Wednesday, September 11, 2024

Good morning and welcome to Wednesday Wondering. I’m wondering, are you comfortable? That’s right! Are you comfortable? Maybe you’ve had your cup of coffee, you’re sitting in the sunshine, you’re taking a break at work, you’ve had a great summer of vacation… Are you comfortable? Are your kids comfortable? Is church comfortable?

And then you hear these words from Matthew 28:19, “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” It’s interesting because we need to GO. We need permission, really, to stay! God wants us to go – to go out, to go to people, to go to their lives and to share the good news of the Gospel. So, if you’re feeling comfortable, it might be a problem! Because God wants us to go. Hey, have a great day. God bless and get up and go.

Midweek Messages Email September 11, 2024

 

 

Wednesday, September 4, 2024

Good morning and welcome to Wednesday Wondering. I’m wondering, what do planes and stores and cruise ships and stadiums and churches have in common? Do you know? Well, I would say, they are all getting bigger. And bigger means crowded. And crowds mean, lost in the crowd. So many Americans feel lost and alone and yet, when we think about Jesus and God, remember Luke 19:5 “And when Jesus came to the place, He looked up and saw him, and said to him, ‘Zacchaeus, make haste and come down, for today I must stay at your house.’”

It’s easy to get lost in today’s world, whether it be physically or whether it be on the internet. It’s easy to be a nobody. But you know what? God sees you as a somebody. Jesus looks up in the tree and says, “Come on down, I need to go to your house.” And the same is true for us. God wants to come into our house.  God wants to know that we are special.

So today, don’t feel lost in the crowd. Know that God loves you, sees you, and wants to go home with you. God bless. Have a great day.

Midweek Messages Email September 4, 2024

 

 

Wednesday, August 28, 2024

Good morning and welcome to Wednesday Wondering. I mean, this is pretty amazing: I’m able to reach out to all of you and connect every week. I am somebody. Or, on Sundays, I’m on the internet now. You can look at all the sermons. I am famous!

We often like to think about all the great things we’ve done. It’s part of our world. It’s part of humanity, especially in Western culture. The clothes we wear, the cars we drive, the neighborhoods we live in – it’s all status, it’s all about things that point to our accomplishments. “Look at me!”

And yet Scripture says something very different. Luke 14:11 “For whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.” There’s an enormous difference between the way that the world honors us and the way God does. The truth is, we kind of are full of ourselves, and we need to step back.

I’m just wondering, how are you doing? I know I struggle. I like to talk about my family, myself and maybe I just need to talk about God more, and the fact that I would have nothing if it weren’t for the presence of God. I’m wondering! How humble are we? God bless. Have a great day.

Midweek Messages Email August 28, 2024

 

 

Wednesday, August 21, 2024

Good morning and welcome to Wednesday Wondering! I’m wondering what sounds good. Or, maybe what tastes good. Are you a “sweet” person? Or a “salty, snacky” person? Or do you really, really like that big piece of meat or a good hamburger? I mean, really, what makes your mouth water?
It says in Matthew 5:6 “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be filled.” How about it? Are you hungry for righteousness? Are you thirsty for righteousness? I know it’s hard to think about, but righteousness isn’t just an absence of sin. It’s an allowing for God to fill us so that our minds and our hearts, our bodies, our hands, our feet all move in tune with God’s will and God’s presence in us. Righteousness! Is that what you’re hungering for – more than a candy bar, more than a bag of chips, more than that cheeseburger? The truth is as people seeking God, following Christ, we should be hungry for righteousness in every turn. I wonder, what are we hungry for? God bless. Have a great day.

Midweek Messages Email August 21, 2024

 

 

Wednesday, August 14, 2024

Good morning and welcome to Wednesday Wondering. I’m wondering if anybody’s wondering. Wondering about this specifically. What am I getting at? Ephesians 4:32 “And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you.” I’m wondering whether or not we’re tenderhearted, whether or not we forgive, whether or not we love.

Again, you look at the news, you look at what’s going on all around us, and there’s not a lot of love. There’s not a lot of tenderheartedness. And yet, Scripture clearly calls us to being people of love.

Jesus said it best. He didn’t say the world’s gonna know him by his miracles, or by grand testimonies, or by vast Biblical knowledge. But the world would know him by the love that Christians show for one another. (John 13:35)

I’m wondering, do we enjoy conflict, argument, debate more than we do love, tenderness, forgiveness? I’m wondering. I’m wondering if you’re wondering. Let’s love! Let’s LOVE and be an example! God bless, have a great day.

Midweek Messages Email August 14, 2024

 

 

Wednesday, August 7, 2024

Good morning and welcome to Wednesday Wondering. I’m wondering, what’s getting in the way. What do I mean? You remember growing up. It was time to take the garbage out, cut the lawn, rake the leaves, make your bed, clean your room. And usually at some point our parents had to say, “Now!” “Now!” We always wanted to do it later.
Well, sometimes it’s the same way with God. Matthew 8:21 “Then another of His disciples said to Him, ‘Lord, let me first go and bury my father.’” Hey, I can’t do it now, Lord. I gotta bury my father but maybe later. So often, God calls us to action, and we let something get in the way. We’re too busy and yet it’s so important for us to understand: when God calls, we’ve gotta answer. When God speaks, we’ve gotta listen. When God wants us to do something, we’ve gotta do it. NOW! Not later, now. So, what’s getting in the way of you being who God needs you to be? God bless, have a great day.

Midweek Messages Email August 7, 2024

 

 

Wednesday, July 31, 2024

Good morning and welcome to Wednesday Wondering. I’m wondering how you’re doing. I know over the last few days, it’s been busy. It seems like there’s been tragedy, with a friend losing a son, with a church member losing an aunt. There’s been joy with a baby shower and a coming together of our family. And I’m wondering, is God in both of those? It says in Joshua: “No man shall be able to stand before you all the days of your life; as I was with Moses, so I will be with you. I will not leave you nor forsake you.” (Joshua 1:5)

While it’s easy to say wow, God’s here in these joyous, wonderful times, but what about in the horrible, difficult ones? I mean, let’s be honest, you feel forsaken. You feel alone. And I have to believe in my heart and have hope that even in the darkest times, God is present. It might take time; it might take some painful walks. But to see God’s presence and love, it’s the only thing that brings hope.

So, today I’m wondering do you feel the presence of God? I hope you do, in everything. God bless.

Midweek Messages Email July 31, 2024

 

 

Wednesday, July 24, 2024

Good morning and welcome to Wednesday Wondering. I’m wondering if you ever asked the question, has your life made a difference? I know I have on a regular basis. So often in ministry you wonder: have I done anything good? Anything to touch someone’s life? And I bet you feel the same way.
And Scripture clearly states something very powerfully: (James 5:19-20) “Brothers and sisters, if anyone among you wanders from the truth, and someone turns him back, let him know that he who turns a sinner from the error of his way will save a soul from death and cover a multitude of sins.”How about it? If we have been sharing Christ, if we have been sharing the love of Jesus, if we have been sharing hope, then we’re making a difference. Our lives can make a difference by simply being gentle, and loving, and listening, and sharing the gospel. The beautiful gospel of Christ. I’m wondering have we made a difference. Have a great day. God bless.

Midweek Messages Email July 24, 2024

 

 

Wednesday, July 17, 2024

Good morning and welcome to Wednesday Wondering. I’m wondering if you remember when you got in trouble – got in trouble with your parents, you know, disobeyed, did something wrong. And, do you remember how it felt? Or another way maybe to say it is do you remember disappointing your parents. Maybe disappointing your spouse, your kids. That feeling of disappointment because your actions weren’t what they should be.

It’s amazing to me to read Psalm 4:3 “But know that the Lord has set apart for Himself him who is godly; the Lord will hear when I call to Him.” God loves godly people. And He sets them apart as His children – followers. And I think to myself, how many times have I disappointed God? Now, I know that is why Jesus came into this world. I know that’s why there’s grace, and forgiveness. I know that sin separates us, but the bar is still high in the fact that we are called to be godly people. And when we aren’t, we disappoint the Almighty. So, today I’m just wondering, have I been obedient? Or have I been a disappointment? Do I need to celebrate? Or do I need to confess? I’m just wondering.

Midweek Messages Email July 17, 2024

 

 

Wednesday, July 10, 2024

Good morning and welcome to Wednesday Wondering. I’m wondering if you like radicchio. That’s right! You know what I’m talking about? That red lettuce you get in a fancy salad. You know, you accidentally take a piece of it and, ugh, it’s bitter! You almost feel like you pulled it out of the ground from your yard around a dandelion and chewed on it. It’s so bitter! And it kind of makes ya squirm to your core.

