Knowing that I Need a Savior Who Forgives and Saves

 

Dear Fellow Children of God, 

 

Why do people refuse to believe and follow God? 

 

On Sunday, September 14, I participated in a special worship service.  The chosen Gospel lesson was from John 6.  Earlier in this chapter Jesus had fed 5000 men, and the women and children with them, using only 5 small loaves of bread and 2 small fish.  Amazing!  Then, as Jesus distanced himself from them, He walked on water to join his disciples on the other side of the Sea of Galilee.  Yet, when those pursuing Jesus finally caught up with Him, a somewhat surprising conversation took place.  “²⁸ Then they said to him, "What must we do, to be doing the works of God?" ²⁹ Jesus answered them, "This is the work of God, that you believe in him whom he has sent." ³⁰ So they said to him, "Then what sign do you do, that we may see and believe you? What work do you perform?”  (John 6:28-30) Do you follow?  Jesus had just performed an amazing miracle, an almost unbelievable sign, and the people of the day don’t see it. They ask for another sign.  Wasn’t feeding 5000 enough? Why do people refuse to believe in Jesus and follow God? 

 

We should not be surprised by the lack of faith from the people of Jesus’ day.  In Numbers 21 we learn about the people of Israel in the wilderness.  The Lord had miraculously rescued the nation from slavery in Egypt.  He provided manna and quail daily for food.  Yet, they seemed blind to what God was doing.  In Numbers 21:5 we are told, “And the people spoke against God and against Moses, ‘Why have you brought us up out of Egypt to die in the wilderness? For there is no food and no water, and we loathe this worthless food.’"  The Lord provided food and drink for over 1 million people in the wilderness for 40 years.  Yet, in selfish arrogance the people ignored God’s provision and denied His claim on their lives.

 

Actually, such lack of faith is unfortunately a pattern which we find throughout Scripture.  Look at Isaiah, or Jeremiah, or Ezekiel.  Consider the struggles of the disciples who were constantly with Jesus, yet so often missed what He taught. God’s people begged for our Lord to send the Messiah. The Heavenly Father did send His Son. Yet the people missed the goodness of God. They did not believe in Jesus, nor did they follow His loving guidance. 

 

Why do people refuse to believe and follow God?  Perhaps more importantly, how often do we receive what we ask for from our Lord, and yet miss the gift?  I have often heard people state, “I just wish God would show me what to do.” Guess what?  Our Lord does give guidance in Jesus.

How often does God call us to healthy and righteous behavior and we just ignore his loving call? 

 

So, listen to Jesus.  In the Sermon on the Mount Jesus teaches, “Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, (Matthew 5:44) Jesus does give direction.  Yet today even Christians have trouble communicating with those with whom they disagree.  We can and do have trouble seeing the gift of God.  And we have trouble following Jesus’ direction.

 

Also, in The Sermon on the Mount, Jesus teaches, “²⁷ "You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall not commit adultery.' ²⁸ But I say to you that everyone who looks at a woman with lustful intent has already committed adultery with her in his heart.’” (Matt. 5:27-29)  God’s children seek His guidance.  But we can and do miss what Jesus says.  How much of our entertainment encourages lust, never mind acts of sexual impurity?

 

How about our speech? Jesus also teaches in the sermon on the Mount, ³³ "Again you have heard that it was said to those of old, “You shall not swear falsely, but shall perform to the Lord what you have sworn.' ³⁴ But I say to you, . . . ³⁷ Let what you say be simply 'Yes' or 'No'; anything more than this comes from evil.”   (Matthew 5:33-34, 37) And listen to Jesus in

Matthew 18. "If your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault, between you and him alone. If he listens to you, you have gained your brother.” (Matthew 18:15) How often do we miss speaking the truth?  How often do we miss speaking with kindness and understanding to others, even those who hurt us?

 

I could go on and on. But, while I am surprised at how often the people in scripture miss the blessings of God, and refuse to follow Him, I have to confess the same failure myself.  I am personally convicted.  I too miss the gifts of God.  I also ignore His loving guidance.  I am thankful that Jesus forgives.  That is what I really need.  I need a Savior who forgives and saves.  I DO look for guidance from my Lord, and my Heavenly Father sends a Savior from sin.  Think what that means!

