Hearing the Whisper
Read 1 Kings 19:1-13
After the earthquake [came] a fire; but the Lord was not in the fire: and after the fire a still small voice.
-1 Kings 19:12 (KJV)
LIKE many people, I have experienced exhaustion, discouragement, and depression. At such times, God has encouraged me to keep journeying through the spiritual wilderness these feelings can create. God has graciously strengthened me by providing spiritual food and drink and placing in my path supportive friends and powerful passages of scripture. When I'm feeling most vulnerable, I'm actually more open and receptive to God.
Like Elijah, we usually expect to see God in the figurative winds, earthquakes, and fires that hit our lives. Big highs and lows can speak clearly of God's working in and around us. But more often, God speaks in a gentle whisper.
Keeping a spiritual journal over the years has helped me to discern God's voice. Reading back five years, I discover that I was struggling with my prayer life. I tried different methods of prayer, but I always felt that I was doing the talking. Like Elijah, we can be zealous for the Lord but still not hear and understand God's voice. Instead of coming with a barrage of words, we can sit at God's feet, attentively listening for that "still small voice."
Sue McCoulough (Middlesex, England)
Dear God, help us to be receptive even in challenging times.
Amen.
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Thursday, March 26, 2009
Daily Devotion for March 26th
You Really Care!
Read Galatians 6:1-10
Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.
-Galatians 6:9 (NIV)
I have been volunteering with inner-city, at-risk teenagers for the last five years. When I first began, I felt that this was what God wanted me to do, and I did it with enthusiasm. But after the third or fourth week, I felt as though I was spinning my wheels. These kids were unruly, undisciplined, and out of control. I found myself unsure if this was where I needed to be. But with prayer and soul-searching, I kept showing up.
Over the years, I have developed a special relationship with each one of these precious gifts from God. As I showed the teens that I love them and care for them, more and more young people began to come to our center.
This year, the class has exploded in size. Recently as we were getting the kids lined up to get on the bus for home, there was an incident outside. I asked a couple of my kids to come out and help me. After we handled the situation, one of them said to me, "We love you." I thought he was kidding.
"Are you messing with me?" I asked.
"No," the other said. "We love you; you really care about us."
That night in bed, I thanked God with tears in my eyes.
David D. Sharp (Texas, USA)
Dear heavenly Father, thank you for opportunities to share your love. Help us witness to your redeeming grace. Amen.
Thought for the Day!
Never, never, never give up in loving people
Read Galatians 6:1-10
Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.
-Galatians 6:9 (NIV)
I have been volunteering with inner-city, at-risk teenagers for the last five years. When I first began, I felt that this was what God wanted me to do, and I did it with enthusiasm. But after the third or fourth week, I felt as though I was spinning my wheels. These kids were unruly, undisciplined, and out of control. I found myself unsure if this was where I needed to be. But with prayer and soul-searching, I kept showing up.
Over the years, I have developed a special relationship with each one of these precious gifts from God. As I showed the teens that I love them and care for them, more and more young people began to come to our center.
This year, the class has exploded in size. Recently as we were getting the kids lined up to get on the bus for home, there was an incident outside. I asked a couple of my kids to come out and help me. After we handled the situation, one of them said to me, "We love you." I thought he was kidding.
"Are you messing with me?" I asked.
"No," the other said. "We love you; you really care about us."
That night in bed, I thanked God with tears in my eyes.
David D. Sharp (Texas, USA)
Dear heavenly Father, thank you for opportunities to share your love. Help us witness to your redeeming grace. Amen.
Thought for the Day!
Never, never, never give up in loving people
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Easter Bunnnies visit Hill's Chapel Today
I had a world record of 16 kids at story time this morning, but I will have to give credit to our special visitors. We had 10 little and some big bunnies this morning make a trip to Hill's Chapel. The kids had a wonderful time and learned so much about these precious bunnies and the special gifts that God gave them to take care of themselves. We give a big thank you to Hippity Hop Parties for bringing the bunnies for us to see. For more information on Hippity Hop Bunnies, please check out their website at hippityhoppartiesandmore.com
Hope you enjoy the Pictures
Daily Devotion for March 25th
Imitators of Christ
Read Mark 10:13-16
Jesus said, "Let the little children come to me, and do not stop them; for it is to such as these that the kingdom of heaven belongs."
-Matthew 19:14 (NRSV)
MY hands and fingernails were grubby from working in the garden with my two-year-old granddaughter, Dellaunna. When we came inside and washed our hands, I used a soft-bristled brush to get the grime out of my skin and from under my fingernails. Watching me, Dellaunna picked up the brush and ran it across her hands as she had seen me do. Now, whenever she washes her hands at that sink, she uses the brush. She has no idea why; she just saw Grandma do it. As I thought of all the things she has done simply because she has seen me do them, I realized this is what God wants from us - that we be imitators of Christ.
In our complex world, it is easy to stray from the way of Christ, to give in to temptation, to rationalize wrong behavior. But faithful followers of Jesus Christ do not choose to be like him only at certain times or in certain situations. Even though we do not understand everything he has told us to do, we can follow Christ with childlike trust. Children believe, they trust, they imitate. Maybe this is why Jesus said the kingdom of heaven belongs to those who are like them.
Sue Briggs (Michigan, USA)
God, our Guide, give us faith to see you more clearly and to imitate you more faithfully.
Amen.
Thought for the Day
Be imitators of Christ.
Read Mark 10:13-16
Jesus said, "Let the little children come to me, and do not stop them; for it is to such as these that the kingdom of heaven belongs."
