Celebrating that, in the Midst of Our Struggles and Failures, God is Faithful!

 

Dear Fellow Children of God, 

 

On Sunday, October 26, I had the privilege of preaching for the 65^th anniversary of Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in Jacksonville, FL the congregation which I served from 1983-1991 Actually, later that afternoon, Our Redeemer hosted the Reformation Celebration for the “First Coast Circuit” of the Florida-Georgia District, and my brother, President James Rockey, preached for that event.  Both services were joyful celebrations with special music, the return of many former members, and a good attendance.  I believe the day was a blessing in many ways.  First, we praised God for His love for all people in Jesus.  Second, we recognized what God has done in the midst of His people in this area.  Kathy and I enjoyed this opportunity and privilege to celebrate with our brothers and sisters in the faith.

 

I preached on the assigned Epistle lesson for the day from 2 Timothy 4.  Perhaps as you read some of these verses you might see a contrast between the joy of celebrating an anniversary, and the trials of Christian service and ministry.  For example, while Paul had served selflessly around the Mediterranean, bringing the good news of salvation by faith because of the life and death and resurrection of Jesus, and starting many congregations, he nevertheless writes from prison, near the end of his life.  For example, he tells Timothy in verse 6, “For I am already being poured out as a drink offering, and the time of my departure has come. ⁷ I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” (2 Timothy 4:6-7)  Celebrations can look at the good times.  Nevertheless, serving Jesus can be a battle, a struggle, a fight.

 

Secondly, in spite of his efforts to share Jesus with others, Paul was often disappointed by fellow believers, even at the end. Consider verse 16.  “At my first defense no one came to stand by me, but all deserted me. May it not be charged against them” (2 Timothy 4:16) Disappointment is real in this sinful world, even when serving the Lord of all.

 

In truth, part of Paul’s disappointment was in himself.  He had originally persecuted God’s church, putting people in prison.  And Paul knew the battle with sin and evil. Listen to what he shares with Timothy. “The saying is trustworthy and deserving of full acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am the foremost.” (1 Timothy 1:15) (See also Romans 7:19) If Christian ministry, if serving Jesus, has this many challenges and tribulations, we might wonder why anyone tries.  If serving our Savior has this many seeming failures, why would anyone want to follow Jesus?

 

There is, however, good reason for celebrating.  In the midst of our struggles, Jesus is faithful, and HE accomplishes His saving work in the midst of a sinful world and a challenged church.

 

Paul may have been awaiting death in prison, But He knew the victory of Jesus.  “ ⁸ Henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that day, and not only to me but also to all who have loved his appearing.”  (2 Timothy 4, 8)

 

Paul may have been deserted at times, He may have struggled during his service, but the Lord never deserted him.  ^“But the Lord stood by me and strengthened me, so that through me the message might be fully proclaimed and all the Gentiles might hear it. So I was rescued from the lion's mouth. ¹⁸ The Lord will rescue me from every evil deed and bring me safely into his heavenly kingdom.”  2 Timothy 4:17-18a)  God strengthened Paul through the struggles of ministry.  The Lord strengthens all His children for their walk of faith.  Life as a Christian is not easy.  But the Lord is an “ever-present help!” (Psalm 46:1)  God saved Paul, and He saves all believers, and brings them through the struggle of this life into “His heavenly kingdom.” 

 

When we celebrate milestones, such as the anniversary of a congregation, or even the 500^th anniversary of the Reformation which we did observe 8 years ago, we best thank the Lord that HE works His will in spite of, and in the midst of, our sin and our struggles.  That is why Paul writes at the end of 2 Timothy 4:18 “To HIM be the glory forever and ever. Amen.

 

On October 26, as we celebrated the 65^th anniversary of Our Redeemer we considered the history of this congregation.  It had a great beginning in 1960, but there have been struggles along the way.  Yet, 65 years later, God is still good, and He is faithful, and Jesus strengthens His people in this world and saves us for eternal life in heaven.  God’s grace and faithfulness and salvation through the years truly are worth celebrating!  Yes, we can say with Paul, “To HIM be the glory forever and ever. Amen.

 

When you have struggled and failed in your life, have you nevertheless seen the love and faithfulness of God?