 

I pray that Jesus breaks through my hard head and my selfish and rebellious spirit so that I hear His message and follow His guidance.  When I know the gift of the grace of God in Jesus, I do want to listen and serve.

 

A Child of God, Knowing that I Need a Savior Who Forgives and Saves,

Pastor Rockey

 

P.S.  I am now serving Our Redeemer Lutheran in Chugiak, AK, as part-time Vacancy Pastor. 

 

·       The Our Redeemer Call Committee includes Elder and chairman, Jerry Simpson, also Heidi Enlow, Ruth Keller, Theo Lee, Jacob Lewis, Scott Roelfs, and Martha Wilkins.  They have met numerous times. 

The first step in the call process has been to complete a congregational self-study.  The Northwest District has shared the study and tools to help in this study.  The committee has asked for and received input from ORLC for this study.  Jacob Lewis is compiling the survey to turn in to District.  Nomination forms for names for a new pastor have also been distributed. 

The goal is to turn in this self-study, and nominations for pastor, to the Northwest District by October 1, 2025.  Here is a note from call committee chairperson, Jerry Simpson.

“The Call Committee is requesting nominations from the congregation for pastoral candidates you would like to be considered for our new pastor. Part of this process is to request information from the District regarding eligibility and information for our evaluation. IF you know of someone, please fill out a nomination form and either put it in the Nominations box in the Connections Corner, give it to one of the Call Committee members, leave it in my mailbox, or email me an electronic copy at jerry@amc-ak.org. Nominations are due BEFORE September 30, 2025. Nomination forms are available at the Connections Corner or if you would prefer an electronic copy, email me at the above address.  Thank you for your prayerful consideration of candidates, your prayers for the committee as we work to discern where God is leading us, and your patience during this process.

 

Jerry Simpson

970-214-2347

jerry@gbcss.us

jerry@amc-ak.org

 

 

OTHER EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES AT OUR REDEEMER:

 

·       There are two opportunities a week for exercise and wellness. 

o   Matt Keith leads Chayon Ryu Martial Arts Beginner Class on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 9:00 a.m. in the Our Redeemer Fellowship Hall

 

o   Matt then teaches a Fall Prevention Class, attended mostly by seniors, at 10:00 a.m. in the fellowship hall.

 

·       The Our Redeemer Voters will hold the annual budget and election meeting of the Voters on Sunday, October 5, after worship.

 

·       A “Mom’s Group” meets on Mondays, October 6 and October 20 at 10:30 a.m. at Our Redeemer.

 

·       An Adult Fellowship Potluck is held the first Tuesday of each month at 11:30 a.m.  In October this takes place on the 7^th in the library.

 

·       A Fall Blessings Festival will be held on Friday, October 10 at 6:00 p.m.

 

·       There is a “Mind, Body, and Soul Event” for ladies at Our Redeemer on Saturday, October 18, from 10:00 a.m. -2:00 p.m.

 

·       There are other events planned as well.  Watch the Our Redeemer calendar and newsletter for information.

 

Regular Bible Studies and Sunday School

 

·       Adult Bible Study continues on Sunday mornings at 9:00 a.m.   The class is studying “Basic Christian Teachings.” We have been studying about the 10 commandments and will soon be studying about the church.  Come and join us!

 

·       Sunday School began on Sunday, September 7!  This will be a blessing for ALL children and adults.   

 

·       “Deeply Rooted Small Group” Is held at Our Redeemer on Sunday evenings, October 5 and 19 at 5:45 p.m.

 

·       Confirmation classes will begin on Sunday, October 12, after worship services.  Watch for more information.

 

Other Activities of Faith:

 

·       MANY CONTINUE TO READ THROUGH THE SCRIPTURE WITH ME IN 2024 and 2025 using the “Today’s Light Devotional Bible.”  On Wednesday, September 17, we read 2 Corinthians 8 and 9.   

Feel free to contact Pastor Rockey at 907-841-4066 if you have any questions about these readings.  Or send an e-mail question to jonrock53@mtaonline.net  I have recently received questions and comments.  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 and Fishing!  - I have been busy with church work. 

 

• Garden - I did harvest on Saturday, September 13.  Here are some pictures. https://photos.app.goo.gl/PhbV7dhLKBC4n8yE8

 

• Fishing - I have not been fishing since Wednesday, September 10.

