Learning Lessons of God’s Love Through the Trials and Frustrations of Life

 

Dear Fellow Children of God,

 

I was recently golfing with a friend who hit a number of bad shots.  He exclaimed in frustration, “If it weren’t for bad luck, I’d have no luck at all.”  Then he hit a really nice LONG putt which dropped in, then rolled out of the cup.  ANOTHER instance of bad luck!  Do you ever have days like that?

 

I want to share with you a string of frustrating experiences I faced last month while home for family holidays.  On Tuesday, January 9, I drove north from our home to Ravine Lake, one of my favorites, to go ice fishing.  When I got there a snow plow was working.  I passed him up and tried to drive down the road toward the lake.  But then my wheels started sinking in the snow.  I talked to the man in the AT&T truck plowing the road.  He was frustrated too.  “I’ve gotten behind this year with all the snow, and I just haven’t been able to catch up.  I have five properties to plow from here to Glennallen, and this pickup they gave me can only do so much.  The road to the lake is not plowed.”  I did not fish on Tuesday.

 

I did drive up on Wednesday with my snowmachine.  My machine had worked well the previous 3-4 times I had started it.  I even filled it with gas on the way up.  But, after it started, it stopped.  No matter what I did I could not get it to start again.  (Even after putting it in the garage and warming it up that night I could not get my snow machine re-started.  Darn!)  So, I gave up and drove to Seventeen Mile Lake.  Before going out on the lake I tried my auger.  It had started on the first pull in the garage before I left.  But, now it wouldn’t start.  I think I might have had some bad gas and there was water in the line which froze.  In frustration, I gave up and thought about night skiing at Skeetawk.  I guess I had mis-read their web page, because when I arrived the gate was closed.  So, I went home and cooked supper.  Cooking was not my original plan.

 

I did get out to Seventeen Mile Lake without the snowmachine on Friday, January 12.  I had started the auger in the garage, and it started again, on the first pull.  This time my ice auger started at my truck before I walked across the lake.  Yet, when I arrived at my fishing spot, walking through the snow and pulling my sled, the auger was less willing to start.  I finally pulled the cord and the auger started, but the cord had broken, and then the auger stopped.  I walked 600+ steps back to my truck (I counted them.) and worked for an hour on my auger and reattached my cord.  I walked back to my fishing spot, 600 steps AGAIN, pulled the cord, and got the auger working, but when I pulled the throttle the throttle handle fell off!!!!  I don’t know if I am stubborn, or just not very smart, but I manipulated the throttle with my fingers, and got two holes dug, and actually caught 13 fish, all of which I released.  When I got home at the end of the day (I fished past sundown, till 5:00 p.m.), I was BEAT!  I guess I just don’t know when to stop.

 

So, let me ask you again, “Have YOU ever had one of those days? Or a series of days?  Life in a sinful world is full of frustration.  Worse than that, our lives are full of pain and suffering, evil and hatred, and death.  What do we do when faced with life’s struggles?

 

Let me share with you the words of St. Paul from 2 Corinthians 1.  “⁸ For we do not want you to be unaware, brothers, of the affliction we experienced in Asia. For we were so utterly burdened beyond our strength that we despaired of life itself. ⁹ Indeed, we felt that we had received the sentence of death. But that was to make us rely not on ourselves but on God who raises the dead. ¹⁰ He delivered us from such a deadly peril, and he will deliver us. On him we have set our hope that he will deliver us again.” (2 Corinthians 1:8-10)  As we read these words we can hear the trouble and frustration faced by Paul and his companions.  They persevered and learned a lesson.  Their lesson was “not to rely on the [themselves], but on God.” I don’t know about you.  Sometimes I learn those lessons which Paul learned, but unfortunately, I often have to re-learn them!

 

The series of sermons I am preaching this year for mid-week Lenten worship services is entitled, “The Blessings of Suffering.”  We will seek to look at the reality of the suffering in our lives caused by the sin in our world.  But, we will also seek to rejoice that, even in times of suffering, God can and does bless us.  It always amazes me that God used the worst that could happen in this life, the death of His Son, to accomplish the greatest gift of love, the salvation of the world. Remember the words of 2 Corinthians 1:10, ¹⁰ He delivered us from such a deadly peril, and he will deliver us. On him we have set our hope that he will deliver us again.”

 

Have you ever had one of those days?  Were you able to rejoice as you learned lessons of God’s love for our lives?  Rejoicing in times of suffering can seem impossible.  But our loving Heavenly Father is so powerful, and so loving, that He even uses our trials for our blessings.

 

A Child of God, Learning Lessons of God’s Love Through the Trials and Frustrations of Life,

Pastor Jonathan

 

 

P.S.  NEWS CONCERNING FIRST LUTHERAN CHURCH - Gainesville.

 

·       We counted 82 people attending the Pot Luck and Self -Study meeting on Sunday, January 28.  THANK YOU for all who attended.  PLEASE PRAY that God will bless our call process.

