head, and music speaks to the heart.

What are your favorite hymns, or even songs.  Pastor Tim chose a secular song.  But, I’ll share with you about Christian songs or hymns.  

In Psalm 100 we are called, “1 Make a joyful noise to the LORD, all the earth! 5 For the LORD is good; his steadfast love endures forever, and his faithfulness to all generations.”   (Psalm 100:1, 5)  How do you praise God for His steadfast love, for His faithfulness?  Which JOYFUL songs speak to your soul?

At times I have taken surveys of congregations where I served as Pastor to see what congregational members enjoyed singing.  Often people chose “Amazing Grace,” “What A Friend we Have in Jesus,” and “How Great Thou Art.”  I personally have many favorites.  From old hymnals the hymns “Abide With Me,” “Beautiful Savior,” “Be Still My Soul,” “A Mighty Fortress,” and “Jesus Christ is Risen Today” each cause my heart to soar when I sing.

But, it’s not just old songs.  In Bible class on Sunday we heard the exhortation from Ephesians 5 to “18 . . . be filled with the Spirit, 19 addressing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody to the Lord with your heart, 20 giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ” (Ephesians 5:18-20) Obviously, if the early Christian church sang “psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs” there are different kinds of music, even for worship.  Psalms 96 and 98 call on the people of God to “sing to the LORD a new song.”  (Psalm. 98:1).  In our new(er) hymnal I enjoy singing “Lamb of God,” “Holy Spirit the Dove Sent from Heaven,” “I Want to Walk as a Child of the Light,” “Christ Be My Leader,” and other new songs.  In contemporary worship “Your Grace Is Enough” inspires me.

How about songs not in Lutheran Hymnals?  Years ago St. John member, Bill Weith, introduced me to a piece by the English Boys Choir, Libera, entitled, “Going Home.”  I have also come to be truly blessed by music from Keith and Kristyn Getty such as “In Christ Alone” or, “A Mother’s Prayer.” (You might look up these songs on Youtube.)  And recently, I happened across a choir from Ontario singing an old Christian hymn, “He Will Hold Me Fast.”  In a time when the world seems spinning toward chaos, the assurance of God’s loving care is truly strengthening.  Consider John 10:27-28, “27 My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me. 28 I give them eternal life, and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of my hand.” (Jn. 10:27-28 ESV), or the epistle reading for this coming Sunday from Philippians 3,  “8 Indeed, I count everything as loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. . .  11 that by any means possible I may attain the resurrection from the dead. 12 Not that I have already obtained this or am already perfect, but I press on to make it my own, because Christ Jesus has made me his own.” (Phil. 3:8, 11-12 ) Our Lord is so gracious to sinful people such as we are, in Jesus.  Such assurance from God is beyond my words of praise.  No wonder the angels in heaven stand before the throne of God singing His praise!  

Which songs of God’s love speak to you?  How do you thank and praise God for His love to us in the sacrificial, victorious life, death, and resurrection of Jesus?

A Child of God, Singing and Making Melody to the Lord with [My] Heart, BECAUSE the LORD is good; His Steadfast Love Endures Forever, and His Faithfulness to All Generations!”

Pastor Rockey

P.S. Here is the call of Psalm 100 to praise the Lord!

 1 Make a joyful noise to the LORD, all the earth!

 2 Serve the LORD with gladness! Come into his presence with singing!

 3 Know that the LORD, he is God! It is he who made us, and we are his; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.

 4 Enter his gates with thanksgiving, and his courts with praise! Give thanks to him; bless his name! 

5 For the LORD is good; his steadfast love endures forever, and his faithfulness to all generations.

P.P.S.  Here are some songs which touch my heart and help me to praise my Lord.

• A Mother’s Prayer by Keith and Kristyn Getty.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hoy74orJu10&list=RDhoy74orJu10&start_radio=1  

• “He Will Hold Me Fast” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EASmjIol9EU&list=RDEASmjIol9EU&start_radio=1  

• “Going Home” by Libera - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TvThHk-wMRk&list=RDTvThHk-wMRk&start_radio=1 

• Here is Dolly Parton singing the song which Pastor Tim quoted.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jr8tffNHJno 

P.P.S.  I am now serving as Vacancy pastor at Anchorage Lutheran Church in Anchorage.  

• Call Committee – The ELT of Anchorage Lutheran has re-started the call process. This committee consists of Lynn Boots, Danielle Bowman, Caleb Fluege, Tim and Genae Meerstein, Alexa Mix, Joel Mix, Joe Pollock, and Karen Quintieri.  Also attending meetings will be ELT President, Steve Fibranz, DCE Matthew Murphy, Vacancy Pastor Jonathan Rockey, and Circuit Visitor Tony Schultz.   The committee met on September 10 for a beginning meeting, and again on Sunday, September 20 after worship to evaluate our self-study.