 

 

 

 

*******

 

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.  (However, I am currently as Vacancy Pastor for Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in Chugiak, AK.)

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, Our Redeemer Lutheran Church, Chugiak, 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)

 

Sometimes the Truth May be Obvious, BUT I Still Need to Hear and Accept It"

 

Dear Fellow Children of God, 

 

On Monday and Tuesday, September 8 and 9, I had the privilege of taking family and friends of Pastor Paul Birner fishing.  Paul and I have known each other since 1991.  He and I both served as pastors in Alaska in the 1990’s.  We were fishing for silver salmon, and hooked a few, but did not catch any.  We talked to some other fishermen, including a number of guides.  No one seemed to be catching much, if anything. 

 

So, on Tuesday afternoon, after a lot of fishing and no catching, I decided to call a guide I know.  The Fenton brothers are well-known, experienced guides on the Kenai River.  I know Murray Fenton through the Kolberg family from St. John Lutheran in Palmer.  Because of Murray I have also met and talked with his older brother, Mike Fenton.  In fact, I talked with Mike on the river earlier this summer.  So, on Tuesday I called Mike on the phone to ask if he might have any suggestions.  I explained where we were fishing and what we were using for bait.  “Do you have any suggestions that might help us catch fish?”  Mike shared some helpful information, but then jokingly told me.  “Jonathan, do you want to know what to do to catch a fish?  Hire a guide.”

 

Paul Birner’s cousin from Alabama, Tim Bokenkamp, was in the boat fishing with me.  Tim heard me laughing and asked what was going on.  I told Tim what Mike had said, and Tim responded, “That’s pretty obvious, isn’t it?  That’s sort of like, ‘Believe in the Lord Jesus Christ, and you will be saved.’”

 

Well, it may be obvious, but Mike was correct, especially when catching is the goal even more than fishing. I have actually hired a guide numerous times to help me with my fishing.  But Paul has a LOT of family and friends.  I can afford a guide some of the time for myself. However, it would be really expensive to hire a guide for everybody.  Mike did have a point, though.   Because of being on the river regularly, and because of much experience, fishing guides usually know more and have better success than the private fisherman. In addition, Tim’s quotation of St. Paul may also be obvious,  But, Tim’s quotation of a Bible verse is also the truth of God. 

 

Do you know the account of when St. Paul spoke those words which Tim quoted to me?  Paul and Silas were in Corinth proclaiming the good news of Jesus in a new city.  They had cast a demon out of a slave girl, and their miracle angered the girl’s owners.  As a result, Paul and Silas were thrown into prison.  While in prison they were praying and singing hymns, and the jailer heard them.  An earthquake struck during the night opening the gates of the prison.  All in prison were thus able to stand outside.  So, when the jailer realized the prisoners could also escape, and that he would be held accountable, he was about to kill himself.  Acts 16 continues the account, “²⁸But Paul cried with a loud voice, ‘Do not harm yourself, for we are all here.’ ²⁹ And the jailer called for lights and rushed in, and trembling with fear he fell down before Paul and Silas.  ³⁰ Then he brought them out and said, ‘Sirs, what must I do to be saved?’ ³¹ And they said, ‘Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, you and your household.’" (Acts 16:28-31) The jailer asked a simple question, and received a straight answer.

 

The words of Paul and Silas are one of the best summaries in Scripture of God’s plan of salvation in Jesus.  Jesus, the Son of God and the son of Mary, lived a righteous life.  Yet, even though He was without sin, Jesus suffered and died to pay for sin. He did not die because of His sin, but in love Jesus died to pay for the sins of the world.  Yet, after dying, Jesus rose again defeating sin and death.  God’s plan to save our world, a world which is lost in it’s sin, is to for people to trust our Heavenly Father’s saving love in His Son, Jesus. This statement in Acts 16 is the most obvious answer to the question of the jailer,” what must I do to be saved?”.  But, the answer of Paul and Silas is also true, and the jailer needed to hear these simple, obvious, words of truth.  “‘Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved.”

 

While fishing on Wednesday I saw Mike Fenton fishing near a place I knew.  I called out to him.  He replied, “Jonathan, I thought you were still in jail.” (laugh)  Mike may have joked on Wednesday, but his words to me on Tuesday, though obvious, were true.  Sometimes it helps to hear the obvious truth.