 

·       WE ARE STILL GAINING PEOPLE TO READ THROUGH THE SCRIPTURE IN 2024 and 2025!  –There is still time to join Pastor Rockey in reading through the Bible during 2024 and 2025, using the “Today’s Light Bible.”  This Bible leads a person through Scripture in 2 years and includes daily devotions.  This Bible may be purchased online at CPH or at Amazon.  Here is a link to purchase this devotional Bible.  https://www.amazon.com/Todays-Light-Devotional-Bible-Fryar/dp/0758643519/ref=sr_1_1?crid=18IZZOYD5KP0Z&keywords=today%27s+light+devotional+bible&qid=1701895876&sprefix=Today%27s+light+devotional%2Caps%2C432&sr=8-1

Also, we WILL have a Zoom meeting to discuss questions about the readings.  I think I may have my new computer finally working with ALL the programs I need.

 

·       LUTHERAN BIBLE TRANSLATORS – First Lutheran supports Tim and Michelle Miller and their work in Thailand for Lutheran Bible Translators.  The Millers will be at First Lutheran, this Sunday February 4 to report on their word and to thank First Lutheran for its support.

 

·       NEW MEMBER CLASSS –A new membership class will begin in the new year, perhaps on February 11^th, (NOT THE 4^TH).  If you are interested, 5-6 people are talking of attending this class.)   

 

·       A STUDY OF THE BOOK OF ACTS continues on Sunday at 8:45 a.m. in the Besalski Fellowship Hall.

 

·       SUNDAY SCHOOL IS HELD EACH SUNDAY DURING WORSHIP.  Bring your children and grandchildren!

 

P.P.S.  PICTURES – AND OTHER ITEMS OF INTEREST

 

·       I did go FISHING twice this week.

o   On Friday, January 26, I went fishing with Mark Hoyer on Newnan’s Lake for Crappie, or specs.  Here are some pictures. https://photos.app.goo.gl/CNNPGvjH54Kr6VZKA

 

o   On Saturday, January 27, I went fishing by myself on the Suwannee River.  It was quite windy.  I had 5 bites and caught 2 fish.  Here are some pictures. https://photos.app.goo.gl/vY4cwCAGqnRi7xEM9

 

 

*******

 

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.  (Currently I am serving as Vacancy Pastor for First Lutheran Church in Gainesville, FL.)

        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, First Lutheran Church, Gainesville, FL

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)

 

 

 

Rejoicing in God’s Love And Joy in the Midst of Life’s Trials and Tears!

 

Dear Fellow Children of God,

 

Does the bad news in the world around us get you down?  I confess that world and national affairs do concern me.  What about the Middle East? Or the Ukraine? Or recent rockets fired by North Korea?  Does the environment concern you, or the political wrangling surrounding that issue?  And how about division among people in the United States?  Do immigration concerns trouble you? Or the drug epidemic?  Or racial tensions?  How about those in need?  What about the attack on the Christian faith and it’s moral standards?  What about lack of faith in people who once followed Jesus?  Or, the decline in Christian congregations in Western culture? 

 

Or, on a personal level, are you grieving the loss of a loved one?  Do you or a family member have serious health problems?  Do you stay awake nights?  Do you pray fervently?

 

The Psalmists were full of questions concerning the trials of life.  In Psalm 42 and 43 we hear similar laments. 

 

“⁹ I say to God, my rock: ‘Why have you forgotten me? Why do I go mourning because of the oppression of the enemy?’ ¹⁰ As with a deadly wound in my bones, my adversaries taunt me, while they say to me all the day long, ‘Where is your God?’ ¹¹ Why are you cast down, O my soul, and why are you in turmoil within me?” (Psalm 42:9-11) (Consider also Psalms 14, 22, 37, 73, 88 and many others)  You hear anguish of the Psalmist in these words.  But there is also good news in the last half of Psalm 42:11.  “Hope in God; for I shall again praise him, my salvation and my God.”  Life may cause me inner turmoil, we do find hope in God!

 

Perhaps this is a strange introduction to the good news which I want to share with you.  But I am asking you to consider the trials of life, so that I can then share with you, by contrast, some good news.  I want to share with you, in the midst of life’s concerns and tears, a wonderfully bright spot which I witnessed on Monday morning, January 22.  I attended chapel for the First Lutheran Open Arms Child Development Center.  I actually arrived a little late, after fighting school traffic.  But, when I did arrive the 3 and 4 year olds were gathered in the sanctuary for worship. Also 20-25 grandparents attended this service as well.  As I walked in the doors everyone was singing  “My God is so big, so strong and so mighty, there’s nothing my God cannot do.”  The grandparents seemed to be even more involved in the hand motions than those energetic pre-schoolers.  Imagine that – the grandparents!  Next all joined to sing, “This Little Light of Mine.” Again, all sang enthusiastically. I watched the families join in with their voices and motions.  In a world where people seem to be rejecting God, what a wonderful blessing to witness the joyful noise from all these children of God!

