Knowing My Lack of Wisdom – Trusting Our Lord’s Wisdom in Scripture

 

Dear Fellow Children of God,

 

In the past week I have had a number of conversations with fellow Christians.  In the Acts Bible Class I teach on Sunday mornings, we read in chapter 13 about Paul and Barnabas “shaking the dust from their feet” and asked, “When do we move on from one person or group of people, and share the good news of Jesus with others?”  We looked at Matthew 10:13-14 and listened to the Lord. 

 

On Sunday afternoon, in a “Basic Teachings of the Bible” Class, we discussed many topics, including baptism and the Lord’s Supper.  We looked at God’s Word for direction and understanding.  We read Ephesians 5:26 and Acts 2:38-39, and Colossians 2:10-12 concerning how God acts in Baptism, and what this gift of God means to us.  We also considered Matthew 26:26-28 and 1 Corinthians 11:23-29 concerning the Lord’s Supper.  We let the Lord speak to us as we sought to understand how important these gifts are to Christians as we seek to follow the call of our Lord.

 

On Tuesday evening I attended another group.  There were a number of questions about worship and church practice and about calling a new pastor.  We discussed Bible verses and sought answers from the Lord.

 

Some think a pastor does not want to be confronted with difficult questions.  I will share with you that I don’t believe I personally have answers to life’s tough questions.  I am weak.  My mind is limited.  I am sinful.  I do not have wisdom for some of the easy questions in life.  Never mind the difficult questions.  I don’t personally have the answers, but our Lord does.  I believe in the wisdom and knowledge of God, I believe in His judgements and His ways.  Listen to Romans 11.  “³³ Oh, the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable a0re his judgments and how inscrutable his ways! ³⁴ "For who has known the mind of the Lord, or who has been his counselor?" ³⁵ "Or who has given a gift to him that he might be repaid?" ³⁶ For from him and through him and to him are all things. To him be glory forever. Amen.”  (Romans 11:33-36)

 

You see, I need God’s wisdom and His answers.  And, I believe that our Lord shares His wisdom in Scripture.  Therefore, an important verse to my faith and my practice of that faith is 2 Timothy 3:14-17.  “¹⁴ But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have firmly believed, knowing from whom you learned it ¹⁵ and how from childhood you have been acquainted with the sacred writings, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. ¹⁶ All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, ¹⁷ that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.”  Wisdom of God for salvation comes from the ‘sacred writings.’  Scripture, breathed by God, gives teaching, reproof, correction, and training in righteousness.”

 

When it comes to tough questions, I am not sorry to have them asked.  Personally, I enjoy being asked questions where I have to go to the Bible and let God speak.  For over 70 years, He has taught me that He is wiser than I am.  He has taught me His love.  He has taught me that He wants me to trust Him and follow Him.

 

Do you have any questions?  I would be glad to hear from you.  I may not have the answers, but we can go to God’s Word together.

 

A Child of God, Knowing My Lack of Wisdom – Trusting Our Lord’s Wisdom in Scripture,

Pastor Jonathan

 

P.S.  NEWS AND MINISTRY OPPORTUNITIES AT First Lutheran Church – Gainesville!

           

THE FIRST LUTHERAN FISH FRY / COOKOUT, VOLUNTEER AND TIME AND TALENT SUNDAY saw lots of food, lots of fellowship, and people volunteering to help do the Lord’s work at First Lutheran.  Here are some pictures.  https://photos.app.goo.gl/Ej8G2h1ptuvfqsNQ9

 

CALL COMMITTEE NEWS – Members turned in names of potential people to consider as the new pastor for First Lutheran.  On Monday, President, Mark Hoyer, sent 8 names to the FL-GA District Office.  District will check the availability of these men to receive a call, and return a list to us to consider for the next pastor at First Lutheran.  Please keep this process in prayer.

 

A STUDY OF THE BOOK OF ACTS continues on Sunday mornings at 8:45 a.m. in the Besalski Fellowship Hall.  We are currently studying chapter 14, the beginning of Paul’s missionary journeys.  Come and join us in studying about the history of the early Christian Church!