 

Maybe you have heard the words of Paul in Acts 16 before.  You may have even memorized them.  These words are the simple truth of God’s saving love.  BUT, do you personally know the truth of these words for your life?  ‘Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved."  Sometimes we need to hear the obvious, again! God’s truth in Jesus brings eternal life.

 

A Child of God, Believing in Jesus for My Salvation and Deliverance!

Pastor Rockey

 

P.S.  I am now serving Our Redeemer Lutheran in Chugiak, AK, as part-time Vacancy Pastor. 

 

·       The Our Redeemer Call Committee includes Elder and chairman, Jerry Simpson, also Heidi Enlow, Ruth Keller, Theo Lee, Jacob Lewis, Scott Roelfs, and Martha Wilkins.  They have met on June 4, July 1, July 22, and just recently on August 19. 

The first step in the call process is to complete a congregational self-study.  The Northwest District has the study and tools to help in this study. 

In order to complete this study, the committee has asked for input from ORLC leaders.  The Call Committee also passed out this survey for members in worship on Sunday, August 24.   These are due on September 7. 

Nomination forms for names for a new pastor were also distributed.  Both documents are available on the Connection Corner table in the back of the church.

The goal is to turn in the self-study, and nominations for pastor, to the Northwest District by October 1, 2025.

 

OTHER EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES AT OUR REDEEMER:

 

·       There are two opportunities a week for exercise and wellness. 

o   Matt Keith leads Chayon Ryu Martial Arts Beginner Class on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 9:00 a.m. in the Our Redeemer Fellowship Hall

 

o   Matt then teaches a Fall Prevention Class, attended mostly by seniors, at 10:00 a.m. in the fellowship hall.

 

·       The Our Redeemer Voters will hold the annual budget and election meeting of the Voters on Sunday, October 5, after worship.

 

·       A “Mom’s Group” meets on Mondays, October 6 and October 20 at 10:30 a.m. at Our Redeemer.

 

·       An Adult Fellowship Potluck is held the first Tuesday of each month at 11:30 a.m.  In October this takes place on the 7^th in the library.lllllllllll

 

·       A Fall Blessings Festival will be held on Friday, October 10 at 6:00 p.m.

 

·       The is a “Mind, Body, and Soul Event” for ladies at Our Redeemer on Saturday, October 18, from 10:00 a.m. -2:00 p.m.

 

·       There are other events planned as well.  Watch the Our Redeemer calendar and newsletter for information.

 

Regular Bible Studies and Sunday School

 

·       Adult Bible Study continues on Sunday mornings at 9:00 a.m.   The class is studying “Basic Christian Teachings.” On August 24 we began to study the 10 commandments.  We will continue to study this topic in the coming weeks.  Come and join us!

 

·       Sunday School began on Sunday, September 7!  This will be a blessing for ALL children and adults.   

 

·       “Deeply Rooted Small Group” Is held at Our Redeemer on Sunday evenings, October 5 and 19 at 5:45 p.m.

 

·       Confirmation classes will begin on Sunday, October 12, after worship services.  Watch for more information.

 

Other Activities of Faith:

 

·       MANY CONTINUE TO READ THROUGH THE SCRIPTURE WITH ME IN 2024 and 2025 using the “Today’s Light Devotional Bible.”  On Tuesday, September 9, we read 1 Corinthians 13 & 14.   

Feel free to contact Pastor Rockey at 907-841-4066 if you have any questions about these readings.  Or send an e-mail question to jonrock53@mtaonline.net  I have recently received questions and comments.  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 and Fishing!  -

 

Wildlife

·       While fishing on the Kenai River we saw seals, eagles, a large bull moose, and a brown bear that had a special spot to eat salmon.  Here are a few pictures.  https://photos.app.goo.gl/oxuBj9jgBnWL1d5G8

 

Garden

·       This was our meal last Wednesday, September 3 – salmon we caught and veggies from our garden. https://photos.app.goo.gl/6brcWKf2PeHYEADd9

 

Fishing

·       We did a lot of FISHING, but not much catching on Monday through Wednesday, September 8-10.