BEGINNING SUNDAY, OCTOBER 4, ANCHORAGE LUTHERAN MEMBERS WILL AGAIN BE ASKED TO GIVE INPUT TO THE COMMITTEE ABOUT OUR CONGREGATION, AND ABOUT THE CHARACTERISTICS OF A PASTOR WE BELIEVE WOULD BE SERVE GOD’S WORK IN THIS PLACE.  For 3 Sundays, September 27-October 11, people will have an opportunity to fill out a questionnaire.

PLEASE PRAY FOR THE CALL PROCESS AT ALC!

• Consecration (Stewardship) Sunday – The ELT also voted to conduct a Stewardship Emphasis which will provide education on God’s plans for Christian Stewardship, and will give ALC members an opportunity to consider and plan ways to respond to God’s grace in their lives.  In November worship we will consider a) God’s many blessings in my life, and b) God’s plan for Stewardship.  In worship on November 15, ALC members will have an opportunity in worship, and we will celebrate with a special meal after worship. Please plan now to be part of this growth opportunity.

 

• Bible classes –

 CONFIRMATION CLASSES - I had the privelege of helping with Confirmation classes at ALC on Wednesday, September 23.  THIRTY young people were in attendance.  Here are a couple of pictures.  https://photos.app.goo.gl/99qhRgfDtt4r1YTs7 

 On Sunday mornings at 9:00 a.m. we have been studying the book of Ephesians downstairs in the fellowship hall, using the CPH “Lifelight” Bible Study. Class begins at 9:00 a.m. downstairs in the Fellowship Hall.  On October 4 we will finish studying Ephesians chapter 5, and possibly begin chapter 6.

PLEASE FEEL FREE TO JOIN US!.

 New Member Class? –Beginning October 4, IF there is anyone interested, I will teach an Adult Membership Class after late worship.  The class will be held in my office.  This would not only be a way for non-members to join Anchorage Lutheran, but a good refresher for current members.

 

● Other Activities of Faith:

 I am again taking a two-year journey with my Lord, by reading through the Scriptures using the “Today’s Light Devotional Bible.”  On Tuesday, September 29, I finished reading 1 and 2 Chronicles, reading about the destruction of Jerusalem, and God’s promise for their return under Cyrus.

You are welcome to join in this journey of reading God’s Word.  You may also contact me at 907-841-4066 if you have any questions about these readings.  Or send an e-mail question to jonrock53@mtaonline.net  I have received questions and comments about the readings.  It is always good to consider our Lord’s love and guidance. I will TRY to answer, but some things only God knows!

P.P.S. Family Fun, Friends, and Fishing!    

● FINAL final harvest, 9-25-2026.  Raspberries, peas, collards, red leaf lettuce and romaine lettuce.  Here are some pictures.  https://photos.app.goo.gl/MfqDQGFQ54ckxhwW8  

● FISHING - I have a trip scheduled with guide Murray Fenton on the Kenai on September 30 along with Gerry Zellar and Harvey Kolberg.  Pictures next week.

 

*******

 

ABOUT THIS DEVOTION - I retired at the end of August 2019 from serving as full-time senior pastor of St. John Lutheran Church in Palmer, AK.  I was writing a weekly devotion previously entitled, "Thoughts from the Pastor."  When I retired many asked me to continue writing these devotions.  So I have continued writing.  However, with life's changes I now call this weekly devotion "Journeys Through Life as a Child of God."  Since I am no longer senior pastor at St. John, I felt it right to only send this message to those who asked to receive it.  (I finished for now serving as Assistant to the Pastor for First Lutheran Church in Gainesville, FL. I am now serving Anchorage Lutheran Church as Vacancy Pastor.)

So, if you stopped receiving these devotions and wondered why, now you understand.  And, if you are now receiving these devotions and do not wish to receive them, please let me know, and I’ll gladly remove your name from my distribution list.  My e-mail address is jonrock53@mtaonline.net.

My prayer is that these devotions help each of you in your daily walk with our Lord, Jesus.

 

                                                                        *******

Jonathan Rockey

Child of God

Husband, Father, Son, Grandfather

Vacancy Pastor, Anchorage Lutheran Church, Anchorage, AK

Pastor Emeritus, St. John Lutheran Church, Palmer, AK

 

“How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are!” (1 John 3:1 a)

 

 

 

Idols: Reminded Again that My Heart Belongs to Jesus!

