Thankful that Jesus is ‘Head Over All Things to the Church’ – For ME!

Dear Fellow Children of God, 

 

On Tuesday and Wednesday of this week I communicated with friend Steve Arlow. Steve is a former member of St. John Lutheran Church in Palmer but now lives elsewhere.  We were trying to arrange for Steve to borrow my canoe.  However, coordinating our schedules was a little bit of a challenge.  After we finally worked out our plans, Steve’s text to me read, “Thanks Jonathan!!!  Doesn’t sound like you’re retired!!!!”  In truth, my granddaughter has also told me, “You FAILED retirement.” I could have responded to Steve in an offhand way, “I guess that’s just who I am.  I like to be active, doing something worthwhile.”  

 

But, are there times when it seems that the chores of one day lead to the responsibilities and the chores of the next day, with no end in sight?  As we walk and work through our daily responsibilities, through our chores, through tasks which we might not even expect to face, we can become weary.  Do we have the strength, the endurance, not just for today but also for the long-term future? 

 

The truth is that we never are alone.  God has showered all the blessings of heaven upon us (Ephesians 1:3).  We have our Lord’s Word, God’s lamp to our feet ans His light to our path.  He comes to us through our baptisms and the Lord’s Supper, God’s gifts of love and forgiveness for our lives of faith.  Our Lord provides fellowship and friendship through our brothers and sisters in His Church.  Yet, even though our Lord provides all these tools and resources, there may still be times in the middle of our daily efforts that we can feel weary, lonely, or inadequate. 

 

Please let me remind you of another way that our Lord is there for us, every day, for our good.  Sometimes we forget the truth which God inspired Paul to write at the end of Ephesians 1.  “God raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly places, ²¹ far above all rule and authority and power and dominion, and above every name that is named, not only in this age but also in the one to come. ²² And he put all things under his feet and gave him as head over all things to the church,” (Ephesians 1:20-22)  Yes, Jesus died to pay for our sins.  He rose from the dead to win eternal life for us in heaven, through faith.  But, Jesus is not just with us for eternal life.  He is also with us today. 

 

Thursday, May 29 is Ascension Day for 2025.  Forty days after Jesus rose, He ascended to heaven.  (See Acts 1:1-11)  As we confess in the Apostles’ or Nicene Creed each Sunday, Jesus “ascended into heaven and sits at the right hand of God the Father Almighty.”  Jesus’ ascension is not just a fact of history.  Jesus’ ascension is one of our Heavenly Father’s great gifts for His people.  For times when we may feel weary, or when we feel lonely, or unable to face the daily chores of life, Jesus is head over all things for the church, for US!  We don’t always understand what is happening in our world.  But if we ask in the middle of life’s challenges, “Where is God?”, the answer from Ephesians 1 is that Jesus is with us.  Jesus is head over, in charge of, everything, according to His wisdom, for the Church!!!  What a comfort and strength to know God’s help because of Jesus’ ascension!

 

I do not feel like I failed retirement.  I am thankful for the opportunity to continue serving my Lord and sharing His word with others, while perhaps actually working less hours than I used to work.  Still, there are times I can feel weary, or lonely, or inadequate. Please remember with me the truth of God’s grace from this Thursday, Ascension Day.  Receive our Lord’s comfort and strength! Jesus is “head over all things to the church,”

 

A Child of God, Thankful that Jesus is ‘Head Over All Things to the Church’ – For ME!

Pastor Rockey

 

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

 

·       MANY CONTINUE TO READ THROUGH THE SCRIPTURE WITH ME IN 2024 and 2025 using the “Today’s Light Devotional Bible.”  On Thursday, May 28, we read Zechariah 13.  We will finish Zechariah and Malachi THIS Saturday, May 31, and then begin reading from the New Testament on June 2!

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!

