Sharing What's Really Important

Wednesday, November 16, 2022

Seeking a Heart of Thankfulness Even When Life Hurts!

Dear Fellow Children of God,

With the National Day of Thanksgiving approaching, conventional wisdom calls for everyone to be “thankful.” (‘Conventional wisdom,’ however, is not always wise!) People often make lists of blessings as a reminder to give thanks. I have led congregations to make lists during Thanksgiving worship services. Our family, at times, has gone around the Thanksgiving dinner table and shared reasons each has for thankfulness.

In truth, all of us have blessings in our lives which call for thankful hearts. Some of us do seem to have more blessings than others. But, it is easy to be thankful when we are considering the good times of life. Yet, God has a different standard. God’s direction is not to only “Give thanks when life goes well.” Please listen to a couple of verses in which God calls His children to an unexpected heart of thankfulness.

In 1 Thessalonians 5:18 God calls Christians to, “give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.” Did you hear that? God does not just call for thanks when life seems to be going well. God’s call is to “give thanks in all circumstances!” Then, in Colossians 3:15 God instructs us. “And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.” (See also Ephesians 5:20.) We give thanks, not just in happy times, but in “whatever you do.” Also, please notice, we do this “in the name of the Lord Jesus!”

So, how do we give thanks when life is difficult? One of my greatest earthly blessings, if not the greatest, is my family. On Wednesday, November 16, I visited the grave of my parents. At the cemetery, I noticed close by the grave of young man who had died at the age of 33. His family had included a Bible verse on his marker. “As the mountains surround Jerusalem, so the LORD surrounds his people both now and forevermore.” (Psalm 125:2)

Yes, life has blessings. But we are also faced with challenges, disappointment, failure, loss, suffering, and much more pain. We are sinful people in a sinful world. The results of sin are empirically evident through the evil in our world. But, this family knew that, not only in the good times of life, but also in the gut-wrenching loss of a beloved family member to death, God is still there surrounding His people. The goodness and love of God are greater than the sin and pain of life. The goodness and love of God in the midst of life’s pain is truly reason for thanks.

Christians can begin to understand this reason for thankfulness even in the midst of life’s trials. Jesus came to earth, not in spite of sin, but because of sin. Jesus lived in a sinful world, suffering death because of the weight of sin. The Lord of Life died to deal with the sin of the world, the guilt of my sin and the guilt of your sin. THANKFULLY, Jesus rose from death, defeating our enemies of sin, Satan, and death. Even when the sin of this world brings injustice and trauma, suffering and pain, Jesus is present in love and victory. So, those who know the Lord and believe in Jesus can “give thanks in all circumstances.”

I do believe that it is a good spiritual exercise on Thanksgiving to name the many blessings God lavishes upon us, partly because the pain of life can lead us to forget the good gifts of our Lord. But, maybe it is also worth naming the trials and the evil of life and to then declare, with St. Paul, “But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” (1 Corinthians 15:57) That is truly reason for thanks!

A Child of God, Seeking a Heart of Thankfulness Even When Life Hurts!

Pastor Jonathan

P.S. As I wrote above, one of my greatest earthly blessings is my family. On Wednesday, November 16, I visited the grave of my parents. The cemetery is still picking up after last week’s storm. But, here is a picture of their grave from that day. https://photos.app.goo.gl/4gPj3TtT8y1kRQCXA

P.P.S. Fishing, well, my pattern while vacationing in Florida has been to fish on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday. However, I did not fish this past Thursday, November 10, because Hurricane / Tropical Storm Nicole was passing over. So, instead I fished Friday, Saturday, and Tuesday in the past week. J I have MANY reasons for THANKS!