 

Our pre-school director followed the singing with a story about how about how Jesus is the vine and we are the branches (John 15).  Then a young 4 year old girl helped lead us all in closing prayer.  She prayed, and we repeated after her. “Dear Jesus / Dear Jesus, Thank you for my grandparents / Thank you for my grandparents.  Thank you for my teachers / Thank you for my teachers.  Thank you for my family / Thank you for my family.  Thank you that you always love me / Thank you that you always love me.  Amen / Amen.”

 

Perhaps you know that Jesus came to our world because of our sin which causes the trials and suffering we endure.  But, do you also know the words of St. Paul in 1 Timothy 1?  “¹⁵ The saying is trustworthy and deserving of full acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am the foremost.”  Yet, in addition to this painful reality, Paul had good news.  “¹⁶ But I received mercy for this reason, that in me, as the foremost, Jesus Christ might display his perfect patience as an example to those who were to believe in him for eternal life.” (1 Timothy 1:15-16)  In a way that’s like Psalm 42.  In spite of the painful realities of life in this sinful world, God’s love in Jesus is sure.  God’s love blesses lives full of trial and suffering.  God’s love is worthy of our praise, like I saw at the pre-school chapel!

 

I confess that I too have serious concerns about our world, our country, and those I love.  Yet, in the midst of those concerns I witnessed the faith and joy and love of Jesus shown through these Christian families on Monday.  They sang God’s praise.  They waved their hands.  They studied His Word.  They thanked Him in prayer.  I am thankful that they proved the Psalmist true.  “Hope in God; for I shall again praise him, my salvation and my God.”

 

A Child of God, Rejoicing in God’s Love And Joy in the Midst of Life’s Trials and Tears!

Pastor Jonathan

 

 

P.S.  NEWS CONCERNING FIRST LUTHERAN CHURCH - Gainesville.

 

·       A POT LUCK MEAL AND MEETING ABOUT THE PROCESS OF CALLING A NEW PASTOR WILL TAKE PLACE AFTER WORSHIP THIS SUNDAY, January 28!

At this time the congregation will look at the work on the self study done by congregational leaders in order to prepare for the call process.  Congregational members are asked to PLEASE ATTEND THE POTLUCK and PLEASE GIVE INPUT into the documents.  PLEASE LOOK AT YOUR E-MAILS THIS WEEK TO READ AN EXPLANATORY LETTER AND THE SELF STUDY.  Members are then asked to attend the potluck to give input as we discuss who we are, who are neighbors are, and how we are doing God’s work.  PLEASE PLAN NOW TO ATTEND!

 

·       WE ARE STILL GAINING PEOPLE TO READ THROUGH THE SCRIPTURE IN 2024 and 2025?  –There is still time to join Pastor Rockey in reading through the Bible during 2024 and 2025, using the “Today’s Light Bible.”  This Bible leads a person through Scripture in 2 years and includes daily devotions.  This Bible may be purchased online at CPH or at Amazon.  Here is a link to purchase this devotional Bible.  https://www.amazon.com/Todays-Light-Devotional-Bible-Fryar/dp/0758643519/ref=sr_1_1?crid=18IZZOYD5KP0Z&keywords=today%27s+light+devotional+bible&qid=1701895876&sprefix=Today%27s+light+devotional%2Caps%2C432&sr=8-1

 

·       LUTHERAN BIBLE TRANSLATORS – First Lutheran supports Tim and Michelle Miller and their work in Thailand for Lutheran Bible Translators.  The Millers will be at First Lutheran on February 4 to report on their word and to thank First Lutheran.

 

·       NEW MEMBER CLASSS –A new membership class will begin in the new year, perhaps on February 4 (NOT THE 11^TH).  If you are interested, 5-6 people are talking of attending this class.)    

 

·       A STUDY OF THE BOOK OF ACTS continues on Sunday at 8:45 a.m. in the Besalski Fellowship Hall.

 

·       SUNDAY SCHOOL IS HELD EACH SUNDAY DURING WORSHIP.  Bring your children and grandchildren!

 

P. P.S.  PICTURES – AND OTHER ITEMS OF INTEREST

 

·       FRIENDS – In 1977-78, Pastor Rockey and Kathy were in Detroit, MI, for Jonathan’s vicarage at Outer Drive Faith Lutheran Church.  Among the friends they made was Harold Vetter, the young organist who was playing at their congregation.  The Rockeys arrived back in Florida on Tuesday night, January 16, and Harold and Emily Vetter, and their daughter, Rachel, and her friend, visited on Wednesday, January 17.  Here is a picture.   https://photos.app.goo.gl/rNktGTVYFPrHNnBY7  

 

·       P.P.S.  FISHING   - In our first week back in Florida we have been busy catching up after being gone for 2 weeks.  But, I did find time to go fishing once this past week.  It was cool, or cold, for Florida.  When I got off the water the thermometer on my vehicle read 39 degrees.  I think the fish were in hibernation because in 2 ½ to 3 hours I only had one bite.  Nevertheless it was good to get out onto the water.  Here are a couple of pictures.  https://photos.app.goo.gl/XkaDUKFecw7MtJKS8

 

 

*******

 

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.  (Currently I am serving as Vacancy Pastor for First Lutheran Church in Gainesville, FL.)