Bitterness can really getcha. Hebrews 12:15 “Looking carefully lest anyone fall short of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up cause trouble.” Bitterness has a tenacious, tenacious way of really ruining our lives. Makes us question everything. Bitterness separates us from God. Bitterness separates us from grace. Bitterness separates us from forgiveness.

So today, I just want to wonder a little bit: how much bitterness is there in my life, in my heart? And, I hope you wonder as well. And then work on getting rid of it! Just like we pick out the radicchio of our salads, maybe we need to pick out the bitterness in our lives. Find that grace, find that love, and live with joy. I’m just wondering! God bless. Have a great day.

Midweek Messages Email July 10, 2024

 

 

Wednesday, July 3, 2024

Good morning and welcome to Wednesday Wondering. I’ve got to be quick because I’m wondering about two things.

 What more could have been done? That’s right, what more could have been done?  Isaiah 5:4 “What more could have been done to My vineyard that I have not done in it? Why then, when I expected it to bring forth good grapes, did it bring forth wild grapes?” Really, this is talking about the relationship of God and man, of humanity. God has given us everything so that we know what is right and we know how to live and yet we still end up being wild – wild child! I mean, let’s be realistic. One day God will hold us accountable for all that He has done for us and how we have missed the mark. Are you a good grape or are you a wild grape?

#2, the same goes for the 4th of July. We have been blessed in this country; we have been given so much. And what are we doing with it? Are we serving others? Are we caring for our neighbor? Are we making a difference or are we just grumbling and complaining? So, what more could have been done? In our faith? In our citizenship? What more could have been done to lead us in the right direction? God bless. Have a great day! Have a great 4th!

Midweek Messages Email July 3, 2024

 

 

Wednesday, June 26, 2024

Good morning and welcome to Wednesday Wondering. I’m even wondering about this one. Scratching my head. Well, let’s start with this: I wonder what you know about Job. I always think about this poor guy who suffered a lot. But what I want us to think about this morning is from Job 1:1 “There was a man in the land of Uz, whose name was Job; and that man was blameless and upright, and one who feared God and shunned evil.”

Blameless. How about you? How about me? Are we blameless? Seems a little crazy. Until you think about one kind of description: “blameless does not mean perfect. It means that in every situation you do the correct thing. If you sin against someone, you confess your sin and ask for forgiveness.”

How about it? When you live life, are you thinking about being blameless? About always doing the right thing? About being like Job? Not because he suffered but because he was blameless. He was a good guy. He made mistakes. He asked for forgiveness. He followed the Lord. So, I’m wondering, I’M wondering, and I hope you’re wondering, how can we be blameless? God bless. Have a great day.

Midweek Messages Email June 26, 2024

 

 

Wednesday, June 19, 2024

Good morning and welcome to Wednesday Wondering. I’m wondering what Father’s Day was like for you. I’m also wondering, do you know that Vacation Bible School is happening right now? And then I’m wondering, how are our relationships with our parents? And maybe these children at Vacation Bible School and children in our lives – maybe those relationships aren’t always the best. And what do you do?

Well, I would say you remember this: Galatians 4:6 “And because you are sons and daughters, God has sent forth the Spirit of His Son into your hearts, crying out, ‘Abba, Father!’” Regardless of what our relationship is like with our earthly parents, we have to remember that our heavenly Father was willing to pay any price in order to save us. And our heavenly Father loves us so much that while we were yet sinners, He died for us. He’s pursued us from the beginning of time. It’s truly amazing that we have a parent – a Father who loves us unconditionally.

So maybe Sunday wasn’t the best Father’s Day. But guess what? There’s an amazing Father waiting for you. Maybe some of these kids at Vacation Bible School don’t know it, but guess what – we can show them the way to the Father. I’m wondering, are you ready to share the Good News of a Father who loves, LOVES so many, so much. God bless. Have a great day!

Midweek Messages Email June 19, 2024

 

 

Wednesday, June 12, 2024

Good morning and welcome to Wednesday Wondering. I’m wondering if you remember… if you remember trying to remember your combination on your school locker. I can remember struggling the first part of the year trying to make it work right and get in. It was frustrating. Then as I got older, I can remember having the wrong key. Oh, you thought ya had the right one but its not the right one and you gotta figure out which one it is and its frustrating. But worst of all, I can remember every now and then losing my keys. Oh, it was horrible! Backtracking, looking all over, not being able to move around freely. It would drive me nuts!
Matthew 16:19a, “I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven and whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.” Jesus gives us keys to the kingdom. Keys that give us access to the throne of God. Keys that give us an open door when we need God the most. And I’m wondering if we realize we have them or if maybe we forget and we actually lose them. Today is a day to remember that you can have the keys to the kingdom – an open door to the Almighty. Don’t lose the keys. Always know you’re welcome. God bless. Have a great day.

Midweek Message Email June 12, 2024

 

 

Wednesday, May 29, 2024

Good morning and welcome to Wednesday Wondering. I’m wondering if you remember a good old-fashioned children’s sermon. I can remember it from when I was a kid. I can actually remember being the one asked the question. With the pastor squeezing out toothpaste from the tube and then looking at one of the kids saying, “Now which one of you can put the toothpaste back in the tube?” And then they went on to talk to us about how the words that we use are like that toothpaste. Once they come out, well, you can’t take them back.

From Matthew 12:36 it says, “But I say to you that for every idle word men may speak, they will give account of it in the day of judgment.” Wow! I guess the Lord is listening! I guess, long ago, that person who invented that children’s sermon was right! Once the words come out, we can’t take them back. And even more so, we will be judged for the words we use.

So, today I’m wondering. What’s getting squeezed out of us? Are they good words? Or are they bad words? I’m just wondering. Have a great day. God bless.

Midweek Message Email May 29, 2024

 

 

Wednesday, May 22, 2024

Good morning and welcome to Wednesday Wondering. I’m wondering, what do you see? That’s right. When you look at me, what do you see? Do you see a short, chunky, old guy? Do you see a former football player? Do you see a Chicago native, at heart? What do you see? Do you see Jesus? I know I have a title, “Reverend,” “Pastor.” But that doesn’t mean that you see Jesus in me. And sometimes, quite honestly, I KNOW I don’t look like Jesus.

What’s amazing are these words from Acts 4:13 “Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were uneducated and untrained men, they marveled. And they realized that they had been with Jesus.” When people look at you and me, do they see Jesus? When people look at you and me, do they see hope? Do they see grace? Do they see love? I mean, when people look at us, what do they see? Even if we’re trained, even if we go to church, do they see Jesus? This week, just wonder – what do people see? God bless.

Midweek Message Email May 22, 2024

 

 

Wednesday, May 15, 2024

Good morning and welcome to Wednesday Wondering! I’m wondering if you remember sharpening knives. I know today we don’t do any of it really. But in particular do you remember that image of someone standing over the ham or the turkey or the roast, and they would take that carving knife out and run it back and forth on that metal rod that matched the carving knife. It was almost like ballet as they went back and forth to sharpen the knife to really create an edge that would carve the meat, that would do the job right.

Well, it says in Proverbs, “As iron sharpens iron, so a man sharpens the countenance of his friend.” (Proverbs 27:17) How about it? Are you surrounded by people who really work hard at sharpening your faith? Do you reach out to your friends and try to sharpen their faith? We’re called to be like that metal rod that sharpens the edge of the knife. We’re called to help one another, to do the job of being a Christian so much better.

So, remember this: steel sharpens steel, and we sharpen one another for the kingdom of God. God bless. Have a great day, and I hope you have a sharp edge!

Midweek Message Email May 15, 2024

 

 

Wednesday, May 8, 2024

Good morning and welcome to Wednesday Wondering. I’m wondering, where did you like to sit at the dinner table? You know, when it was dinner time, where did you want to sit? Close to the potatoes? Close to the meat? Close to the dessert? You know, first come, first served. Or, did you always want to make sure you got seconds?

I mean, let’s face it, we want what we want and we’re going to get it. The challenge is this: 1 Corinthians 10:24 where it says, “Let no one seek his own, but each one the other’s wellbeing.”

How about it? Do you put your brother or sister first? Or, is it all about you? Me? I? Because we have a responsibility to live in such a way that we don’t hurt others. But also that we might deny ourselves and allow the Holy Spirit to put to death our natural inclination to be self-centered. As long as we focus on ourselves, we will be oblivious to the needs of others. I mean, think about that. All we can think about is getting the most ice cream, the biggest potato chip out of the bag, whatever it might be. And yet, God says, “Think about others.”

I’m wondering, is that the way we think? I’m wondering about others. God bless, have a great day.