 

WE CONTINUE TO READ THROUGH THE SCRIPTURE IN 2024 and 2025 using the Today’s Light Devotional Bible.  On April 23 we read Deuteronomy 27, which shares the blessings of serving the Lord and the curses of forsaking Him.

Feel free to contact Pastor Rockey if you have any questions at 907-841-4066, or at jonrock53@mtaonline.net

 

SUNDAY SCHOOL IS HELD EACH SUNDAY DURING WORSHIP.  PLEASE bring your children and grandchildren!

 

BASIC TEACHINGS OF THE BIBLE / NEW MEMBER CLASS –This class began on February 11^th,  and finished after the Fish Fry on Sunday, April 21.  We expect to receive two unew members for First Lutheran.  We will receive them into membership the end of June or beginning of July. (We are waiting for a UF student to return to Gainesville.)

            If anyone else is desireing to be received by transfer or reaffirmation of faith please call the church office or let Pastor Rockey know.

 

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

 

OTHER ITEMS OF INTEREST – I went fishing once since my last devotion.  On Friday, April 19, I went fishing at Orange Lake to provide the final few fish for the First Lutheran Fish Fry.  Here are some pictures.  https://photos.app.goo.gl/tU6mVYTUgHtLDu9r5

 

*******

 

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)

 

 

 

Finding Strength to Face Life Because . . . the Lord Fights For Us!

 

Dear Fellow Children of God,

 

A number of the Scripture readings in my devotions this past week have struck me and spoken to me about our loving Lord.  But, perhaps the truth of God which most hit me between the eyes is the promise I read in Deuteronomy 20.  There God promises, 1 "When you go out to war against your enemies, and see horses and chariots and an army larger than your own, you shall not be afraid of them, for the LORD your God is with you, who brought you up out of the land of Egypt. ² And when you draw near to the battle, the priest shall come forward and speak to the people ³ and shall say to them, 'Hear, O Israel, today you are drawing near for battle against your enemies: let not your heart faint. Do not fear or panic or be in dread of them, ⁴ for the LORD your God is he who goes with you to fight for you against your enemies, to give you the victory.'” (Deuteronomy 20:1-4)  These four verses set the context.  However, it is verse 4 which really caught my attention.  “ . . . the LORD your God is he who goes with you to fight for you against your enemies, to give you the victory.'”

 

There are situations in our world, and in my life, which I know are bigger than I am, and beyond my ability to control.  I watch our world turn away from our Lord and turn to sinful behaviors.  I pray about these issues, but . . . People whom I love and care about face cancer and other illnesses.  Others face marriage and family issues, with which I sometimes try to help, but at the same time the issues seem bigger than I am.  There are people on my prayer list who struggle with substance issues.  Some of them have been on my list FOR DECADES! 

 

Perhaps my words are somewhat of a confession.  I know many Scripture verses which tell me that our Lord is my “refuge”, my “strength”, my “rock”, my “deliverer.”  Yet prayer is not like turning on a light switch.  I do not see instant results.  And, though I do trust that God hears and that He always answers in wisdom and love, sometimes I wonder.  The evil and the sin and the trouble of this world are so strong.  Perhaps I even doubt that God is fighting for me.

 

As I personally pondered these promises in Deuteronomy, wondering if and how this promise is true, I remembered.  I remembered the cross and the empty tomb.  Our Lord inspired Peter to teach us of our enemy, “⁸ Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.” (1 Peter 5:8)  It was God HIMSELF who did fight for me against my enemy.  Jesus, the only-begotten Son of God, Jesus who is God Himself, faced all the temptations which Satan could bring against Him.  God tells us in Hebrews that Jesus is “one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin.” (Hebrews 4:15) Jesus was fighting for me! 

 

Jesus faced betrayal, denial, injustice, mocking, torture, and death in order to pay the debt which my sin owes.  Jesus did this willingly.  (John 10:18) Hebrews 2:14 and 15 reveal that, “by his death he might destroy him who holds the power of death-- that is, the devil-- 15 and free those who all their lives were held in slavery by their fear of death.” On the cross Jesus paid for my sin and destroyed the devil.  Jesus Himself was fighting . . . for me!