        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, First Lutheran Church, Gainesville, FL

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)

 

 

 

Thankful that 'God ALWAYS Has a Ram in the Bushes!'"

Dear Fellow Children of God,

 

Perhaps you have been reading through God’s Word with me and many others in the “Today’s Light Bible.”  My wife, Kathy, is joining the group in reading and  listening to God’s love, listening to His call, and to His direction for our lives.  On Saturday, after she did her reading, Kathy came to me and said, “That’s what I heard in the Hospice Resale Shop.  One elderly lady told another, ‘God ALWAYS has a ram in the bushes!’”

 

The reading for Saturday, January 13 was from Genesis 22, the confounding story of God calling Abraham to be willing to sacrifice his beloved son, Isaac, for whom Abraham and Sarah had waited so long.  If anything, this chapter raises a lot of questions about our Lord Himself.  Many wonder, seemingly with good reason, why God would ask such a thing of Abraham.  In other parts of Scripture the Lord Himself forbids murder, and forbids human sacrifice as abominable.  In all honesty, we should not be surprised when confronted with the mystery of God.  Our Lord’s ways are higher than our ways, and His thoughts higher than our thoughts. (Isaiah 55:8-9)

 

But, there are some lessons we can learn from this reading, lessons to which God Himself points.  First, the Lord ultimately prevented Abraham from the sacrifice.  Look at verse 12, “He said, ‘Do not lay your hand on the boy or do anything to him, for now I know that you fear God, seeing you have not withheld your son, your only son, from me.’" (Gen. 22:12 ESV) This was a test where, God not only learned the heart of Abraham, but Abraham also discovered his priorities. Abraham grew in understanding the real object of worship - God Himself.

 

However, there is another very important lesson about our Lord which this account teaches, something we all need to learn.  Abraham reveals that lesson in the name which he gives to the place.  “¹³ And Abraham lifted up his eyes and looked, and behold, behind him was a ram, caught in a thicket by his horns. And Abraham went and took the ram and offered it up as a burnt offering instead of his son. ¹⁴ So Abraham called the name of that place, ‘The LORD will provide’; as it is said to this day, ‘On the mount of the LORD it shall be provided.’ (Gen. 22:13-14)  Here is what we need to learn: when we face life’s trials, troubles bigger than we are, The Lord PROVIDES!

 

What challenges do you face today which are beyond your ability to overcome?  All I have to do to personally find such challenges is go to my daily prayer list.  I have entries on that list under different categories.  I pray for people with “life trouble,” for those with “chronic” illnesses or conditions.  I go to the Lord on behalf of family and friends and church members who are afflicted with “cancer,” and for those who are severely “ill.”  I also pray that our Lord will provide “faith” to those who are doubting, and that he will provide comfort to those in “grief.”  In addition, I pray for our “country” and our leaders, and for the nations of the world, that they would work for “justice and righteousness.”  I pray by name for those whom I know are in the “military”, and I pray for “myself” and my own life and faith.  I pray for our Lord’s “Church,” that the Christian Church would boldly proclaim the gospel of Jesus.  I ask God to guide and bless “St. John Lutheran Church” in Alaska, and also “First  Lutheran Church” in Florida. I pray for “families” in stress, and for members of “my own family,” by name and by need.  It is also important that I GIVE “THANKS” for all the ways our Heavenly Father has answered these prayers for situations beyond our ability and beyond our strength and comprehension.  I thank Him for His responses of power and wisdom, of grace and love.  I have learned that when facing impossible situations, like Abraham faced, our Lord does provide.  He does have a ram in the bushes!  I do not know how God will answer, whether in this life, or eternally.  But, time and again I have seen our Heavenly Father answer and provide.

 

However, do you also see in Genesis 22 the other, even bigger way in which God provides?  In Genesis 22:9 we read about Abraham’s faith, “Abraham said, ‘God will provide for himself the lamb for a burnt offering, my son.’"(Gen. 22:8) Not only does God provide for Himself, God provides . . . HIMSELF. 

 

The ultimate cause of the pain and suffering and problems in this world is our sin, our selfishness, our rebellion, our pride, and all the ways we turn from our Loving Creator and Lord.  Yet surprisingly, God provides Himself.  "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” (John 3:16)  The Lord prevented Abraham from sacrificing his son, Isaac.  But God did give His only Son, Jesus, in love for people who are overwhelmed by the trouble, the death, and the judgment brought on by our sin.  Our sin causes the suffering and death we face, but Jesus overcame our sin when He died on the cross to pay for our rebellion.  Jesus overcame judgment and death when He rose from the dead.  Jesus is “the lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world.”  (John 1:29) Truly, JESUS is God’s ram in the bushes for us!