· On Friday, November 11, I fished with my brother Stephen in the Tsala - Apopka Chain of Lakes. We did well. Here are some pictures. https://photos.app.goo.gl/jjYiwmRrrRdSeuLKA

· On Saturday, November 12, I tried a new spot, and went fishing below the Rodman Dam. I caught two small bass and saw LOTS of big gators. Here are some pictures. https://photos.app.goo.gl/6cVvWDd7kV1NeJb26

· My last fishing trip for this Florida visit - on Tuesday, November 15, I went fishing with brother-in-law, Mark Reaves. It was a great way to end this visit to FL. We caught about 20 bass, kept 6, and even released the biggest, and other nice fish. Here are pictures. https://photos.app.goo.gl/JokCXy83VGnfDc2d8

*****

ABOUT THIS DEVOTION - I retired at the end of August 2019 from serving as 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. (Though I am now serving again part-time at St. John as assistant to the pastor.)

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

Pastor Emeritus, St. John Lutheran Church

E-Mail: jonrock53@mtaonline.net

“1 John 3:1 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)

Wednesday, November 9, 2022

Seeking God's Best for My Country . . . and Trying to LIVE It!

Dear Fellow Children of God,

I am thankful that the 2022 election cycle is over. I am thankful that I no longer need to watch or listen to commercials telling how bad another candidate or person is. I remember when honesty was at least expected of elected leaders and officials. But, it does not take much to see through twisted truths in campaign advertisements throughout America.

I do have a registered political party affiliation in Alaska. But, and this is a BIG ‘but,’ I find my main identity as a child of God. God gave me life. He has saved me and given me eternal life. That defines who I am. Yes, I am also a husband, a father, a pastor. In my home country I identify first as an American, before my political leaning or party affiliation. With that in mind, in this time of electioneering and elections a question arises for me. With our national division and name calling, how can a Christian act in order to live out our calling as a child of God? Some Scripture verses guide my path. Maybe you have heard these verses, but perhaps not.

First, God inspired King Solomon to give guidance in regard to dealing with contentious people. “7 "Whoever corrects a mocker invites insult; whoever rebukes a wicked man incurs abuse. 8 Do not rebuke a mocker or he will hate you; rebuke a wise man and he will love you. 9 Instruct a wise man and he will be wiser still; teach a righteous man and he will add to his learning. 10 "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.” (Provers 9:7-10) In other words, if a person gets into an argument with someone who is unreasonable, that person, because of their lack of reason and wisdom, will not listen. In fact, disputing with a person who will not listen will bring insult and abuse. The person of reason may even be tempted to stoop to the level of the one lacking wisdom. So, why argue? Simply act with integrity! Ultimately, knowing the Lord, the Creator and Savior of all, is the source of true wisdom. This gives me direction for life in this world.

Also, in the book of Hebrews we are told about Old Testament people of faith and the wisdom they had concerning life in this world. “13 All these people were still living by faith when they died. They did not receive the things promised; they only saw them and welcomed them from a distance. And they admitted that they were aliens and strangers on earth. 14 People who say such things show that they are looking for a country of their own. 15 If they had been thinking of the country they had left, they would have had opportunity to return. 16 Instead, they were longing for a better country-- a heavenly one. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he has prepared a city for them.” (Hebrews 11:13-16) This world is not our final home. Our true home is with our Heavenly Father, and comes through faith in His Son, Jesus. We should not be surprised when life in this world gives trouble, difficulties, and challenges. While we live in this world, we look forward to our home in heaven.

So, how does a child of God, a citizen of heaven, live in a world of sin, which is not really our home? God gave the nation of Judah, instruction when they were in exile in Babylon, when they were not at home. “4 This is what the LORD Almighty, the God of Israel, says to all those I carried into exile from Jerusalem to Babylon: 5 "’Build houses and settle down; plant gardens and eat what they produce. 6 Marry and have sons and daughters; find wives for your sons and give your daughters in marriage, so that they too may have sons and daughters. Increase in number there; do not decrease. 7 Also, seek the peace and prosperity of the city to which I have carried you into exile. Pray to the LORD for it, because if it prospers, you too will prosper.’" (Jeremiah 19:4-7) In other words, rather than isolate ourselves from the world around us, God’s people still work to make our communities better places. Of course, there are disagreements as to what is best. Again, I refer to Proverbs 9:10. For me, God and His Word tell me what is best and wise for the people He created.