 

Golfing – I did get in some golfing on September 1 and 5.  Here are a couple of pictures.  https://photos.app.goo.gl/n7nkMyAK5Yp9cUAW8

 

 

 

*******

 

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.  (However, I am currently as Vacancy Pastor for Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in Chugiak, AK.)

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, Our Redeemer Lutheran Church, Chugiak, 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)

 

Learning Again My Lack of Understanding, Awed by the Knowledge and Wisdom of God!

 

Dear Fellow Children of God, 

 

I have great appreciation and respect for craftsmen, for people who can work with buildings and machinery, constructing and repairing.  I appreciate engineers, contractors such as carpenters, plumbers, electricians, masons, mechanics, and many others.  One of the reasons for my respect is my own lack of knowledge in these areas.  Attending seminary to learn about shepherding God’s people does not teach a person how to frame a building, or to wire a fixture.  Over the years, through much research and MANY mistakes, I have learned more, and I actually can do many handy man jobs around the house. But then, what seems like a simple job, stumps me and I realize just how much I do NOT know. I realize again my lack of knowledge!

 

For the last couple of months I have been fishing, and therefore neglecting home chores.  So Friday and Saturday, August 29 and 30, I had a list of seven items I felt I needed to tackle.  Actually, as it usually does, my list became longer.  But, there was one chore on my original list that I had trouble with, and this job actually bled all the way into Tuesday!

 

I have three florescent light fixtures in my garage, and one was not working.  I tried new bulbs, but that did not help.  I needed a new light. I went to Lowe’s and they did not have anything which looked like my other two lights.  I tried Brown’s Electric in Wasilla, and showed them some pictures, and they sold me a new fixture which looks just like my other two.  However, the new fixture does not have a ballast, and the other two lights have one. After installing the light fixture, I again tried new bulbs. Three times (I should have learned earlier) the fixture blew out the bulbs.  Harry Koenen is an electrician, and a friend. I sent Harry pictures of my fixtures, and the bulbs, and the wiring. I asked Harry if it was my fixture? The bulbs? My wiring?  Harry came to our home on Sunday afternoon and looked.  He said, “Your wiring is good.”  But, Harry indicated he had primarily installed florescent fixtures WITH ballasts. 

 

After listening to Harry, I looked online to find out what kind of bulbs to purchase for this new fixture.  The web page said I needed “T8 LED” bulbs.  Sunday evening Brown’s was closed, so I went to Lowe’s and showed them pictures from the web page.  They helped me choose some new bulbs.  Nevertheless, when these bulbs were installed, nothing happened. Sigh!

 

Finally, Tuesday morning I called Power Tech Electrical, which is close to our home.  Kyle came over and looked.  After thinking about it for a while he told me that neither type of the bulbs I had used were correct.  Because of the wiring on the new fixture, I needed bulbs for “line and ground on one end.”  I didn’t know there were such bulbs, never mind that my new light fixture needed them.  Finally, I went back to Brown’s and purchased the lights, and . . . the new fixture works!  Finally!  Hallelujah!!  What a 4 day struggle!!

 

I risk boring you with this long story of handyman trials, because I have again learned a lesson.  There is a LOT that I do not know!  And this is not just true in the home “fix it” area.  How can I best be a good, faithful, Christian husband? Father? Grandfather?  What does it take to be a faithful and effective pastor? Citizen? Friend?  There are times I try to live well, yet sometimes the results seem to say I have failed. Unfortunately, when I fail, I can even question God.

 

Do you know or remember the account of Job?  Job was a righteous Old Testament disciple of the Lord. Yet Job lost his livestock.  His children died. And, Job became painfully ill.  Ultimately, Job questioned the Lord he had faithfully worshiped.  Job questioned God’s goodness and His justice.  In turn, the Lord reminded Job of his lack of wisdom and knowledge when it came to the working of God.  You might want to read Job 38 and 39 at home.  Please consider just the first few verses from these chapters.  The Lord asks Job, “⁴ Where were you when I laid the foundation of the earth? Tell me, if you have understanding. ⁵ Who determined its measurements-- surely you know! Or who stretched the line upon it? ⁶ On what were its bases sunk, or who laid its cornerstone, ⁷ when the morning stars sang together and all the sons of God shouted for joy? ⁸ Or who shut in the sea with doors when it burst out from the womb, ⁹ when I made clouds its garment and thick darkness its swaddling band, ¹⁰ and prescribed limits for it and set bars and doors, ¹¹ and said, 'Thus far shall you come, and no farther, and here shall your proud waves be stayed’?”  (Job 38:4-11) Our Lord is the craftsman who created this world and this life. I need to humbly praise my Lord for His knowledge and power. I confess my own lack of wisdom.