Midweek Message Email May 8, 2024

 

 

Wednesday, May 1, 2024

Good morning and welcome to Wednesday Wondering. I’m wondering, do you feel Spring in the air? Are you looking at the buds on the trees, the blossoms on the flowers. Does that old saying come to mind: “April showers bring…” You know how to finish it.

Or another way to think about it is, do you have joy in your heart today? Has Spring brought that newness of life in Christ? It says in John 17:13, “But now I come to You, and these things I speak in the world, that they may have My joy fulfilled in themselves.” Do you have the joy of Christ in your heart? Are you celebrating every moment you have on this earth? We are blessed and we have the opportunity to have a full and joyful life in Christ. Not happiness. Happiness depends on your circumstances. Whether or not you win or lose, whether or not you get a raise or don’t get a raise. This is joy, deep from within, because you know the love of God and the new life in Christ. So today, I hope your joy is overflowing. God bless and have a wonderful day.

Midweek Message Email May 1, 2024

 

 

Wednesday, April 24, 2024

I’m wondering if you can smell the fresh bread. Take a minute and close your eyes. That great aroma from that crisp, crunchy outer shell, that soft middle, when you cut it open and the steam rises, and you put butter on it and it melts all over. You take that first chewy wonderful bite and oh, there’s nothing better than that fresh hot bread!
Well, guess what? Jesus says, “I am the bread of life. He who comes to Me shall never hunger, and he who believes in Me shall never thirst.” (John 6:35) So often we think of that as physical nourishment, but the truth is Jesus is talking about spirituality. And as we live on this earth, we need to eat the bread that is Christ. That we need to be nourished in a way in which our spiritual existence flourishes. It’s really no different. It’s got to be that warm, nourishing, inviting bread that we just can’t live without.
 
So today think about that wonderful bread but not the hot loaf with the butter – the wonderful Bread of Life that is Jesus. Have a great day. God bless.

Midweek Message Email April 24, 2024

 

 

Wednesday, April 17, 2024

Good evening! And Wednesday Welcome Wondering. No, wait a minute, wait a minute. Good morning! And it’s Wednesday Wondering. No, no, no, no. Welcome wonder, no… Hey, Welcome to Wednesday Wondering.

You know, second chances are easy nowadays. With technology, you just erase stuff, and you start all over. What’s amazing is how Christ gives us a second chance.

It says in Mark 16:7 “But go, tell His disciples – and Peter – that He is going before you into Galilee; there you will see Him, as He said to you.” And Peter! Peter! Peter messed up at every turn. Peter got things wrong all the time. He couldn’t erase them. He couldn’t just start all over. And yet Jesus so graciously made a point to include him and to make him part of the future.

How about it? Do you need a second chance? Well guess what. God is a God of second chances. Jesus is a Savior of second chances. So today, today is a day to let Him erase the past so you can start over. Start over with joy! God bless. Have a great day!

Midweek Message Email April 17, 2024

 

 

Wednesday, April 10, 2024

Good morning and welcome to Wednesday Wondering. Well, Easter 2024 is in the books. And I’m wondering, what did you get from it? What did you take? Or a simple way to put it is, where is death’s sting? 1 Corinthians 15:55 says, “O Death, where is your sting? O Hades, where is your victory?” How about it?

Lately we’ve lost a lot of people here at church and others throughout our lives. And where is that sting of death? I know I miss my loved ones. I know that it still hurts in some ways. But I also know that they were believers and that today they are in paradise.

So how is it that we walk this earth, and we hold on to that hope, and yet, we still wonder? I hope and pray today you have a peace; you have assurance that again, death will open a door by which we gain access to all that heaven offers. God bless. Celebrate new life!

Midweek Message Email April 10, 2024

 

 

Wednesday, March 27, 2024

Good morning and welcome to Wednesday Wondering. I’m wondering, are you awake? That’s right. Did you wake up from a nap in order to listen to this? Maybe you were sleeping, and you forgot to listen to it. Are you just dozing off every now and then?

Mark 14:41a – “Then He came the third time and said to them, ‘Are you still sleeping and resting? It is enough!’” The disciples couldn’t even stay awake. They couldn’t keep following along the way with Jesus. This is holy week. It’s Wednesday, Thursday – the upper room, Friday – crucifixion, Sunday – Easter. Are you going to sleep through it? Are you going to doze off? Or are we going to stay awake and walk with Jesus and experience Easter in a whole new way?

Enough! Enough! Let’s wake up and walk with God.

Midweek Message Email March 27, 2024

 

 

Wednesday, March 20, 2024

Good morning and welcome to Wednesday Wondering. I’m wondering, do you remember the Edmund Fitzgerald? How about the song, “The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald”? There she was, loaded with iron ore, torn apart. All 26 crew people lost. Wow! I wonder what they were thinking.

In Matthew 8 it says, “Then His disciples came to Him and awoke Him, saying, ‘Lord, save us! We are perishing!’ But He said to them, ‘Why are you fearful, O you of little faith?’ Then He arose and rebuked the winds and the seas, and there was a great calm.” (vs 25-26)

How about it? How about it – when the storms of life hit, who do you turn to? What do you turn to? If you look at Hebrews 11:33-35, you find out that God’s mighty power is released into the life of a Christian by faith. Not by what we know. Not by how many times we go to church. Not by how many songs we sing. But by believing that in the midst of the storm God will be there.
 
You know, I can’t imagine what it would have been like on that fateful night for that crew. But I pray, that although they perished from this earth, they’re alive in Christ right now. How about it? Where do you turn when the boat’s rocking and the seas are rough?

Midweek Message Email March 20, 2024

 

 

Wednesday, March 13, 2024

Good morning and welcome to Wednesday Wondering. I’m wondering when’s the last time you checked which direction you were headed. I find it amusing when I have the GPS on my phone – it tells me to turn right, I turn left, and the next thing you know it’s saying, “recalculating, recalculating.” Well, you know what, sometimes Jesus recalculates us. The question is do we listen to his voice?

In Mark there’s a story, it says “When He had gone a little farther from there, He saw James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother, who also were in the boat mending their nets. And immediately He called them, and they left their father Zebedee in the boat with the hired servants, and went after Him.” (Mark 1:19-20)

Throughout Scripture, people’s lives were recalculated, reorientated. When Jesus spoke, they listened, they followed. And as we get closer to Easter, and as we get closer to the amazing story of God’s love for us, maybe it’s time to recalculate, reorientate, and follow what Jesus is asking us to do. Doesn’t matter how old, doesn’t matter what excuses we have, “recalculating, recalculating.” Follow Jesus. Have a great day. God bless.

Midweek Message Email March 13, 2024

 

 

Wednesday, March 6, 2024

Good morning and welcome to Wednesday Wondering. I’m wondering, where are you? That’s right, where are you? Where’s your mind, where’s your heart, where’s your soul? What do your eyes seek? What do your ears hear? Where are you?

What am I getting at? Do you see the extraordinary in the midst of the ordinary? Do you see God in everyday life? Do you see the Spirit at work?

Exodus 3:2-4 “And the Angel of the Lord appeared to him in a flame of fire from the midst of a bush. So he looked, and behold, the bush was burning with fire, but the bush was not consumed. Then Moses said, ‘I will now turn aside and see this great sight, why the bush does not burn.’ So when the Lord saw that he turned aside to look, God called to him from the midst of the bush and said, ‘Moses, Moses!’ And he said, ‘Here I am.’”
 
When’s the last time you seen a burning bush? When’s the last time you’ve looked for the extraordinary in the ordinary? When’s the last time that we have said, “Here I am” to the Lord and let Him change our experience? I wonder, where am I, where are you? God bless. Have a great day.

Midweek Message Email March 6, 2024

 

 

Wednesday, February 28, 2024

Good morning and welcome to Wednesday Wondering. I’m wondering if you know these familiar words: “The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not __________.” Can you fill in the blank? More importantly, is the Lord truly your Shepherd? This is why: as you follow the Shepherd, there will be times when your soul becomes exhausted, fragile because of trials or temptations, maybe persecution, or burdens you carry. You simply get worn down. And that’s where we need to remember later on in that passage where it says, “He restores my soul; He leads me in the paths of righteousness for His name’s sake.” Psalm 23:3
 
I wonder, do you know the Shepherd, and therefore that restoring of your soul? As we go through life, we need someone to fill us up. We need to, again, be filled again. And the Good Shepherd is waiting to do that. I wonder, do we know the Shepherd and are we being restored by the Shepherd? God bless. Have a great day.

Midweek Message Email February 28, 2024

 

 

Wednesday, February 21, 2024

Good morning and welcome to Wednesday Wondering. I’m wondering, when will the lights go on? What do I mean? Look at our world. It seems so dark. I mean, there’s war in the Middle East, Eastern Europe, there have been more mass shootings than, it seems, ever before. There’s unrest and division in our country. I mean, who’s going to turn the lights on?