 

I don’t know what problems those two ladies in the Hospice Resale Store were discussing, but the woman who spoke and answered had it right. No matter what we face, God has a ram in the bushes.  We don’t always know how He will act for in this life, but He provides.  And, we know that eternally God has acted in love through His Son, Jesus.

 

What are you facing right now?  Do you see God’s ram yet?

 

A Child of God, Thankful that God ALWAYS Has a Ram in the Bushes!

Pastor Jonathan

 

 

P.S.  FAMILY – Since returning to Alaska, we have had time to spend with family.  And, look at this BEAUTIFUL sunrise from January 13!  https://photos.app.goo.gl/c8dc3hmAbfiuQAW29

 

FISHING   - I went ice fishing 4 times this past week.  But, boy, did I have equipment troubles!  I might share those troubles next week.

 

·       On Wednesday, January 10, I had set the whole day aside, but my snow machine and auger gave me troubles. Here are some pictures of the beauty of an Alaskan winter! https://photos.app.goo.gl/Ssja8esopRSTtfp58

 

·       On Friday, January 12, I went fishing on Seventeen Mile Lake and the equipment troubles continued.  I still caught 10 trout and 3 arctic char / dolly vardon.  Here are some pictures. https://photos.app.goo.gl/VNYfAKZF1rHwDGKy9

 

·       On Sunday, January 13, Kym Miller and I went fishing.  We left the snowmachine at home.  We used her auger, and caught around 50 fish! 😊  Here are a few pictures.  https://photos.app.goo.gl/3RusePGsgUWmWTc4A

 

·       On Monday, January 15, I took family and friends fishing on Seventeen Mile Lake.  Mary, Tim and Megan, and Tim’s friend, Michael, all went fishing in the 0 degree weather.  We fished for about 3 hours and we ALL caught fish.  Here are some pictures.  https://photos.app.goo.gl/iJDenKThyKnkCaEc8

 

P.P.S.  On Thursday, after the previous day of frustration, I went skiing at Skeetawk, rather than be frustrated by cranky equipment again.  Here are a couple of pictures. https://photos.app.goo.gl/HBVSrUccdLWzqMgg9

 

P.P.P.S. .    ESPECIALLY FOR MEMBERS AND FRIENDS OF FIRST LUTHERAN CHURCH - Gainesville.

 

READ THROUGH THE SCRIPTURE IN 2024 and 2025?  –There is still time to join Pastor Rockey in reading through the Bible during 2024 and 2025, using the “Today’s Light Bible.”  This Bible leads a person through Scripture in 2 years and includes daily devotions.  We have made it through 2 and 1/2 weeks!  But, there is still time to join us.  This Bible may be purchased online at CPH or at Amazon.  Here is a link to purchase this devotional Bible.  https://www.amazon.com/Todays-Light-Devotional-Bible-Fryar/dp/0758643519/ref=sr_1_1?crid=18IZZOYD5KP0Z&keywords=today%27s+light+devotional+bible&qid=1701895876&sprefix=Today%27s+light+devotional%2Caps%2C432&sr=8-1

 

NEW MEMBER CLASSS –A new membership class will begin in the new year, perhaps on February 11.  If you are interested, 5-6 people are talking of attending this class.)  Here is a picture.  https://photos.app.goo.gl/Zps44Bhsemu8W9rA9

 

TIME IN ALASKA – Kathy and I returned from Alaska, arriving in Florida on Tuesday evening, January 16.

·       We will continue the Sunday Bible Class on Acts.

·       During the season of Epiphany we will focus on missions and evangelism

 

CALL PROCESS –

The First Lutheran Call Committee will meet again on Thursday evening, January 18, at 5:30 p.m.

 

A CONGREGATIONAL BRUNCH AND POTLUCK will take place on Sunday, January 28, after worship.  At this time the congregation will look at the work on the self study done by congregational leaders, and then give input as we discuss who we are, who are neighbors are, and how we are doing God’s work.  The purpose of this study is to discover what qualities God wants in the new shepherd for First Lutheran.  PLAN NOW TO ATTEND!

 

 

*******

 

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.  (Currently I am serving as Vacancy Pastor for First Lutheran Church in Gainesville, FL.)

        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, First Lutheran Church, Gainesville, FL

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)

 

 

  

Wishing You and Your Family The Health of God’s Love, In His Church

Dear Fellow Children of God,

 

What is the best resolution a person can make, not just at the beginning of a year, but for their most positive and healthy life?  Please notice I am asking this question after the first of the year.

 

I have heard and read in counseling classes that for a person to have a healthy self-image, a vital factor is a good relationship with their parents, especially with their father.  No wonder I read what I did in an opinion piece recently.  One man suggested that the biggest cause of inequity in our culture is the result of the different privilege which occurs for children who come from a two parent household.  Parents are important!