 

A Child of God, Celebrating that, in the Midst of Our Struggles and Failures, God is Faithful!

Pastor Rockey

 

P.S.  Kathy and I were blessed at the 65^th anniversary celebration of Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in Jacksonville, FL, on Sunday, October 26.  Here are some pictures! 😊 https://photos.app.goo.gl/wT3VykQVu5aoYAwEA  (Click the pictures to see explanations.)

 

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 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 has compiled these survey to turn in to District.  Nomination forms for names for a new pastor have also been distributed.  We have about 8 names.

The self-study, and nominations for pastor, were indeed sent to the Northwest District by October 1, 2025. 

The last meeting was Friday evening, October 24.  The committee discussed questions to ask candidates when the congregation receives names from the Northwest District.

 

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.

 

·       A “Mom’s Group” meets on the first and third Mondays 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 November this takes place on the 4th in the library.

 

·       Ladies Bunco is held on the third Monday evening of each month at 6:30 p.m. at Our Redeemer.

 

·       Men’s Night was held on Friday, October 24, at 6:30 p.m. at the Birchwood Saloon!

 

·       Youth Group met after worship on Sunday, October 26.

 

·       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 are now studying about the church.  On October 12 and 19 we studied about “Lutheran Distinctives.”  We will continue this study on November 2 and study, “What God Expects of Disciples/Members.  Come and join us!

 

·       Sunday School is held each Sunday beginning at 9:00 a.m.!  This is a blessing for ALL children and adults.   

 

·       “Deeply Rooted Small Group” Is held at Our Redeemer on the first and third Sunday evenings at 5:45 p.m.

 

·       Confirmation classes began on Sunday, October 12, after worship services.  Subsequent classes will be held on October 19 and November 2.  Watch for more information.

 

Other Activities of Faith:

 

·       MANY CONTINUE TO READ THROUGH THE SCRIPTURES WITH ME IN 2024 and 2025 using the “Today’s Light Devotional Bible.”  On Tuesday, October 28 we read Titus 1.   

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 and Fishing!  - Kathy and I flew out of Anchorage in the early evening on Monday, October 20, so I could preach at the 65^th anniversary of Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in Jacksonville, FL, where I served as pastor from 1983 to 1991.   While in Gainesville, however, we relaxed.

 

·       We spent time with family and friends.

o   On Tuesday, October 21, Kathy and I visited my brother, David, in his new apartment and ate lunch together.  Here are a couple of pictures. https://photos.app.goo.gl/zEQ8XrbNt4rW54bv8 (Click the pictures to see explanations.)

 

o   On Thursday, October 23, after fishing with brother-in-law, Mark Reaves, Kathy and I went out to eat with Mark and my sister, Martha.  Here are pictures near our Florida place. https://photos.app.goo.gl/DtVoaaFGdLQvcqHS8 (Click the pictures to see explanations.)

 

o   On Sunday, October 26, Kathy and I were able to share the day with my brother, District President, James Rockey, and his wife Martha.  Here are a couple of pictures. https://photos.app.goo.gl/9YXFWtA1LzT5z4TF8 (Click the pictures to see explanations.)

 

o   On Monday night, October 27, most of my siblings, my cousin Nancy, and spouses gathered at a local Mexican restaurant to get together.  Here is a picture. https://photos.app.goo.gl/nVaWxakMxD1fNMu78 (Click the pictures to see explanations.)

 

·        I golfed with friends.

o   On Wednesday, October 22, I golfed with friends at Hawkstone Golf and Country Club in Gainesville.  Here are a couple of pictures. https://photos.app.goo.gl/3iWcLA5sLBNdEzaX6  (Click the pictures to see explanations.)

 

o   On Friday, October 24, I golfed with friends at Turkey Creek Golf Course.  On my second hole I saw this guy sunning himself.  https://photos.app.goo.gl/rRk5WUpYA4FD3pXv7 (Click the pictures to see explanations.)

 

o   On Monday, October 27, I golfed at Hawkstone again.  Here are just a few more pictures. https://photos.app.goo.gl/kLzR1jbeVhJrAHvL8 (Click the pictures to see explanations.)