Finally, however, we are called to treat others as people whom God also created and loves. In Galatians 6:10, God instructs us, “Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.” Even if we disagree with others, we can do so respectfully, with understanding, and even seeking the good of the other person. Most likely, we will find most agreement with other Christians. But, God’s children also have a responsibility to those who do not know Jesus. If we live doing good to all, we make our world a better place to live, until we get to heaven.

This year’s election cycle is almost over. Perhaps Jesus’ words in The Sermon on the Mount give the best direction. “. . . let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.” (Matthew 5:16) Our lives (especially the life of Jesus) are the best advertisement there is!

A Child of God, Seeking God’s Best for My Country . . .and Trying to Live It!

Pastor Jonathan

P.S. From October 30 to November 5, I golfed 3 times, and fished 4 times! I feel a little guilty. But, that may be why I retired. I did preach at First Lutheran Church in Gainesville, Florida, on November 6. Anyway, here are some fishing pictures if you are interested.

· On the morning of Tuesday, November 1, I went fishing with my brother in Oxford, FL, before a funeral for a friend. We caught 4 bass. Here are a couple of pictures. https://photos.app.goo.gl/XEqw9FjEhBnLgPgi9

· On Thursday, November 3, I went fishing on the Suwannee River. I had to be home for an appointment, but I did catch a number of fish, and kept two. Here are some pictures. https://photos.app.goo.gl/QateAUvZDUqtMxqh7

· On Saturday, November 5, because of previous success on the Suwannee River, I went fishing there again, with no need to return home early. I caught 8 or 9 fish, and kept a limit of 5. Here are some pictures. https://photos.app.goo.gl/fs58mJXbQaN1DyuX6

· On Tuesday, November 8, (Election Day), I went fishing in a local lake. The wind was blowing and I hoped I could hide near the shore sheltering from the wind. I fought the wind all day, but caught 10 bass, and kept a limit of 5. Here is a picture. https://photos.app.goo.gl/w5DqVhX8zEEmyn7E7

*****

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

Pastor Emeritus, St. John Lutheran Church

E-Mail: jonrock53@mtaonline.net

“1 John 3:1 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)

Wednesday, November 2, 2022

"Blessed by a Great Cloud of Witnesses"

Dear Fellow Children of God,

I have a thought provoking question for you. What do Abel, Enoch, Noah, Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Joseph, Moses, Rahab, Gideon, Barak, Samson, Jephthah, David, Samuel and the prophets of the Old Testament have to do with Dorothy Wolf, Sam Campbell, Al Altschuh, and others from the first church I served, St. Paul Lutheran Church in St. Louis, MO? What do those Biblical characters have to do with Martha Albanito, Millard James, Alene Lederman, Carl Witthoft, Carol Williams, Bert and Ruth Guittar from my second congregation, Our Redeemer Lutheran in Jacksonville, FL. What do these “heroes” of the faith from Scriptures have to do with Shirley Kelpe, Val Holtom, Lillian Stamm, Al Brooks, Eleanor Brooks, Armand Kolberg, Dave Miranda, and others from St. John Lutheran in Palmer, AK? And, what do these Old Testament people have to do with my grandfather, my parents, my Uncle Heinie, my Uncle Sonny, my Aunt Geri, my mother-in-law, Alice Tobin?

First of all, perhaps you recognize that list of Scriptural characters. The list comes from Hebrews 11. These are people we are told “lived by faith,” looking forward to the promises of God to be fulfilled in the promised Messiah. The church in the book of Hebrew was experiencing persecution and trial. So the writer of this book reminds God’s troubled children about those of the past, and gives this encouragement about facing their own struggles. “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. (Hebrews 12:1)

In other words, the Hebrew church was encouraged in their time of trial to learn, and to find encouragement in the faith of these people of the Old Testament. The message was, “Persevere as they did, through faith in the promise of God’s Savior.” But, these people from the Old Testament did not endure by their own strength. They all had their faults, failures, and weaknesses. These Old Testament saints looked forward to the promise of God’s Savior. Their faith in this promise gave them strength through personal attack, through floods, through betrayal and slavery, and more.