Matthew 5:16 “Let your light so shine before men [and women], that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.” How about it? When Jesus came to this earth, He came so that He might bring Light to the darkness. How about you and I? Do we bring light into the world? Are we shining for the Kingdom of God? Do we bring hope and grace and peace and love and all those things that can cut through what this world thinks is so important or this world is so, so handcuffed by. So today, how about it? Are you going to turn the lights on? Are you going to shine for the Kingdom of God, for the glory of Jesus – the true Light-giver. God bless. Have a great day.

Midweek Message Email February 21, 2024

 

 

Wednesday, February 14, 2024

Good morning and welcome to Wednesday Wondering. And by the way, Happy Valentine’s Day!

When I looked at this passage, it struck me. I’m not gonna lie to you, it really made me think – especially on Valentine’s Day. Hosea 3:1 “The Lord said to me [Hosea], ‘Go again, love a woman who is loved by a lover and is committing adultery, just like the love of the Lord for the children of Israel, who look to other gods and love the raisin cakes of the pagans.’” Wow! It’s amazing! We cheat on God all the time and yet God loves us. God pursues us. God wants to save us. God sent His Son to save us. No greater love than someone laying down their life for others. Exactly what Jesus did.

On this Valentine’s Day, just take a moment – take a moment to think about the great love God has for you, even though we turn away, even though we eat the raisin cakes of pagans. He still loves us and wants a relationship with us. What a wonderful, loving God! Happy Valentine’s Day. God bless.

Midweek Message Email February 14, 2024

 

 

Wednesday, February 7, 2024

Good morning and welcome to Wednesday Wondering. I’m wondering if you remember what a lightning word is. A lightning word. Something like: “never” or “always” or “nothing” or “everything.” Everything. EVERYTHING!

Philippians 4:6-7, “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”  Really? REALLY? “Nothing” and “everything” in the same sentence?

You know, going through life is a challenge. And sometimes anxiety can get the best of us. We worry. And yet it is clear in Philippians that we’re called to be anxious about NOTHING and put EVERYTHING in prayer and supplication. Doesn’t mean that everything is going to go away. But it does mean that we will recognize the presence of the Holy Spirit – God’s power in our life as we walk through everything with prayer and supplication.

So, in this case, look for the lightning. Live in the lightning and trust God. Have a great day. God bless.

Midweek Message Email February 7, 2024

 

 

Wednesday, January 31, 2024

Good morning. And welcome to Wednesday Wondering. I’m wondering how’re you doing after the loss. That’s right. Most of you – most of us were hoping the Lions would win. But they didn’t. But what I’m wondering even more is where are you looking? I mean, most people have counted the Lions out for a long time. And suddenly, they almost made it to the Superbowl.

John 21:20-21 “Then Peter, turning around, saw the disciple whom Jesus loved following…  Peter, seeing him, said to Jesus, “But Lord, what about this man?” Peter had just been told what his future might look like. Peter was told that there was a plan for his life. Peter was going to be a partner with Jesus in ministry. And yet, when he was told, all he could see was John, the one who Jesus loved. He didn’t look at Jesus. He didn’t look at his future. He looked beyond.

You know what? The Lions lost. But look at how great they did! They really have changed. So the question is, where are you looking? Are you looking at Jesus? Are you looking at something else? Have a great day. God bless.

Midweek Message Email January 31, 2024

 

 

Wednesday, January 24, 2024

Good morning and welcome to Wednesday Wondering. I’m wondering, who’s calling? That’s right. When the phone rings on Wednesday around 10:00, who’s calling? Is it North Park Reformed Church? Is it just another thought from Pastor Paul? Or might it be God calling? That’s right. John 6:65 says, “And He said, ‘Therefore I have said to you that no one can come to Me unless it has been granted to him by My Father.’” God calls us to Jesus. God invites us to Jesus. God puts that desire inside of us to have that relationship. God is the One. The Father is the one who says pick up the phone and see what Jesus has to say. So, I’m wondering, are you waiting for Jesus to tell you something? Or is it just another call from church, from Pastor Paul. You see, it just might be the Holy Spirit reaching out and saying pick up the phone. God bless. Have a great day.

Midweek Message Email January 24, 2024

 

 

Wednesday, January 10, 2024

“So shall My word be that goes forth from My mouth; it shall not return to Me void, but it shall accomplish what I please, and it shall prosper in the thing for which I sent it.” – Isaiah 55:11 

I wonder what that means. Do you wonder? I guess simply, it means when God speaks, something is gonna happen. So, the question is whether or not you are listening. Whether or not when we read the word of God, when we pray, that we expect God to speak into our lives and something happens. Whatever God might say, whatever words God might share, whatever the Holy Spirit moves within us, comes with a purpose and a plan and we can’t avoid it.

So, this week, as you’re seeking God, understand that His word goes out and it doesn’t return void, but it returns having accomplished something amazing in our lives. When God speaks, something happens. God bless and have a great day!

Midweek Message Email January 10, 2024

 

 

Wednesday, January 3, 2024

Good morning and welcome to Wednesday Wondering. I’m wondering if you’re wondering where Wednesday Wondering was last week. I purposely just took a week off to see if anybody would miss it. I wondered whether or not this is making a difference for anyone or if it is just a tradition that we crank out.

You see, in Daniel it says, “But Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king’s delicacies.” (1:8) You see, Daniel wanted to make a difference. And instead of allowing his surroundings to determine how he was going to invest his time, he let God figure it out and lead him in a godly direction. He wondered how God would use him to make a difference.

So we start this new year of 2024. Are you going to make a difference? Are you willing to let go of what’s around you in the world? Are you willing to follow God? I wonder if all of us can make a difference. God bless. Have a great day.

Midweek Message Email January 3, 2024

 

 

Wednesday, December 20, 2023

Good morning and welcome to Wednesday Wondering. I’m wondering, have you thought about that baby Jesus today? Have you left that baby right at the center of things? Or, have you lost track of the baby? Hey, we live in a world in which, often times, there’s a lot of opposition. Christmas time is one of them. There’s a lot of opposition to making Jesus the most important thing.

But, He’s used to it. Mattew 2:13, “An angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream, saying: ‘Arise, take the young Child and His mother, flee to Egypt, and stay there until I bring you word; for Herod will seek the young Child to destroy Him.’” As we live our lives there’s often opposition. And sometimes it can feel pretty lonely. And yet, if we walk with God, if we truly seek what God wants us to, if we are who Jesus has called us to be: love God, love your neighbor, well then we’re doing alright. And we’ve got to stand up to opposition. And we’ve got to make sure that we fight the good fight and keep Jesus in the middle of everything.

So, Christmas is just around the corner. Where’d you put Jesus? On a mantel? In a picture? In your heart? In your Christmas? God bless. Have a great day.

Midweek Message Email December 20, 2023

 

 

Wednesday, December 13, 2023

Good morning and welcome to Wednesday Wondering. I’m wondering if you ever played ‘Hide and Seek.’ That’s right. With your friends, maybe when you were little, at camp, at school, who knows where. But one group of people would hide, the other would try to find and it could go on and on forever. Especially if they were good at hiding and they were patient.

Sometimes we feel that way about the will of God. Sometimes we feel that way about God in general. Where is God? And yet in Amos 3:7 it says, “Surely the Lord God does nothing unless He reveals His secret to His servants the prophets.” God is all around us and God is present in our lives and in the lives of those around us. The question is whether or not we are looking for His revelation. God wants us to know where to work, what to do, how to do it. But sometimes we’re too busy to listen, to look, to wonder.

So today, maybe you’re playing hide ‘n seek with God. Well, God wants to be found. God is right there. Open yourself to the Spirit and follow. God bless. Have a great day. And I hope and I pray you find God.

Midweek Message Email December 13, 2023

 

 

Wednesday, December 6, 2023

Good morning and welcome to Wednesday Wondering. I’m wondering… hey, are the men listening? What am I getting at? Well, most of us men love to show our love by doing things. Whether it be cutting the grass, taking care of the house, paying the bills, oh maybe planning a trip, taking somebody out to dinner, whatever it might be, we’re doers. But sometimes the other people in our lives still wonder whether or not we love them. And that’s often because they don’t know our heart. We men don’t like that whole heart thing. Feelings, touchy-feely stuff. And yet in Hosea 6:6 it says, “For I desire mercy and not sacrifice, and the knowledge of God more than burnt offerings.” God wants to know our heart. We can do all the burnt offerings we want; we can do all the sacrifices we want; we can go to church twice, three times, ten times during the week, and yet God wants to know our heart. God wants to live inside of our heart. God wants to know our feelings, our emotions, our wisdoms, our fears – all that we are. That’s how we know that we are one with God. And that’s how God knows that we love Him, because of our heart. So this week guys, okay everybody, do we show God our heart and let God inside and feel the love that we have for God? Have a great day! God bless.