 

·       VBS will be held at Our Redeemer from Monday, June 9 through Friday, June 14 from 9:30 a.m. till noon each day.  Bring your kids, your grandkids, and your neighbor kids!  😊

 

P.P.S. Family Fun:

 

·       Family Time –

o   I worked on my garden some more.  All seeds and starts are planted.  Here are some more pictures.  (More to come next week.) https://photos.app.goo.gl/oc43qURYTNvFUPSKA

 

o   I had a doctor’s appointment for treatment on my face on Friday, May 23.  I had to stay out of the sun through Sunday.  On Friday, however, I did get my lawn mowed for the first time this year.  Here is a picture. https://photos.app.goo.gl/4JheJXP56GrxwJFRA

 

o   Here are some pictures of God’s beauty from my front porch on Saturday, May 24. https://photos.app.goo.gl/D3N8xEpHFb97jjLr8

 

o   I got flowers planted on Monday, May 26.  Pictures next week.

 

o   I do feel like, after about 3 weeks in Alaska, I almost have my feet under myself.

 

 

Fishing           - No Fishing this week.  I’m still waiting on my boat.  I did golf.  😊

 

 

 

*******

 

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)

 

 

 

 

  

Are you praying for Christ’s Church? Are you praying for your pastor or pastors?

 

Dear Fellow Children of God, 

 

Are you praying for Christ’s Church?  Are you praying for your pastor or pastors? Today, May 21, I sat and visited with friend, Jerry Simpson.  Jerry is a member and an elder at Our Redeemer where I am now serving as vacancy pastor.  However, Jerry is also the Executive Director of Alaska Mission for Christ, the mission arm of Lutheran Church Missouri Synod congregations in Alaska.  As we visited, I shared the following with Jerry. “I pray for you, personally, daily.  I pray for you as you lead AMC, that AMC may ‘boldly proclaim the gospel’ of Jesus.”  Jerry was appreciative.  Truly, I have been praying for AMC and for Jerry for quite a few years.

 

Perhaps you know, or perhaps not, that St. Paul requested such prayers for His work as an apostle.  In Ephesians 6, after encouraging Christians in Ephesus to “put on the whole armor of God,” (Ephesians 6:11) Paul then asks prayers for Himself.  “. . .keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints,  ¹⁹ and also for me, that words may be given to me in opening my mouth boldly to proclaim the mystery of the gospel, ²⁰ for which I am an ambassador in chains, that I may declare it boldly, as I ought to speak.”  (Ephesians 6:18 b-20)  Paul knows the challenges and struggles of sharing Jesus and His Gospel.  Paul knows that He needs help for this task.  Paul, therefore, asks for prayers that God’s will be done through his work, that he “boldly to proclaim the mystery of the gospel”

 

The word ‘gospel’ comes from the Greek and means good report, or good news.  God’s Good News is that Jesus, the Son of God, came to save us from our sin.  Earlier in Ephesians God inspired Paul to describe ‘the Gospel.”  THIS is God’s good news!  “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-- ⁶ and raised us up with him and seated us with him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, ⁷ so that in the coming ages he might show the immeasurable riches of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. ⁸ For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, ⁹ not a result of works, so that no one may boast.” (Ephesians 2:4-9)  In other words, we were eternally dead because of our rebellion against our Creator and Lord, because of our trespasses and our sins.  However, the Heavenly Father ‘made us alive in Christ.’  We did not earn this new life.  The new life is a gift, it is grace, found only through Jesus.  Jesus IS The Good News!

 

Paul also writes in 2 Corinthians 4:5, “For what we proclaim is not ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord, with ourselves as your servants for Jesus' sake.” God’s good news, His Gospel is all about Jesus!

 

In truth, when I pray, I do not just pray for Jerry. I pray daily for the whole Christian Church on earth to boldly proclaim Jesus’ Gospel.  So, I have actually been praying for the new pope, Pope Leo, for faithful and bold proclamation of Jesus.  I also pray for those who lead where I have served or serve, that their leadership may enable churches to boldly and faithfully proclaim the Good News of Jesus.  Therefore, I pray daily for Matthew Harrison, president of the LCMS.  I pray for Mike Von Behren, president of the Northwest District of the LCMS.  And I pray daily for my brother, James, president of the Florida-Georgia District.  I pray that these servants may lead congregations to boldly and faithfully proclaim Jesus and His saving work.