Therefore, the people of the Hebrew church are encouraged, even more. “2 Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. 3 Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.” Jesus is the Son of God, now sitting at the right hand of the throne of God. Yet, the Son of God Himself endured opposition and crucifixion in order to accomplish our forgiveness and salvation. The writer to the Hebrews is saying, “consider not only what others endured as you yourself face the trials of faith and life. Fix your eyes on, meditate especially on the fact that Jesus faced trials, and endured. You are, after all, surrounded by ‘a great cloud of witnesses,’ which includes even the saving example of Jesus Himself. If they trusted the coming Savior, you trust Jesus as you face life’s trials.”

Tuesday, November 1, was a somewhat overlooked major festival of the church year, “All Saints Day.” (However, many congregations will celebrate All Saints Day on November 6.) It is a day to remember those who are no longer with us, who have gone before us, facing the trials of life while trusting in Jesus. We give thanks for their faith which points us to fix our eyes on Jesus.

I consider myself especially blessed to have been present to see the faith of my parents, grandparents, uncles and aunts. They were NOT perfect! But, in spite of their failures, they trusted Jesus, and His sacrificial death, and His saving resurrection, and they kept going. The people in churches I served have looked to their pastor for example and guidance. But, so many times I gained from their example! When life was too big, these believers prayed to God, they trusted His love in Jesus, and they kept going.

I remember my dad’s uncle, my great uncle, Uncle Heinie. (He preferred Henry.) I went with him to the hospital when his wife, my Tante Edie, was deep in depression. I was with him as she underwent shock treatment. This could have been an overwhelming personal trial. But, he trusted that when he, and even the doctors, could do little or nothing, God was present in love. Uncle Heinie is part of my cloud of witnesses. What an example!

I remember Martha Albanito, the 80 year old mother of our church organist in Jacksonville. Not all members made it to worship each Sunday. But, in her 80’s, having been treated for cancer, and with a cast on her broken arm, Martha was in church every week. It was not because she felt God would strike her down for not worshiping that she worshiped so regularly. She knew and loved her Lord. So no cancer, nor broken arm, could keep her home. What an example! And for every name above I have stories of faith!

Do you have a cloud of witnesses? Are there people in your life who showed you how to face the trials of life, and how to keep going because of the love of Jesus? If so, then you are truly blessed. If you have such a cloud, then you are strengthened to persevere, and to be a witness for those who are watching you.

A Child of God, Blessed by A Cloud of Witnesses!

Pastor Jonathan

P.S. Among the examples of faith in my life are Pastor Bob and Elaine Besalski. Pastor B. was my pastor beginning in 1965. I still consider him my pastor. Kathy and I had lunch with the Besalskis on Thursday, October 27 at Cedar Key, FL. We then drove around and got a picture. https://photos.app.goo.gl/BNC9y323Sf2qxmWu8

P.P.S. Thursday, October 27, was my daughter, Mary’s, birthday. She is my fishing buddy, travel companion, and J my favorite daughter! Here are some pictures I put together of Mary. https://photos.app.goo.gl/Yw8CnyMHk2RbweRn6

P.P.P.S. I a little fishing in Florida this past week.

· On Sunday afternoon, October 30, I went fishing at Rodman Reservoir late in the afternoon. I caught this one 15” largemouth bass, which I released. Here is a picture. https://photos.app.goo.gl/Mb3SMQozkCRVTPb28

*****

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

Pastor Emeritus, St. John Lutheran Church

E-Mail: jonrock53@mtaonline.net

cell phone - 907-841-4066

Home phone - 907-746-5131

“1 John 3:1 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)

Wednesday, October 26, 2022

Surprised and Thankful at My Lord's Faithful and Loving Answers to My Prayers!

Dear Fellow Children of God,

I rewrote my prayer list last week. This list had lasted about 5 ½ months. But, as time passes I add names and concerns. I have a category on my prayer list for people experiencing grief. But, I had added so many names to this category there was no more room to add new names. I cross out entries as lives and situations change. I draw lines to move a name from one category to another. But, when my list is full of lines and scratches, and there is no more room for new entries, it is time to write a new list.