 

Christians might have questions, not just about the Creative activity of our Heavenly Father, but also about God’s working in the saving life of Jesus.  Our Lord knows our questioning.  Listen to these verses from my devotional readings on September 1.  “¹⁸ For the word of the cross is folly to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. . . ^.22 For Jews demand signs and Greeks seek wisdom, ²³ but we preach Christ crucified, a stumbling block to Jews and folly to Gentiles, ²⁴ but to those who are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God. ²⁵ For the foolishness of God is wiser than men, and the weakness of God is stronger than men.” (1 Corinthians 1:18, 22-25) Imagine, God chose to save the world by sending His only begotten Son to die on a cross, an instrument of execution and torture!  That indeed is a mystery which reveals the love and wisdom of God, far beyond my wisdom, far beyond our wisdom.

 

I made it home on Tuesday with the new, special, light bulbs.  The new fixture now works, WITH the help of a number of people more knowledgeable than I am.  I know my lack of knowledge, my lack of wisdom, my own failures in other areas of life.  Thankfully, “the foolishness of God is wiser than men, and the weakness of God is stronger than men.”

 

A Child of God, Learning Again My Lack of Understanding, Awed by the Knowledge and Wisdom of God!      

Pastor Rockey

 

P.S.  I have copied God’s Words from Job 38:4-41 at the end of this devotion.  Job 39 is similar to Job 38.  As you read, do you gain humility from what God does know and we do not understand?

 

P.P.S.  I am now serving Our Redeemer Lutheran in Chugiak, AK, as part-time Vacancy Pastor. 

 

·       The Our Redeemer Call Committee includes Elder and chairman, Jerry Simpson, also Heidi Enlow, Ruth Keller, Theo Lee, Jacob Lewis, Scott Roelfs, and Martha Wilkins.  They have met on June 4, July 1, July 22, and just recently on August 19. 

The first step in the call process is to complete a congregational self-study.  The Northwest District has the study and tools to help in this study. 

In order to complete this study, the committee has asked for input from ORLC leaders.  The Call Committee also passed out this survey for members in worship on Sunday, August 24.   These are due on September 7. 

Nomination forms for names for a new pastor were also distributed.  Both documents are available on the Connection Corner table in the back of the church.

The goal is to turn in the self-study, and nominations for pastor, to the Northwest District by October 1, 2025.

 

Regular Bible Studies and Sunday School

 

·       Adult Bible Study continues on Sunday mornings at 9:00 a.m.   The class is studying “Basic Christian Teachings.” On August 24 we began to study the 10 commandments.  We will continue to study this topic in the coming weeks.  Come and join us!

 

·       Sunday School begins on Sunday, September 7!  This will be a blessing for ALL children and adults.  WE COULD STILL USE SOMEONE TO HELP LAUREN WITH THE HIGH SCHOOL CLASS!  Please see Lauren or Pastor Rockey if you have questions about helping.

 

·       Confirmation classes will begin on Sunday, October 12, after worship services.  Watch for more information.

 

Other Activities of Faith:

 

·       MANY CONTINUE TO READ THROUGH THE SCRIPTURE WITH ME IN 2024 and 2025 using the “Today’s Light Devotional Bible.”  On Tuesday, September 2, we read 1 Corinthians 3 & 4.   

Feel free to contact Pastor Rockey at 907-841-4066 if you have any questions about these readings.  Or send an e-mail question to jonrock53@mtaonline.net  I have recently received questions and comments.  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 and Fishing!  -

 

Garage Lights  Here are pictures of the garage lights that gave me so much trouble. https://photos.app.goo.gl/ArabRdqvMARjXKaa6  

 Wildlife

·       I purchased Kathy a bird feeder which has a camera attached.  I dug a hole and put up the feeder on August 29 and 30.  The birds have yet to find the feeder.  However, she did catch a FOX on the feeder camera on September 2.   Here are a couple of pictures.  https://photos.app.goo.gl/Dfny3KR1QQNxNyog7

 

Garden

·       Our Garden is slowing down, but we are still picking raspberries.  Here are a few pictures I picked on September 1  https://photos.app.goo.gl/PviMqWT9avVwcBmQ7 . 