 

It is also good to let you know that, just because I pray for these leaders, does not mean I always personally agree with what these leaders do, or how they lead.  Just because I pray for ‘bold and faithful proclamation of the good news of Jesus does not mean that they accomplish these goals.  But, I do know that sharing of the Gospel is the desire of our God and Savior.  I also know that humans in positions of godly responsibility need our Lord’s help and guidance. So I pray for them.

 

Do you pray for the whole Christian Church on earth?  Do you pray for your pastor or pastors?  Serving as a spiritual leader is difficult, and our leaders do need God’s help.  Please join me in praying for these leaders that God’s will may be done, that they “boldly . . . proclaim the mystery of the gospel.”

 

A Child of God, Praying for God’s Church and It’s Leaders to Boldly Proclaim the Good News of Jesus!

Pastor Rockey

 

P.S.  I am now serving Our Redeemer Lutheran in Chugiak, AK, as part-time Vacancy Pastor.  I also covet your prayers for bold and faithful proclamation of Jesus!

 

·       MANY CONTINUE TO READ THROUGH THE SCRIPTURE WITH ME IN 2024 and 2025 using the “Today’s Light Devotional Bible.”  On Thursday, May 21, we read Zechariah 5.  We will finish Zechariah and Malachi on May 31, and then begin reading from the New Testament on June 2!

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 Fun:

 

·       Family Time –

o   I worked on my garden some more.  However, with beginning work in Chugiak, golf, boat issues, and doctor appointments, I’ve had trouble accomplishing much.  I have planted potatoes, and seeds for radishes, carrots, beets, and spinach.  I am ready to plant starts for lettuce, cabbage, broccoli, and collards.  I also hope to plant squash, beans, and peas.  https://photos.app.goo.gl/rCdzzDjFwaPsgjEB6

 

o   We had a treat on May 14.  Friends, Eric and Chris Wyatt, gave us some bear meat from a bear their daughter had shot.  Kathy made bear meatloaf.  Mmmmmm – good! https://photos.app.goo.gl/4MYaftzY2b85vao38

 

o   On Sunday, May 18, I preached in Funny River, AK, and Homer, AK.  Both are without pastors.  Funny River is building a parsonage for possible use by a pastor.  Here are some pictures from after worship.  https://photos.app.goo.gl/AbAHwxV3w54FRGxB6

 

o   I did present “Outstanding Student Awards” for my Kiwanis Club for the graduation ceremony at Palmer Junior Middle School on Tuesday, May 20.  https://photos.app.goo.gl/a6ptdZNGpsy1wtLD7

 

o   After the graduation Pastor Tony Schultz and I played golf at Settlers’ Bay in Wasilla.  It was good to golf and share with my good friend.  Here is a picture. 

https://photos.app.goo.gl/7E5os1qLsZ52YEDR6

Fishing

o   I had a new motor put on my boat, a Suzuki 90 HP.  However, we are facing some challenges as we seek to get it up and running.  Here are a couple of pictures.  https://photos.app.goo.gl/moXjJegJoozSUK8D7

 

*******

 

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)

 

 

Wondering Why Life Can Be Frustrating, Seeking to Serve My Savior

Dear Fellow Children of God, 

 

Do the daily surprises and challenges of life ever frustrate you?  As you deal with necessary chores, many of which you did not choose, do you ever wonder what purpose you are serving, or if you are accomplishing anything worthwhile?  Kathy and I have returned home to Alaska after about 20 months in Florida.  When one returns home after such a long absence, there are details to face, many of which were not necessarily expected. 

 

We arrived at our home in Palmer on Monday night, May 5.  On Tuesday morning Kathy’s car would not start.  The battery was drained . . . again.  Thankfully, my truck did start, even if my garage door openers needed new batteries.  Technology is a challenge!  Also, our printer would not talk to our computers, nor did it work.  I downloaded a new driver from the internet for the printer, and found out we were out of ink.  However, the printer is now up and working and we have both printed.  😊 Do you hear my frustration?

