Scents

God saw all that he had made, and it was very good. And there was evening, and there was morning—the sixth day. Genesis 1:31

“Come and see what God has done, his awesome deeds for mankind!” Psalm 66:5

During our recent sermon series on nature, two magazine articles I read made me think of how scents correlate with our nature experience, but also slowing down and paying attention.

One was in TIME magazine, an essay listing the benefits of “stopping to smell the roses”. This phrase is often used to describe how we should take time to notice things and not rush through life, but in this case the author meant it literally.

Benefits of this include:

We’re experiencing the world through physical engagement, not digitally (in other words, you can’t smell a flower on your iPhone.) Try going for a “scent walk” in your neighborhood or on a nature trail…it’s a lesson in paying attention!

Here’s something you may not know: when you intentionally stop to smell something you anticipate being pleasant (in my opinion this is key: if it’s testing the milk for sourness, disregard!), your heart rate slows and your nervous system “shifts”. In a survey noted in Reader’s Digest, prior to COVID in 2020, we didn’t rate our sense of smell as highly as other senses. But, like anything taken for granted, if we are threatened with its loss it becomes more important.

Our emotions are impacted more by scent than our other senses. Certain scents can trigger relaxation and calmness. Others are more energizing (citrus, pine, etc.). I think of when I’m out photographing nature, the smell of alfalfa and how it brings me back to my childhood on the farm. Our scent memories are shaped in such a way that they are personal and affected by genetics and cultural backgrounds.

Back to that suggestion to go on a "scent walk": you'll likely enjoy the benefits of slowing down, being in nature, and taking your mind off the concerns of the day. A good way to appreciate the wonder of God's world!

Prayer: Dear Lord, thank you for this world you’ve created. Thank you for allowing us to experience it with our senses. Help us to keep curiosity and wonder close at hand. Amen.

Donna Gustafson

I intentionally chose a couple of photos that many will be able to "smell through the screen")!

He Helps Me to be Brave

Fear and trembling have beset me; horror has overwhelmed me. I said, “Oh, that I had the wings of a dove! I would fly away and be at rest. I would flee far away and stay in the desert; I would hurry to my place of shelter, far from the tempest and storm.” As for me, I call to God, and the Lord saves me. Evening, morning and noon I cry out in distress, and he hears my voice. He rescues me unharmed from the battle waged against me, even though many oppose me.” Psalm 55:5-8

“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” Isaiah 41:10

“The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock in whom I take refuge.” Psalm 18:2

“Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock.” Matthew 7:24-25

As a teen, I was often shy, insecure and awkward—which was very difficult. Talking to someone I didn't know well or speaking up in class made me sooo anxious. I desperately wanted to be more socially adept, but struggled with fears of rejection and ridicule. How could I face those fears, which were sometimes not unfounded, when my instinct was to stay curled up in my comfort zone of quietness? 

Slowly, but surely, I began putting myself out there, and found a few successes. I believe these small acts of bravery were made possible by my involvement in church and the encouragement of my parents and friends. More specifically, I believe God was using those circumstances and people to build me up.

Though I knew God back then, I didn't yet have a close relationship with him. The cool thing is, that as my confidence grew, so did my relationship with God. I learned to trust and rely on Him more, and that made all the difference. By the time I was a young adult, I was finally listening to the Holy Spirit, opening my Bible more, praying more, getting more involved in church ministries and most importantly, loving Jesus more. 

In recent years, I've faced very difficult circumstances that required a new level of bravery. For example, when my dear mom needed me to sit with her in hospice—to share meaningful conversations with her, and be supportive, caring and present—it seemed like a daunting task. (All I wanted to do was fall apart.) But since I knew Whom I could call on, Who would be with me and Who would be my Rock, I did not fall apart. God whispered, “Don't be afraid. I will strengthen you and help you.” And sure enough, He did. Every time God has helped me to be brave, my courage and my faith have been strengthened. I know there will be more difficult circumstances ahead, but thankfully, He's given me a rock-solid foundation on which to build my life.

Sharon Irvin

 * What’s Your Story? 

This summer, we invited members of our Eastridge community to explore ABCs of Faith: Simple Stories for Complex Times. In this series, we will be exploring stories from the Bible that tell us about God and God’s people. But our faith is also carried through our own stories.

When someone asks, “What’s your story?” they’re asking about the moments that shaped you: the people, experiences, challenges, and turning points that made you who you are. Scripture is full of such stories—and so are we.  

Throughout the series, we’ll offer prompts connected to the themes we’re exploring. You’re invited to share a brief reflection on any prompt that resonates with you—especially a moment that changed your mind, your heart, or your life. Selected stories may be shared (with your permission) in our newsletter, devotionals, or even during worship. 

Words from Psalm 94

When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought me joy. Psalm 94:19 

Words from Zephaniah

The Lord your God is in your midst...he will rejoice over you with joy, He will be quiet in His love. Zephaniah 3:17 

Live in the Light

But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin. 1 John 1:7

Photosynthesis is the process by which a green plant uses the energy from the light of the sun to convert carbon dioxide and water into its own food for growth. Picture the simple experiments in your elementary school science classes which were designed to demonstrate the concept: grass seeds on soil in a tray, partially covered, sitting beside the window; or sprouts in shoe boxes, some with and some without lids. Do you remember the stark contrast between the plants which received adequate light and those which did not? 

Just as science textbooks explain that light is essential to the lives of plants, our Bible explains in many different passages how the light of the Lord Jesus is essential to the lives of Christians. For example, Paul writes to the Ephesians, “Live as children of light (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth) and find out what pleases the Lord. Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness but rather expose them.” The author of Hebrews writes, “The Son is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word.” And in John’s gospel, Jesus says, “Are there not twelve hours of daylight: A man who walks by day will not stumble, for he sees by this world’s light. It is when he walks by night that he stumbles, for he has no light.” 