Midweek Message Email December 6, 2023

 

 

Wednesday, November 29, 2023

Good morning and welcome to Wednesday Wondering. I’m wondering, how excited are you about Christmas? That’s right – Christmas is coming, Advent is beginning, Emmanuel – God with us. What does it mean anymore? For many of us, we’ve had Christmas after Christmas. We’ve celebrated the birth of Jesus a hundred times. But why is it so important?  

Well, Matthew 24:8 says, “But all these things are merely the beginning of birth pangs,” in reference to the idea of the second coming of Christ, to the end of the world, to Revelations. People talk about “Ohhh, when Jesus comes again.” And yet, it’s going to get difficult before it gets better. And the reason it gets better is because of the birth of Jesus.  

So, this Christmas, I hope you truly celebrate. This Advent, I hope you really think about: Jesus came so that that pain might be a little bit less and might end in celebration. God bless. Have a great day.  

Midweek Message Email November 29, 2023

 

 

Wednesday, November 22, 2023

Good morning and welcome to Wednesday Wondering. I’m wondering if you’re alone. Or, on Thanksgiving will you be alone? Or do you know somebody who might be alone? We live in a world that has become more and more separate, more and more individual. And yet this time of year can be some of the loneliest times for people because they don’t have community.

In Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 it says, “Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their labor. For if they fall, one will lift up his companion. But woe to him who is alone when he falls, for he has no one to help him up.”

It’s the time of year when we need to look around and see folks who need to be lifted up. They’re alone, they feel alone, they’re hurting. Many of us are celebrating. So look around you. Look for somebody who needs to be helped up and help them celebrate Thanksgiving, Christmas, and all the blessings that God has entered into our lives. Look around you. Make sure you’re not alone and nobody else is either. God bless. Have a great day.

Midweek Message Email November 22, 2023

 

 

Wednesday, November 15, 2023

Good morning and welcome to Wednesday Wondering. I’m wondering, how’s your temper? That’s right! As they say, do you have a short fuse? Do you find yourself blowing up? Or do you find yourself quoting Ephesians 4:26, “Be angry, and do not sin: do not let the sun go down on your wrath.” Do we call it righteous anger? We have certain situations, and we think it’s okay. But the important part about that passage is: “Be angry, and do not sin.”

When we look at our anger, is it righteous? Or is it sinful? I mean, if we’re really honest, how many times are we angry just because we haven’t eaten, just because we haven’t gotten what we wanted. How often do we look and say is this righteous and real, or is it sinful?  

Again, we all have tempers. But is there sin, or is it righteous? I’m wondering! I hope you do too. God bless. Have a great day.

Midweek Message Email November 15, 2023

 

 

Wednesday, November 8, 2023

Good morning and welcome to Wednesday Wondering. This morning I’m not wondering, but I’m remembering. I’m remembering the labor and delivery room that Jenny and I were in for the birth of our children. I’m remembering the amazing focus that she had. The resolve that she had as she delivered two beautiful children. I know that for me, it would have been a hard journey, yet for her she handled it so well.

In Luke it talks about Jesus, and it says, “Now it came to pass, when the time had come for Him to be received up, that He steadfastly set His face to go to Jerusalem.” (Luke 9:51) You see, Jesus showed us that we need resolve. That we need to be completely committed. That we need to be steadfast. When I think about that delivery room, that’s exactly the way Jenn was. The way most women are – just completely focused and committed.

And I wonder, what is God trying to birth out of each of us, something that we need to deliver into this world? And I wonder, will we be steadfast, will we have great resolve, will we be focused? What is God trying to do, and are we committed to letting it come to life in our daily living? I wonder. Have a great day. God bless.

Midweek Message Email November 8, 2023

 

 

Wednesday, November 1, 2023

Good morning. Welcome to Wednesday Wondering. I’m wondering, would you like a gift? Yeah! I’d like to give you something. The first ten people to show up at church this coming Sunday each get a thousand dollars. I wonder what would happen. How many people would be at the door? Maybe a few early, because we like to get gifts.

But you know what? Even the way we pray can be gift-giving. From 1 Timothy 1:2 it says, “To Timothy, a true son in the faith: Grace, mercy, and peace from God our Father and Jesus Christ our Lord.” How often do we pray for our friends, our enemies, our loved ones, people around us that they might have grace, mercy, and peace? That they might receive unearned gifts from the Father. That they might receive His love without any punishment in His mercy. That they might have a state of mind that is peace. How about it? Let’s give out some gifts to the people around us. Let’s pray for those gifts so that their lives might be enriched. Grace, mercy, and peace to you. God bless. Have a great day.

Midweek Message Email November 1, 2023

 

 

Wednesday, October 25, 2023

Good morning and welcome to Wednesday Wondering. I’m wondering, is your neighbor’s garage door open? Did you see their lights on lately? Is there smoke coming from somewhere over the tree line? Did you hear the sirens? So many things happen around us and we sometimes don’t even notice. Or we are painfully aware because we really look at every little detail. I like to walk a lot lately and when I do in my neighborhood, I notice the new puppies or the new paint or the new cars. I look at what’s going on in people’s lives.
 
Sometimes, we pray, we read the Bible, and we expect God to talk. But we forget to look around. Because God is at work in our lives and in our world all the time. We forget to look and see what God is doing. In Habakkuk 1:5 it says, “Look among the nations and watch – Be utterly astounded! For I will work a work in your days which you would not believe, though it were told you.”
 
God is at work! God is all around us. And we need to look and see God’s hand moving. So today, wonder a little bit. Wonder and look and see God at work in your life. God bless. Have a great day.

Midweek Message Email October 25, 2023

 

 

Wednesday, October 18, 2023

“For it is not a futile thing for you, because it is your life, and by this word you shall prolong your days in the land which you cross over the Jordan to possess.” Deuteronomy 32:47
 
Did you hear the important part? Just a few brief words. Maybe, maybe you need to hit rewind and listen again. It says, “And by this word you shall prolong your days…” It’s amazing to me that many of us as Christians use the word of God as a “Dear Abby” column. When we have a problem, when we have a concern, we open the Bible. Maybe every now and then we flutter through the pages, and we look at a passage or read a story. But we really are not students of the Word. We don’t live into the story from beginning to end. We don’t look at the mystery. We don’t look and live into who Jesus needs us to be according to the Word. We aren’t students.
 
Today is a day to ask the question, to wonder, am I a student? Are we students of the Word? We are called to be so that our days might be prolonged. We need to go to the university of the Word of God. So today, I wonder. Are we students? Are we in love with the Word of God? God bless. Have a great day.

Midweek Message Email October 18, 2023

 

 

Wednesday, October 11, 2023

Good morning and welcome to Wednesday Wondering. I’m wondering, are you ready for the wedding? That’s right! Do you remember getting ready for a wedding? Whether it was as a guest making sure that you had returned the RSVP, gotten a gift, showed up on time, dressed appropriately? Or, as I still remember, all the details, all the lists, all the things that had to happen as my daughter and my son were married. It’s a lot of preparation. And we do it so that things turn out well.

Well, read the story in Matthew 25, where verse 10 says this: “And while they went to buy, the bridegroom came, and those who were ready went in with him to the wedding; and the door was shut.” Read the parable. See if you can figure out what Jesus is really talking about. I’ll give you a hint. Are you prepared? Do you take time to be prepared every day? Do you pray? Do you read the Word? Do you meditate? Do you spend time with God? Are you ready to meet Jesus? Again, a lot of prep for weddings. A lot of prep for meeting God. Have a great day! God bless.

Midweek Message Email October 11, 2023

 

 

Wednesday, October 4, 2023

Good morning and welcome to Wednesday Wondering. I’m wondering if you’re willing to really close your eyes and put yourself in his shoes. What am I getting at?

1 Samuel 17:45-46a “Then David said to the Philistine, ‘You come to me with a sword, with a spear, and with a javelin. But I come to you in the name of the Lord of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied. This day the Lord will deliver you into my hand.’” How about it? If you were in his shoes, what would you have done? That Philistine was bigger, stronger, faster. He was a killer. He had more experience. And yet this young man trusted God. This young man had an optimistic attitude. He believed in the presence of God and the strength of God to deliver him.