 

Our internet signal seemed slower than we remembered.  Multiple television and streaming applications gave us trouble.  First, we found out that our apple device needed to be updated, before Amazon would work.  I accomplished both of those tasks, but not quickly.  Youtube TV did not recognize our area of operation, but we changed our home location and now we have local TV.  All that takes time!  It’s frustrating.

 

I tried to work in the yard and to roto-till my garden.  However, when I tugged on the pull cord, the cord broke!  Then it took me time and some thinking to discover the secret of re-installing the pull cord so it would retract.  After an hour or so, after some tinkering and multiple tries, and after some frustration, I finally did get my garden tilled for the summer. I am thankful that is done.  I wish didn’t have so many detours on the way to accomplishing this labor of love.

 

And of course, one of my first priorities was to get my boat in the water.  My friend and boat-builder installed a new outboard motor last year.  I had agreed to work with my friend as I launched my boat for the first time with the new motor.  I charged the boat battery and took it to the shop. But, when I turned the key I only got a beep.  The engine did not move, nor did the tachometer react.  You perhaps know that I spend much time fishing. 😊  However, without a boat, plans change.  Again, after arriving home to Alaska, and while seeking to return to normal, I was frustrated!

 

Finally, I did get all my tools and technology working.  But what did I accomplish in all those minor, frustrating, distracting tasks?  Was all the time spent fruitful for good?  I asked myself those questions and thought about God’s words at the beginning of the Book of Ecclesiastes.  “² Vanity of vanities, says the Preacher, vanity of vanities! All is vanity. ³ What does man gain by all the toil at which he toils under the sun? (Ecclesiastes 1:2-3)  Good question, King Solomon!  What is the purpose of all the tasks of life?

 

First, let me assure you that God does have a purpose for our lives, and even for our daily chores. Consider the words from God written by St. Paul in 1 Corinthians 10:31. “So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.”  Our purpose in life, in whatever we do, no matter how small or frustrating the task, is to glorify our Creator, our Lord, our Savior.

 

Perhaps also consider with me Colossians 3:17. ^“And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.” Because Jesus died and rose to save us, to restore our relationship with our Heavenly Father, we “do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus,” even the seemingly mundane and frustrating tasks of life.

 

Do you think Jesus was ever frustrated?  Did His ministry ever feel pointless?  In John 17, in the upper room on the night that Jesus washed the disciples’ feet, on the night He instituted the Lord’s Supper, before Jesus walked to the Garden of Gethsemane, He also prayed for His followers, for the Church.  Jesus’ prayer began in this way, with these words, “When Jesus had spoken these words, he lifted up his eyes to heaven, and said, "Father, the hour has come; glorify your Son that the Son may glorify you,” (John 17:1)  Consider how Jesus gave glory to His Father, and glorified Himself.  Jesus gave His life!  He was arrested, lied about, beaten and whipped.  He received an unjust trial and died on the cross.  This sacrifice from the holy Son of God seemed pointless to His disciples.  However, even facing these difficult and surely frustrating tasks, Jesus honored His Father and loved the world.  His crucifixion was not meaningless!  As Jesus gave of Himself, as He served, He accomplished the purpose His Father had for Him.  He saved us!

 

As you deal with necessary chores, many of which you did not choose, do you ever wonder what purpose you are serving, or if you are accomplishing anything worthwhile?  In many ways it is not so much the chores, but how we face them.  Can I approach these seemingly mundane tasks while serving my Lord and loving others?  If so, then even the frustrations of returning home are worthwhile.  In fact, because Jesus served me, I want to deal with life’s frustrations . . . for Him.

 

A Child of God, Wondering Why Life Can Be Frustrating, Seeking to Serve My Savior,

Pastor Rockey

 

P.S.  I have concluded my service as part-time assistant pastor at First Lutheran Church in Gainesville, Florida,

Kathy and I returned home to Alaska on May 5.