Prayer: Lord, you are our everlasting light and our salvation, and Jesus is the radiance of your glory. May our words and deeds also reflect your glory. Shine your light on us so that we will not stumble in the darkness. Just as the green plants use sunlight as energy to sustain life, let us use your light as energy to sustain our lives and produce good fruits. We ask these things in Jesus’ name. Amen.

Judith Keller (reprinted from the Advent Devotional - 2015)

Who is Our Neighbor?

“On one occasion an expert in the law stood up to test Jesus. ‘Teacher’ he asked, ‘what must I do to inherit eternal life?’  “What is written in the Law?”  he replied.  “How do you read it?” He answered, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind,” and “Love your neighbor as yourself.”  “You have answered correctly,” Jesus replied.  “Do this and you will live.” Luke 10:25-28

Watching the news every night, it’s hard to understand why “we all just can’t get along.” With wars in the Middle East, the Ukraine, Sudan…violence, sacrifice, and death are pictured in graphic horror. Until scenes of modern cities being leveled and people wearing western clothing similar to ours began to show up, it was easy to think, “the people who can’t co-exist are religiously, ethnically, socially different than I am.” Now the scenes of violence look like our home country. 

We don’t have to look far to realize there are violent rifts among citizens of the United States. We haven’t devolved into the same level of aggression seen in other countries, but hatefulness and repulsive verbal attacks have become common and are accepted with complacency. 

Luke brings us a message that is straight from Jesus’ words, “Love your neighbor.” When the expert in the law asks, “Who is my neighbor?” He may be hoping Jesus will exclude the people whose skin is a different color, who came into the county illegally, who speak out against the political leaders, who insult and denounce the poor, but no! Jesus says everyone is our neighbor. No exceptions, no prerequisites, every person who exists deserves our love.

Jesus is asking us to do something that is very difficult and sometimes socially unappreciated. If I show mercy to someone hated by many, am I weak? Am I a sucker? Shouldn’t they get a job, sober up, or go back to their home country; what do I owe them? Jesus says you need to use all your strength and all your resources to help them simply because they are your neighbor.

I have wept in the night

For the shortness of sight

That to somebody’s need made me blind,

But I never have yet

Felt a tinge of regret

For being a little too kind.

                                  - C. R. Gibson 

Prayer: Dear Lord God, help me to see my neighbor’s needs and respond to them with love and mercy. Let me use my resources, my heart, my soul, my strength, and my mind to minister to my neighbors and help them see the hope God brings to all of us. Amen. 

Carol McClain (reprinted from April 2024)

Great is the Lord

Great is the Lord and most worthy of praise; His greatness no one can fathom. Psalm 145:3 

God With Us

June 29th is a date I will never forget:

1. I was woken up at 5 AM by critters running in the attic above our bed. 

2. Went down to the storeroom to get vacuum to get ready for family coming on July 4, and water was 3 feet from daughter Tracey's 5-foot-high pile of new items from Painted Tree's closing.

3. Called Bill's Heating because the water was draining from the air conditioner as it was over 90 degrees outside. A serviceman came but the problem was the drain was clogged. Cost was $160.

4. I used a dustpan and a cup to put 10 gallons of water in buckets and carried them outside.

5. I continued this procedure going down the stairs every 15 minutes to keep everything in my storeroom dry. This meant going up and downstairs about 40 times.

6. Son Spencer came with his 25-foot tool and cleared the drain. I still kept going down to check it.

7. While he was working in the storeroom a bat dove at him.

8. I called 6 exterminators for the birds and the bat. None could come until next week. Daughter-in-law Angie saved the day by calling someone she knew who could come on the 30th. Granddaughter Sidney saved that day because she could be at the house when the exterminator came because Bryce had a doctor's appointment at exactly the same time. 

8. Had to put water in my golf cart batteries because I had forgotten to do that this spring and the cart had died the day before.

9. Noticed the car fender had been pulled slightly away from the car on the right front. On July 1 the kind man at Sid Dillon fixed it while we waited. 

I believe my tennis match June 29th at 8:30 AM was cancelled so I would be home and keep everything dry in the storeroom. I was brought down to the storeroom at just the right time to get the vacuum and save everything in that room from getting wet. I luckily had a fan and a dehumidifier in the room which worked perfectly to dry out the short carpet. My son and his family were available for me. The exterminator said there were no critters in the attic so must be on the roof. He did send me a plan to fix all entries available to bats and provide a route for them to leave but not come back. 

A huge hibiscus, my favorite flower, opened up at the front of my house for the first time this year and I smiled. (And my spirit rejoiced in God my Saviour. Luke 1:47) Yes, He is with me at all times.

Sandra Hilsabeck

What's Your Story? G is for Gift

When I was a freshman in college, I belonged to a Christian group that met every Friday night in someone's home in the community. I also attended a small group  Bible study. Dave, a member of our group, had a beautiful singing voice and played the guitar as well. He led our singing at our meetings and taught us all the contemporary Christian folk music of the time. Towards the end of the semester, a person from one of the homes where we had met called and asked if our group could send someone to their home and teach a group of young couples to sing the new music. Dave was not available and the person called me as the backup. I knew the songs and could sing and play the guitar but did not feel as qualified as Dave and these were people I really didn't know. Initially I said no and the person expressed their disappointment. Our Bible study had been studying Ephesians, and I learned that our purpose in life was to praise God (Ephesians 1:12). Then our Bible study group looked at Ephesians 4:7-8, Therefore it is said that, "When he ascended on high, he made captivity itself a captive," he gave gifts to his people." The chapter goes on to identify the roles in the church related to these gifts and how the gifts can be used by speaking the truth with love to join the whole body together, building itself in love. 