One way that I change my prayer list is that I move names and concerns in my various categories to my “Thanks List.” Often the people for whom I prayed are healed. Or troubles and concerns are resolved, or heading in the right direction. Some people for whom I prayed have passed on in faith to be with their Lord. Such faithful death and deliverance from suffering, with the assurance of eternal life in heaven, is also step in a positive direction, and an answer to prayer. This too is reason for thanks.

So, as I re-wrote my prayer list this time I realized that it is easy to get anxious and fervent in prayer when a need first arises. But, when the concern lingers, or improves, or is maybe even resolved, do we remember to give thanks? Consider, how long our whole country, how long the entire world, prayed about the COVID 19 pandemic. But, in the last month or so many are saying we are at least through the worst of this crisis. I have heard such words from President Biden, and from the CDC. Even our local hospital no longer requires masks, and is again allowing family and friends to visit the patients. I personally prayed about this horrible plague daily, for months and months. But, have we given thanks for the improvement? THANK YOU, LORD, FOR YOUR POWER AND GRACE AND ANSWER TO OUR PRAYER!

An important area of concern in my life, even apart from my prayer list, is the physical, spiritual, and emotional welfare of my family and loved ones. It seems there is always some reason to go to the Lord and ask His loving, graceful, intervention for family members. As I rewrote this current prayer list, I was able to move more than one family concern to my list of “Thanks.” HEAVENLY FATHER, YOU KNOW I LOVE MY FAMILY AND DESIRE THE BEST FOR THEM. THANK YOU, LORD, FOR YOUR LOVING HAND IN THEIR LIVES!

One category on my prayer list is for those with active illnesses, or surgeries, even cancer. When I re-wrote my list there were two people who did have cancer, but who have now been told by their doctors that they are cured. Two others who endured major surgery are recovering, and perhaps even doing better than they were before their surgery. I moved a number of the names of these friends and family to my thanks list. Some of those who were ill have passed away in the last 5 months, but I can see the blessing of their being with their Savior in heaven. LORD JESUS, THANK YOU FOR FAITHFUL DOCTORS, AND FOR MEDICINE, AND FOR YOUR HEALING POWER IN THE LIVES OF THOSE FOR WHOM I CARE. THANK YOU WHEN YOU CALL YOUR PEOPLE TO THEIR ETERNAL HOME WITH YOU.

On my prayer list I pray for people with life struggles. I pray for our country. I also pray for God’s Church, and for families. Sometimes the aches and concerns on my heart seem beyond help. But, because of the quiet, gentle, hand of God, many times my concerns have been resolved, often in ways I did not expect. ALMIGHTY GOD, THANK YOU FOR YOUR LOVING AND POWERFUL HAND, WHICH BRINGS YOUR GRACE INTO OUR LIVES.

Last week I pointed you to the life directions which God gives in 1 Thessalonians 5. Please consider why verses 17 and 18 are linked to each other. “17 pray continually; 18 give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.” God always listens to our prayers, and answers in His love and wisdom. When He answers, we don’t want to be ungrateful and miss or ignore His hand of love. We want to thank Him!

God’s ultimate answer to all our prayers is found in Jesus. In the midst of this world’s sin and suffering Jesus gave His life to pay for our transgressions, and He rose again to offer everlasting life. As we read in 2 Corinthians 1:19 “For the Son of God, Jesus Christ, . . .was not "Yes" and "No," but in him it has always been "Yes."

Life is full of trials, and suffering, and grief. But God calls us to come to Him in prayer, and He promises to answer us in love and wisdom and power. He promises to answer in Jesus! I do not want to miss seeing the hand of God in the midst of this world’s pain. If I miss my Lord’s presence in this life of suffering, I am much poorer for it. Instead, when I watch and see my Lord’s quiet and gentle, powerful and loving, answers to my prayers, my life is blessed. My faith is strengthened. My heart overflows with the joy of thankfulness in the midst of the suffering of this world.