 

o   The only problem is that I, surprisingly, golfed relatively well – for me.  My handicap went DOWN a stroke after these 3 games.   ☹

 

·       I got to do some fishing. 😊

o   On Thursday, October 23, I went fishing with my brother-in-law, Mark Reaves, at Georges Lake.  We had a number of bites and caught a few small ones.  Here are some pictures.  https://photos.app.goo.gl/Vbjge6Pv9PNYFMDk7 (Click the pictures to see explanations.)

 

o   On Saturday, October 25, I fished in Grandin Lake.  I had quite a few bites and caught 6 bass.  As on Wednesday, since we were only here a short time, I released all the fish for another day.  Here are some pictures. https://photos.app.goo.gl/eJYoLNhbj94D2H88A (Click the pictures to see explanations.)

 

 

*******

 

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)

 

Making Godliness a Goal for My Life, Praying for God’s Help!

 

Dear Fellow Children of God, 

 

What are your life goals?  Some may aim for a fulfilling career, or financial stability, or wealth even.  Some seek healthy families and good friends.  Christians desire a healthy relationship with our Creator and Savior.  All of these are positive life goals. On the other hand the goals of some people may include getting ahead, no matter whom they crush, or whom they step on.  That’s also a goal, even if people are hurt in that pursuit.  Life goals can be good or bad - helpful or harmful.

 

What are your life goals?  If you do have goals for life, how many of you named “godliness”, or holiness? I ask this question because of my devotional reading on Wednesday, October 22. As I read from 1 Timothy 5, I heard the following words.  “⁷ Have nothing to do with irreverent, silly myths. Rather train yourself for godliness; ⁸ for while bodily training is of some value, godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come.  ⁹ The saying is trustworthy and deserving of full acceptance.”  (1 Timothy 4:7-9)  As I hear people say what they want in life, I do not hear the word “godliness” on many lips.  Or, maybe people do desire godliness, but do not realize they have that desire. 

 

In confirmation class on October 19 at Our Redeemer Lutheran in Chugiak, Alaska, we studied the first two petitions, or requests, which Jesus taught in the Lord’s Prayer.  We discussed the prayer, “Hallowed be thy name.”  The lesson book asked, “How do we hallow or honor God’s name?”  How would you answer?  Some students replied that not cursing or swearing gives honor to the name of the Lord.  That’s a good answer which also refers to the 10 commandments.

 

But, while the answer of the students is correct, I also pointed out that we don’t just honor the name of our Lord in what we do or don’t say.  We honor God by what we do, or how we live.  I asked them, “Do any of your friends or class-mates know that you attend church, or do they know you believe in Jesus? If so, have you ever done anything wrong, anything of which you are ashamed? Have your friends ever wondered, ‘He’s a Christian, yet he acts like that?’  What kind of God allows that behavior?”  Our behavior also witnesses to our Lord.

 

In Confirmation class the students also read another verse from Jesus in The Sermon on the Mount.  Jesus taught ^“. . . let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” (Matthew 5:16 ESV) Our lives can and should honor our Lord.  But they don’t always hallow His name, do they? Our greed and pettiness, our anger and hatred, our pride and lust, and our many other weaknesses dishonor the Lord and hurt others. That is why we pray.  We need God’s help.

 

The Lord does give His help, in Jesus.  Listen to 2 Corinthians 5. “. . . We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God. ²¹ For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.” (2 Cor. 5:20-21)  Through Jesus’ holy life, through His sacrificial death on the cross, our Lord makes sinners like us righteous through faith by His forgiveness.  He makes us new people. 

 

Perhaps our best witness is when God even works through sinners like us so that we live in faith and love.  That is partly why Paul writes in my devotion from 1 Timothy 5 on October 22, “ . . .godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come.” 

 

In my daily prayers, as I pray for myself, I have been praying for years that I might have repentance and holiness in my life.  I pray that God would forgive my sins and that my life would honor Him.  Perhaps that’s the godliness Paul encourages.  But I do need help.  “Hallowed be thy name.” in my life, Lord.  May the love and forgiveness of Jesus move me to honor you!

 

Is godliness your prayer?

 

A Child of God, Making Godliness a Goal for My Life, Praying for God’s Help!

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 has compiled these survey to turn in to District.  Nomination forms for names for a new pastor have also been distributed.  We have about 8 names.