How about us? It’s easy to get down in today’s world. It’s easy to be pessimistic rather than optimistic. Throughout Scripture we see people being blessed and delivered by God. So today, just ask yourself: is the glass half empty or half full? Optimistic. Pessimistic. And then remember David. He stepped up. He believed. He was optimistic of the outcome. God bless. Have a great day.

Midweek Message Email October 4, 2023

 

 

Wednesday, September 27, 2023

Good morning and welcome to Wednesday Wondering. I’m wondering, do you love candy bars as much as I do? Oh, there’s nothing better than a Milky Way, or a Milky Way with dark chocolate. And if it’s not that, how about some great new salty chips in a bag? Or even better, really hot French fries from a great restaurant. Boy oh boy, I could eat all those time and time again. But as long as I abide in that lifestyle, I’m in trouble. Whether it be my cholesterol or whether it be my blood pressure or whether it be my sugar level, it isn’t gonna be good.

And then I’m reminded of the words that we’re going to hear in a few weeks: 1 John 3:6 “Whoever abides in Him does not sin. Whoever sins has neither seen Him nor known Him.” Those are really tough words. But the truth is if we want to abide with God, with Jesus, we have to really work on not sinning. We have to put down the candy bar in order to live the lifestyle that we are called to live. We need to put down the sin in our life. We need to put down whatever that is that gets in the way from building that relationship with the living God. So today, I’m just wondering, what sin is in our life, in your life, in mine, that causes us to not be able to abide. To, again, sit in the lap of Jesus and live our life.

Midweek Message Email September 27, 2023

 

 

Wednesday, September 20, 2023

Good morning! Welcome to Wednesday Wondering. I’m wondering, do you remember playing Hide ‘N Seek? That’s right! When you’d go and you’d hide outside in the neighborhood or maybe inside a building with a group, whatever it might be, you hid yourself away hoping not to be found. Do you ever remember in the middle of the game standing up and say, “Here I am!” Of course not! Because the point was to not be found.
Sometimes that’s the way we treat God. Sometimes we seek God when we need something. But we hide from God when God needs something. And I’m reminded of the words of Isaiah 6:8 “Also I heard the voice of the Lord saying, ‘Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?’ Then I said, ‘Here I am; send me.’” You know, we need to have a pure heart. We need to be honest. Do we really want that close relationship with God? Because if we do, then guess what, we can’t play Hide ‘N Seek. We’ve got to stand up and we’ve got to say here I am. Not just when we need God but when God needs us. So, how pure is your heart? How close are you to understanding what God is calling you to? I wonder, are we playing Hide ‘N Seek with God? Have a great day. God bless.

Midweek Message Email September 20, 2023

 

 

Wednesday, September 13, 2023

Welcome to Wednesday Wondering! I’m wondering if you’ve ever had a car that had bad alignment? You know, that car that just wanted to go wherever it wanted to go versus where you wanted it to go. How about your alignment with God? Are you aligned? Are you following that direction that God has planned or are you out of alignment?
I want you to think about prayer. And that prayer is that spiritual power that aligns our lives with God so that He can choose to demonstrate His power through us. It’s interesting that in Acts 2 it says, “When the Day of Pentecost had fully come, they were all with one accord in one place.” You see, God had a plan and God brought people together. And people followed His leading and guiding. They were in alignment. Rather than focusing on what you or I would like to see happen, let’s realize that God may be more concerned with what He wants to see happen in us.
So, this morning I’m wondering how’s your alignment? How is your alignment with God? With the Holy Spirit? With the leading of God and being who God has called you to be? Let’s get an alignment and run the race with God. God bless. Have a great day!

Midweek Message Email September 13, 2023

 

 

 

Wednesday, September 6, 2023

Good morning and welcome to Wednesday Wondering. I’m wondering, have you ever been lost? I mean, as an adult it can be a little disconcerting but what about as a child? I remember getting lost in the store. I remember not knowing where my mom was. That feeling of being alone. I remember the strangers coming up and trying to help. I remember being in the office of the grocery store. I remember hearing the announcement go out over the intercom. I remember my mom finally coming to get me. That feeling of separation was so horrible.

And sometimes, sometimes we feel that way about God. But I want you to remember this morning from Romans 8:35 “Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?” NO! Nothing can separate you from the love of God.

So, think about it today. Regardless of how difficult life is, God is always right there by your side. Have a great day! Keep on wondering and remember, you’re never alone. God bless.

Midweek Message Email September 6, 2023

 

 

Wednesday, August 30, 2023

Good morning! And welcome to Wednesday Wondering. I’m wondering, what is the last thing you did before your head hit the pillow last night? If you’re like many of us, we check our calendar for the coming week. We make sure we know where we’re going, who we’re meeting with, what we need to do, and so on. We schedule our life completely. And yet, do we take time to live in the presence of God? That’s right! Do we allow for the light of God to shine into our lives. Do we allow to sit and simply live in that peace of His presence? Or are we too busy?

Think about these words from 1 Corinthians: “For now we see only a reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known.” (1 Corinthians 13:12) How about it? Are we taking the time to really, really understand things? To really seek God’s leading and guiding? Are we taking time to simply sit in God’s presence and let Him schedule the events of our lives? Think about it! Take a look at your calendar. See if there’s room for the presence of God.

Have a great week. God bless.

Midweek Message Email August 30, 2023

 

 

Wednesday, August 23, 2023

Good morning and welcome to Wednesday Wondering. I’m wondering, have you ever seen one of those acts where a person stands next to a wall or a target, holds a balloon in each hand, maybe a balloon in their mouth as they turn sideways; and then their partner stands far off and throws knives and pops the balloons or shoots an arrow blindfolded and pops the balloons? That takes a lot of trust! I’m wondering today, do we trust God? Do we trust God with all of our life, with every moment, in the good and in the challenging, in the happy and in the sad? Are we willing to trust God?

Remember these words from Jesus where he says in John, he leaves the Holy Spirit to teach and to remind us, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.” (John 14:27) Or later on where he says, “I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)

I’m wondering today, do we trust God completely. Do we trust the words of Jesus? Do we trust the Holy Spirit is watching over us? The world is going to throw knives. But will we trust God in every moment? God bless. Have a great day.

Midweek Message Email August 23, 2o23

 

 

Wednesday, August 16, 2023

Good morning and welcome to Wednesday Wondering. I’m wondering, what do you get from a pampered cow? Spoiled milk. Yeah, I know, pretty bad, huh?

Or, what kind of exercises do lazy people do? Diddly-squats.

What am I getting at? Are we able to laugh? Are we able to laugh at life, laugh at ourselves? Are we able to smile and to enjoy all that goes on? As we face life, it’s really important for us to be able to laugh. I mean in Proverbs (17:22 it says, “A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.”

Or, it says also in Proverbs (31:25), “That she is clothed with strength and dignity, and she can laugh at the days to come.” How about it? Are you laughing lately? Are you able to feel like you are truly a child of God and just enjoy the days that God has given? Start laughing a little bit.

And remember this: Which celebrity is always ready for ice cream? Reese With-her-spoon. That’s right, enjoy life and laugh. God wants to laugh with you. Have a great day. God bless.

Midweek Message Email August 16, 2023

 

 

Wednesday, August 9, 2023

Good morning! And welcome to Wednesday Wondering. I’m wondering this morning, do you know somebody that just loves to talk. You know what I mean? Talk, and talk, and talk, and talk. You’d love to cut them off. You’d love to say that’s enough, but it’s just their nature to keep talking. Nowadays, it comes across as texting. They text and text and text and you just want to be done. Sometimes it’s good when people want to talk or text or communicate.

Remember, God speaks continually to each of us. “The heavens declare the glory of God. The skies proclaim the work of His hands. Day after day they pour forth speech. Night after night they reveal knowledge.” (Psalm 19:1) God is always talking. The question is, are we listening? Or another way to think about it – don’t ever forget that He wants to hold your hand. That again, God wants to talk to you, God wants to hold your hand, and God wants to walk with you through life. “Yes, my soul, find rest in God. My hope comes from Him. Truly He is my Rock and my Salvation, my Fortress, and I will not be shaken.” (Psalm 62:5-6) So be thankful God wants to talk at all points. Be thankful He wants to hold your hand. Keep walking, keep wondering, God bless.

Midweek Message Email August 9, 2023

 

 

Wednesday, August 2, 2023

Good morning! And welcome to Wednesday Wondering. I’m wondering how are you enjoying life in our world lately? I mean, it seems like everybody has an opinion. Arguments are so easy to find, and division is just a way of life. And yet, I wonder if we remember what God tells us in Micah (6:8). What is required of us? “To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.” We have a higher road that we’re called to. A higher road that is one with meaning and purpose and above all being God’s hands and feet, mind, and heart in the world. And along that path remember this also: “Take my yoke upon you and learn from Me. My yoke is comfortable and pleasant; My burden is light and easily borne.” (Matthew 11:29-30) The other thing is God wants us to enjoy life. Dare even to say, to laugh! So today I’m wondering, are you living on the high road? And as you walk that high road, are you able to smile, to laugh, and to enjoy the life that God gives us rather than getting sucked into all that the news broadcasts every day. God bless. Have an amazing and wonderful day.