I will now be serving Our Redeemer Lutheran in Chugiak, AK, as Vacancy Pastor beginning May 16.

 

·       THANK YOU!!!!  Again, Kathy and I are truly grateful for the opportunity to serve First Lutheran during the recent vacancy.  This is the church where I grew up and my family made our home.  This is the church where Kathy and I worship when visiting Gainesville.  This is the congregation which encouraged me for ministry and sent me away to study to become a pastor.  First Lutheran has nurtured me and my family.  We are thankful God gave us the opportunity to serve in this special congregation for the last 20 months!  Again, THANK YOU, and God’s continued blessings!

 

·       MORE FAREWELL SUNDAY  -  I was not the permanent pastor, simply the Vacancy Pastor at First Lutheran.  But that is my home congregation.  And, even as a vacancy pastor, First Lutheran put on quite a farewell celebration.  Thank you.  Here are some pictures, including some new ones from the farewell celebration..  https://photos.app.goo.gl/LR4epTWnPj1oFkuW7  

 

·       MANY OF YOU CONTINUE TO READ THROUGH THE SCRIPTURE WITH ME IN 2024 and 2025 using the “Today’s Light Devotional Bible.”  On Thursday, May 15, we will finish the book of the prophet, Zephaniah!  Only two more books (Zechariah and Malachi until the New Testament!

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 Fun:

 

·       Family Time –

o   The view of the mountains from our yard was beautiful on May 6 and May 8.  Here are a couple of pictures.  https://photos.app.goo.gl/7C4TrJVSW5qQxzPA8

 

o   A group of our family attended Jacob’s high school baseball game on Friday, May 9.  Here are a couple of pictures.

 

o   I tilled the garden. https://photos.app.goo.gl/YhWEXRdfBgaN2NQa9  

 

o   I was thinking of planting, but on Saturday and Sunday the temperatures were below freezing.  https://photos.app.goo.gl/Mg2NPQPxCykqKccw9

 

o   On Sunday evening, May 11, we gathered to celebrate Mother’s Day, and to celebrate my birthday.  Here are some pictures.  https://photos.app.goo.gl/Z5gBXWxQYS88RnEbA

 

 

 

 

 

*******

 

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)

 

  

If Life is Changed by Jesus’ Easter Victory, HOW Do We Live That New Life?

Dear Fellow Children of God, 

 

It is absolutely true that Jesus’ Easter resurrection changes the world, and changes our lives, forever!  Jesus has taken the sin of the world, the judgement and the punishment, and He paid the debt of sin through His suffering and death on the cross.  Yet, even more, Jesus’ resurrection has changed everything.  Yes, sin brings death, but Jesus has risen.  He offers eternal life through faith in His death and resurrection.  Yes, sin brings pain, suffering, guilt and broken relationships.  But Jesus’ resurrection also brings us new life in this world.  Yes, we still have an enemy who desires to destroy God’s creation and His people.  But that enemy has been judged, defeated, and destined to spend eternity in the lake of fire.

 

So, if life is changed by Jesus’ Easter victory, how do we live that new life?  We rejoiced in Jesus’ victory on Easter Sunday.  We have heard the accounts of Jesus restoration for His disciples, Thomas and Peter.  Those exciting accounts assure us that Jesus gives new life even to His doubting and failed children, so that they might continue to serve the one who died for them and rose again.  But now we are in the 50+ weeks after Easter.  If life is changed by Jesus’ Easter victory, how do we live that new life? 

 

In my daily devotions from the Today’s Light Bible on Tuesday, May 6, I read from Micah 4.  In verse 2, as God calls His wandering sheep back to His grace, we read these words,  “’Come, let us go up to the mountain of the LORD, to the house of the God of Jacob, that he may teach us his ways and that we may walk in his paths.’ For out of Zion shall go forth the law, and the word of the LORD from Jerusalem.”  As I read this verse it struck me that our Lord’s path is a road map teaching God’s people how we can live throughout our days in the wilderness.