 

That is also one reason why, when people ask me for help, I often share with them that if a healthy relationship with our earthly father is important, how much more important is a healthy relationship with our Heavenly Father?  A person needs a positive relationship with their Creator, their Lord, and their Savior.  Please notice that this is all “family language.”  God’s family plan for His children is not just about blood family, but also for a faith family – His Church! A local Christian congregation is a gathering of people who are brothers and sisters because God created them, and because, in Jesus. He saved them. 

 

We all know that families do not always agree.  Families do face problems and dis-agreements. The same thing is sadly also true of Christian congregations, or families. But family is family, and in God’s plan families work through disagreements in order to work together.  The glue for families is love.  In a Christian family that love is fed by faith, faith which knows that our Heavenly Father loved us in Creation, and that He has sought out His wandering sheep to love them through the Good Shepherd, Jesus Christ.

 

On the night He was betrayed, Jesus gave His disciples instruction for His family - The Church  "A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.” (John 13:34) John further instructs Christ’s church in his first epistle.  “10 This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. 11 Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.” (1 John 4:10-11) The equation is simple.  God’s people receive love from our Father through the life and death and resurrection of His Son, Jesus.  Then, when we know the love which God has for us, we share that love with one another. 

 

In my first year as pastor, I received a phone call from a highly respected scholar, and former professor.  Dr. Richard Dinda called me from Texas to ask me to do a chore for him in St. Louis.  After asking about the congregation where I was serving, he gave me some advice, “Love ‘em, Jon.  Just love ‘em.”  That advice remains with me.  This man was known for, among other things, translating for publication a large Latin manuscript.  But this well-known scholar summarized good churchmanship in one quality, love.  That may sound like a lot of rambling, and those who know me wouldn’t be surprised if I do ramble.  But, these thoughts lead me to two questions which I have for you.

 

First, do your plans for this year, and for your life, include active participation in God’s earthly family, in His Church?  Remember, a healthy relationship with our Heavenly Father leads us to a healthy life.  If you do plan this, please know that living as part of God’s family means regular attendance, and support of your congregation. 

 

So, secondly, if you are living as part of God’s family, will you work to bring love to your congregation.  Remember, all families have issues.  Sinful humans can and do act in unloving ways.  But, through Jesus, God’s people can bring forgiveness and love to their faith family. We not only need God’s church to grow in our relationship with God.  The church needs us to work to make it a healthy family.

 

What resolutions have you made, not just at the beginning of a year, but for your most positive and healthy life?  I pray you may find health and love from your Heavenly Father, and that you share His love through regular participation in Christ’s family, The Church.

 

A Child of God, Wishing You and Your Family The Health of God’s Love, In His Church,

Pastor Jonathan

 

 

P.S.  FAMILY – Since returning to Alaska, we have had time to spend with family.

·       Family Ski – On Wednesday, January 3, Josh’s family went skiing at a local slope.  I got to go too.   https://photos.app.goo.gl/PjZDD1B2RcnAa6G2A

 

·       Wednesday evening all 6 grandkids, and some friends came over for chicken and dumplings.  😊  https://photos.app.goo.gl/PjZDD1B2RcnAa6G2A

 

·       Family Christmas – All 4 children and all 6 grandchildren were able to celebrate family Christmas on Saturday, January 6.  Here are some pictures.  https://photos.app.goo.gl/Wr2uiVRuMWE4QPJD6

 

FISHING J  - I went ice fishing 3 times this past week. 

 

·       On Thursday, January 4, I looked for places to fish, but – too much snow!  https://photos.app.goo.gl/Ky71QvnQrjJ3d7tx5

 

·       On Friday, January 5, I went fishing on Matanuska Lake with Pastor Craig Schultz, Carl Jacobson, and Pastor Erik Christensen.  We caught 9 fish and kept 4.  https://photos.app.goo.gl/RTJJRTAuowU7hsNt8

 

·       On Sunday, January 7, after worship, I fished till dark.  (I was the last one on the lake.)  I caught 4, but released them.  https://photos.app.goo.gl/FvY3KTmPAwkpohhi7

 

P.P.S. .    ESPECIALLY FOR MEMBERS AND FRIENDS OF

FIRST LUTHERAN CHURCH - Gainesville.