 

Dear Fellow Children of God, 

 

In my daily devotions on Tuesday, September 22, I read about Ahaz, the unfaithful king of Judah.  Ahaz closed up the temple of the Lord in Jerusalem, and worshiped the false gods of the nations around him. Because of Ahaz’ sin, both he and the nation suffered under the Lord’s correcting hand.  In the “Sharpening the Focus” note at the end of this Bible reading, the editor, Jane L. Fryar, wrote. “The gods we worship are often like that.  We honestly believe they will fulfill our dreams . . . Sometimes we get what we think we want. But if we count on experiences, things, or other people to fulfill our lives we will find our dreams turning into nightmares.” (Today’s Light Bible, page 620)  I do not personally know anyone who bows down to a carved statue.  But, there are things, even in the lives of God’s people, which can push the Lord away. 

 

This devotion spoke to me on Tuesday morning, because of what had happened to me on Sunday, and then Monday.  Sunday night I was watching a football game on TV as I answered email on my computer.  I got up to let my dog out and when I returned my computer screen was blue and there was a message which read, “Your computer has experienced an error which cannot be repaired.”  I turned off the computer, and it did restart.  However, then the computer turned off and nothing I could think of at that time would make it turn on again.

 

Over the years my computer has become an important tool for me.  I use it to communicate through emails, and on the internet.  I write sermons, devotions, newsletters, and church worship services.  We shop over the internet, and search for information.  I organize my home-life on my computer.  And, (ahem) I do play a game or two of solitaire.  😊 In some ways my life is on my computer!  I began to think of the tasks I could not do: write and communicate a staff meeting agenda for Tuesday, write a weekly devotion for Wednesday, print a sermon for Sunday, communicate with committees with whom I am scheduled to meet, keep up on my bills!

 

I bought my first computer in 1986.  Our lives used to work fine without them.  Yet, in some ways it seems we can’t live now without this tool.  Has this become an idol?  That’s what I thought as I read my Tuesday Bible reading and devotion.  And, what else in my life pushes my Lord and Savior away, or pulls me away from Him?

 

When Jesus’ ministry was beginning, He was tempted in the wilderness by Satan. The devil offered Jesus, “all the kingdoms of the world and their glory.” (Matt. 4:8) In response, Jesus quoted the Scriptures to resist the temptation and send His adversary away, "Be gone, Satan! For it is written, 'You shall worship the Lord your God and him only shall you serve.'" (Matthew 4:10)  Our calling, as people created and saved by God, is to worship and to serve Him, to worship and serve Him alone!

 

Ultimately, the issue is not necessarily the object itself gaining our attention, but how our heart reacts that object.  Is this thing (fishing pole, boat, computer) that which my heart desires?  Or, is this object a tool which I plan to use in worshiping and serving my Lord?

 

Romans 8 is such a deep and comforting chapter of Scripture.  In verses 31 and 32 our Lord inspired the Apostle Paul to share this amazing truth about God’s grace for us. “³¹ What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?  ³² He who did not spare his own Son but gave him up for us all, how will he not also with him graciously give us all things?”  Imagine! The Son of God born for me, dying for me, rising for me!!  When I know that the Father gave up Jesus for me, for us, in spite of our times of wandering, that captures my heart.  God deserves all my worship and service, not only because He is my Creator, but even more for His love to me in Jesus.  Then, when God also “graciously gives us all things,”  these things of the world can become, not the object of our desire, but a tool to serve our Lord.  However, the account of Ahaz in 1 Chronicles 28, and my own experiences tell me I need to keep a watch on my heart!

 

When my computer died I did not panic.  I am blessed with a friend who is great with computers and I contacted him.  On Monday, Kathy needed to go to Anchorage, so after her appointments we stopped at a couple of places and looked at computers. My friend gave me some advice.  I waited until Tuesday and went to Costco to purchase a new computer.  And, by the grace of God I remembered a trick which a computer technician had taught me previously.  I pushed the keys Fn+F10+start at the same time for 30 seconds.  My computer woke up.  I still have the same error message, but I can, for a time, use my computer again to share God’s word.  (You realize this fact because you are reading this devotion.)

 

I am trusting my Lord to GUARD my heart.  “And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:7)  It is MY LORD AND SAVIOR whom I want to worship, not the shiny things of this world!

 

A Child of God, Reminded Again that My Heart Belongs to Jesus!

Pastor Rockey

 

P.S.  I am now serving as Vacancy pastor at Anchorage Lutheran Church in Anchorage.  

 

·        Call Committee – The ELT of Anchorage Lutheran has re-started the call process. This committee consists of Lynn Boots, Danielle Bowman, Caleb Fluege, Tim and Genae Meerstein, Alexa Mix, Joel Mix, Joe Pollock, and Karen Quintieri.  Also attending meetings will be ELT President, Steve Fibranz, DCE Matthew Murphy, Vacancy Pastor Jonathan Rockey, and Circuit Visitor Tony Schultz.   The committee met on September 10 for a beginning meeting, and again on Sunday, September 20 after worship to evaluate our self-study.