 

We seek the ‘teaching,’ the lessons of our Lord.  Our God created this world. Therefore, He knows best what benefits our relationships, especially our relationship with our Heavenly Father.  As Creator, the Lord knows best what makes us healthy physically.  Who does not need help and direction?  What does not need the teaching which our Heavenly Father gives?

 

Micah delineates even more how God gives this help.  He gives His law, God’s path for healthy living.  The Heavenly Father gives His Word.  Perhaps you remember Psalm 119:105, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.”  Through His law and His Word, our Lord guides us.

 

However, when Christians read that God gives His ‘word,’ we also think ‘Word.’  “1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. ² He was in the beginning with God. ³ All things were made through him, and without him was not any thing made that was made. . . ¹⁴ And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.” (John 1:1-3,14) Scripture names Jesus “The Word of God,” Jesus, is our Lord’s best communication of who He is, how He loves us, and His relationship with us. Jesus is our source for grace and truth.

 

Where do we find this teaching of the Lord.  Where do we find His law and His Word.  The beginning of Micah 4:2 calls us, "Come, let us go up to the mountain of the LORD, to the house of the God of Jacob”  God is calling people to His Church.  Have you thought about how important God’s church is, how important worship is, to the health of God’s people? Have you considered how important worship is to living in Jesus’ Easter victory? Do you ever struggle with persevering in the new life we have as people who follow a risen Savior?  How is your worship life? There is an old saying. “If God seems far away, guess who moved!”

 

When the excitement of ‘near Easter’ is in the past, God has a plan for how we live in Jesus’ Easter victory.  We seek the teaching of God, we seek His guidance in the law. We seek His Word.  We seek Jesus, in His Church, in regular worship! So, ARE you regular in worship?  Are you giving your Lord a chance to teach you, to guide you with His law, to fill you with His Word?

 

Imagine finding a plan for Christian Easter living in the Old Testament book of Micah! "Come, let us go up to the mountain of the LORD, to the house of the God of Jacob, that he may teach us his ways and that we may walk in his paths." For out of Zion shall go forth the law, and the word of the LORD from Jerusalem.”

 

A Child of God, Thankful for a Plan for Easter Living Throughout the Year - God's Church

Pastor Rockey

 

P.S.  I have concluded my service as part-time assistant pastor at First Lutheran Church in Gainesville, Florida,

Kathy and I returned home to Alaska on May 5.

I will now be serving Our Redeemer Lutheran in Chugiak, AK, as Vacancy Pastor beginning May 16.

 

·       THANK YOU!!!!  Again, Kathy and I are truly grateful for the opportunity to serve First Lutheran during the recent vacancy.  This is the church where I grew up and my family made our home.  This is the church where Kathy and I worship when visiting Gainesville.  This is the congregation which encouraged me for ministry and sent me away to study to become a pastor.  First Lutheran has nurtured me and my family.  We are thankful God gave us the opportunity to serve in this special congregation for the last 20 months!  Again, THANK YOU, and God’s continued blessings!

 

·       FAREWELL SUNDAY  -  I was not the permanent pastor, simply the Vacancy Pastor at First Lutheran.  But that is my home congregation.  And, even as a vacancy pastor, First Lutheran put on quite a farewell celebration.  Thank you.  Here are some pictures.  https://photos.app.goo.gl/z6CR7PHLSLgqKEUn6

 

·       MANY OF YOU CONTINUE TO READ THROUGH THE SCRIPTURE WITH ME IN 2024 and 2025 using the “Today’s Light Devotional Bible.”  On Wednesday, May 7, we read Micah 5, the Scripture which prophesies that Bethlehem would be the birthplace of the Good Shepherd, the One who ‘is our peace.’