Have you brought the desires of your heart to the Lord? Do you see His wisdom and love as He answers? Are you giving thanks?

A Child of God, Surprised and Thankful for My Lord’s Faithful Answers to Prayer!

Pastor Jonathan

P.S. On Sunday, October 16, St. John met to pray and seek God’s guidance in calling a new full-time settled pastor for the congregation. St. John extended a call to Pastor Matt Gulseth of Pullman, WA. I invite you to join me in praying for our Lord’s guiding and wise hand in this process.

P.P.S. Yes, I did find some time for fishing in Florida during the past week.

· On Friday, October 21, I went fishing on Waters Lake. My only bite came from a baby gator. Here are some pictures. https://photos.app.goo.gl/9FzyDMBCaFhwQ8HS9

· On Saturday, October 22, I went fishing on the Suwannee River. I caught 7 bass, but only one was big enough to keep. I did fight the wind, and damage my boat trailer, and broke a pole. Nonetheless, it was a day of fishing. Here are some pictures. https://photos.app.goo.gl/26M7SEPfeohfMEjJ8

· On Tuesday, October 25 I went fishing on a favorite, local lake. I finally got to keep some fish. I caught 8 bass, and kept 4. Here are some pictures. https://photos.app.goo.gl/gEqU4TChJ13VdaXE8

*****

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

Pastor Emeritus, St. John Lutheran Church

E-Mail: jonrock53@mtaonline.net

“1 John 3:1 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)

Wednesday, October 19, 2022

How Do You Deal with the 'Changes and Chances' of Life?

Dear Fellow Children of God,

On Tuesday, October 18, I went fishing on Rodman Reservoir in Florida. The boat ramp at this location includes about a quarter of a mile run of water, through the lily pads, from the boat ramp to the main reservoir. This run is protected by trees on both sides. As I launched my boat on Tuesday morning to fish in this favorite spot there was little wind, until I reached the main reservoir. But, in the area not protected by trees, the wind was blowing and gusting. Radio weather reported that the gusts were 15-20 miles an hour. While fishing in the protected area of the boat launch, the waters were calm and my casts went where I aimed. But, when I entered the main body of water, I planned my fishing route so that the wind was at my back. I also needed to make allowance in my casts for the wind to affect the direction my line traveled. However, when I finished fishing on the main body of water, and returned to fish in the run by the boat launch, the wind was again a non-factor, and my casts landed where I aimed.

Sometimes certain events stand out in my life, or our lives, and demand attention. Our attention can be primarily focused on happy events like a wedding, or a new birth, or a new job. On the other hand, our lives can be dominated by bad news like a scary medical diagnosis, or a national disaster, or a death of a family member or a friend. In such circumstances we are focused on these major events.

But, then there are times that we go from day to day experiencing the blessings and the tragedies, the love and the conflicts, of every day life. Nothing big dominates our lives, nor directs our thinking. We deal with life as it comes. It can go, as my fishing trip did, from balmy, to stormy, to balmy again. We’re never quite sure what may come along.

In truth, life in this world is a mystery. Life itself is a gift from our Heavenly Father, who created us in wisdom and love, and Who promises His presence and His help. What a wonderful reason for thanks and praise! But, we also daily face challenges, tragedies, and trials, which are the result of sin and rebellion against our Creator and Lord. It can seem that there is a schizophrenic nature to dealing with blessings and trials of our lives. So, how do we face the uncertainties of life?

In spite of the lack of a shared morality in the world around us, there is a right way for God’s people to live. You can find various verses of guidance from God for our lives in a number of places throughout the Word of God. (For example, on your own read Micah 6:8, Mark 12:28-31, or Romans 12:9-21, and other places.) One of my favorite set of directions from God, calling His children to a holy life, is found at the end of 1 Thessalonians, in chapter 5, verses 14-24. Listen to these words of wise guidance from our Lord. “14 And we urge you, brothers, warn those who are idle, encourage the timid, help the weak, be patient with everyone. 15 Make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong, but always try to be kind to each other and to everyone else. 16 Be joyful always; 17 pray continually; 18 give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. 19 Do not put out the Spirit's fire; 20 do not treat prophecies with contempt. 21 Test everything. Hold on to the good. 22 Avoid every kind of evil. 23 May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. 24 The one who calls you is faithful and he will do it.