 

·       READ THROUGH THE SCRIPTURE IN 2024 and 2025?  –There is still time to join Pastor Rockey in reading through the Bible during 2024 and 2025, using the “Today’s Light Bible.”  This Bible leads a person through Scripture in 2 years and includes daily devotions.  We have made it through 1 week!  It may be purchased online at CPH or at Amazon.  Here is a link to purchase this devotional Bible.  https://www.amazon.com/Todays-Light-Devotional-Bible-Fryar/dp/0758643519/ref=sr_1_1?crid=18IZZOYD5KP0Z&keywords=today%27s+light+devotional+bible&qid=1701895876&sprefix=Today%27s+light+devotional%2Caps%2C432&sr=8-1

 

·       NEW MEMBER CLASSS –A new membership class will begin in the new year, perhaps on February 11.  If you are interested, 5-6 people are talking of attending this class.)  Here is a picture.  https://photos.app.goo.gl/Zps44Bhsemu8W9rA9

 

·       TIME IN ALASKA – Kathy and I are spending some Christmas time with our children and grandchildren in Alaska.  We left on January 1 and return January 16. 

o   On Sunday, January 7, Florida-Georgia District President and son of First Lutheran, Pastor James Rockey, led worship at 10:00 a.m. and taught Bible Class at 8:45 a.m.

o   On Sunday, January 14, Pastor Stephen Lane, who has filled in at First Lutheran before, will be teaching Bible Class and leading worship.

 

·       CALL PROCESS –

o   The First Lutheran Call Committee will meet again on Thursday evening, January 18, at 5:30 p.m.

 

o   A CONGREGATIONAL BRUNCH AND POTLUCK will take place on Sunday, January 28, after worship.  At this time the congregation will look at the work on the self study done by congregational leaders, and then give input as we discuss who we are, who are neighbors are, and how we are doing God’s work.  The purpose of this study is to discover what qualities God wants in the new shepherd for First Lutheran.  PLAN NOW TO ATTEND!

 

 

*******

 

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.  (Currently I am serving as Vacancy Pastor for First Lutheran Church in Gainesville, FL.)

        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, First Lutheran Church, Gainesville, FL

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)

 

 

  

How are YOU Making Our World a Better Place in 2024?

Dear Fellow Children of God,

 

So, did you make any resolutions for 2024?  After an experience I had on the night of Monday, January 1, and the early morning of Tuesday, January 2, I am doubling down on my prayers for our country and for our world.  For years I have prayed for repentance, for faith, and for our country and our leaders by name.  Now, in addition to praying for repentance and faith I am specifically praying that our whole world, myself included, specifically find our Savior, Jesus, and His love for the people of this world.

 

Kathy and I flew home to Alaska on Monday, January 1.  We actually landed in Anchorage around 1:15 a.m. and left the airport around 2:00.  Remember, we left Florida with a 4 hour time difference.  So, by the time my head hit the pillow in our bed at 3:00 a.m., I had been awake about 24 hours.  I share this with you so that you know I was tired, nodding in and out of sleep, as our daughter Mary drove us home.  As we drove through the roundabout onto Trunk Road by Mat-Su Regional, Mary exclaimed, “Why is that person in the road?”  Being half asleep, I just barely saw a blur.  Mary passed the person, and then stopped the vehicle and continued, “They want us to stop, should we?”  Kathy suggested, “Maybe their car went off the road.” It was about 2:30 a.m.  I had seen an outside temperature on the car of 5 degrees as we drove across the hay flats.  In my semi-sleep I replied, “Yes,” thinking that “You don’t leave someone without help in this weather.”

 

Then the sad adventure began.  The person had been jumping up and down and waving their arms, but came to our vehicle.  It was a young woman, perhaps in her early twenties.  She only wore a sweat suit for clothing, with no winter coat or gloves.   We had trouble understanding the woman, but she had no car, and no phone, and she asked if she could get into our car out of the cold, and if we would take her to the gas station up the road.  There is a gas station at Trunk and Palmer Fish-hook Roads, which fit her description.  We drove her there but, we continued to have trouble understanding her. She talked to other people who weren’t there but in her head, and she told them that they were wrong.  She talked about different locations, her father, and her dead baby.  Some of what she said was beyond our comprehension. Kathy asked if she were on drugs.  We didn’t understand her answer. 

 

With some drama we dropped her off at the gas station.  She did act like she might be expecting someone.  So, we had gotten her out of the cold, and to the location she requested, and we drove home. We all felt shocked at the woman and her behavior, and we felt badly.  If I hadn’t been drowsy, I think I would have taken her to the hospital, or called the police, neither of which she would have wanted.  The next morning, wishing I had done more, I did phone the police and troopers thinking they might want a report.  They told me, “We could have helped last night.  We can’t do anything now.”

 

So, after this encounter, perhaps you understand why I am praying even more for our country, for our world, and for this person.  Kathy and Mary and I believe the woman was on drugs.  Kathy talked about such patients in the hospital who were seemingly impossible to help.  What is going on in our world that someone would do this to themselves?  Who cares so much about money, and so little about others, that they would sell or give such drugs to another human being?  If we know the love and grace of God in Jesus, then we want to serve our Lord and love others.  So, why are we so lost that we are willing to hurt ourselves, and hurt others?  What kind of tortured life must this woman live?  We need help.  We need Jesus!  I am praying even more fervently!