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 Fun:

 

·       Wedding – On Saturday, May 3, Kathy and I were blessed to attend the Wedding of Elizabeth Rockey and Peter Robbins.  Perhaps you know that Elizabeth is the oldest daughter of my brother, James, and his wife, Martha.  Here are some wedding pictures.  https://photos.app.goo.gl/8FsgJpzhKWqWzVaK9

 

·       No Fishing – My last week in Florida was busy with preparations to leave, and family events, and busy with . . . golf.  I did not fish!  O well, we are now in Alaska.

 

*******

 

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 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, 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)

 

 

Blessed Because my Lord Keeps Me in all the Goings and Comings of Life!

 

Dear Fellow Children of God, 

 

One of my all-time favorite sections of Scripture is Psalm 121.  I often read these verses to homebound people I visit, or to those in the hospital.   Psalm 121 promises that the Lord is our keeper physically and spiritually, night and day, now and eternally.  When I was first pastor at St. John Lutheran Church in Palmer, Alaska, I visited Karl Kopperud’s dad, Herb Kopperud, in his home. I read this section of God’s word.  After I read this Psalm, before I made any comments or prayed with and for Herb, Claire Kopperud, Herb’s wife and Karl’s mom responded, “Oh, the Palmer Psalm.”  Perhaps you know the well-known first two verses of Psalm 121.  “1 I lift up my eyes to the hills. From where does my help come? ² My help comes from the LORD, who made heaven and earth.” Claire called Psalm 121 ‘The Palmer Psalm’ because Palmer is beautifully surrounded by mountains.  So, God’s children in Palmer can look to the mountains surrounding our town, and think of our Lord’s loving help.

 

However, the last verse of this short Psalm also speaks to my heart.  In fact, I find verse 8 especially helpful in my life right now.  “The LORD will keep your going out and your coming in from this time forth and forevermore” The Lord keeps us in our comings and goings. In the next few days Kathy and I have full lives.  We are not complaining.  All our ‘adventures’ promise possible blessings.  Nevertheless, it is helpful to know the Lord keeps us in all these goings and comings.

 

We are preparing for the end of my time serving as vacancy pastor at First Lutheran Church in Gainesville, FL, to return home to our family in Palmer.  We have been here 20 months.  Pastor Chris Kollman has been installed and is now serving First Lutheran with wisdom and faith and energy.  Yet, during our time at First Lutheran Kathy and I have connected with God’s people in this place with bonds of faith and love.  Sunday, May 4 will be my last Sunday to preach at my childhood home congregation for at least 5 months.  There will be lots of good bye’s before we drive to Tampa for our plane.  It is good that the Lord keeps us in all our goings and comings!

 

After 20 months, preparation for our return trip will take a little more than just packing.  What do we take?  What do we leave? Thankfully, the Lord keeps us in all our goings and comings.

 

On Tuesday, April 29, I finally got my car back from the body shop after I was hit at a stoplight on Saturday, April 5.  Now, to check it out and make sure everything is working.  And, I need to move all the tools and supplies which I had taken out back into my vehicle.  Praise God no one was hurt in the accident.  Thankfully, the Lord keeps us in all our goings and comings.

 

We have a Rockey family celebration on Saturday, May 3, for brother James’ daughter, Elizabeth.  Elizabeth is marrying Peter Robbins in a ceremony at New Smyrna Beach.  We will be there for the festivities.  I am comforted to know for Peter and Elizabeth that the Lord keeps us in all our goings and comings.

 

I received a surprise on Sunday night, April 13, which caused Kathy to exclaim, “Who says God doesn’t have a sense of humor?”  After preaching at the morning Palm Sunday worship service, and after fishing in the afternoon, I received a text from Forrest Wacker, head Elder at Our Redeemer Lutheran in Chugiak, AK.  This congregation is 20 miles south of our home in Palmer.  Forrest inquired if I might be available to help in their coming vacancy.  I truly respect their shepherd, Pastor James Baumgartner.  I did not know he had a call.  But, he will soon be in St. Louis working with Jesus’ larger church supporting missionaries for the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod.  James’ leaving will be a BIG loss.  Yet, Kathy and I had planned to stay in Alaska at least into October.  So, I have agreed to help Our Redeemer during this time. It is truly good that the Lord keeps us in all our goings and comings.