-Matthew 19:14 (NRSV)
MY hands and fingernails were grubby from working in the garden with my two-year-old granddaughter, Dellaunna. When we came inside and washed our hands, I used a soft-bristled brush to get the grime out of my skin and from under my fingernails. Watching me, Dellaunna picked up the brush and ran it across her hands as she had seen me do. Now, whenever she washes her hands at that sink, she uses the brush. She has no idea why; she just saw Grandma do it. As I thought of all the things she has done simply because she has seen me do them, I realized this is what God wants from us - that we be imitators of Christ.
In our complex world, it is easy to stray from the way of Christ, to give in to temptation, to rationalize wrong behavior. But faithful followers of Jesus Christ do not choose to be like him only at certain times or in certain situations. Even though we do not understand everything he has told us to do, we can follow Christ with childlike trust. Children believe, they trust, they imitate. Maybe this is why Jesus said the kingdom of heaven belongs to those who are like them.
Sue Briggs (Michigan, USA)
God, our Guide, give us faith to see you more clearly and to imitate you more faithfully.
Amen.
Thought for the Day
Be imitators of Christ.
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
Huge Night at Kidz Klub
We had an extraordinary evening on Friday for Kidz Klub. We had close to 60 kids dressed in their Pajamas. Our theme was Jammies with Jesus. We had a pancake dinner, made a mobile for the kids to hang in their bedrooms, danced and watched a movie. It is so wonderful to see so many children enter the doors at Hill's Chapel and have such a great time! Our next event is Cookies and Tea with the Easter Bunny on April 4th at 2:00pm. See you there!
Daily Devotion for March 24th
From Knowledge to Friendship
Read 1 Corinthians 2:6-16
Jesus said, "I no longer call you servants. ... Instead, I have called you friends."
-John 15:15 (NIV)
IN my home while growing up, I was exposed to the Bible early and often. I memorized the names of the books of the Bible, learned to locate scripture references quickly, and memorized many scripture passages. In my 30s, I attended church regularly and taught Sunday school, using the knowledge I had gained as a child.
But as I entered the fifth decade of my life, my faith was nonexistent. Though I knew a lot about Christ and the Bible, I did not have a personal relationship with the living God.
God was gracious. A personal crisis brought me to a state of brokenness. In desperation and through the loving counsel of a pastor and other friends, I committed myself to a deeper relationship with Christ.
I will spend the remainder of my life learning what it means for me to let Christ be Lord. Now the Bible holds great value for me. I study it as a hungering pupil who wants to know more about the One I love and serve.
K. Jackson Peevy (Alabama, USA)
Thank you, God, for your patience with us as we come to know you better. Amen.
Thought for the Day
Following Christ is not a task but a relationship
Read 1 Corinthians 2:6-16
Jesus said, "I no longer call you servants. ... Instead, I have called you friends."
-John 15:15 (NIV)
IN my home while growing up, I was exposed to the Bible early and often. I memorized the names of the books of the Bible, learned to locate scripture references quickly, and memorized many scripture passages. In my 30s, I attended church regularly and taught Sunday school, using the knowledge I had gained as a child.
But as I entered the fifth decade of my life, my faith was nonexistent. Though I knew a lot about Christ and the Bible, I did not have a personal relationship with the living God.
God was gracious. A personal crisis brought me to a state of brokenness. In desperation and through the loving counsel of a pastor and other friends, I committed myself to a deeper relationship with Christ.
I will spend the remainder of my life learning what it means for me to let Christ be Lord. Now the Bible holds great value for me. I study it as a hungering pupil who wants to know more about the One I love and serve.
K. Jackson Peevy (Alabama, USA)
Thank you, God, for your patience with us as we come to know you better. Amen.
Thought for the Day
Following Christ is not a task but a relationship
Monday, March 23, 2009
Do Not Forget!!
Sport Page Fundraiser Tonight
5:00pm -until
Simply, tell your waitress you are there for Hill's Chapel!
Proceeds with help with our Community Connection Event in May
Daily Devotion For March 23rd
A Child of God
Read Matthew 21:12-17
Jesus said, "Haven't you ever read this scripture? 'You have trained children and babies to offer perfect praise.'"
-Matthew 21:16 (TEV)
IN 2006, I visited a church in Columbus, Ohio where I met five-year-old Aaron. He said to me, "I'm strong." Then he showed me his small upper torso marked by a large surgical scar. He told me he was scheduled for more surgery in a few days. On this day, however, he was participating in a "march for Jesus" called, "Marching in the Light of God."
At the afternoon service, Aaron's pastor carried him as they marched with others around the sanctuary. I will never forget Aaron's radiant face as he passed by me. At that moment, I was keenly aware of God's presence. God's infinite and perfect love made me feel that even in the midst of a world filled with violence, people like Aaron are God's gift of grace to us.
Aaron died shortly after this incident. But he lived long enough to touch many lives, including mine. Now when I feel discouraged, I remember that march. My spirit is renewed, and I find strength to continue day by day, like Aaron, walking in the light of God.
Bertha Todd de Villalpando (Nuevo Leon, Mexico)
Thank you, God, for revealing your presence in the faces of others. Amen.
Thought for the Day
Today I will look for God's face in the faces of those near me.
Read Matthew 21:12-17
Jesus said, "Haven't you ever read this scripture? 'You have trained children and babies to offer perfect praise.'"
-Matthew 21:16 (TEV)
IN 2006, I visited a church in Columbus, Ohio where I met five-year-old Aaron. He said to me, "I'm strong." Then he showed me his small upper torso marked by a large surgical scar. He told me he was scheduled for more surgery in a few days. On this day, however, he was participating in a "march for Jesus" called, "Marching in the Light of God."
At the afternoon service, Aaron's pastor carried him as they marched with others around the sanctuary. I will never forget Aaron's radiant face as he passed by me. At that moment, I was keenly aware of God's presence. God's infinite and perfect love made me feel that even in the midst of a world filled with violence, people like Aaron are God's gift of grace to us.