 

Two of many Bible verses rise to my mind and heart in response to this experience. In Ephesians 2, God teaches us through Paul, “1 And you were dead in the trespasses and sins  ² in which you once walked, following the course of this world, following the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that is now at work in the sons of disobedience-- ³ among whom we all once lived in the passions of our flesh, carrying out the desires of the body and the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, like the rest of mankind. ⁴ But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, ⁵ even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ-- by grace you have been saved--  (Ephesians 2:1-5) God tells us we are all dead in our sins, and only saved by the rich mercy of God who makes us alive in Christ!

 

Another verse from Titus, used in churches at Christmas-time, also reveals our sin and God’s amazing love.  “³ For we ourselves were once foolish, disobedient, led astray, slaves to various passions and pleasures, passing our days in malice and envy, hated by others and hating one another. ⁴ But when the goodness and loving kindness of God our Savior appeared, ⁵ (Do you hear the Christmas story?) he saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit, ⁶ whom he poured out on us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior, ⁷ so that being justified by his grace we might become heirs according to the hope of eternal life.  (Titus 3:3-7) We are killing ourselves through our foolish disobedience.  But, in mercy God saves us, washes us, and gives eternal life in heaven. That woman is not the only one who needs Jesus! 

 

After this experience early Tuesday morning, I realize even more how important it is to pray for our world.  I am praying even more that we turn from our foolish disobedience and passions, and that we turn to the righteousness and love God mercifully gives us in Jesus.  

How are you making the world a better place in 2024?

 

A Child of God, Grieving at our Foolish Disobedience – Thankful for God’s Mercy – Praying that our World Finds Jesus!

Pastor Jonathan

 

 

P.S.  FISHING J  - I went fishing twice this past week.  This coming week the fishing will be from the ice!

·       On Wednesday, December 27, I fished by myself.  The weather was changing, but I was on the water.  Here are a couple of pictures. https://photos.app.goo.gl/CNMG1oecRYiLh9DeA

 

·       On Thursday, December 28, First Lutheran member, Thomas Dudeck, and I went fishing on TWO lakes.  It was cool and windy, the bite was minimal, but Thomas told me, I hate to leave and miss the one hour the bite may be on!”  I have found a kindred spirit.  J  Here are some pictures!  https://photos.app.goo.gl/UQj2QBHvzttgALAe7

 

P.P.P.P.S. .    ESPECIALLY FOR MEMBERS AND FRIENDS OF

FIRST LUTHERAN CHURCH - Gainesville.

 

·       READ THROUGH THE SCRIPTURE IN 2024 and 2025?  – There is still time to join Pastor Rockey in reading through the Bible during 2024 and 2025, using the “Today’s Light Bible.”  This Bible leads a person through Scripture in 2 years and includes daily devotions.  It may be purchased online at CPH or at Amazon.  Here is a link to purchase this devotional Bible.  https://www.amazon.com/Todays-Light-Devotional-Bible-Fryar/dp/0758643519/ref=sr_1_1?crid=18IZZOYD5KP0Z&keywords=today%27s+light+devotional+bible&qid=1701895876&sprefix=Today%27s+light+devotional%2Caps%2C432&sr=8-1

 

·       NEW MEMBERS – First Lutheran received two new members in worship on Sunday, December 31.  Hayley Nusbickel attended adult confirmation / membership class, with some other young adults.  Becky Belmont transferred to First Lutheran from Lake Mary, FL.  (A new membership class will begin in the new year.  If you are interested, at least 5 people are talking of attending this class.)  Here is a picture.  https://photos.app.goo.gl/Zps44Bhsemu8W9rA9

 

·       NEW DIRECTOR OF MUSIC -  Stephanie Smith begins serving First Lutheran Church as Director of Music beginning this coming Sunday, January 7.  We look forward to Stephanie’s faithful service and leadership.  THANK YOU, AGAIN, to Larry Hartley who willingly filled in during our interim!

 

·       TIME IN ALASKA – Kathy and I are spending some Christmas time with our children and grandchildren in Alaska.  We leave January 1 and return January 16. 

o   On Sunday, January 7, Florida-Georgia District President and son of First Lutheran, Pastor James Rockey, will be leading worship at 10:00 a.m. and teaching Bible Class at 8:45 a.m.

o   On Sunday, January 14, Pastor Stephen Lane, who has filled in at First Lutheran before, will be teaching Bible Class and leading worship.

 

·       CALL PROCESS –

o   The First Lutheran Call Committee will meet again on Thursday evening, January 18, at 5:30 p.m.

 

o   A CONGREGATIONAL BRUNCH AND POTLUCK will take place on Sunday, January 28, after worship.  At this time the congregation will look at the work on the self study done by congregational leaders, and then give input as we discuss who we are, who are neighbors are, and how we are doing God’s work.  The purpose of this study is to discover what qualities God wants in the new shepherd for First Lutheran.  PLAN NOW TO ATTEND!

 

 

*******

 

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.  (Currently I am serving as Vacancy Pastor for First Lutheran Church in Gainesville, FL.)

        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, First Lutheran Church, Gainesville, FL

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)