 

Jesus rose from the dead and defeated our greatest enemy.  Scripture calls death “the shroud that enfolds all peoples, the sheet that covers all nations;” (Isaiah 25:7).  I may wonder at times about the promise of God, and about how and when He keeps His promise, but in Jesus, the beloved Son of my Heavenly Father, it really is true. “ . . . the LORD your God is he who goes with you to fight for you against your enemies, to give you the victory.”

 

So, I do not personally have to understand how God fulfills this promise for my life, nor when He will answer my prayers.  After all, who am I that I should tell the Lord and Ruler of all what to do.  Nevertheless, for my biggest enemies of sin and death and hell, Jesus the Son of God fought for me and defeated these enemies.  Today I know that “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” (Psalm 46:1)  So, I pray so that I will keep trusting, and keep seeking to love my Lord and love my neighbors, knowing that, even though I do not understand how and when He does it, the “Lord my God fights against my enemies to give me the victory!”

 

What enemies are you facing today?  What a joy and strength to see that in Jesus, The Lord fights for us!!  Let us live in that love, and assurance, and victory!

 

A Child of God, Finding Strength to Face Life Because . . . the Lord Fights For Us!

Pastor Jonathan

 

P.S.  Here are the rest of the words of 1 Peter 5:8-11 – “⁸ Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.  ⁹ Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world. ¹⁰ And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you. ¹¹ To him be the dominion forever and ever. Amen.

 

 

NEWS AND MINISTRY OPPORTUNITIES AT First Lutheran Church – Gainesville!

           

VOLUNTEER SUNDAY AND FISH FRY AND COOKOUT –

THIS Sunday!

This Sunday, April 21 we will have an opportunity to volunteer for helping with God’s work at First Lutheran.  After worship we will have tables for the various areas of service staffed by people who serve in those areas.  You can get information about these opportunities for service and ministry and sign up to help if you want to do so.

            As encouragement to stay, WE WILL HAVE A FISH FRY AND COOKOUT!!!!  Pastor Rockey is donating fish from his trips this year.  Steve Rockey and Mark Reaves will be frying bass.  Jeff Lee (Leeann’s husband) will be grilling burgers and hot dogs.  We ask those attending bring a side dish or dessert to share in this time of fellowship and ministry.

 

CALL COMMITTEE NEWS – First Lutheran was informed during Holy Week that we would not be assigned Timothy Handrick as Deferred Vicar.  He has been assigned to another congregation.  However, we have completed our self-study, and will begin collecting names of possible candidates for the call of pastor at First Lutheran.  Nomination Forms for possible candidates for a new pastor are included in bulletins from Sunday, April 7 - 20.  IF YOU HAVE NAMES FOR CONSIDERATION, PLEASE TURN THEM IN THIS SUNDAY, APRIL 21.

 

A STUDY OF THE BOOK OF ACTS continues on Sunday mornings at 8:45 a.m. in the Besalski Fellowship Hall.  On March 24 we started book 2 of the Acts study, chapter 13, the beginning of Paul’s missionary journeys.  Come and join us in studying about the history of the early Christian Church!

 

WE CONTINUE TO READ THROUGH THE SCRIPTURE IN 2024 and 2025 using the Today’s Light Devotional Bible.  As of March 30 we finished Numbers, and start we started reading in Deuteronomy on April 1.  Deuteronomy comes from the Latin word “deuteron” which means “second.”  This book is the second telling God God’s law to His people as they enter the Promised Land.  On April 16 we read Deuteronomy 18 and 19.  Chapter 18 tells of “the prophet” whom God would send. 

Feel free to contact Pastor Rockey if you have any questions at 907-841-4066, or at jonrock53@mtaonline.net

 

SUNDAY SCHOOL IS HELD EACH SUNDAY DURING WORSHIP.  PLEASE bring your children and grandchildren!