BEGINNING SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, ANCHORAGE LUTHERAN MEMBERS WILL AGAIN BE ASKED TO GIVE INPUT TO THE COMMITTEE ABOUT OUR CONGREGATION, AND ABOUT THE CHARACTERISTICS OF A PASTOR WE BELIEVE WOULD BE SERVE GOD’S WORK IN THIS PLACE.  For 3 Sundays, September 27-October 11, people will have an opportunity to fill out a questionnaire.

PLEASE PRAY FOR THE CALL PROCESS AT ALC!

 

·        Stewardship Sunday – The ELT also voted to conduct a Stewardship Emphasis which will provide education on God’s plans for Christian Stewardship, and will give ALC members an opportunity to consider and plan ways to respond to God’s grace in their lives.  Watch for updates concerning dates and events.  We will have a special Sunday in November.  This committee will meet in the pastor’s office on Sunday, September 27, after late worship!

 

·        Bible classes –

o   On Sunday mornings at 9:00 a.m. we have been studying the book of Ephesians downstairs in the fellowship hall, using the CPH “Lifelight” Bible Study. We have some new lesson books available.  Class begins at 9:00 a.m. downstairs in the Fellowship Hall.  On September 20 we studied Chapter 4.  On September 27 we will finish studying chapter 4 and begin chapter 5

PLEASE FEEL FREE TO JOIN US!.

 

o   New Member Class? –Beginning in October, IF there is anyone interested, I will teach an Adult Membership Class after late worship.  This would not only be a way for non-members to join Anchorage Lutheran, but a good refresher for current members.

 

Other Activities of Faith:

I am again taking a two-year journey with my Lord, by reading through the Scriptures using the “Today’s Light Devotional Bible.”  On Wednesday, September 23, I read 2 Chronicles 29, about King Hezekiah.

You are welcome to join in this journey of reading God’s Word.  You may also contact me at 907-841-4066 if you have any questions about these readings.  Or send an e-mail question to jonrock53@mtaonline.net  I have received questions and comments about the readings.  It is always good to consider our Lord’s love and guidance. I will TRY to answer, but some things only God knows!

 

P.P.S. Family Fun, Friends, and Fishing!    

 

·        Frost – We had our first notable frost on the morning of Wednesday, September 23.  Here is a picture.  https://photos.app.goo.gl/SDn2EEaFKVH6A6C26

 

·        No Fishing this week.  My Palmer boat is still in the shop!  However, I do have a trip scheduled with guide Murray Fenton on the Kenai on September 30.

 

·        Harvest – The SURPRISE  of our week happened last Thursday night / Friday morning, September 17-18.  Our son-in-law, Brandon Holmes, received a call from the state at 11:00 p.m. Thursday night about a moose which had been killed by a vehicle north of Glennallen, (about 3 hours away).  He was on the “road-kill list” for his previous residence.  Mary and Brandon left at 11:40 p.m. and drove north to the site.  They field dressed the large cow moose, whose neck had been broken in a collision, and returned to our home about 3:00 p.m. on Friday.  We did an initial cleaning, and hung the moose on Friday afternoon.  On Saturday and Sunday we butchered, with the help of friend, Gerry Zellar.  We cleaned up Monday.  Brandon and Mary now have a freezer full of moose, and they have shared some with friends and family. We did have moose roast Friday night, and leftovers Saturday, and moose burgers on Sunday night!  😊  Here are some pictures.  https://photos.app.goo.gl/LRDh9F5jWzGof3J28

 

 

*******

 

ABOUT THIS DEVOTION - I retired at the end of August 2019 from serving as full-time senior pastor of St. John Lutheran Church in Palmer, AK.  I was writing a weekly devotion previously entitled, "Thoughts from the Pastor."  When I retired many asked me to continue writing these devotions.  So I have continued writing.  However, with life's changes I now call this weekly devotion "Journeys Through Life as a Child of God."  Since I am no longer senior pastor at St. John, I felt it right to only send this message to those who asked to receive it.  (I finished for now serving as Assistant to the Pastor for First Lutheran Church in Gainesville, FL. I am now serving Anchorage Lutheran Church as Vacancy Pastor.)

So, if you stopped receiving these devotions and wondered why, now you understand.  And, if you are now receiving these devotions and do not wish to receive them, please let me know, and I’ll gladly remove your name from my distribution list.  My e-mail address is jonrock53@mtaonline.net.

My prayer is that these devotions help each of you in your daily walk with our Lord, Jesus.