 

On Sunday, April 27, I attended the Mission and Ministry Council meeting at First Lutheran after worship.  However, after making my report I left to help a man in need of a bus ticket.  That was a bigger chore than it looked at first.  On Tuesday, April 29, First Lutheran Pastor, Chris Kollmann, informed me that after I left the meeting the Council had voted to put my one quarter time salary into the 2025-2026 budget for 6 months.  While I knew the meeting included budget discussion, I did not realize this was up for consideration.  I am truly thankful that the Lord keeps us in all our goings and comings.

 

When life is full I seek to remember the ‘journey’ my savior took.  Do you know 2 Corinthians 8:9?  God inspired the Apostle Paul to write, “For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that you by his poverty might become rich.” Jesus’ journey took him from the riches of heaven, to the sin, to the suffering, to the death and poverty of this world.  Jesus traveled from heaven to earth so that by His suffering and death and rising we can receive the riches and the joys of heaven.  THANK YOU, JESUS!!  We are so blessed that the Lord keeps us in all our goings and comings.

 

What do you face in your life?  I pray that you find strength in God’s truth from Psalm 121 that “The LORD will keep your going out and your coming in from this time forth and forevermore!”

 

A Child of God, Blessed Because my Lord Keeps Me in all the Goings and Comings of Life!

Pastor Rockey

 

P.S.  Here is the full text of Psalm 121 – The Palmer Psalm.

Psalm 121 A Song of Ascents.

1 I lift up my eyes to the hills. From where does my help come?

 ² My help comes from the LORD, who made heaven and earth.

 ³ He will not let your foot be moved; he who keeps you will not slumber.

 ⁴ Behold, he who keeps Israel will neither slumber nor sleep.

 ⁵ The LORD is your keeper; the LORD is your shade on your right hand.

 ⁶ The sun shall not strike you by day, nor the moon by night.

 ⁷ The LORD will keep you from all evil; he will keep your life.

 ⁸ The LORD will keep your going out and your coming in from this time forth and forevermore.

 

P.P.S  I am concluding my service as part-time assistant pastor at First Lutheran Church in Gainesville, Florida, with Pastor Chris Kollmann.

Kathy and I will return home to Alaska on May 5.

 

·       THANK YOU!!!!  Kathy and I are truly grateful for the opportunity to serve First Lutheran during the recent vacancy.  This is the church where I grew up and my family made our home.  This is the church where Kathy and I worship when visiting Gainesville.  This is the congregation which encouraged me for ministry and sent me away to study to become a pastor.  First Lutheran has nurtured me and my family.  We are thankful God gave us the opportunity to serve in this special congregation for the last 20 months!  Again, THANK YOU, and God’s continued blessings!

 

·       WE CONTINUE TO READ THROUGH THE SCRIPTURE IN 2024 and 2025 using the “Today’s Light Devotional Bible.”  On Tuesday, April 29, we read Amos 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!

 

·       SUNDAY SCHOOL IS IN FULL SWING until May, and it is GROWING! Children begin in worship at 10:00 a.m..  Early in the service, after the Children’s Message, children leave for a Sunday School lesson, for a craft, and a snack. 

Parents, Grandparents, Uncles and Aunts, Neighbors, PLEASE bring your children to Sunday School. 

THANK YOU Sunday School Teachers and staff!

 

 

P.P.P.S. Fishing and Family Fun:

 

·       We held the ‘annual’ Florida Rockey Fish fry and invited family, church friends, neighbors, golf friends, to this April 26 gathering.  We count that a total of 51 people attended.  Here are some pictures.  https://photos.app.goo.gl/RCCjekAM4WbjDdkeA

 

·       Fishing – I went fishing with golf friend, Mike Abernathy on Friday, April 25.  We caught fish for the fish fry the next day!  😊  Here are some pictures!  https://photos.app.goo.gl/eX3324E2QGnnPCkZ7

 

 

 

 

*******

 

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 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)