 

BASIC TEACHINGS OF THE BIBLE / NEW MEMBER CLASS –This class began on February 11^th,  after worship in the Besalski Fellowship Hall. But, we have only just begun. There is still time to join the class.  This is also a good way to refresh you knowledge of God’s Word.  PLEASE NOTE,   JUST BECAUSE A PERSON ATTENDS THE CLASS DOES NOT MEAN THEY ARE COMMITTED TO JOINING FIRST LUTHERAN.  If you are interested in learning and growing, we would love to have you join us.

We will complete the whole class in a one day lesson THIS Sunday, April 21, after the fish fry and Volunteer time.

 

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

 

OTHER ITEMS OF INTEREST – I went fishing 3 times since my last devotion.

·       On Thursday, April 11, I took Thomas Dudeck fishing on Orange Lake.  The forecast was for WIND and rain.  We did not fish long.  Thomas called one fish.  Here is a picture. https://photos.app.goo.gl/WtbBkmgXVycHbxP57

 

·       On Friday, April 12, I took Thomas fishing on Rodman Reservoir. We kept 2 of the fish we caught.  https://photos.app.goo.gl/W8YcwHBufFVs1anH9

 

·       On Sunday, April 14, after worship I went fishing on a favorite lake.  The weather was beautiful, and the fish were biting.  In about 3 hours I caught 4 nice bass, and lot quite a few more.  Here are some pictures.   https://photos.app.goo.gl/Tvfn1GjUrj7SWmbn9

 

 

*******

 

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)

 

 

 

Making a Joyful Noise to the Lord!

Dear Fellow Children of God,

 

Do you like to sing?  My observation is that people sang more in decades past, but don’t sing out loud as much today.  I believe that when I was a child even my adult male relatives sang in worship.  And, when I gathered at my grandfather’s home he often broke out into songs.  None of my relatives had what you might call “performing voices,” but we could carry a tune, and at times we were LOUD! 

 

However, last month I was on a family Spring Break Cruise we had been planning for a couple of years.  Two of my granddaughters asked me during our evening meal if I didn’t want to sing in the ship karaoke contest.  I was let off the hook because our family was scheduled for a late meal, and the singing contest was completed by the time we finished eating.  But, I told them, “I get to ‘sing karaoke’ every Sunday.  We have the words on screens for the hymns.  I sing loudly (even if I sometimes sing the wrong words), and I’m a worship leader.”  My wife Kathy chimed in, “He’s sort of right, you know.  He even chants some of the liturgy.” My answer to the question, by the way, is that I do personally enjoy singing.

 

In the Old Testament Psalms God’s people are encouraged, “ . . . Oh sing to the LORD a new song;”  (Ps. 96:1).  In the New Testament Paul encourages different kinds of worship through song in the following way, “¹⁶ Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God.” (Colossians 3:16 ESV) “  (see also Ephesians 5:18-20)

 

Notice that God inspired Paul to call the Colossians toward teaching and admonishing (encouraging and correcting) through music.  Paul’s first call to God’s people was to “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly.”  Worship is a response to the presence of Christ living in us, in part through His word.  Paul’s call suggests that there are various styles of music.  He mentions “Psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs.”  But, the Ephesians were not only to worship with their minds, by teaching, but with thankfulness in their hearts. Perhaps Martin Luther was thinking of these words of St. Paul when he is supposed to have said, “He who sings . . . prays TWICE.”

 

Let me share a joy I have experienced during the last 6 months.  As I serve as vacancy pastor I have prepared for Sunday worship on Thursday mornings by reviewing and singing through the upcoming worship service with our musicians.  I’m not sure I ever considered this preparation in the 3 previous locations where I served. But our musicians in those congregations all worked full-time at other jobs and were not available.  However, in my current situation that is not the case.  So, with our musician playing, I join in singing through the hymns, and songs, and liturgy.  There is some wisdom to this practice in that I at least begin to get on the same page with our musician.  Sometimes I need to learn parts before I lead worship on Sundays.  Sometime we discuss themes and goals for leading God’s people in worshiping Him.  Sometimes we make changes as we prepare.  But, if the words of hymns and songs speak to one’s mind, the notes and music speak to a person’s heart.  What a treat this musical preparation for worship has been!