This really spoke to me and I recognized that everything we have is a gift from God and God expects us to use them. I called the person back and said I would come and meet with them and share the music they requested. That Sunday night I met with about twenty people and we praised God as we sang together. I now recognize that this was a turning point in my faith, a recognition of the musical gift God had given me, and my purpose in life was to praise God. 

Nancy Hall

 * What’s Your Story? 

This summer, we invited members of our Eastridge community to explore ABCs of Faith: Simple Stories for Complex Times. In this series, we will be exploring stories from the Bible that tell us about God and God’s people. But our faith is also carried through our own stories.

When someone asks, “What’s your story?” they’re asking about the moments that shaped you: the people, experiences, challenges, and turning points that made you who you are. Scripture is full of such stories—and so are we.  

Throughout the series, we’ll offer prompts connected to the themes we’re exploring. You’re invited to share a brief reflection on any prompt that resonates with you—especially a moment that changed your mind, your heart, or your life. Selected stories may be shared (with your permission) in our newsletter, devotionals, or even during worship. 

What's Your Story (Part 2): Coincidence or The Holy Spirit?

One man, through the Spirit, has the gift of wise speech, while another, by the power of the same Spirit can put the deepest knowledge into words. 1 Cor. 12:8 NEB          

In Part 1 of my story, I mentioned that I’ve always loved writing, but during those years between high school writing, Sunday school and Bible school teaching, women’s exercise leading and monitoring the cradle roll, I didn’t do any Christian writing. Those were my years of raising children, writing poetry and working outside our home. 

However, in the year 2000 Lori Snyder-Sloan encouraged me to contribute a message to the first Eastridge Advent Devotional booklet. A few years later, in 2005, I was invited to contribute to the Homestead Presbytery’s Advent Booklet.

It was between those years in 2003 when I really had an opportunity to become a better writer and write for a wider audience. Were all these interesting writing opportunities just a coincidence? 

Then I received an email from a gentleman I didn’t know who said he had read several of my messages and he thought that I might like to write for the Presbyterian Church of Canada’s (PCC) website. At that time, PCC’s daily subscription count was nearing 5,000 and each of their “Dailies” (devotionals) was posted in 7 languages besides English.      

I decided to give it a try but I was quite apprehensive when it came to actually hitting that send button. Did I really have anything to say to so many readers? It took 3 days of preparing my message to send then backing away saving the message for another day. Finally, it was sent. Then the editor sent it back to me 3 times with changes that were needed. Although I admit it was a bit more frustrating with each return, I realized that I was learning a great deal - making sure each verse of scripture was accurately referenced and quoted, and affirming spelling was correct in order that all the translations worked. Then there were the differences in American English and the King’s English which is used in Canada. The result being that I’m no longer sure I can spell correctly in either version! Those “ior/iour” words like behavior (American)/behaviour (Canadian) still vex me.

For my first message, I chose to write about healing after the death of a spouse. I thought that those readers who had also lost their spouses would be among my first readers. When the feedback messages started coming, I found that men responded 2-1 to women. That really surprised me!

All those messages came from places like Africa, Brazil, Canada, the Middle East (from a gentleman who feared signing his name), and from the UK, etc. They said things like: Many Thanks; I loved your clarity of thought; I am your brother in Christ. Such uplifting messages made all my trepidations vanish. I continued to write for PCC for more than a decade, and I was no longer jolted by being addressed as “Sister” Judith from Your “Brother” in Christ from various parts of God’s earth, but it wasn’t until I took a break from writing in 2010 to have 4 eye surgeries that I realized that all those opportunities to write seemingly coming from nowhere and which led me to making Christian friends across the globe weren’t the result of any coincidence. I had just been too “blind” to see the “Hand of the Holy Spirit’s” leading me on to share my Christian faith.  

After a year’s healing time with restored vision, and at the request of the editor, I returned to writing for PCC for many more years. I received so much Christian love from so many people in so many places! I’ve found no greater joy than this on my long Christian journey of faith.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, we praise You for so many things for which we often forget to say thank You, and now we ask You to open our eyes to the beautiful surprises that You send through the Holy Spirit that make our Christian journey here on earth amazing each and every day. In Jesus’ name we ask it. Amen

Judy Welch

  * What’s Your Story? 

This summer, we invited members of our Eastridge community to explore ABCs of Faith: Simple Stories for Complex Times. In this series, we will be exploring stories from the Bible that tell us about God and God’s people. But our faith is also carried through our own stories.

When someone asks, “What’s your story?” they’re asking about the moments that shaped you: the people, experiences, challenges, and turning points that made you who you are. Scripture is full of such stories—and so are we.  

Throughout the series, we’ll offer prompts connected to the themes we’re exploring. You’re invited to share a brief reflection on any prompt that resonates with you—especially a moment that changed your mind, your heart, or your life. Selected stories may be shared (with your permission) in our newsletter, devotionals, or even during worship. 

Words from First Corinthians

Watch, stand fast in the faith, be brave, be strong. 1 Corinthians 16:13 

Talking About Others

A gadabout gossip can’t be trusted with a secret, but someone of integrity won’t violate a confidence. Proverbs 11:12 

The loose tongue of the godless spreads destruction, the common sense of the godly preserves them. Rash language cuts and maims, but there is healing in the words of the wise. Proverbs 12:18

The more talk, the less truth, the wise measure their words. Proverbs 10:19

Think about when you were with a person that continues to tell other people’s secrets. You can feel yourself wanting to get away from them. But when people talk well about others, you enjoy their company. These Bible verses are pretty clear about gossip and loose tongues. Our family is blessed to have parents that have taught us to tell the truth but there are times we experience people who have not been taught the same.