Aaron died shortly after this incident. But he lived long enough to touch many lives, including mine. Now when I feel discouraged, I remember that march. My spirit is renewed, and I find strength to continue day by day, like Aaron, walking in the light of God.
Bertha Todd de Villalpando (Nuevo Leon, Mexico)
Thank you, God, for revealing your presence in the faces of others. Amen.
Thought for the Day
Today I will look for God's face in the faces of those near me.
Friday, March 20, 2009
*Video of the Week*
The Video of the week has been updated. Please take a minute to watch this precious video.
The video of the week is located in the top right corner.
*We Need Flowers*
We need silk flowers for our Tea with the Easter Bunny!
If you have some silk flowers at home or if you a willing to pick up a few stems we would greatly appreciate it!
Please place them in the FLC
Thanks so much!
Daily Devotion for March 20th
Active Listening
Read 1 Samuel 3:1-10
The Lord came and stood there, calling as at the other times, "Samuel! Samuel!" Then Samuel said, "Speak, for your servant is listening."
-1 Samuel 3:10 (NIV)
AFTER videotaping a parade in our town, I received a phone call from a good friend who had marched in the parade. He was a little annoyed that I hadn't acknowledged him. I explained that I must not have recognized him because he was in costume. He was more surprised that I hadn't heard him shouting my name when he went right by me. Confused, I played the videotape. To my surprise, I could hear him on the videotape, shouting my name loudly, six times. How could I have missed it?
Thinking back, I realized that I had been so distracted by the colorful lights, the music, and the aromas of food that I had paid no attention to his voice. I began to wonder how many times God speaks to us and we don't hear. We can become so focused on ourselves and distracted by our daily chores that we don't stop to listen for God's guidance.
God may choose many ways to speak to us - for example, through the words of scripture, through sermons, books we read, and the words of Christian friends. We can take the time to listen and, like Samuel, we can learn to recognize God's voice when we hear it. Now I pray for guidance and actively listen for God's answer.
Jerry Bragalone (Pennsylvania, USA)
God, help us to turn away from distractions so that we hear your voice. Amen.
Thought for the Day
Listen for God's voice today.
Read 1 Samuel 3:1-10
The Lord came and stood there, calling as at the other times, "Samuel! Samuel!" Then Samuel said, "Speak, for your servant is listening."
-1 Samuel 3:10 (NIV)
AFTER videotaping a parade in our town, I received a phone call from a good friend who had marched in the parade. He was a little annoyed that I hadn't acknowledged him. I explained that I must not have recognized him because he was in costume. He was more surprised that I hadn't heard him shouting my name when he went right by me. Confused, I played the videotape. To my surprise, I could hear him on the videotape, shouting my name loudly, six times. How could I have missed it?
Thinking back, I realized that I had been so distracted by the colorful lights, the music, and the aromas of food that I had paid no attention to his voice. I began to wonder how many times God speaks to us and we don't hear. We can become so focused on ourselves and distracted by our daily chores that we don't stop to listen for God's guidance.
God may choose many ways to speak to us - for example, through the words of scripture, through sermons, books we read, and the words of Christian friends. We can take the time to listen and, like Samuel, we can learn to recognize God's voice when we hear it. Now I pray for guidance and actively listen for God's answer.
Jerry Bragalone (Pennsylvania, USA)
God, help us to turn away from distractions so that we hear your voice. Amen.
Thought for the Day
Listen for God's voice today.
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
Easter Items Still Needed for ELCM
We are still collecting Easter Basket items for East Lincoln Christian Ministries.
Items needed are:
Easter Baskets
Individual Wrapped Candy
Medium Size Chocolate Bunnies
Individual Boxes of Raisins
Please place any items in the Box Provided in the FLC.
Thank you for your help!
Daily Devotion for March 18th
Acknowledging Our Failures
Read Genesis 3:8-13
If we confess our sins, [God] who is faithful and just will forgive us our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
-1 John 1:9 (NRSV)
WHEN our son, Rob, was about six, I took him bowling for the first time. Initially he did pretty well; he even got one strike. But in the second game, his arm became tired, and most of his balls headed for the gutter. After what must have been about the fourth or fifth bad ball in a row, he turned away in disgust, kicked the ball return, and asked, "Daddy, can I blame God?"
I had to smile, but I couldn't help thinking back to numerous times in my own life when I've not done well but tried to blame it on someone else - even God. Haven't we done this since the beginning of time? Adam and Eve took their turn at redirecting blame for their sin. After all, it's not easy to acknowledge when we've fallen short of our own or God's expectations.
Yet the Bible tells us that if we acknowledge and confess our sins and shortcomings, God will forgive us and give us a fresh start. This begins with taking responsibility for our failures and our disobedience.
Do you need a fresh start today? God offers us one.
Tony Holifield (Arkansas, USA)
Lord, help us to acknowledge our sins and shortcomings. Then give us courage to take responsibility for them and to change where we need to change. Thank you for your love and forgiveness. Amen.
Thought for the Day
When we admit our failures, God gives us a fresh start.
Read Genesis 3:8-13
If we confess our sins, [God] who is faithful and just will forgive us our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
-1 John 1:9 (NRSV)
WHEN our son, Rob, was about six, I took him bowling for the first time. Initially he did pretty well; he even got one strike. But in the second game, his arm became tired, and most of his balls headed for the gutter. After what must have been about the fourth or fifth bad ball in a row, he turned away in disgust, kicked the ball return, and asked, "Daddy, can I blame God?"
I had to smile, but I couldn't help thinking back to numerous times in my own life when I've not done well but tried to blame it on someone else - even God. Haven't we done this since the beginning of time? Adam and Eve took their turn at redirecting blame for their sin. After all, it's not easy to acknowledge when we've fallen short of our own or God's expectations.