 

Do you enjoy singing?  If there is any reason for joy and thankfulness in our world it is that our Heavenly Father created us in love, and when we rebelled He saved us through sending His son, Jesus.  During Easter we remember and give thanks for God’s amazing love given in Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross.  His Easter rising and the gift of eternal life through faith give us peace and hope through Jesus’ victory over sin and death. Those are wonderful reasons which inspire poetry and praise and thanks and music.  And, we have the privilege of praying and praising twice, the joy of worshiping with mind and with our hearts, in words and through the tune of the music.

 

I hope you find joy in singing, especially singing praise and thanks to God.  I do. 

 

A Child of God, Making a Joyful Noise to the Lord!

Pastor Jonathan

 

 

NEWS AND MINISTRY OPPORTUNITIES AT First Lutheran Church – Gainesville!

           

VOLUNTEER SUNDAY AND FISH FRY AND COOKOUT - On Sunday, April 21 we will have an opportunity to volunteer for helping with God’s work at First Lutheran.  After worship we will have tables for the various areas of service staffed by people who serve in those areas.  You can get information and sign up to help if you want. 

            As encouragement to stay WE WILL HAVE A FISH FRY AND COOKOUT!!!!  Pastor Rockey is donating fish from his trips this year.  Steve Rockey will be frying bass.  Others will be cooking hot dogs and hamburgers.  We ask those attending bring a side dish or dessert to share in this time of fellowship and ministry.

 

CALL COMMITTEE NEWS – First Lutheran was informed during Holy Week that we would not be assigned Timothy Handrick as Deferred Vicar.  He has been assigned to another congregation.  However, we have completed our self-study, and will begin collecting names of possible candidates for the call of pastor at First Lutheran.  Nomination Forms for possible candidates for a new pastor are included in bulletins from Sunday, April 7 - 20. 

 

A STUDY OF THE BOOK OF ACTS continues on Sunday mornings at 8:45 a.m. in the Besalski Fellowship Hall.  On March 24 we started book 2 of the Acts study, chapter 13, the beginning of Paul’s missionary journeys.  Come and join us in studying about the history of the early Christian Church!

 

WE CONTINUE TO READ THROUGH THE SCRIPTURE IN 2024 and 2025 using the Today’s Light Devotional Bible.  As of March 30 we finished Numbers, and start we started reading in Deuteronomy on April 1.  Deuteronomy comes from the Latin word “deuteron” which means “second.”  This book is the second telling God God’s law to His people as they enter the Promised Land.  Feel free to contact Pastor Rockey if you have any questions at 907-841-4066, or at jonrock53@mtaonline.net

 

SUNDAY SCHOOL IS HELD EACH SUNDAY DURING WORSHIP.  PLEASE bring your children and grandchildren!

 

BASIC TEACHINGS OF THE BIBLE / NEW MEMBER CLASS –This class began on February 11^th,  after worship in the Besalski Fellowship Hall. But, we have only just begun. There is still time to join the class.  This is also a good way to refresh you knowledge of God’s Word.  PLEASE NOTE,   JUST BECAUSE A PERSON ATTENDS THE CLASS DOES NOT MEAN THEY ARE COMMITTED TO JOINING FIRST LUTHERAN.  If you are interested in learning and growing, we would love to have you join us. We will complete the whole class in a one day lesson on Sunday, April 21

 

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

 

OTHER ITEMS OF INTEREST – The week after Easter I took it a little easy.  Though I made it to the office 3 times, I also found time to fish and golf.

·       On Thursday, April 4, I spent part of the afternoon on Santa Fe Lake trying out a new trolling motor and fishing.  However there rewe 20+ mile an hour winds, and waves on the lake of 3 feet, with LOTS of whitecaps.  No bites, no fish!