A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in pictures of silver. Proverbs 25:11 

The wise in heart shall be called prudent: and the sweetness of the lips increaseth learning. Proverbs 16:21

I am a pretty lucky person as over the years I have found friends that speak well of others using sweetness of lips.

However, we need to be careful about even boasting too! Paul writes in 11 Corinthians 12:7b: "This gives me confidence they will tell the truth and good things about me." Paul writes, "Therefore, to keep me from being too elated, a thorn was given me in the flesh, a messenger of Satan to torment me, to keep me from being too elated."

So the tongue is a little member and boasts of great things. How great a forest is set ablaze by a small fire! And the tongue is a fire. (James 3:5-6a)

The Bible speaks to us as it says it is good to be aware of how your speaking affects others around you. In the multitude of words there wanteth not sin: but he that refraineth his lips is wise. Proverbs 10:19. These are good words for me to adhere to before I speak.

Prayer: Dear Lord, thank you for my wonderful parents and help me to learn from your word. I know I have failed at times but see clearly what these verses say to me. Lead me as I go forward. Thanks for teaching me in Proverbs, Corinthians, and James about how my words affect others. Amen. 

Sandra Hilsabeck                                                                                                                                            

My Story

From the time I can remember, my family was involved in church. I had perfect attendance in Sunday School, sang in the choir, attended youth group, and was confirmed. By the time I was a young adult, I thought of myself as a Christian, although I don’t remember sharing that with others. Until I met a woman at work whose husband was planning to join the staff of an evangelical youth organization, and we had conversations about church-related topics.

Debbie invited me to lunch at her apartment, and I accepted, thinking that several of our co-workers were also invited. However, when we left work to walk to her apartment, it was just the two of us. We had a pleasant lunch, and when we were finished, she handed me a small pamphlet and asked me to read through it with her. I don’t remember all of it, but it was about Christianity.  At the end of the pamphlet, there was a statement, part of which said, “I accept Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior.” Debbie asked me to repeat it. Even all these years later, I’m not sure why, but I chose not to repeat the phrase at that time. She asked me to let her know if I ever did say it.

That experience had a great impact on me. It made me question my own Christianity and feel that I needed to repeat the “magic words” in order to be a Christian. Debbie had had a “lightning bolt” experience where she suddenly accepted Jesus Christ and believed in Him, and it made me wonder whether I could be a Christian if I hadn’t had that kind of experience. 

I’m not sure how long I felt like that, but I eventually realized that everyone is on their own spiritual journey, and the experiences along the way shape us. Along the way, I’ve met and worked with people who are strong Christians, but they demonstrate it through their actions without expecting others to say the “magic words.” There is no one way to become a Christian and no timeline that we must follow.     

Prayer: Dear God, thank you for being with us throughout our journey to come to you. We understand that the journey is ongoing. Help us to share our faith with others without judgment. Amen. 

Robin Hadfield

 * What’s Your Story? 

This summer, we invited members of our Eastridge community to explore ABCs of Faith: Simple Stories for Complex Times. In this series, we will be exploring stories from the Bible that tell us about God and God’s people. But our faith is also carried through our own stories.

When someone asks, “What’s your story?” they’re asking about the moments that shaped you: the people, experiences, challenges, and turning points that made you who you are. Scripture is full of such stories—and so are we.  

Throughout the series, we’ll offer prompts connected to the themes we’re exploring. You’re invited to share a brief reflection on any prompt that resonates with you—especially a moment that changed your mind, your heart, or your life. Selected stories may be shared (with your permission) in our newsletter, devotionals, or even during worship. 

Happy Independence Day!

Unexpected Insights

Trust in the the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways, acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. Proverbs 3:5-6  

The steps of a man are established by the Lord, when he delights in his way; though he fall, he shall not be cast headlong, for the Lord upholds his hand. Psalm 37:23-24  

 

Call to me and I will answer you and will tell you great and hidden things that you have not known. Jeremiah 33:3  

Recently my car situation has been in limbo. This has changed everything about my ability to run errands, get to work, and feel independent. Facing this has made me reconsider how much I can "make do" with what I have. This reminds me how creative my brain can be, and I rejoice at its wonders. 

At the end of the summer, one of my cars became disabled, and I was trying to donate it; but I could not find the title in all my moving boxes. It was amazing to me to see how much I had accumulated, and how difficult it was to organize. I saw how debilitating this can become. I also found a lot of forgotten treasures which are so much more valuable than a certified document. 

The search process had been lengthy and fruitless, and eventually I had to procure a duplicate title. Cleaning out the car was a burdensome chore, because there were still vestiges of a trip to Rochester, Minnesota last year when my daughter and I stayed for two months (during which she received her fourth liver transplant). But I realized as I was lugging bags of pillows and umbrellas and scrapers and a shovel and all sorts of human necessities that I need to challenge myself in order to be more resilient. I patted myself on the back as I rested after that chore and looked forward to the next bit of discomfort that would help me grow. 

On the appointed day for pick up the tow truck did not show. So I still had to plan for uncertainties. And that can be rather freeing. How much does it really matter? Why should I invest too much dependence on things going as planned?

The back-up car needed work in order to be drivable after the first one tanked. The AAA tow truck driver delivered it to a repair place that was different from the one where I had made an appointment. At the end of the day, I called the repair shop only to be told that my car wasn't there. So AAA and I had to call and search a number of nearby places to see if my car had ended up there, since the tow truck driver couldn't be reached. These things can happen, and it makes for more work but it also makes for a good story.  Also, the place where my car ended up did a good job of fixing it, and I had it back in no time. I was glad to find a reliable repair place that was within my budget.