Midweek Message Email August 2, 2023

 

 

Wednesday, July 26, 2023

Good morning! And I’m wondering! I’m wondering if you know this: “But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy.” (1 Peter 2:9-10) Do you know how special you are? That God has loved you from the very beginning of time? And the beauty of it is He never stops loving you. And He never stops walking with you and creating a new future.
Think about it this way: “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.” (Galatians 5:22-23) God’s creating in you. God began it long ago. God continues to create, and God will create until you are welcomed home. You are chosen. You are special. You are loved by God. I wonder – do you know that? God bless. Have a great day. And remember how special you are, and that God is still creating.

Midweek Message Email July 26, 2023

 

 

Wednesday, July 19, 2023

Go ahead! JUMP! That’s right – go ahead, jump! I’ve gotcha. I’ll catch ya!

I’m wondering, who do you trust? That’s right. Do you trust God? Do you let God help when you need help? We live in a world where a lot of people don’t trust people. And who do you turn to when you really need help? Today, I want us just to think: do we trust God?

I want to read to you Isaiah 12. It says it all!

In that day you will say:

“I will praise you, Lord.

Although you were angry with me,

your anger has turned away

and you have comforted me.

Surely God is my salvation;

I will trust and not be afraid.

The Lord, the Lord himself, is my strength and my defense;

he has become my salvation.”

With joy you will draw water

from the wells of salvation.

In that day you will say:

“Give praise to the Lord, proclaim his name;

make known among the nations what he has done,

and proclaim that his name is exalted.

Sing to the Lord, for he has done glorious things;

let this be known to all the world.

Shout aloud and sing for joy, people of Zion,

for great is the Holy One of Israel among you.”

Who do you trust? Come on! Go ahead and jump! JUMP! God has got you, loves you, and is always with you. Have a great day. God bless. And trust!

Midweek Message Email July 19, 2023

 

 

Wednesday, July 12, 2023

Good morning and welcome to Wednesday Wondering. I’m wondering, have you ever heard the term: “helicopter parent”? For the most part it seems to get a bad rap in the news. Parents who are way too overprotective. And yet, when you think about God – God is a helicopter God. God is involved in every moment of our life. Whether it be good or challenging, God is present. And in those difficult times, we need to learn to relax in that. To be able to know that God is in control and that we are called to trust.
I mean, remember the words from Isaiah 41:13 “For I am the Lord your God who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you.” Or from Psalm 46:1 where it says, “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” Or simply in verse 10, “Be still, and know that I am God.” Well, maybe being a helicopter parent isn’t great but knowing that you have a helicopter God who loves you and watches over you brings hope and peace to the world in which we live and the lives we live in it. God bless. Have a great day!

Midweek Message Email July 12, 2023

 

 

Wednesday, June 28, 2023

Good morning and welcome to Wednesday Wondering. I’m wondering, do you hear that? Do you feel that? Yeah, do you feel the peace? I mean, we look at the news and it’s easy to wonder what is next. Will there be another shooting? Will the economy take another drop? Will there be another war in Eastern Europe, the Middle East, who knows where? It’s easy to say there is no peace and yet God promises. 2 Thessalonians 3:16 “Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you.”

How about it? Do you have peace? Do you have that quietness within your heart? I know I struggle. I know I have my ups and downs. But when I can find that place where God rules, where Jesus comforts, and where I can sit back and say God’s got it, it’s such a better place than worrying about all that other stuff. So, do you have it? Do you feel it? Do you know the peace that passes all understanding? God bless. Have a great day.

Midweek Message Email June 28, 2023

 

 

Wednesday, June 21, 2023

Good morning! Welcome to Wednesday Wondering. I’m wondering: have you changed your shoes today? How about your clothes? Have you changed your hair color? Or maybe, maybe you’ve changed your diet? The changes in life go on and on. And the world changes so quickly it’s almost scary. Sometimes it’s demoralizing and frustrating, sometimes we’re happy about it. Change happens a lot. Or, as one person says it, “We live in a world of unrelenting change.”

And yet we need to remember that God is the Alpha, the Omega and that God never changes and is always there. Even in a world that sometimes seems, well, too much, overwhelming, stressful, anxious. God is with us.

Isaiah 41:10 “fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” Or from John 16:33 “I have told you these things, so that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have trouble; but take heart! For I have overcome the world.”

Hey, change your attitude. Change your attitude and trust God in all things. God bless. Have a great day.

Midweek Message Email June 21, 2023

 

 

Wednesday, June 14, 2023

Good morning! Welcome to Wednesday Wondering! And I’m wondering when’s the last time you played “Hide ‘n Seek”? How about “Kick the Can”? Or maybe if you’re young enough you remember “Sardines.” What do all these have in common? So often we find ourselves hiding in the dark in order to win. Problem is, a lot of the time that is the way we treat Jesus as well. When it comes to our sin and our brokenness, we hide. We hide in the darkness. We think we can get away with it. We think we can keep it away from God and yet Jesus knows all. We’ve got to learn. We’ve got to learn to step into the light. Step into the light. Experience forgiveness and grace and move forward. 1 John 1:7 “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.”

How about it? No more “Hide ‘n Seek.” No more “Kick the Can.” No more “Sardines.” Step into the light. Let go and let Jesus heal you. God bless. Have a wonderful day.

Midweek Message Email June 14, 2023

 

 

Wednesday, June 7, 2023

Good morning and welcome to Wednesday Wondering. I’m wondering, who is your first call? That’s right. Who is your first call? When things just fall apart, when you feel like you’re getting attacked from everywhere, who’s your first call? We have to remember that life is not perfect. And often we find ourselves in the midst of a very difficult situation. And who do we call? Do we remember that God is a mighty God? Do we make that our first call? Or do we forget?

Just remember the words of Psalm 62:4-6, “How long will you assault me? Would all of you throw me down—this leaning wall, this tottering fence? Surely they intend to topple me from my lofty place; they take delight in lies. With their mouths they bless, but in their hearts they curse. Yes, my soul, find rest in God; my hope comes from Him. Truly He is my rock and my salvation; He is my fortress, I will not be shaken.”

How about it? Who is your first call? God bless. Have a great day.

Midweek Message Email June 7, 2023

 

 

Wednesday, May 31, 2023

Good morning and welcome to Wednesday Wonderings. I’m wondering how hot it is? It’s supposed to be warm. Sometimes our lives feel warm. The world, again, creeps in and stress gets to us. We get a little bit overwhelmed. We wonder what’s next. Sunday night I was blessed to be able to watch the sunset on a lake with a group of people who love the Lord. Different ages, different backgrounds and yet one Lord, one God. As the sun set, it was amazing. The clouds were all around and above the sun it sure looked like there was a thunderbird. Jen took a picture. But it was a reminder that God is in control. John 16:33 “I have told you these things, so that in Me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” Hey, I’m wondering: are we overcomers? Again, a beautiful sunset, and yet a beautiful new day to come. God bless. Don’t let the world get you down.

Midweek Message Email May 31, 2023

 

 

Wednesday, May 24, 2023

Good morning and welcome to Wednesday Wondering. I’m wondering, who really irritates you? That’s right. When you think about it, who is it you just can’t stand? Is it the person in front of you who has to go back and check a price at the store and makes you wait in the checkout line? The neighbor who never cuts his lawn and looks horrible. Is it the coworker who seems to never do enough work and yet gets all the praise? The list goes on. Maybe its politics, maybe its religion, who knows what it is. But there’s people who really irritate us. Huh.

But then you read these words from Matthew chapter 11: “Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me for I am gentle and humble in heart. You will find rest for your souls for My yoke is easy and My burden is light.”

I’m wondering. Should we be loving people like Jesus did? Instead of getting upset, maybe we should find out the story and why they are who they are. Maybe its time for us to be a little bit more like Jesus and love, engage, and care for, rather than simply get irritated. I know it’s easier. But you know what? God loves you, God died for you, and so we better be willing to listen to stories, to love, and to share the love of Christ. Have a GREAT day!

Midweek Message Email May 24, 2023

 

 

Wednesday, May 17, 2023

Good morning and welcome to Wednesday Wondering. I’m wondering who is in control of your life. You know, we don’t like other people to control our lives. I mean, it can be as simple as speed limits, or motorcycle helmets, or taxes, or what time Mom and Dad want us home at night, the list goes on as to other people controlling our lives. We don’t like it. Plain and simple. I’m my own person. Leave me alone. Huh.