 

·       On Saturday, April 6, I went fishing with my brother, James, at Tsala-Apopka Chain of Lakes.  It was quite cool, and windy.  We had some bites, but only caught 1 fish in 5 or so hours of fishing.  Here are some pictures.  https://photos.app.goo.gl/TEnRMyrWhXmTCWFJA

 

·       On Sunday, April 7, after worship I went fishing in a favorite lake.  The weather was warm, there was no wind, and the fish were biting.  In about two hours I had a limit of 5 nice bass.  Here are some pictures.  https://photos.app.goo.gl/4Gh5YFpRJm2byrH17

 

 

*******

 

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)

 

 

 

Praying for Easter Hope and Joy and Faith, Especially through Life’s Trials

Dear Fellow Children of God,

 

On Wednesday, March 20, I went golfing at Turkey Creek Golf Course in Alachua, Florida, north of Gainesville.  Now, I know my Alaska friends might be surprised that I would complain.  Afterall, most Alaskan are not golfing IN MARCH!

 

However, on this morning, after two holes, I was ready to throw my golf clubs into the lake!  First of all, the league in which I sometimes play tees off at 8:00 a.m.  The sun rose that day around 7:30 a.m.  And it was cold – for Florida at least!.  There was frost on the ground as I drove to the course.  My I-phone read 38 degrees as I teed off.  The humidity of Florida weather makes 38 degrees in Florida feel colder than 38 degrees in Alaska.  And, as a man now in my 70’s, my body does not start as quickly as it once did.  I have some stiffness when I wake, and the aches and pains of arthritis. Before I golf I need to stretch to get ready.

 

But, I have been playing well, and had hopes for the morning of March 20.  So, I teed off on the first hole of play for our group.  I hoped I could make it through the first few holes and warm up and then my game could go alright.  The first hole for our group was number 17, a 137 yard par 3.  I have recently parred this hole many times.  But on this day, though my ball traveled the right distance, and surprisingly traveled straight, it was straight just a little bit to the right of the hole.  I did not quite follow through enough on my swing, and my ball flew straight into a sand trap beside the green.  I hit out of the sand trap, but the dirt was hard, and the ball flew . . . OVER THE GREEN.  I chipped on and then 2 putted for a DOUBLE bogey, 5, not a good way to start.

 

Our next hole, hole 18, is rated as the toughest hole on the course.  My first shot was close to the lake, but not in.  I knew I could hit the ball over the water easily, but I did not want to fly over the fairway into the woods.  I chose a club less than I might have otherwise chosen, and hit the ball solid, right into the . . . yup, right into the lake!  Two shots into the water, one shot out, and now hitting my par shot onto the green, almost.  I chipped on and two putted for a score of 7 on a par 4 hole!  Before I even started I was 5 shots over par!  I had hoped for a good game.  My cart partner was named Scott.  I growled at myself and told him, “Maybe I should just take my clubs and go home.”  He knew I was upset. 

 

So, with a sour attitude I played the next holes.   But, I scored a par, then a bogey, and another par, and another bogey and my score was looking much better.  Scott asked, “Do you still want to go home?”  I confessed to him, “You know, it’s easy to forget that I am outside enjoying God’s creation. (It had warmed up.)  It’s easy to forget that I’m playing a game I enjoy, and that I am healthy enough to play.  I’m with friends.  It’s too bad that I can let a few bad golf shots cause me to forget my many blessings.”  Have the troubles in your life ever caused you to forget God’s rich blessings for you?

 

One of my favorite chapters in the Bible is Romans 8.  Verses 16-18 of that chapter assure us of God’s eternal love, in spite of the trials, the REAL trials in this world. “¹⁶ The Spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, ¹⁷ and if children, then heirs-- heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, provided we suffer with him in order that we may also be glorified with him. ¹⁸ For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us.”

 

Verse 18 is especially helpful to me.  ¹⁸ For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us.”  In this sinful world we suffer injustice, hatred, persecution.  We endure illness, failure, and guilt.  But for those who are “children of God,” who are “heirs with Christ,” “the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us.” Because Jesus died for our sin and rose from the dead, he gives the glory of heaven.  Life’s suffering cannot compare with the wonder of heaven!

 

Thankfully, God’s love blesses this life as well as the next.  When we live in the assurance of the glory of God in heaven, we can face this world with peace and joy and hope.  When we live in the assurance of the gift of God’s glory in heaven, we can see his presence and blessings even in the midst of large trials, and small ones, like a bad golf shot, or two, or three.