 

In the ensuing month, the back-up car developed more issues. One of them involved taillights staying on, and the battery drained. AAA gave me a battery boost and told me to drive directly to the repair place; I managed to find a place open on Sunday, so I felt pretty lucky. But they couldn't actually work on the car until Monday. I hadn't really accomplished what I felt I had needed to do. But the right things happened, only a day later than I had hoped.

 

During this time I was relying on my daughter for trips to and from work. It was nice to have time to talk with her, and I enjoyed looking out the window at the sights I often miss while focusing on driving. I was able to sip coffee and nibble on snacks.

 

Then more issues arose with the car, and because there was a risk of the engine overheating, I was told I shouldn't drive it. At this point, I realized that my '92 Geo Prizm might not be worth the $600 it would probably cost to fix it. I have had to restructure my thinking about continuing to maintain something that doesn't really serve its purpose. The car has no airbags, and doesn't travel well over 45 mph. It doesn't really need my allegiance, even though it reminds me of my mother, from whom I inherited it. 

 

So now I am looking into buying a reliable car. My recently retired friend has been chauffeuring me, and we have had jolly drives reconnecting. When we were in high school, she used to come pick me up and drive me to school. I am reminded of how much I enjoy starting the day with her. She is such a light in my life, and I love being cared for by someone so generous and fun. We always have lots of chances to laugh on the drive, and it is an uplifting way to start and end my day. 

 

Even something as mundane as our transport away from home and back again can reveal something as great as God's presence. I look forward to more road trips with surprises. 

Prayer: Thank you for creating my hands and continuing to hold them. Thank you for giving me eyes, and fresh sights to amaze them. Thank you for interrupting my steps to show me something new about your world and the life you have given me. Learning new things keeps me alive and present, and newly aware of your grace. Let my inconveniences move me closer to you. Amen.

 

Mollie Manner (reprinted from 2017)

Expectations

In our lives, we expect certain things of others. We hope for kindness, we hope they will treat others fairly and live peacefully. Our expectations can excite us sometimes; they can lead us forward eagerly and give us hope.

But then, the unexpected can happen. When I left home in December, my Christmas cactus looked barren. It was green but showed no signs of buds. Soon after I left, my neighbor told me that it began to bloom and still had buds and flowers when I returned in March. 

This was a small thing but totally unexpected. I am reminded of the disciples. Do you think they expected Jesus to die? To be hung on a cross to die?  They had seen all that he could do - the healing, the feeding, the preaching, and the love that others showed him. Did they expect all of this to turn on him? I think not. But he was hung on a cross and he did die. This was unexpected but then three days later another thing happened that was totally unexpected. HE ROSE FROM THE DEAD!

Now my Christmas Cactus blooming was unexpected. But it was a very small thing.  For Jesus Christ blooms inside of all of us every day. Not just on one season of the year but to be with us all every season of our lives.

Carolyn Olsen

My Story: In Memory

I grew up in a small community in Northeastern Nebraska. My family and I were members of the Presbyterian Church there. My parents were very active members and looking back, I felt I always had a good start in understanding how to be a Christian.

When I was a teenager, my family and I moved to Beatrice, Nebraska and then to Lincoln, Nebraska as my dad was now with the University of Nebraska. We joined a large Presbyterian Church in Lincoln and again became very involved in church activities.

Years later, my dad died of a massive heart attack. My mom asked that memorials to him go to that Presbyterian Church. To her amazement and mine, that church did nothing to use that money. My mom even wrote some suggestions for the memorial money use but again, nothing happened. Over a year went by and still nothing.

I will never forget this next moment in my life. I was mowing my yard and a very strong message came to me. I shut down the mower, went inside and called my mom. I remember telling her I thought this was very important.

The message to me simply said, ask that the memorial money be sent to the church in my hometown. My mom said that sounded like a good plan but didn’t know if the Lincoln church would understand. To our delight, weeks later the Lincoln church did send the money.

Several months later, one of my mom’s dear friends that lived in that small community passed away. I took mom to her friend’s funeral. We arrived a bit early and when we entered the church, folks that were already there came up and hugged my mom and me.

After the funeral, we stayed for the reception. It was at that time I knew prayers are answered. Friends came up to my mom and said how much they appreciated the memorial money that had been sent to them. One lady said they had prayed and prayed as this church needed repairs on the roof, money to pay the insurance on the building and some office equipment that desperately needed replacing.

All of us had tears of joy running down our faces. Not only had that money helped a church dear to our hearts but also knowing that my dad would be delighted that his memorial could be used in this way.

All of these years later, I still remember how all of this had such an effect on all of us and this memory will be with me all of my life. This hometown church will always be so special to me.

Linda Lyon 

 

 * What’s Your Story? 

This summer, we invited members of our Eastridge community to explore ABCs of Faith: Simple Stories for Complex Times. In this series, we will be exploring stories from the Bible that tell us about God and God’s people. But our faith is also carried through our own stories.

When someone asks, “What’s your story?” they’re asking about the moments that shaped you: the people, experiences, challenges, and turning points that made you who you are. Scripture is full of such stories—and so are we.  

Throughout the series, we’ll offer prompts connected to the themes we’re exploring. You’re invited to share a brief reflection on any prompt that resonates with you—especially a moment that changed your mind, your heart, or your life. Selected stories may be shared (with your permission) in our newsletter, devotionals, or even during worship. 

Words from the book of Joshua

Be strong and courageous...for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go. Joshua 1:9 

Prayer: An Attitude of the Heart

Be joyful always: pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. 