 

·       We have also recently picked lettuce, potatoes, beets, and carrots.  Here are pictures from September 1.  https://photos.app.goo.gl/mRqPwfm4EdE8mpDo8

 

Fishing

·       I did not fish during the past week.  I have been catching up at home and the Little Susitna River is closed to silver salmon fishing.  I do plan to fish next week on the Kenai Peninsula.

 

P.P.S.  Here are the words from Job 38:4-41 at the end of this devotion.  Job 39 is similar.  As you read, do you gain humility from what God does know and we do not understand?

            “⁴ "Where were you when I laid the foundation of the earth? Tell me, if you have understanding. ⁵ Who determined its measurements-- surely you know! Or who stretched the line upon it? ⁶ On what were its bases sunk, or who laid its cornerstone, ⁷ when the morning stars sang together and all the sons of God shouted for joy? ⁸ "Or who shut in the sea with doors when it burst out from the womb, ⁹ when I made clouds its garment and thick darkness its swaddling band, ¹⁰ and prescribed limits for it and set bars and doors, ¹¹ and said, 'Thus far shall you come, and no farther, and here shall your proud waves be stayed'?

¹² "Have you commanded the morning since your days began, and caused the dawn to know its place, ¹³ that it might take hold of the skirts of the earth, and the wicked be shaken out of it? ¹⁴ It is changed like clay under the seal, and its features stand out like a garment. ¹⁵ From the wicked their light is withheld, and their uplifted arm is broken.

¹⁶ "Have you entered into the springs of the sea, or walked in the recesses of the deep? ¹⁷ Have the gates of death been revealed to you, or have you seen the gates of deep darkness? ¹⁸ Have you comprehended the expanse of the earth? Declare, if you know all this. ¹⁹ "Where is the way to the dwelling of light, and where is the place of darkness, ²⁰ that you may take it to its territory and that you may discern the paths to its home? ²¹ You know, for you were born then, and the number of your days is great!

²² "Have you entered the storehouses of the snow, or have you seen the storehouses of the hail, ²³ which I have reserved for the time of trouble, for the day of battle and war? ²⁴ What is the way to the place where the light is distributed, or where the east wind is scattered upon the earth?

²⁵ "Who has cleft a channel for the torrents of rain and a way for the thunderbolt, ²⁶ to bring rain on a land where no man is, on the desert in which there is no man, ²⁷ to satisfy the waste and desolate land, and to make the ground sprout with grass?

²⁸ "Has the rain a father, or who has begotten the drops of dew? ²⁹ From whose womb did the ice come forth, and who has given birth to the frost of heaven? ³⁰ The waters become hard like stone, and the face of the deep is frozen.

³¹ "Can you bind the chains of the Pleiades or loose the cords of Orion? ³² Can you lead forth the Mazzaroth in their season, or can you guide the Bear with its children? ³³ Do you know the ordinances of the heavens? Can you establish their rule on the earth? ³⁴ "Can you lift up your voice to the clouds, that a flood of waters may cover you? ³⁵ Can you send forth lightnings, that they may go and say to you, 'Here we are'?

³⁶ Who has put wisdom in the inward parts or given understanding to the mind? ³⁷ Who can number the clouds by wisdom? Or who can tilt the waterskins of the heavens, ³⁸ when the dust runs into a mass and the clods stick fast together?

³⁹ "Can you hunt the prey for the lion, or satisfy the appetite of the young lions, ⁴⁰ when they crouch in their dens or lie in wait in their thicket? ⁴¹ Who provides for the raven its prey, when its young ones cry to God for help, and wander about for lack of food?

 

 

 

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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.  (However, I am currently as Vacancy Pastor for Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in Chugiak, AK.)

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.

 

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Jonathan Rockey

Child of God

Husband, Father, Son, Grandfather

Vacancy Pastor, Our Redeemer Lutheran Church, Chugiak, 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)