Yet the Bible tells us that if we acknowledge and confess our sins and shortcomings, God will forgive us and give us a fresh start. This begins with taking responsibility for our failures and our disobedience.
Do you need a fresh start today? God offers us one.
Tony Holifield (Arkansas, USA)
Lord, help us to acknowledge our sins and shortcomings. Then give us courage to take responsibility for them and to change where we need to change. Thank you for your love and forgiveness. Amen.
Thought for the Day
When we admit our failures, God gives us a fresh start.
Monday, March 16, 2009
Photos from Campaign Kick-Off Celebration
Here are just a few photos from our Capital Campaign Kick-Off last Sunday. We decorated the FLC center just beautifully with Sunshine's hanging form the ceiling, beautiful flowers, balloons and the bright colors that coordinate with our theme, " The Promise of A New Day".
A new day is coming to Hill's Chapel........a gorgeous New Sanctuary is on the way!
1st Book Sale is a Success
A big Thank You to everyone who donated books and came out to buy books for the Book Sale.
We had a HUGE turn-out and made a profit of $773.00. The proceeds from the event will help with the cost of our Community Connection event in May.
Daily Devotion for March 16th
Leaning Toward the Light
Read John 1:1-5
The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not overcome it.
-John 1:5 (NRSV)
WHEN my wife was diagnosed with breast cancer, our initial conversation turned toward the gloom of illness and death. There were tears, fears, and struggles as she grappled with the possibilities that lay before her.
But then a light flickered. As she turned her attention toward healing, a light began to grow in the darkness. It grew brighter as people expressed support and prayed for her. This gave us hope. Some people provided books and other information that helped her move from darkness to light. Her faith in God gave her the assurance that cancer would not have the final word. God's healing would be her light in the darkness.
As she recovered over the Advent/Christmas season at home, our family grew closer in love. That holy season took on new meaning. God's love was abundant - everywhere evident in the lights, sounds, and aromas of the season.
As John proclaimed centuries ago, the darkness cannot overcome the light. The light of God is love - a fire, an illumination, a dance - that enables us to trust in our Creator's grace. This light also transforms our dark places into lustrous examples of the power of God.
Todd Outcalt (Indiana, USA)
God of light, help us to give to you our hard times and our fears. In Jesus' name we pray.
Amen.
Thought for the day
The light of God transforms our darkness.
Read John 1:1-5
The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not overcome it.
-John 1:5 (NRSV)
WHEN my wife was diagnosed with breast cancer, our initial conversation turned toward the gloom of illness and death. There were tears, fears, and struggles as she grappled with the possibilities that lay before her.
But then a light flickered. As she turned her attention toward healing, a light began to grow in the darkness. It grew brighter as people expressed support and prayed for her. This gave us hope. Some people provided books and other information that helped her move from darkness to light. Her faith in God gave her the assurance that cancer would not have the final word. God's healing would be her light in the darkness.
As she recovered over the Advent/Christmas season at home, our family grew closer in love. That holy season took on new meaning. God's love was abundant - everywhere evident in the lights, sounds, and aromas of the season.
As John proclaimed centuries ago, the darkness cannot overcome the light. The light of God is love - a fire, an illumination, a dance - that enables us to trust in our Creator's grace. This light also transforms our dark places into lustrous examples of the power of God.
Todd Outcalt (Indiana, USA)
God of light, help us to give to you our hard times and our fears. In Jesus' name we pray.
Amen.
Thought for the day
The light of God transforms our darkness.
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Daily Devotion for March 13th
Never Forgotten
Read Isaiah 49:13-16
The Lord says, "See, I have engraved you on the palms of my hands."
-Isaiah 49:16 (NIV)
MY rambunctious three-year-old daughter had been playing with her collection of rubber stamps. One of her favorites is a small, heart-shaped stamp. While I was busy with my work, she sneaked up behind me, grabbed my hand, and stamped my palm. Any protest I might have uttered was swept away when she looked at me adoringly and said, "I love you, Daddy." I went back to my work and soon forgot all about the incident.
The next morning, as I prepared to go to work, I turned my hand over and noticed the heart-shaped stamp. I immediately recalled my daughter's act of love the previous night, and I found myself deeply touched.
The Bible tells us that we are "engraved on the palms" of God's hands. This tells us that God will neither forsake nor forget us. What a wonderful promise that is! When we feel down or lost, we may be tempted to think God has forgotten us. God hasn't - and the Bible gives us that assurance.
Daniel C.M. Tan (Wilayah Persekutuan, Malaysia)
Father, thank you for keeping us always in your mind and heart. We have faith, but help our unbelief. Help us to share your grace with others when they are in need. In Jesus' name we pray. Amen.
Thought for the Day
Our God will neither forsake nor forget us.
Read Isaiah 49:13-16
The Lord says, "See, I have engraved you on the palms of my hands."
-Isaiah 49:16 (NIV)
MY rambunctious three-year-old daughter had been playing with her collection of rubber stamps. One of her favorites is a small, heart-shaped stamp. While I was busy with my work, she sneaked up behind me, grabbed my hand, and stamped my palm. Any protest I might have uttered was swept away when she looked at me adoringly and said, "I love you, Daddy." I went back to my work and soon forgot all about the incident.
The next morning, as I prepared to go to work, I turned my hand over and noticed the heart-shaped stamp. I immediately recalled my daughter's act of love the previous night, and I found myself deeply touched.
The Bible tells us that we are "engraved on the palms" of God's hands. This tells us that God will neither forsake nor forget us. What a wonderful promise that is! When we feel down or lost, we may be tempted to think God has forgotten us. God hasn't - and the Bible gives us that assurance.
Daniel C.M. Tan (Wilayah Persekutuan, Malaysia)
Father, thank you for keeping us always in your mind and heart. We have faith, but help our unbelief. Help us to share your grace with others when they are in need. In Jesus' name we pray. Amen.