The self-study, and nominations for pastor, were indeed sent to the Northwest District by October 1, 2025. 

The next meeting is Friday evening, October 24.

 

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.

 

·       A “Mom’s Group” meets on the first and third Mondays 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 November this takes place on the 3^rd in the library.

 

·       Ladies Bunco was held on Monday evening, October 20 at 6:30 p.m. at Our Redeemer.

 

·       Men’s Night on Friday, October 24, at 6:30 p.m. at the Birchwood Saloon!

 

·       Youth Group meets after worship on Sunday, October 26.

 

·       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 are now studying about the church.  On October 12 we began studying about “Lutheran Distinctives.”  We will continue this study on October 19.  Come and join us!

 

·       Sunday School is held each Sunday beginning at 9:00 a.m.!  This is a blessing for ALL children and adults.   

 

·       “Deeply Rooted Small Group” Is held at Our Redeemer on the first and third Sunday evenings at 5:45 p.m.

 

·       Confirmation classes began on Sunday, October 12, after worship services.  Subsequent classes will be held on October 19 and November 2.  Watch for more information.

 

Other Activities of Faith:

 

·       MANY CONTINUE TO READ THROUGH THE SCRIPTURES WITH ME IN 2024 and 2025 using the “Today’s Light Devotional Bible.”  On Wednesday, October 15 we finished reading 1 Thessalonians.  On October 22 we begin to read 1 Timothy 5.   

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 and Fishing!  - As seasons change, so do recreational opportunities in Alaska. 

 

·       Kathy and I are in Gainesville Florida for a week.  I will be preaching on Sunday morning, October 26, I’ll be preaching for the 65^th anniversary of Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in Jacksonville, FL, where I served as pastor from 1983 to 1991.  Worship is at 10:00 on Sunday morning.  You are invited to attend.

 

·       I golfed on Friday, October 17, with friend, Pastor Tony Schultz in Alaska on a computer simulator.  Then on Wednesday, October 22^nd I golfed with friends in Gainesville, FL.  Here are some pictures from my Florida golf game.  https://photos.app.goo.gl/tKtmEJmwDSgWwEGHA

 

*******

 

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)

 

Praying to Humbly Admit My Sin, and To Share my Savior Jesus With Others

Dear Fellow Children of God, 

 

My wife, Kathy, reminded our family at our evening meal the other night of a potentially divisive event which happened at the July 2025 LCMS Youth Gathering in New Orleans.  On July 22, Westboro Baptist Church (unaffiliated with any denomination) from Topeka, Kansas, protested.  According to Google, “Protesters held signs with hateful messages, including ‘You are God's Enemy’ and ‘God hates you,’ which targeted the LCMS attendees.”  Westboro from Topeka protests at big events around the country, primarily targeting sexual and gender issues.

 

At supper, Kathy reminded us of the sermon by LCMS President, Matthew Harrison, during the closing worship service.  President Harrison referenced the protest in his sermon and said that some protestors had told him, “You have sinners in your church.”  His reply to the protestors, according to his sermon, “Well, Duh!”  Jesus established the church because “All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” (Romans 3:23) We have all fallen short and sinned. Everyone needs a savior.  Jesus came because we need Him and we need His forgiveness.  The purpose of the Christian Church is to share the saving forgiveness of Jesus!

 

October 26 will be celebrated in many churches as Reformation Sunday, because it is the last Sunday in October, and because the precipitating event of the Reformation, the 95 Theses, is dated to October 31, 1517.  HOWEVER, if churches were not celebrating Reformation Sunday on that day, the Gospel reading assigned for the Twentieth Sunday after Pentecost is Luke 18:9-17, which includes the well-known parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector.  “⁹ He also told this parable to some who trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and treated others with contempt: ¹⁰ ‘Two men went up into the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. ¹¹ The Pharisee, standing by himself, prayed thus: “God, I thank you that I am not like other men, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even like this tax collector. ¹² I fast twice a week; I give tithes of all that I get.” ¹³ But the tax collector, standing far off, would not even lift up his eyes to heaven, but beat his breast, saying, “God, be merciful to me, a sinner!” ¹⁴ I tell you, this man went down to his house justified, rather than the other. For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but the one who humbles himself will be exalted.’" (Luke 18:9-14)  In this parable, Jesus commends the humble confession and faith of the sinful tax collector over the self-righteous and judgmental behavior of the Pharisee.