 

                                                                        *******

Jonathan Rockey

Child of God

Husband, Father, Son, Grandfather

Vacancy Pastor, Anchorage Lutheran Church, Anchorage, AK

Pastor Emeritus, St. John Lutheran Church, Palmer, AK

 

 

“How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are!” (1 John 3:1 a)

 

Finding Hope in a Hopeless World, Because of Jesus!

 

Dear Fellow Children of God, 

 

I have had about a week and a half to take it easy.  I took time to moose hunt with my son-in-law and daughter.  Therefore, I was not in worship on September 6.  Yet, that hunting trip did not last as long as I expected.  I had also been asked to preach at my former congregation, St. John Lutheran Church in Palmer, for Stephen Ministry Sunday.  That kept me busy on September 13.  There was also a pastors’ conference which was scheduled for September 15 and 16, but didn’t work out.  So, I have spent much of the last two weeks at home, working on chores.  I spent time harvesting in the garden, and I transplanted some currant bushes.  I pressure-washed the back deck, and cooked a few meals.  I had a couple of other opportunities which materialized, and then disappeared.  While I have not been idle, I did get some down time. Kathy says, “It’s nice to have you at home doing things here.”  Rest is a gift of God. (Psalm 127:2) 

 

While working around the house I noticed a seemingly small thing which nevertheless provided me with a message of hope.  I have planted apple trees along the east side of our yard.  I have pictures from past years of the trees hanging low because of the heavy load of apples.  However, in the winter of 2023, when we had large amounts of snow, the moose were hungry, and they ate the bark all around my apple trees.  The trees died above the bark damage.  I planted 2 more trees.  But, responding to advice by Extension Agent, Steve Brown, I also tried grafting some branches on the damaged trees below what the moose ate.  Nothing happened in 2024, nor in 2025.  Nevertheless, this year one of those grafts bore apples.

 

In truth, the new trees have not yet produced fruit.  Only one of the grafts lived.  The graft which did survive only bore 4 apples.  Only 4.  But those four apples give me hope. 

 

In the parable of The Lost Son, the father tells his older son to celebrate as the younger son has returned home.  “It was fitting to celebrate and be glad, for this your brother was dead, and is alive '" (Luke 15:32) What a blessing to see what seemed to be dead, or was dead, alive again. I choose to see my Lord’s work in the new life of my trees.

 

In addition, the parable of the mustard seed came to mind.  "The kingdom of heaven is like a grain of mustard seed that a man took and sowed in his field. ³² It is the smallest of all seeds, but when it has grown it is larger than all the garden plants and becomes a tree, so that the birds of the air come and make nests in its branches." (Matthew. 13:31-32)  There may only be 4 apples this year, but there were none in 2025.  Who knows for 2027, or beyond? 

 

As I look at the world around, me I see trouble and decline.  There are wars on an international scale, and turmoil in our home country.  Churches suffer from conflict and decline.  Families struggle and fall apart.  People turn away from faith in God and following His guidance, and turn to the lies of this world.  But, in the midst of worldly decline, God is still here.

 

When the city Jerusalem was destroyed and the Jews were captives in Babylon, the prophet Jeremiah wrote what we read in Lamentations 3. “²¹ But this I call to mind, and therefore I have hope: ²² The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; ²³ they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.”  (Lamentations 3:21-23)

 

That is what God does for us in Jesus. When Lazarus died from illness, Martha and Mary were devastated.  They had lost hope.  “²¹ Martha said to Jesus, ‘Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died. ²² But even now I know that whatever you ask from God, God will give you.’ ²³ Jesus said to her, ‘Your brother will rise again.’ ²⁴ Martha said to him, ‘I know that he will rise again in the resurrection on the last day.’ ²⁵ Jesus said to her, ‘I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, ²⁶ and everyone who lives and believes in me shall never die. Do you believe this?’ ²⁷ She said to him, ‘Yes, Lord; I believe that you are the Christ, the Son of God’” (John 11:21-27) Jesus raised Lazarus from death. As a believer Lazarus now lives in heaven. God gives life in the midst of death, through Jesus.

 

It is easy to become discouraged when sin creates chaos and division in our world and in our lives.  But, in the midst of such seemingly hopeless situations, our Lord is present.  In Jesus, God grows faith in a world of doubt and disbelief.  In Jesus God brings life from death.  In Jesus we have hope.  As I look at 4 measly apples, it reminds me of the power of God, of His blessings and life in a world of sin and death.  In Jesus we have hope, for this world and eternally!

 

A Child of God, Finding Hope in a Hopeless World, Because of Jesus!

Pastor Rockey

 

P.S.  Here are some apple pictures which go with my devotion today.