Thought for the Day
Our God will neither forsake nor forget us.
Ladies Consignment Sale
The Ladies Consignment Sale has been scheduled for April 17th and 18th. If you would like to consign, please email me and I will send you all the information. All consignors will receive 70% of their total sales!! Start cleaning out your closet and help Hill's Chapel provide a grand event!
Daily Devotion for March 13th
Who, Me?
Read 1 Samuel 7:1-13
Samuel said, "If you are returning to the Lord with all your hearts, then rid yourselves of the foreign gods and the Ashtoreths and commit yourselves to the Lord and serve him only."
-1 Samuel 7:3 (NIV)
THEN I thought about how I'd rededicated my life to the Lord after years of wandering. My initial joy of discovery was soon tempered with the reality of living my life for God. Desiring to grow in my love for God, I prayed daily and read and memorized verses from scripture - but a close relationship with God eluded me. Too frequently I transgressed, a slave to the world. I certainly don't have any foreign gods and Ashtoreths! I thought. Yet early one morning I felt compelled to keep reading this verse. No idols are in my home, I told myself.
Now, after pondering this verse over and over, the tightly sealed door of understanding swung open. I can't remove myself from the world, but I can remove the world from me. My "foreign gods" were material possessions, desire for recognition, books, music, television, movies, and idleness. All these and my preoccupation and time with them were eroding my growing relationship with God.
"Rid yourselves," the prophet said. So I did just that. My material possessions and my time now belong to God. I am selective about what I read and view and how I spend my free time. Do I still sin? Yes, but I am no longer a slave to sin; my love for and relationship with God continue to grow daily.
Dori Clark (Oregon, USA)
Lord, help us to recognize and rid ourselves of the idols in our lives. Amen.
Thought for the Day
What are the idols in my life?
Read 1 Samuel 7:1-13
Samuel said, "If you are returning to the Lord with all your hearts, then rid yourselves of the foreign gods and the Ashtoreths and commit yourselves to the Lord and serve him only."
-1 Samuel 7:3 (NIV)
THEN I thought about how I'd rededicated my life to the Lord after years of wandering. My initial joy of discovery was soon tempered with the reality of living my life for God. Desiring to grow in my love for God, I prayed daily and read and memorized verses from scripture - but a close relationship with God eluded me. Too frequently I transgressed, a slave to the world. I certainly don't have any foreign gods and Ashtoreths! I thought. Yet early one morning I felt compelled to keep reading this verse. No idols are in my home, I told myself.
Now, after pondering this verse over and over, the tightly sealed door of understanding swung open. I can't remove myself from the world, but I can remove the world from me. My "foreign gods" were material possessions, desire for recognition, books, music, television, movies, and idleness. All these and my preoccupation and time with them were eroding my growing relationship with God.
"Rid yourselves," the prophet said. So I did just that. My material possessions and my time now belong to God. I am selective about what I read and view and how I spend my free time. Do I still sin? Yes, but I am no longer a slave to sin; my love for and relationship with God continue to grow daily.
Dori Clark (Oregon, USA)
Lord, help us to recognize and rid ourselves of the idols in our lives. Amen.
Thought for the Day
What are the idols in my life?
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
Daily Devotion for March 11th
Planting Seeds
Read Luke 8:4-8
Some seeds fell in good soil; the plants grew and bore grain, one hundred grains each.
-Luke 8:8 (TEV)
"CHRIST has many services to be done; some are easy, others are difficult; some bring honor, others bring reproach; some are suitable to our natural inclinations and material interests, others are contrary to both."
Every time I say these words from John Wesley's covenant service, they challenge me. So when I prayed for someone to come forward and answer my church's plea for a Sunday school teacher, I should not have been surprised when God nudged me to do it. (God has a peculiar sense of humor!)
Perhaps my teaching made a difference in the young people's lives, but I cannot know that for sure. Still, I came to realize that my mission, like the sower's in the parable, was to plant seeds. I pray that, in God's own time, the seed will bear fruit in the lives of the young people as they come to know God and to accept Jesus Christ as their personal savior.
Jesus' parable of the sower is for teachers as well as for preachers.
Audrey M. Mould (Wiltshire, England)
Dear God, help us to respond to the needs around us by planting seeds of love. Amen.
Thought for the Day
Where is God calling you to serve?
Read Luke 8:4-8
Some seeds fell in good soil; the plants grew and bore grain, one hundred grains each.
-Luke 8:8 (TEV)
"CHRIST has many services to be done; some are easy, others are difficult; some bring honor, others bring reproach; some are suitable to our natural inclinations and material interests, others are contrary to both."
Every time I say these words from John Wesley's covenant service, they challenge me. So when I prayed for someone to come forward and answer my church's plea for a Sunday school teacher, I should not have been surprised when God nudged me to do it. (God has a peculiar sense of humor!)
Perhaps my teaching made a difference in the young people's lives, but I cannot know that for sure. Still, I came to realize that my mission, like the sower's in the parable, was to plant seeds. I pray that, in God's own time, the seed will bear fruit in the lives of the young people as they come to know God and to accept Jesus Christ as their personal savior.
Jesus' parable of the sower is for teachers as well as for preachers.
Audrey M. Mould (Wiltshire, England)
Dear God, help us to respond to the needs around us by planting seeds of love. Amen.
Thought for the Day
Where is God calling you to serve?
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Capital Campaign Kickoff
Hill's Chapel officially kicked off our Capital Campaign this Past Sunday with a remarkable service. We will soon start construction on our New Sanctuary. Please be in prayer that God will guide us through this wonderful project and will help us celebrate in our new Sanctuary for our 150th Anniversary in 2010!
Check back soon for pictures from Sunday's Service!