If asked to define prayer, most of us would quickly say, "Something expressed in words." Prayer is really an attitude of the heart. I see it more fundamentally as our being in God's presence. Sometimes words are appropriate and sometimes they get in the way. Often, they simply do not matter. Let prayer become the breath of your spirit. Let it be the beating of your heart. Where our whole selves are engaged in relationship with God, there prayer will be, even if words are not used.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank you for the opportunity to pray without ceasing. Help us to make room in our hearts to place you first in our hearts. Amen.

Peggy Olmsted (shared today in memory of Peggy, originally printed in the 2008 Eastridge Devotional.)

Sweet, Sweet Spirit

I will remember the deeds of the LORD;

yes, I will remember your wonders of old.

I will ponder all your work,

and meditate on your mighty deeds.

Your way, O God, is holy.

What god is great like our God?

You are the God who works wonders;

you have made known your might among the peoples.

You with your arm redeemed your people,

the children of Jacob and Joseph. Selah Psalm 77:11-15 (ESV)

I am remembering the history of a church that has voted to close its ministry. I have served that congregation as moderator and supply for approximately 7 years. Their last service will be in July. One of the things that the church will give to Presbytery is a record of her history, the minutes and record book, and any remaining funds. Among the history is a list of pastors who have served Hebron Presbyterian Church, including Pastor Tom Huxtable from September 1950 to August 1953. It was not much longer than that when Pastor Huxtable became pastor at Eastridge. Yes, Hebron PC has a history to remember and a legacy of pastors who have gone on to serve other congregations. Memory will be a great friend and consoler for the remaining members of Hebron for their legacy and witness will continue. 

I use another memory that helps me with another former church I pastored 41 years ago. I was asked to preach and give communion at their concluding service. Members of the church told stories. I recall seeing kids who were in the youth group who were now grandparents. The service ended with everyone getting a candle like those given on Christmas Eve. Candles were lit as we sang our concluding hymn “Sweet, Sweet Spirit.” As we left, candles were still lit as we went outside. Oddly enough, the wind was rather strong and blew the candles out! One person immediately said something most profound – that the wind was the Holy Spirit continuing the witness - where and how? Only God would know. Indeed, it was a sweet, sweet Spirit moment!

We remember and the Holy Spirit helps us and ministers in that memory. It need not be a memory as much as a symbol, a hymn, a scripture, devotional, sermon, conversation or a prayer. It could be a stained-glass window or whatever unlocks the memory which I believe will be a ministry of memory that the psalmist offers from Psalm 77. So, affirm, “I will remember the deeds of the Lord!” Amen. 

Prayer: Almighty God, unlock our memory when an event, anniversary, or conclusion of life happens. Help us with Your Spirit to minister in that memory.  May we be open to whatever would unlock that memory in a stain glass window, a hymn, a prayer, a sermon, or a devotion. Let that Sweet, Sweet Spirit never leave in Jesus’ name. Amen

Rev. Dr. John Duling

A God Who Knows Us

 

"O Lord, you have searched me and known me! You know when I sit down and when I rise up; you discern my thoughts from afar. You search out my path and my lying down and are acquainted with all my ways. Even before a word is on my tongue, behold, O Lord, you know it altogether." Psalm 139:1-4

"Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I consecrated you; I appointed you a prophet to the nations." Jeremiah 1:5

Words from Psalm 90

So teach us to number our days that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom. Psalm 90:12 

Tell Me the Stories of Jesus, Write on my Heart Every Word

Tell me a story about when you were little – a small voice would say and either Gramma or Papa would comply. It was fun for both of us.

Now, these small people are grown, and they can tell me stories about their work and their travels and their lives. They still remember our stories but now they are all woven together in family lore. Jesus also used stories (parables) to make his points. They were probably hard to understand for the followers but how wonderful they are to us. Reading the Bible, we read the stories of Jesus and they are never old to us as we enjoy them over and over.

As a child, living in the country, my father would take me to town on Sunday morning to go to Sunday school. We would arrive early and I would take the long stairs to the basement of the church. The teacher would not always be there yet but the lights were on and the janitor was kind. 

One Sunday, the teacher used the part of the Bible about Jesus welcoming little children and what he said to his followers when they chided Him. “Suffer little children to come unto me and forbid them not for of such is the kingdom of heaven.” I was overjoyed. There were a lot of children in my family. Yes, I was the youngest of the first branch but my brothers and sisters were already having children of their own. It was wonderful to know that Jesus welcomed us all. My little washed-out cotton dress didn’t matter. I had found a place where I was welcome in the town church. A little country girl welcome in a big church in town. God welcomed me. 

Church was never the same after that. I entered into the discussions and continued to attend that same church until I graduated from high school and then returned six years later to marry. Jesus had welcomed me.

Carolyn Olsen

Happy Father's Day

Happy Father's Day on Sunday, June 21!

"Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long in the land that the Lord your God is giving you." Exodus 20:12

"As a father shows compassion to his children, so the Lord shows compassion to those who fear him." Psalm 103:13

"Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it." Proverbs 22:6

God-Given Brain

For my yoke is easy and my burden is light. Matthew 11:30 

He has filled the hungry with good things. Luke 1:53 

The Spirit of God has made me: the breath of the Almighty gives me life. Job 33:4

Marie Chapian says in Quiet Prayer, 31 Days of Meditation For Women that everything you think and do in your daily life is in response to what you tell yourself. When you consider how busy your mind is with all of its clutter, as well as all of its brilliance, it’s easy to become impatient with silence. The impatience comes from what you’re telling yourself. It’s your unruly thinking that will defeat you.