·        These are pictures of my apple trees from 2017 to 2022.  https://photos.app.goo.gl/yYdQKS9vCxqnCzeJ9

 

·        These are pictures of my trees in May 2023, after the moose attacked.  https://photos.app.goo.gl/CipLUGCCEyHo24PB8

 

·        Here are pictures of the 4 apples I picked this year.  https://photos.app.goo.gl/fXotFN8SXWfD1JTm8

 

P.P.S.  I am now serving as Vacancy pastor at Anchorage Lutheran Church in Anchorage.  

·        On September 6 and 13 I will be gone, and Pastor Dave Keddington, SMP Pastor at ALC, will be leading worship AND Bible Study.

 

·        Call Committee – On Wednesday, August 19, the Executive Leadership Team of Anchorage Lutheran voted to restart the call process.  ELT President Steve Fibranz has recruited a call committee.  This committee consists of Lynn Boots, Danielle Bowman, Caleb Fluege, Tim and Genae Meerstein, Alexa Mix, Joel Mix, Joe Pollock, and Karen Quintieri.  Also attending meetings will be ELT President, Steve Fibranz, DCE Matthew Murphy, Vacancy Pastor Jonathan Rockey, and Circuit Visitor Tony Schultz.   The committee met on September 10 for a beginning meeting, and will meet again on Sunday, September 20 after worship to evaluate our self-study.

PLEASE PRAY FOR THE CALL PROCESS AT ALC!

 

·        Stewardship Sunday – The ELT also voted to conduct a Stewardship Emphasis which will provide education on God’s plans for Christian Stewardship, and will give ALC members an opportunity to consider and plan ways to respond to God’s grace in their lives.  Watch for updates concerning dates and events.  We will have a special Sunday in November.

 

·        Bible classes –

o   On Sunday mornings at 9:00 a.m. we have been studying the book of Ephesians downstairs in the fellowship hall, using the CPH “Lifelight” Bible Study. We have some new lesson books available.  Class begins at 9:00 a.m. downstairs in the Fellowship Hall.  On August 30 we started Chapter 4.  FEEL FREE TO JOIN US!.

 

o   Pastor Dave taught classes on other topics, Sundays September 6 and 13. 

 

o   Ephesians will start again on September 20, continuing in chapter 4.

 

o   New Member Class? – On August 30 I finished teaching a class on the Sacraments AFTER worship on Sundays.  Beginning in October, IF there is anyone interested, I will teach an Adult Membership Class after late worship.

 

Other Activities of Faith:

I am again taking a two-year journey with my Lord, by reading through the Scriptures using the “Today’s Light Devotional Bible.”  On Wednesday, September 16, I read 2 Chronicles 17 and 18, about King Jehosophat and the death of King Ahab.

You are welcome to join in this journey of reading God’s Word.  You may also contact me at 907-841-4066 if you have any questions about these readings.  Or send an e-mail question to jonrock53@mtaonline.net  I have received questions and comments about the readings.  It is always good to consider our Lord’s love and guidance. I will TRY to answer, but some things only God knows!

 

P.P.P.S. Family Fun, Friends, and Fishing!    

 

·        Golf – On Friday, September 11, Pastor Tony Schultz and I golfed at Palmer Golf Course.  It was one of the few nice days we have had recently.  Here are some pictures. https://photos.app.goo.gl/h92JrfdEdaN2dQJN8

 

·        Harvest – On Thursday September 10 I harvested in my garden. Here are some pictures.  https://photos.app.goo.gl/9NKpCMjvTruwVsdS7

 

·        Raspberries – I picked some leftover raspberries for breakfast on Saturday, September 11 and on Wednesday, September 16.  Here are some pictures.  https://photos.app.goo.gl/hEhfui5BKeY1142XA

 

·        No Fishing this week.  My Palmer boat is in the shop!

 

 

*******

 

ABOUT THIS DEVOTION - I retired at the end of August 2019 from serving as full-time senior pastor of St. John Lutheran Church in Palmer, AK.  I was writing a weekly devotion previously entitled, "Thoughts from the Pastor."  When I retired many asked me to continue writing these devotions.  So I have continued writing.  However, with life's changes I now call this weekly devotion "Journeys Through Life as a Child of God."  Since I am no longer senior pastor at St. John, I felt it right to only send this message to those who asked to receive it.  (I finished for now serving as Assistant to the Pastor for First Lutheran Church in Gainesville, FL. I am now serving Anchorage Lutheran Church as Vacancy Pastor.)

So, if you stopped receiving these devotions and wondered why, now you understand.  And, if you are now receiving these devotions and do not wish to receive them, please let me know, and I’ll gladly remove your name from my distribution list.  My e-mail address is jonrock53@mtaonline.net.