How do you face your life on a daily basis, especially knowing the unpredictable nature of what can come? Following the basic tenets of these Bible verses, I will share with you my personal practice. First, I seek to begin my day with the reading of Scripture. (See verses 19-21) I need God’s assurance and His guidance. Secondly, I bring my coming day, my concerns, my joys, and my heartaches, to my Lord in prayer. (See verses 17-18.) I trust Him to listen to me and to answer in love and wisdom. Next, I seek to live my day with others in our world in wisdom and love as a child of God. (See verses 14-16). But, finally, I live in faith. I live trusting God to give His guidance, to answer my prayers, and to give me strength me for life as His child. I trust My Lord to forgive me, and ultimately to save me for the sake of Jesus. (See verses 22-24.) “The one who calls you in faithful, and he will do it!”

My practice is not earth shattering wisdom. But, God Himself provides a framework for living steady lives which face the changes and chances of the world. Knowing God’s guidance, and trusting His love can give us direction and peace as we live. With this in mind, I appreciate the prayer found at the end of the evening worship service, The Order of Compline. “Be present, merciful God, and protect us through the hours of this night, so that we who are wearied by the changes and chances of life may find our rest in You; through Jesus Christ, our Lord.” I trust God, not just through the hours of the night, but through all of life.

How do you face the uncertainties, the changes and chances of life? I begin with God in Scripture and prayer, seek to live for Him, and trust His presence of power and love. Perhaps this practice can be a help in your life as a child of God.

A Child of God, Trusting God’s Love and Power Through the Changes and Chances of Life,

Pastor Jonathan

P.S. On Sunday, October 16, St. John met to pray and seek God’s guidance in calling a new full-time settled pastor for the congregation. St. John extended a call to Pastor Matt Gulseth of Pullman, WA. Please keep St. John and Pastor Gulseth in your prayers.

P.P.S. I have recently experienced, and discussed with others, the reality of aging. I thought you might find this prayer by a Mother Superior in the 1600’s helpful. It brought a nod to my head and a smile to my face. https://photos.app.goo.gl/CXpxsd5th3Av2PAi6

P.P.P.S. On Saturday, October 15 many of the Florida Rockeys gathered. I did not take many pictures, but did get this one of 3 ladies on a couch. J https://photos.app.goo.gl/WhEUqBcAza4QKv3o6

P.P.P.P.S. I did find some time for fishing in Florida during the past week.

· Thursday, October 13 I fished with brother-in-law, Mark, on the Suwannee River. https://photos.app.goo.gl/o19513ZcWQPYEsXj7

· Sunday, October 16 I went fishing after church in a local lake. https://photos.app.goo.gl/L2wpr7TQDfkhwKiL7

· Tuesday, October 18 I went fishing in a local reservoir. https://photos.app.goo.gl/Fnoz1BD2sq3goq3D7

P.P.P.P.P.S. Anchorage Lutheran Church is hosting a special Organ Concert on October 23. Here is the announcement.

*****

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

Pastor Emeritus, St. John Lutheran Church

E-Mail: jonrock53@mtaonline.net

“1 John 3:1 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)

Tuesday, October 11, 2022

Thankful for the Faith and Love of the Easter Life - Even If My Head is SPINNING!

Dear Fellow Children of God,

It has been a “whirlwind” week for my wife, Kathy, and for me. Basically, we prepared to leave Alaska for a month or so in order to travel to Florida. You know the tasks and chores of getting ready to leave. I helped Kathy (and Mary) clean out the refrigerator, and put away summer supplies for winter months. Then, I left Palmer while they continued their work. I drove to the Kenai Peninsula and put the boat away on Friday. Of course, that required a trip on the river with poles in my hands. On Saturday I cleaned out and packed away the cabin for winter. I was also able, on Saturday, to bring the gift of baptism to a man from Funny River Community Lutheran Church, and to bring communion to an elderly saint and her family. Then Sunday I spent time at Sterling Lutheran, Funny River Lutheran, and Cooper Landing Lutheran Churches, preaching and leading worship at two of them. I rushed back to Palmer for a birthday party for my youngest son, Tim, who turned 30 (!), and for Mary. Then Kathy and I packed and caught a ride with Tim and Megan to the airport on Sunday night, flying to visit family and friends in FL. Guess what! The busy-ness continues in this southern state.