Have you ever thought about how many thoughts you have in a day? I certainly never did until I read Tame Your Thoughts by Max Lucado. He has written a lot of very good Bible Studies I have used and many books. On page 3 of this book he states: "Thoughts. They heckle; they help. They remind us of regrets. They convene committee meetings in the middle of the night. Like a swarm of bees, they buzz about, some making honey, others inflicting pain. No way could I count them. The researchers at the Laboratory of Neuro Imaging, University of Southern California, did, however. According to them, your brain is a three-pound computer that processes seventy thousand thoughts each day."

SEVENTY THOUSAND? That is an unbelievable number! But I thought about it for a while and realized my brain continues on and on from one thing to another. Think about it. You can be busy getting done what was scheduled for the day and zoom, you realize you hadn’t done something very important. Sometimes you cannot get certain things out of your mind. You try and try, but they keep coming up. Where do they come from? How have they changed over the years? 

Romans chapter 12 says: "Conversion and sanctification are the renewing of the mind; a change, not of the substance, but of the qualities of the soul. The progress of sanctification, dying to sin more and more, is the carrying on this renewing work, till it is perfected in glory. The great enemy to this renewal is conformity to this world. Take heed of forming plans for happiness, as though it lay in the things of this world, which soon pass away." Max Lucado says we can change our thoughts. These verses from Romans say we can change our thoughts.

What do you suppose would happen if we remove the unhappy thoughts and replace them with happy thoughts? I am going to try to do this and hope you join me.

Prayer: Dear Father in Heaven, open our minds to only good thoughts, teach us to control our thoughts before we speak. Help us to use our speech to guide others. Make us aware each day to think well of others and pray for them. Amen.

Sandra Hilsabeck

What's Your Story (Part 1)

Having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us use them. Romans 12:6 CEB

Perhaps it is not a prudent idea to ask someone my age, “What’s Your Story?” because when you ask someone in their late 80’s that question, the answer is going to be really long. There’s no need to brace yourself for a list of bragging situations. Rather, it will be a long list of living situations and of learning and relying on guidance from the Holy Spirit’s urging me to use my gifts and then pulling me through the situation.

I’ve always loved to write and in fact I started by writing a byline (a column) that ran in my high school newspaper way back in the 1950’s while I was a student. I have loved being a Sunday School teacher, a Women’s Exercise leader, and cradle roll monitor here at Eastridge. Reading the bible in search of answers to unusual questions, and baking bread with ancient grains was kind of a passion for a while.  Sharing bread with friends is sacred to me. All these things have been part of my faith journey.  

This past year, our EPW (Eastridge Presbyterian Women) bible study taught us to seek joy in our faith journey and I started thinking that my faith journey has not only been a long one, but it has been divided into 5 parts with each part providing its own kind of joy. 

FIRST, as a child and student in Sunday school, I loved the stories and the songs and the fellowship with the other children. 

SECOND, in my 20’s, I was a Sunday school teacher and bible school teacher (kindergarten and 4th grade) and a crafts leader. I really didn’t think I wanted to be a Sunday school teacher but with Reverend Huxtable’s urging I decided to try it and it was with Tom’s good mentoring that I learned how to read and love the Bible. I’ve always loved exercise so I also led a women’s exercise class here at Eastridge in the 1970s. I’m not sure we lost any weight but we really had a good time trying.   

During the years I worked outside the home, I took a hiatus from teaching, but I enjoyed reading about different topics from the Bible. I always wanted to know things I’m sure no one else ever cared about like, “How did all those Israelites know to bring and wave palms on Palm Sunday?”  “What happened to Aaron’s rod of flowering almond?”  “Why was finding the baby Jesus wrapped in swaddling clothes a special message for the shepherds?” I’ve had many more such questions. As I said, probably nothing of interest to most Christians.

THIRD, I really loved reading about the plants of the OT which started me reading about the ancient grains such as barley, rye, and Kamut. 

FOURTH, this led me to years of baking bread including some of these grains. Then I shared bread along with biblical bread stories. Did you know that the word “bread” is mentioned more than 400 times in the KJV version of the Bible? Soon, I began calling those who received my bread and stories, my “bread friends.”

FIFTH, and presently I still write devotionals for the Eastridge page, and at Pastor Thomas’ request I share bread with fellow Eastridge members through the Care Giving Group here at our church.

I, for one, have found real joy in my faith journey through all these years and the stories are many. Some could tell of success, some could tell of heartbreak and sadness, some could tell of the hardship of the loss of a spouse, some could tell of failure and humility, but the stories I’ve learned to love the most are the ones that have humbled me and have become humorous as I look back.

As a writer for the Eastridge devotional page, I started writing for the Advent and Lenten booklets back in the year 2000. I plan to share a few of my amazing faith journey stories separately during this summer series entitled, “What’s Your Story?” I did warn you that Octogenarians have a really long story! Perhaps my story is best heard in small doses. At the time the stories were happening, I didn’t see them as using my Spirit given gifts but hindsight shows me how not only the gifts but the use of the gifts was spirit driven.

Prayer: Our Father in Heaven, we praise You for the gifts we’ve received through the Holy Spirit and We thank You for all that You do to love us throughout our faith journey on earth. Also, we thank you for uplifting us with our successes and teaching us with our humbling experiences while showing us always that Your love never fails us. In Jesus's holy name we pray. Amen 

Judy Welch     

*   What’s Your Story? 

This summer, we invited members of our Eastridge community to explore ABCs of Faith: Simple Stories for Complex Times. In this series, we will be exploring stories from the Bible that tell us about God and God’s people. But our faith is also carried through our own stories.