My prayer is that these devotions help each of you in your daily walk with our Lord, Jesus.

 

                                                                        *******

Jonathan Rockey

Child of God

Husband, Father, Son, Grandfather

Vacancy Pastor, Anchorage Lutheran Church, Anchorage, AK

Pastor Emeritus, St. John Lutheran Church, Palmer, AK

 

 

“How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are!” (1 John 3:1 a)

 

Seeking to Humble Myself and Receive God’s Forgiveness – in Jesus!

 

Dear Fellow Children of God, 

 

I was attending a birthday party recently, and mentioned to friends that Kathy and I will be going to Wittenberg, Germany, in June of 2027.  I was asked again to serve two weeks with Wittenberg English Ministry, bringing the Gospel to English speaking tourists who travel there to see where Martin Luther did much of his ministry.

 

As the discussion progressed, I mentioned that our world situation is somewhat different from the time of Luther.  In those days many feared for their eternity.  They were preached at for their sin and told of the anger and judgment of the Lord.  People in those days did not know the grace of God, that Jesus died and rose for them and offered forgiveness by His grace, through faith in His saving work, not through their works.  In contrast, today people seem surprised that anyone would point to their sin, to their turning from the Lord, from His law, from worship and obedience.  I have had more than one person tell me, “I don’t have anything I need to be forgiven for.”  If that truly were the case, we also would not need a savior.

 

In my daily devotions I am currently reading through 2 Chronicles, and just read about Solomon’s dedication of the temple.  If I count correctly, in 2 Chronicles 6, Solomon offers a public prayer at this large celebration in which he asks the Lord to ‘forgive’ 6 different times.  Obviously, even at this glorious worship event, Solomon knew the truth of sin. He also knew the need for repentance and for forgiveness from God.

 

I remember reading the book, “Speaking to Gospel Today” by Robert Kolb, in the early 2000’s. Kolb discusses ways, in today’s world, to witness the Good News of God’s love in Jesus.  A main point of his book is that the world around us speaks of God and His truth.  For Kolb, we can look at the pain, the suffering, the crime, the division, the troubles of this world and see that everything is not right.  His point is that such tribulations point to our rebellion against our Creator, and the results of those transgressions in our world.  For someone who looks at the world around them, evil and sin are obvious, perhaps even verifiable facts!

 

People have never wanted to admit that we have sinned, nor that we need help.  Dr. Kolb writes, “Defiant sinners listen to this Word of new life only when they no longer find security, meaning, and identity in the idols which they have fashioned for themselves.” (p. 121) In other words, if people can get along comfortably without the Lord, they often will.

 

Thankfully, the Lord Himself answers Solomon’s prayer in a way which speaks to my heart about our world today. ^“ . . . if my people who are called by my name humble themselves, and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land.” (2 Chronicles 7:14)  In spite of our sinful, obstinate, prideful ways, God is gracious, and He does promise forgiveness and healing when people turn to Him in repentance and faith.  That is good news for a lost world, and for our troubled lives!

 

And God’s promise is not just empty words.  Our heavenly Father has shown that love in a real way by sending His Son.  As St. Paul writes, “God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” (Romans 5:8)  Nothing melts a hard heart like love.  But, to know God’s love in Jesus, we have to understand how great our sin is, and how great our need!  That is when God’s forgiveness and love really speak to our hearts!

 

 

Have you heard the old saying? “’Denial’ is not just a river in Africa!”  Do you know your short-comings, your failure in life and before the Lord?  Do you know your sin and your need for forgiveness from our Creator and Lord.  If you know your ‘lost-ness’, then I have good news for you from our Lord Himself.  ^“ . . . if my people who are called by my name humble themselves, and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land.”  Thankfully, in Jesus, the news is even better for troubled people like us!

 

A Child of God, Seeking to Humble Myself and Receive God’s Forgiveness – in Jesus!

Pastor Rockey

 

P.S.  I am now serving as Vacancy pastor at Anchorage Lutheran Church in Anchorage.  

·        On September 6 and 13 I will be gone, and Pastor Dave Keddington, SMP Pastor at ALC, will be leading worship AND Bible Study.

 

·        Call Committee – On Wednesday, August 19, the Executive Leadership Team of Anchorage Lutheran voted to restart the call process.  ELT President Steve Fibranz has recruited a call committee.  This committee consists of Lynn Boots, Danielle Bowman, Caleb Fluege, Tim and Genae Meerstein, Alexa Mix, Joel Mix, Joe Pollock, and Karen Quintieri.  Also attending meetings will be ELT President, Steve Fibranz, DCE Matthew Murphy, Vacancy Pastor Jonathan Rockey, and Circuit Visitor Tony Schultz.   PLEASE PRAY FOR THE CALL PROCESS AT ALC!