One of the DANGERS of a busy life is that you could miss what is really important: time with God, and time with others. But, part of the rushing was not just the accomplishment of chores. I spent time, if short periods, with Christian friends on the Kenai. I was with Mary Mize, Pat and Sissy Dobson, Katie McLeod and family. I spent time talking to or worshiping with people who have become Christian brothers and sisters, whom I care about, at those 3 churches. In Palmer, as we loudly celebrated birthdays, our home was full of 14 Rockeys and friends, as we prayed and we ate and we sang and we laughed!

This may sound confusing to you, and I understand why. But, all this activity teaches me 3 lessons. First, and I think I may have shared this before, while we know all gatherings in this world have an end, and while I miss loved ones when we are not together, as a child of God I am thankful to know that our time together in God’s eternal kingdom has NO END. Even if we go from one beloved person to another, we have eternity, in God’s presence, with those we love. Such truth gives me hope!

Second, I have learned not so much to mourn the time that we have to leave and say good-bye, as much as to cherish the time we do have together. What a blessing to be with children and grandchildren, watching them grow, praying with them, eating and laughing with them! What a blessing to spend time with other Christians around God’s word and sacraments. Thankfully, while formal worship is involved, so is a time to visit, and listen, and care for one another. That is why, rather than just be sad when we part, I am thankful for the time we do have. Kathy and I know that we are truly blessed.

Finally, I am convinced that the presence and the promises of our Lord and Savior make the time we spend together sweeter. For example, there are “dad moments” when I say the wrong thing. But because we care about each other, because we share Jesus, we know there is forgiveness. Yes, we go from chore to chore, but we know that when we live as children of God there is purpose of love and faith in all we do. And, yes, we do part, and we will be apart, but, because of Jesus we share the hope of eternity. How sweet God’s eternal love makes our relationships and our chores and activities.

After traveling 5000 miles I know the truth of jet lag. After a week of preparing to leave, and of traveling, I know the confusion of busy-ness. My head is spinning! But, God inspires Paul to tell us of busy-ness. We find meaning and purpose in the Easter life we have in Jesus. “55 "Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?" 56 The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. 57 But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. 58 Therefore, my dear brothers, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain. (1 Corinthians 15:55-58)

A Child of God, Thankful for Faith and Love of the Easter Life – Even if My Head is Spinning!

Pastor Jonathan

P.S. Here is a picture from the baptism of Patrick Dobson on Saturday, October 8. https://photos.app.goo.gl/kGvUFjEwAKwm8TWi6

P.P.S. I made one last Alaska “summer” fishing trip on Friday, October 7 on the Kenai River. Here are a few pictures. https://photos.app.goo.gl/USiidjqbcvoHKh7y9

P.P.P.S. Mt. Redoubt was covered in fog and clouds as worship began at Funny River Community Lutheran on October 9. Then the clouds parted and the majesty of God’s creation was revealed. Here is one picture I took as I stopped on the road. https://photos.app.goo.gl/bhNPRERd8pwsZay29

P.P.P.P.S. St. John Lutheran will have a special voters’ meeting on Sunday, October 16, to ask God’s guidance and vote to call a new pastor. Please keep this meeting in prayer, and attend if you are able, in person or on-line.

P.P.P.P.P.S. Anchorage Lutheran Church is hosting a special Organ Concert on October 23. Here is the announcement.

*****

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

Pastor Emeritus, St. John Lutheran Church

E-Mail: jonrock53@mtaonline.net

cell phone - 907-841-4066

Home phone - 907-746-5131

“1 John 3:1 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)