If you have any questions regarding the Capital Campaign please feel free to contact the Steering Committee.
Lori Gaston
Donna Dellinger
Frank Dwyer
Kristen Edwards
Art Howard
Jane McAulay
Neal Reid
Iris Walker
Daily Devotion for March 10th
Instant Messaging
Read Psalm 63:1-8
Even before they finish praying to me, I will answer their prayers.
-Isaiah 65:24 (TEV)
A loud "ping" sounded from my computer speakers. I blinked back tears of longing as a small notice appeared on my monitor. My daughter was online. She lives on a mission field on the other side of the world. I am in South Africa, but her computer and my computer were linked. I only had to respond. For the next fifteen minutes, we typed furiously, laughed at each other's comments, and enjoyed each other's company despite the many miles that separate us. Time seemed to stand still. In ways I cannot begin to understand, as soon as I hit enter on my keyboard in South Africa, my daughter in Venezuela could read my words. The secret is that we were both online at the same time.
I liken prayer to instant messaging. God is on one end of the communication, and I am on the other. Sometimes I fail to connect, and the messages cease to flow. But God is always online, waiting for me to return. I have no idea how prayer works, but I don't need to. I only need to make a connection.
Shirley M. Corder (Eastern Cape, South Africa)
Loving God, thank you for always being there for us. Help us to enjoy your presence. Amen.
Thought for the Day
God waits for us to connect through prayer.
Read Psalm 63:1-8
Even before they finish praying to me, I will answer their prayers.
-Isaiah 65:24 (TEV)
A loud "ping" sounded from my computer speakers. I blinked back tears of longing as a small notice appeared on my monitor. My daughter was online. She lives on a mission field on the other side of the world. I am in South Africa, but her computer and my computer were linked. I only had to respond. For the next fifteen minutes, we typed furiously, laughed at each other's comments, and enjoyed each other's company despite the many miles that separate us. Time seemed to stand still. In ways I cannot begin to understand, as soon as I hit enter on my keyboard in South Africa, my daughter in Venezuela could read my words. The secret is that we were both online at the same time.
I liken prayer to instant messaging. God is on one end of the communication, and I am on the other. Sometimes I fail to connect, and the messages cease to flow. But God is always online, waiting for me to return. I have no idea how prayer works, but I don't need to. I only need to make a connection.
Shirley M. Corder (Eastern Cape, South Africa)
Loving God, thank you for always being there for us. Help us to enjoy your presence. Amen.
Thought for the Day
God waits for us to connect through prayer.
Monday, March 9, 2009
Daily Devotion for March 9th
Proclaiming Good News
Read 1 John 1:1-4
We write this to make our joy complete.
-1 John 1:4 (NIV)
HAVE you had an experience so good that you couldn't wait to tell someone else about it? Maybe you told your friends about a book or a movie that you wanted them to read or see. Perhaps you gave them a new recipe you thought they ought to try. When we encounter good things, we want to share what we've found - it's just human nature.
The people in the Bible were like us. John had walked with Jesus, heard him teach, and witnessed his miracles. John had seen the face of God every day as he looked at Jesus. He was overflowing with the joy of his experience. His world had been changed, and he had to proclaim the good news.
One test of our discipleship is whether we care enough to tell others about the new life we've found in Christ. When we do, the effect spreads like ripples in a pond. In the telling, our own joy isn't diminished; it is doubled and tripled. That's how the good news works.
Richard L. Mabry (Texas, USA)
Dear God, you give us opportunities and the desire to tell others about our faith. Help us to recognize each occasion to proclaim the good news and not to turn away. Use us as your witnesses to Jesus Christ. Amen.
Thought for the Day
Every word we speak for Christ has the power to bring new life.
Read 1 John 1:1-4
We write this to make our joy complete.
-1 John 1:4 (NIV)
HAVE you had an experience so good that you couldn't wait to tell someone else about it? Maybe you told your friends about a book or a movie that you wanted them to read or see. Perhaps you gave them a new recipe you thought they ought to try. When we encounter good things, we want to share what we've found - it's just human nature.
The people in the Bible were like us. John had walked with Jesus, heard him teach, and witnessed his miracles. John had seen the face of God every day as he looked at Jesus. He was overflowing with the joy of his experience. His world had been changed, and he had to proclaim the good news.
One test of our discipleship is whether we care enough to tell others about the new life we've found in Christ. When we do, the effect spreads like ripples in a pond. In the telling, our own joy isn't diminished; it is doubled and tripled. That's how the good news works.
Richard L. Mabry (Texas, USA)
Dear God, you give us opportunities and the desire to tell others about our faith. Help us to recognize each occasion to proclaim the good news and not to turn away. Use us as your witnesses to Jesus Christ. Amen.
Thought for the Day
Every word we speak for Christ has the power to bring new life.
Friday, March 6, 2009
Daily Devotion for March 6th
Not by Bread Alone
Read Psalm 119:10-16
One does not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of the Lord.
-Deuteronomy 8:3 (NRSV)
I cannot live fully without the word of God. I can exist, I can move from day to day; but I cannot truly live.
How God's word nourishes us is a great mystery. Meditating on scripture changes something inside of me so that what I worry about becomes less overwhelming; stress is replaced with peace, and I find a sense of personal purpose in a world that doesn't make sense. God's word revives me.
The Holy Spirit invites us to be quiet and to focus so that we learn from scripture. As I search the scriptures, I make notes of what I learn and how to apply the truths of the Bible in my life. I also like to jot down questions that call for further research. I discover scripture passages that have an immediate, personal application to my life. I find words that clarify my thinking about an issue. God's word fuels and replenishes me in every way. The more I learn, the more I want to learn.
Jesus said, "I am the way, and the truth, and the life" (John 14:6). We find life in God's word, which becomes life in us.