 

·        Stewardship Sunday – The ELT also voted to conduct a Stewardship Emphasis which will provide education on God’s plans for Christian Stewardship, and will give ALC members an opportunity to consider and plan ways to respond to God’s grace in their lives.  Watch for updates concerning dates and events.  We will have a special Sunday in November.

 

·        Bible classes –

o   On Sunday mornings at 9:00 a.m. we have been studying the book of Ephesians downstairs in the fellowship hall, using the CPH “Lifelight” Bible Study. We have some new lesson books available.  Class begins at 9:00 a.m. downstairs in the Fellowship Hall.  On August 30 we started Chapter 4.  FEEL FREE TO JOIN US!.

o   Pastor Dave is teaching classes on other topics, Sundays September 6 and 13. 

o   Ephesians will start again on September 20.

 

o   New Member Class? – On August 30 I finished teaching a class on the Sacraments AFTER worship on Sundays.  Beginning in October, IF there is anyone interested, I will teach an Adult Membership Class after late worship.

 

Other Activities of Faith:

I am again taking a two-year journey with my Lord, by reading through the Scriptures using the “Today’s Light Devotional Bible.”  On Wednesday, September 9, I read 2 Chronicles 6-7, about the dedication of the temple.

You are welcome to join in this journey of reading God’s Word.  You may also contact me at 907-841-4066 if you have any questions about these readings.  Or send an e-mail question to jonrock53@mtaonline.net  I have received questions and comments about the readings.  It is always good to consider our Lord’s love and guidance. I will TRY to answer, but some things only God knows!

 

P.P.S. Family Fun, Friends, and Fishing!    

 

·        Alaska State Fair

o   Kathy again entered a number of items in the Alaska State Fair, both sewing and quilting.

§  Many of her sewing items won ribbons. https://photos.app.goo.gl/3JSp1aBawGYcc1YW9

§  One of Kathy’s two quilts was displayed in this year’s quilt show!  (It was the fishing quilt she made for me.  😊  ) https://photos.app.goo.gl/ZcSP7Eq4UuxUxFeV9

 

o   St. John members Mia and Anna Buist also won big for their knitting.  Anna won “Best of Show!”  Congratulations ladies!  Here are some pictures.  https://photos.app.goo.gl/a5GeMYrhFjVyvZfWA

 

o   I did see the entries of other friends and also St. John members at the Fair as well.

 

·        Garden – THE MOOSE ARE AT IT AGAIN! I went to the garden to pick lettuce for supper, and THE MOOSE HAD EATEN THE LAST OF THE CABBAGE, and again chomped on some collards.  Usually we can count on lots of cabbage at the end of a growing season, but not this year!  Here are some pictures. https://photos.app.goo.gl/oy6BU7uXCkvPHaAh7

 

·        For those who asked, Our dog, Mat, has been ill.  But, after a visit to our local vet and some medicine, he seems to be doing mostly better.  😊

 

·        Hunting / Fishing –  Our son-in-law, Brandon, wanted to go moose hunting, and wanted Mary to come along.  Considering our time and options we took my boat out to the Deshka River.  We had some adventures and found LOTS of mosquitos!   I thought it was a nice “camping trip.”  But, we can home early.  Nevertheless, here are a couple of pictures. https://photos.app.goo.gl/rb2gNqokPNyN2RSn8

 

*******

 

ABOUT THIS DEVOTION - I retired at the end of August 2019 from serving as full-time senior pastor of St. John Lutheran Church in Palmer, AK.  I was writing a weekly devotion previously entitled, "Thoughts from the Pastor."  When I retired many asked me to continue writing these devotions.  So I have continued writing.  However, with life's changes I now call this weekly devotion "Journeys Through Life as a Child of God."  Since I am no longer senior pastor at St. John, I felt it right to only send this message to those who asked to receive it.  (I finished for now serving as Assistant to the Pastor for First Lutheran Church in Gainesville, FL. I am now serving Anchorage Lutheran Church as Vacancy Pastor.)

So, if you stopped receiving these devotions and wondered why, now you understand.  And, if you are now receiving these devotions and do not wish to receive them, please let me know, and I’ll gladly remove your name from my distribution list.  My e-mail address is jonrock53@mtaonline.net.

My prayer is that these devotions help each of you in your daily walk with our Lord, Jesus.

 

                                                                        *******

Jonathan Rockey

Child of God

Husband, Father, Son, Grandfather

Vacancy Pastor, Anchorage Lutheran Church, Anchorage, AK

Pastor Emeritus, St. John Lutheran Church, Palmer, AK

 

 

“How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are!” (1 John 3:1 a)