 

I played pretty well the rest of my match until the last 2 holes. On those holes I reached the green in my desired number of shots, but I actually hit the ball too far. (Until recently my shots have been short.)  So, a 4 putt on number 15 and a 3 putt on number 16 added 5 extra shots to my score - AGAIN!  ☹  However, by that time I had a better attitude, and could be thankful for my good shots, in spite of the bad ones.  What bothers me though is that, as pastor, I try to encourage others to see our Lord and His love in the middle of the suffering and trials of life.  Their troubles are much worse than a bad golf shot. Where is my faith? What example am I setting?

 

Will you join me in prayer? “Lord, send me Your Spirit so that, when the trials of life attack, I believe and stand on your love and victory in Jesus’ cross and His empty tomb.  And please, Lord, allow my faith to point others to You in the midst of the trials in their lives, so that others may not doubt your love, but trust You and Your saving love with all their heart.  Amen.”

 

A Child of God, Praying for Easter Hope and Joy and Faith, Especially through Life’s Trials,

 

 

THANK YOU! - HOLY WEEK VOLUNTEERS!!

            THANK YOU to all who helped make Holy Week special at First Lutheran.  Among others (I hope I do not forget anyone), I / We are thankful for those who served as

·       Pre-school singers and families (Palm Sunday)

·       Musicians

·       Sound and Technology Volunteers

·       Altar Guild

·       Ushers

·       Lay Assistants

·       OFFICE STAFF

·       COOKS for the Many meals

Holy Week was very special, in large part because of the willing service of SO MANY! 

 

CALL COMMITTEE NEWS – First Lutheran was informed during Holy Week that we would not be assigned Timothy Handrick as Deferred Vicar.  He has been assigned to another congregation.  However, we have completed our self-study, and will begin collecting names of possible candidates for the call of pastor at First Lutheran.  A Nomination Form will be included in bulletins beginning, Sunday, April 7.  The process of nominations will be open for 2 weeks.

 

A STUDY OF THE BOOK OF ACTS continues on Sunday mornings at 8:45 a.m. in the Besalski Fellowship Hall.  On March 24 we started book 2 of the Acts study, chapter 13, the beginning of Paul’s missionary journeys.  Come and join us in studying about the history of the early Christian Church!

 

WE CONTINUE TO READ THROUGH THE SCRIPTURE IN 2024 and 2025 using the Today’s Light Devotional Bible.  As of March 30 we finished Numbers, and start we started reading in Deuteronomy on April 1.  Feel free to contact Pastor Rockey if you have any questions at 907-841-4066, or at jonrock53@mtaonline.net

 

SUNDAY SCHOOL IS HELD EACH SUNDAY DURING WORSHIP.  PLEASE bring your children and grandchildren!

 

BASIC TEACHINGS OF THE BIBLE / NEW MEMBER CLASSS –This class began on February 11^th,  after worship in the Besalski Fellowship Hall. But, we have only just begun. There is still time to join the class.  This is also a good way to refresh you knowledge of God’s Word.  PLEASE NOTE,   JUST BECAUSE A PERSON ATTENDS THE CLASS DOES NOT MEAN THEY ARE COMMITTED TO JOINING FIRST LUTHERAN.  If you are interested in learning and growing, we would love to have you join us. THIS CLASS WILL RESUME ON APRIL 7!

 

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

 

OTHER ITEMS OF INTEREST

·       I only went fishing once in the last week.  While seeking some relaxation before Easter Sunday, I fished on the Suwannee River.  My sources said it would not be a good time to fish, but I was outdoors on the water.  I saw gators, and had one short period of excitement.  I was not getting any bites in the weeds, but I saw a swirl in the river.  When I threw my line there, my line started to run off my reel.  I set the hook and was surprised to see a 3-4 foot tarpon jump – 3 times!  My light tackle did not keep the big fish, but it was exciting.  Here is a picture of what a  tarpon looks like, and a gator or two.  https://photos.app.goo.gl/A8j5Hv9NXApMHZgy9  

 

 

*******

 

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)