Pat Rowland (Tennessee, USA)
Lord, excite us with your holy word, and that will be enough. Amen.
Read Psalm 119:10-16
One does not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of the Lord.
-Deuteronomy 8:3 (NRSV)
I cannot live fully without the word of God. I can exist, I can move from day to day; but I cannot truly live.
How God's word nourishes us is a great mystery. Meditating on scripture changes something inside of me so that what I worry about becomes less overwhelming; stress is replaced with peace, and I find a sense of personal purpose in a world that doesn't make sense. God's word revives me.
The Holy Spirit invites us to be quiet and to focus so that we learn from scripture. As I search the scriptures, I make notes of what I learn and how to apply the truths of the Bible in my life. I also like to jot down questions that call for further research. I discover scripture passages that have an immediate, personal application to my life. I find words that clarify my thinking about an issue. God's word fuels and replenishes me in every way. The more I learn, the more I want to learn.
Jesus said, "I am the way, and the truth, and the life" (John 14:6). We find life in God's word, which becomes life in us.
Pat Rowland (Tennessee, USA)
Lord, excite us with your holy word, and that will be enough. Amen.
Thursday, March 5, 2009
Youth BBQ this Friday
Youth BBQ this Friday!11:00am - until
Dine Inn or Carry Out
Pork or Chicken Plate Combos
BBQ Sandwich Combos
Hope to see you there!
Daily Devotion for March 5th
Our Living God!
Read Matthew 25:31-40
The Lord lives!
-2 Samuel 22:47 (NRSV)
MY former boss was hospitalized. I thought I should go and visit him because he had loved me as his own son. However, before learning of his illness, I had made plans for how I wanted to spend my long-awaited day off. Even though I knew that keeping to my plans would be selfish of me, I was torn about what to do.
On the day I was considering whether or not to go, we had a Bible study at church. While reading the Bible, my eyes were drawn to this passage: "The king will say to those at his right hand, 'Come, you that are blessed by my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world; for I was hungry and you gave me food ... I was sick and you took care of me'" (Matt. 25:34-36). After this, I knew that it was God's will for me to visit my former boss.
He was delighted to see me. I sensed that he truly needed a visit from me and that God was pleased that I was by his side. At that moment, God seemed more alive to me than ever before. I saw that God appeals to us through the words of the Bible and that God works through us in the circumstances of our lives.
Yasuo Ogawa (Kagawa Prefecture, Japan)
God of love, help us never to forget that you want to guide us. Help us to entrust ourselves to your leading. Amen.
Thought for the Day
When we ask for guidance and wait, God will help us see what to do.
Read Matthew 25:31-40
The Lord lives!
-2 Samuel 22:47 (NRSV)
MY former boss was hospitalized. I thought I should go and visit him because he had loved me as his own son. However, before learning of his illness, I had made plans for how I wanted to spend my long-awaited day off. Even though I knew that keeping to my plans would be selfish of me, I was torn about what to do.
On the day I was considering whether or not to go, we had a Bible study at church. While reading the Bible, my eyes were drawn to this passage: "The king will say to those at his right hand, 'Come, you that are blessed by my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world; for I was hungry and you gave me food ... I was sick and you took care of me'" (Matt. 25:34-36). After this, I knew that it was God's will for me to visit my former boss.
He was delighted to see me. I sensed that he truly needed a visit from me and that God was pleased that I was by his side. At that moment, God seemed more alive to me than ever before. I saw that God appeals to us through the words of the Bible and that God works through us in the circumstances of our lives.
Yasuo Ogawa (Kagawa Prefecture, Japan)
God of love, help us never to forget that you want to guide us. Help us to entrust ourselves to your leading. Amen.
Thought for the Day
When we ask for guidance and wait, God will help us see what to do.
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
Daily Devotion for March 4th
Thawed Resentment
Read Luke 5:17-20
If you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.
-Matthew 6:14 (NRSV)
AN injustice in my past had caused bitter resentment that sat like ice in my soul. I couldn't forget or forgive. Even though I was reminded daily in the Lord's Prayer that we need to forgive to receive forgiveness, I couldn't let go of the hurt. Yet I knew that long-held resentments can cause both emotional and physical illness.
When I talked about my feelings with a friend who had suffered severe childhood abuse, she passed on to me advice that had worked in her life. "In prayer, envision the person or persons in God's presence every day. Ask nothing good for the person. Ask nothing bad. Just place the person in the presence of the Lord every day."
She warned that it was no quick fix, and I found that after many, many months, the ice in me began to melt and gradually, very gradually, it disappeared. I was free and have stayed free ever since.
Carmen Tapiolas (Queensland, Australia)
Dear Lord, help us to turn over to you our hurts and bitterness, to pray for those who have harmed us, trusting you to work in their lives. As Jesus taught us, we pray, "Father, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come. Give us each day our daily bread. Forgive us our sins, for we also forgive everyone who sins against us. And lead us not into temptation."* Amen.
Thought for the Day!
The road to healing is sometimes long - but God walks with us every step of the way.
Read Luke 5:17-20
If you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.
-Matthew 6:14 (NRSV)
AN injustice in my past had caused bitter resentment that sat like ice in my soul. I couldn't forget or forgive. Even though I was reminded daily in the Lord's Prayer that we need to forgive to receive forgiveness, I couldn't let go of the hurt. Yet I knew that long-held resentments can cause both emotional and physical illness.
When I talked about my feelings with a friend who had suffered severe childhood abuse, she passed on to me advice that had worked in her life. "In prayer, envision the person or persons in God's presence every day. Ask nothing good for the person. Ask nothing bad. Just place the person in the presence of the Lord every day."
She warned that it was no quick fix, and I found that after many, many months, the ice in me began to melt and gradually, very gradually, it disappeared. I was free and have stayed free ever since.