 

Did you know that when asked for opinion polls in the 1980’s “How would you describe Christians?”, one of the most common answers given by Americans to that question was “arrogant!”?  In their 2007 book, ‘UnChristian’, Gabe Lyons and Dave Kinnaman wrote that this generation often sees Jesus’ church as ‘judgmental.’  In other words, it is not just the people who protested at the 2025 LCMS Youth Gathering who act that way.  Christians live in the tension between, on the one hand, standing for God and His law to love our Lord and to love others. Yet, on the other hand, our main message is the grace and forgiveness found in Jesus.  Unfortunately, Christians sometimes do come off as self-righteous and judgmental.

 

Do you remember Jesus’ words in Mark 2?  After eating in the home of Levi, or Matthew the tax collector, we are told, “¹⁶ And the scribes of the Pharisees, when they saw that he was eating with sinners and tax collectors, said to his disciples, ‘Why does he eat with tax collectors and sinners?’ ¹⁷ And when Jesus heard it, he said to them, ‘Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. I came not to call the righteous, but sinners.’" (Mark 2:16-17) Again, everyone needs a savior.  Jesus came because we need Him, and we need His forgiveness.

 

One of my favorite examples of Christians behaving as I believe Jesus models, comes from the 1997 Promise Keepers event, “Stand in the Gap,” in Washington, D.C.  Hundreds of thousands of Christian men gathered for teaching, support, and encouragement.  I watched on television news as a news reporter from one of the major television networks at that time asked some attendees what they thought about other people.  “What do you think of . . . ?” and the reporter listed a number of behaviors which traditional Christians believe transgress the law of God.  The answers I heard were, “I cannot condemn someone else.  I know that I personally am sinful, and I need my Savior to forgive me, and to help me live for Him.” 

 

Christians live in the middle.  We are called to stand for the righteousness of God, yet our primary message is one of forgiveness, because the perfect Son of God died on the cross to pay for our/my sins.

 

My prayer is that I know and live the words of Jesus, “I came not to call the righteous, but sinners." My prayer is that I can humbly admit my sin, and that I share my Savior Jesus with others.  

How about you?

 

A Child of God, Praying to Humbly Admit My Sin, and To Share my Savior Jesus With Others,

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 has compiled these survey to turn in to District.  Nomination forms for names for a new pastor have also been distributed.  We have about 8 names.

The self-study, and nominations for pastor, were indeed sent to the Northwest District by October 1, 2025. 

The next meeting is Friday evening, October 24.

 

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 held their 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 took place on the 7^th in the library.

 

·       A Fall Blessings Festival was 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.

 

·       Ladies Bunco on Monday evening, October 20 at 6:30 p.m. at Our Redeemer.

 

·       Men’s Night on Friday, October 24, at 6:30 p.m. at the Birchwood Saloon!

 

·       Youth Group meets after worship on Sunday, October 26.

 

·       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 are now studying about the church.  On October 12 we began studying about “Lutheran Distinctives.”  We will continue this study on October 19.  Come and join us!

 

·       Sunday School is held each Sunday beginning at 9:00 a.m.!  This is 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 began on Sunday, October 12, after worship services.  Subsequent classes will be held on October 19 and November 2.  Watch for more information.

 

Other Activities of Faith:

 

·       MANY CONTINUE TO READ THROUGH THE SCRIPTURES WITH ME IN 2024 and 2025 using the “Today’s Light Devotional Bible.”  On Wednesday, October 15 we finished reading 1 Thessalonians.  On October 16 we begin to read 2 Thessalonians.   

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!  - As seasons change, so do recreational opportunities in Alaska. 

I have begun regular exercise at the gym again. 

 

·       I golfed on Friday, October 10, with friend, Pastor Tony Schultz.  It was a cool but sunny day.  😊 Here are some pictures.   https://photos.app.goo.gl/yXutxVUEVxCXKPN18

 

·       I had hoped to fish on Monday, October 13.  HOWEVER, the rain was steady, and the wind blew, so I stayed home and watched the Mariners win their second game in the m the League Championship Series.  😊

 

*******

 

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)