When someone asks, “What’s your story?” they’re asking about the moments that shaped you: the people, experiences, challenges, and turning points that made you who you are. Scripture is full of such stories—and so are we. We’d love to hear yours.

Throughout the series, we’ll offer prompts connected to the themes we’re exploring. You’re invited to share a brief reflection on any prompt that resonates with you—especially a moment that changed your mind, your heart, or your life. Selected stories may be shared (with your permission) in our newsletter, devotionals, or even during worship.                                                                                                                                                

                                                                                                                                                             

Words from Second Corinthians

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new. 2 Corinthians 5:17
 

Love

Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. 1 Corinthians 13:4-7

The 13th chapter of 1st Corinthians in the New Testament is often referred to as the “Love Chapter.” It is regularly used at weddings, intended as a description of the love between the bride and groom.  

But here’s a different way to think of this scripture. I recently attended a meeting where a pastor used this chapter as part of a meditation. He asked us to substitute our individual names for the word “love.” Try it. Read the above passage and put in your own name each time the scripture uses “love” or “it.” 

How did it feel to say that you are patient and kind? Can you honestly say that you do not dishonor others? Are you not easily angered? Do you rejoice with the truth?

If we substitute God’s name in the passage, we are reminded that God is patient and kind, and He always protects, trusts, hopes, and perseveres. Whether we substitute our own name or God’s name in these verses, the meaning is clear - we are called to love one another as God loves us.                 

Prayer: Dearest Lord, thank you for sharing your love with us and for showing us how to share our love with others. Forgive us when we are envious, boastful, or proud. Help us to work toward becoming more like your son, Jesus Christ, in making our names synonymous with love.

Robin Hadfield (reprinted from 2018)

Words from Isaiah

For thus said the Lord God, the Holy One of Israel, "In returning and rest you shall be saved; in quietness and in trust shall be your strength." Isaiah 30:15 

Reconnection

You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. Jeremiah 29:13

Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you. James 4:8

The Lord is near to the broken-hearted and saves the crushed in spirit. Psalm 34:18

And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age. Matthew 28:20

Sometimes life is busy. It’s messy. We can’t seem to get ahead of the calendar, and we’re being pulled in different directions for children’s activities, grandchildren’s activities, work, volunteer opportunities, meetings. We forget to pray. We don’t have a spare minute to read a devotion or the Bible. Sometimes events that shake us up tend to help us reconnect with God (we call out “help” more often than “thank you”), although it shouldn’t be that way.

I was thinking of my Dad recently, in how he was happy to have someone from his childhood as a new resident in the assisted living facility where he lives. Now, they get a chance to reconnect during dinner and afterwards, reminiscing about the “old days”.

It can be that way for us as well. When we realize if we just slow down and take some time out of our day for prayer or meditation, contemplation of a text (Bible or other spiritual reading), we can enjoy that boost of spiritual connection and sense that all is right in the world again when we reconnect with God. We open ourselves up to the peace that only God can give when we reconnect with Him.

Prayer: Dear Lord, help us to understand that we are not too busy to take time for you. Amen.

Donna Gustafson (photo depicting a peaceful scene by Donna. Click on photo to view larger.)

Words from Psalm 18

He also brought me out into a broad place: He delivered me because He delighted in me. Psalm 18:19 

God is Love

And so we know and rely on the love God has for us. God is Love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in them. 1 John 4:16 

The Power of Lectio Divina

The eyes of all wait upon thee; and thou givest them their meat in due season. Thou openest thine hand, and satisfiest the desire of every living thing. Psalm 145:15-16 KJV

The high school choir I was part of in San Francisco would attend a choral clinic of choirs from all over Northern California. We assembled in Stockton, California for a full day of rehearsal and learning music from noted choir directors, as well as noted conductors of orchestra and band. 

The insight I gained from one of those clinics was based on an anthem from Psalm 145:15-16, King James version. I hear that anthem every time I read these verses. The memory of that anthem is a musical Lectio Divina.

(Lectio Divina means “Holy Reading” or “Holy Word” through which one hears a word or phrase from a scripture that makes an impression on them. I use this spiritual practice with hymns and anthems as well. It is a memory of one of those anthems that inspires what I am sharing in this devotion.) 

The choir begins with the theme, “The eyes of all wait upon Thee…and Thou givest them their meat in due season.” The harmony is rich and the melody begins to build with anticipation. The music lends depth and highlights how we see God and how God provides for us in due season. 

But then comes the next verse. The intensity of the harmony, dynamics, and passion increase – “Thou openest thine hand and satisfiest the desire of every living thing!” I hear the choir echoing the phrase “of every living thing” at least 3 times with great intensity. I am filled with goose bumps as the music hits a crescendo and emotional climax. What a musical power of Spirit!

The choir returns to the opening phrase of the 15th verse.“The eyes of all wait upon Thee.” The melody, harmony, and dynamics slow down to a thanksgiving as we conclude how all eyes are gazed at the wonder, majesty, provision, and grace of God. It ends with an almost imperceptible silence as the final chord magically fills the auditorium.

My take on this and encouragement is to imagine a melody with the words I have shared. It could be a more up-to-date translation, even. No, I do not have a recording of 50 plus years ago, but we can imagine a melody in our minds and hearts. We can seek a word from God in a Lectio Divina fashion and prayerfully imagine what dynamics and intensity might be in our rendition of hearing this psalm.

The power of the Lectio Divina is open to how God’s Word and Spirit are speaking to one’s heart. Let the melody of your heart and the sounds and imaginations of your mind bring a praise to our God. For the eyes of all wait upon God. 

Prayer: O God, let the Word be sung in our hearts as we wait upon You in Jesus’ name. Amen 

Rev. Dr. John J. Duling (reprinted from 2020)