Carmen Tapiolas (Queensland, Australia)
Dear Lord, help us to turn over to you our hurts and bitterness, to pray for those who have harmed us, trusting you to work in their lives. As Jesus taught us, we pray, "Father, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come. Give us each day our daily bread. Forgive us our sins, for we also forgive everyone who sins against us. And lead us not into temptation."* Amen.
Thought for the Day!
The road to healing is sometimes long - but God walks with us every step of the way.
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
Save those Bags!
I need many shopping bags for the book sale and the consignment sale we will have in April.
If you are willing to save them for me, please bring them in and place them in the FLC.
Many thanks!
Daily Devotion for March 3rd
The Gift of Grace
Read 1 John 2:1-6
If anyone does sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous; and he is the atoning sacrifice for our sins.
-1 John 2:12 (NRSV)
THE flashing red-and-blue lights in my rear-view mirror signaled that the police officer had seen me speeding. "Oh, no!" I said aloud in my empty car. "He caught me doing 50 in a 40-mile-per-hour zone!"
I was guilty and I knew it. I pulled to the curb, stopped, and rolled down my window. "May I see your license and registration, please?" asked the officer. I handed them to him.
"I'm not going to give you a ticket this time," said the officer, "even though you were speeding." Startled, I thanked him repeatedly. I knew his mercy had saved me from punishment I certainly deserved.
That incident reminded me of the grace of God. As a result of my sins, I deserve punishment from a holy God. But the atoning sacrifice of Christ rescues me from this punishment and gives me eternal life.
Jerry Kaplowitz (Tennessee, USA)
Thank you, Lord Jesus, for giving your life for us, to restore our relationship with God. May we never take your forgiveness for granted. Amen.
Thought for the day:
Because of Jesus Christ, we receive grace, not condemnation.
Read 1 John 2:1-6
If anyone does sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous; and he is the atoning sacrifice for our sins.
-1 John 2:12 (NRSV)
THE flashing red-and-blue lights in my rear-view mirror signaled that the police officer had seen me speeding. "Oh, no!" I said aloud in my empty car. "He caught me doing 50 in a 40-mile-per-hour zone!"
I was guilty and I knew it. I pulled to the curb, stopped, and rolled down my window. "May I see your license and registration, please?" asked the officer. I handed them to him.
"I'm not going to give you a ticket this time," said the officer, "even though you were speeding." Startled, I thanked him repeatedly. I knew his mercy had saved me from punishment I certainly deserved.
That incident reminded me of the grace of God. As a result of my sins, I deserve punishment from a holy God. But the atoning sacrifice of Christ rescues me from this punishment and gives me eternal life.
Jerry Kaplowitz (Tennessee, USA)
Thank you, Lord Jesus, for giving your life for us, to restore our relationship with God. May we never take your forgiveness for granted. Amen.
Thought for the day:
Because of Jesus Christ, we receive grace, not condemnation.
Monday, March 2, 2009
Happy Birthday Dr. Seuss
HAPPY 105th BIRTHDAY DR. SEUSS
Take time out to enjoy a Dr. Seuss book today!
Daily Devotion For March 2nd
The Power of Witness
Read Romans 1:8-17
Jesus said, "I have other sheep that do not belong to this fold. I must bring them also, and they will listen to my voice. So there will be one flock, one shepherd."
-John 10:16 (NRSV)
I was sitting at my office computer when my colleague arrived for work. She took her usual seat next to me but hardly spoke in the next few hours. I wondered what caused her unusual silence. When I asked her how she was, she poured out what had been bottled up inside. She told me about the way someone had hurt her and how depressed she felt. I knew from her facial expression that she was deeply troubled. My co-worker's life seemed empty to me, and day by day I saw her looking to fill that emptiness with worldly pleasures. Our surroundings and circumstances prevented me from reaching out and giving her a hug. All I could do at that time was listen; yet I kept thinking, If she had Jesus in her life, things would be different.
I felt helpless at that moment in the office, but when I went home that evening I knew what God expected of me. God wanted me to pray for my co-worker and to be a friend to her when she needed me. God wanted me to show her Christ's love, something many of us find difficult to do. I want my life to reflect God's presence in every area to everyone around me - in order to bring the lost to Christ, who came to save each of us.
Jennifer Rebecca Anandanayagam (Western Province, Sri Lanka)
O God, thank you for placing in our lives people with whom we can share your love. In Jesus' name we pray. Amen.
Thought for the Day:
We are called to live a life that reflects God's love.
Read Romans 1:8-17
Jesus said, "I have other sheep that do not belong to this fold. I must bring them also, and they will listen to my voice. So there will be one flock, one shepherd."
-John 10:16 (NRSV)
I was sitting at my office computer when my colleague arrived for work. She took her usual seat next to me but hardly spoke in the next few hours. I wondered what caused her unusual silence. When I asked her how she was, she poured out what had been bottled up inside. She told me about the way someone had hurt her and how depressed she felt. I knew from her facial expression that she was deeply troubled. My co-worker's life seemed empty to me, and day by day I saw her looking to fill that emptiness with worldly pleasures. Our surroundings and circumstances prevented me from reaching out and giving her a hug. All I could do at that time was listen; yet I kept thinking, If she had Jesus in her life, things would be different.
I felt helpless at that moment in the office, but when I went home that evening I knew what God expected of me. God wanted me to pray for my co-worker and to be a friend to her when she needed me. God wanted me to show her Christ's love, something many of us find difficult to do. I want my life to reflect God's presence in every area to everyone around me - in order to bring the lost to Christ, who came to save each of us.
Jennifer Rebecca Anandanayagam (Western Province, Sri Lanka)
O God, thank you for placing in our lives people with whom we can share your love. In Jesus' name we pray. Amen.
Thought for the Day:
We are called to live a life that reflects God's love.
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