And yet what it says in Romans 8:6 “The mind governed by the flesh is death, but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace.” God wants to control our lives. God wants to be the resource that leads and guides us. God wants control. The question is, are we really willing to give God control? Every day, every moment, every decision, everything we do, is up to God. Huh, I’m wondering… Wondering if I can live that way, wondering if we can live that way. God bless. Have a great day.

Midweek Message Email May 17, 2023

 

 

Wednesday, May 10, 2023

Good morning! And I’m wondering what are you afraid of? That’s right! Is there a spider crawling across your floor right now or maybe a snake waiting for you outside in your yard. Or maybe a clown in your closet, or who knows what else? Or maybe a little bit more realistic, have you watched the news lately? Are you afraid of World War III? Afraid of the downfall of our economy? I mean the news, they try to make us afraid of everything. What am I getting at? Well, Deuteronomy 31:6 – “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you.” Is that cool! NEVER leave you, NEVER forsake you.

I know we’re afraid of things. But let’s try and remember we’re never alone. God is always with us. God cares about us. God loves us. Have a great week and don’t be afraid. God bless.

Midweek Message Email May 10, 2023

 

 

Wednesday, May 3, 2023

Good morning! And in case you’re wondering, I love you! That’s right! Those are words that sometimes we hear and they mean really nothing. Other times, we treasure them. And yet, when we think about God, do we think about how much God loves us, unconditionally? Again, we fall, we sin, but if we return to God, if we confess our brokenness, God loves us. God cherishes us. And God says, “Hey, don’t wonder, just know I love you.”

Psalm 107:8 says, “Let them give thanks to the Lord for His unfailing love…” Unfailing love! UNFAILING LOVE! So today, I just want you to know, you are loved. God loves you and so do I. Hallelujah! Amen.

Midweek Message Email May 3, 2023

 

 

Wednesday, April 26, 2023

Good morning and I’m wondering how peaceful your morning is.

Again, we turn on the TV, the radio, the podcast, whatever it might be, and it just seems that the world is filled with things that are not settled. Our own nation, our own neighborhoods, the world as a whole, filled with economic uncertainty, violence, things that shake all of us. So, where’s the peace?

We need to remember that God wants to give us peace. That Christ IS our peace. That we need to receive that gift and trust. Remember the words from Philippians 4:6-7 “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

How about it? How’s your mind? How’s your heart? Are they guarded by the presence of God and more importantly, the peace of God? Or, are we struggling? Struggling because we just can’t find that quiet place? Today’s a day to remember: Don’t be anxious about anything. Because God’s got your back and Christ is walking with you. And so you can have that peace – that peace that guards your heart and your mind. God bless. Have a blessed day.

Midweek Message Email April 26, 2023

 

 

Wednesday, April 19, 2023

Good morning! I’m wondering, how did you like that snow on Monday, with that white stuff covering everything? Or maybe, maybe you really enjoy the price of gas as it inches closer and closer to 4/5 dollars a gallon? Or possibly you are truly thrilled that it’s tax time and pretty soon Uncle Sam is going to need a check or you’re going to have to wait patiently for a refund.

Are you thankful? Again, sometimes it just seems like a hard thing to do – to be thankful. And yet, in 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 it says, “Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” How about it? Are you thankful? Do you trust God’s will for your life? Are you okay with, again, however things play out? Are we thankful people? It makes such a difference to be thankful! To be THANKFUL! TO BE THANKFUL in all that God is doing in our lives.

So, hey, gas: 3, 4, 5, 6 dollars a gallon. Taxes being paid. Another snowstorm. Does it really matter? God loves you. And in that we can be thankful in ALL circumstances. God bless. Have a great day!

Midweek Message Email April 19, 2023

 

 

Wednesday, April 12, 2023

Good morning! Do you still have leftovers? That’s right! Easter is behind us. Some ham in the fridge, candy wrappers in the garbage, decorations coming down – what does life look like after Easter? Jesus is asking us to live a life in which we have constant communion with Him. Again, an ability to interact with Jesus even during the clutter of our lives. In all circumstances, acknowledging Him, being willing to walk and talk on a daily basis.

So how about it? Easter’s behind us but what about our lifestyle? Will it be Easter-full as we live. Proverbs 3:6 “In all your ways submit to Him and He will make your paths straight.” Submit to Christ. Commune with Christ. Let Christ lead every day. I wonder: what will it be like now that Easter is done? God bless, have a great day.

Midweek Message Email April 12, 2023

 

 

Wednesday, April 5, 2023

Hey! Hurry up! Pick up the phone! There are other things to do! Let’s go! Let’s go! Let’s go!

Wait a minute, it’s Holy Week. A chance for us to be still and to walk with Christ. Again, to be one with Him in a very new and dynamic way this week. It says in Psalm 46: “He says, ‘Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.’ The Lord Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress.”

It’s Holy Week. It’s time for us to be still, to walk with Jesus and to experience Christ in a new way. “Be still and know that I am God.” https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=2zN0XfOTC8U

Midweek Message Email April 5, 2023

 

 

 

Wednesday, March 29, 2023

Good morning! Welcome to Wednesday Wondering. I’m wondering: are you a list maker? That’s right! Do you find yourself making those lists and then checking each item off as you accomplish them? I mean, a lot of us – that’s the way we live our lives. We try to figure out all the things we should do, and then we conquer them one by one. But when we don’t conquer them, that’s when we get frustrated. And we keep thinking we can really control all things in our lives. And yet we need to remember that God takes care of us. That again, before we even make the list, God has made a list for us. He knows what we’re going to do, where we’re going to go, how we’re going to do it, and again, the challenges of life. And so, as you go through life do you wake up thinking, “I’m going to make a list and I’m going to do what I want to do”? Or do you wake up saying, “Hey, I have to accomplish a few things, but I’m going to trust God’s list for my life”?

Remember these words from Proverbs 3:5-6; “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.” I hope your paths are straight and that you trust God’s list and not your own. Have a great day. God bless!

Midweek Message Email March 29, 2023

 

 

Wednesday, March 22, 2023

Good morning and welcome to Wednesday Wondering. I wonder if you remember night lights. That’s right! Those silly little lights that you plugged in and at night they kept just enough light in the room that made you feel safe and secure. As we get older, those night lights maybe change. We call them security lights. They light up our house. They make sure that we’re not afraid of someone breaking in.

As we get older, things change and we’re afraid of different things. As kids, its monsters and boogey men and snakes and spiders and who knows… When we get older its things like money, or physical wellbeing, or family members, or maybe for some of us, clowns.

But what do we do when we’re afraid? Remember the words of Isaiah 12:2 “Surely God is my salvation; I will trust and not be afraid. The Lord, the Lord Himself, is my strength and my defense; He has become my salvation.”

How about it? As we walk through life, is God our night light? Is, again, that Easter story of Jesus’ resurrection our bright and beautiful night light? Don’t be afraid! Trust God. He is your salvation. God bless. Have a great day.

Midweek Message Email March 22, 2023

 

 

Wednesday, March 15, 2023

Good morning and welcome to Wednesday Wondering. I’m wondering how Lent is going for you. How is your cup? Half full? Half empty?

We live in Michigan. I believe Michigan is the second cloudiest state in the union. Only to like Seattle or Washington. I wonder, how much do we miss that amazing presence of the sun. And I do mean the sunshine, but I also mean the Son, Jesus. The presence of God in our lives. How often do we simply bask in the radiance of knowing the presence of God in our lives?

What might it look like if we did that? How about this from 1 John 4:9-11, “This is how God showed His love among us: He sent His one and only Son into the world that we might live through Him. This is love: not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.”

How about it? Are we basking in the presence of God and are we living it out by loving one another? Well, I hope today you live in His radiance. God bless.

Midweek Message Email March 15, 2023

 

 

Wednesday, March 8, 2023

Good morning and welcome to Wednesday Wondering. I’m wondering who has your ear. That’s right! Or maybe another way to say it is: whose voice are you listening to? That’s right! We live in a world in which there are a lot of voices. Whether it be the internet, whether it be the television, whether it be the radio, whether it be politics, whether it be myriads of people, and places, and things; we hear a lot of voices. And yet, do we hear the most important one?

“Very truly I tell you Pharisees, anyone who does not enter the sheep pen by the gate, but climbs in by some other way, is a thief and a robber. The one who enters by the gate is the shepherd of the sheep. The gatekeeper opens the gate for him, and the sheep listen to his voice. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. When he has brought out all his own, he goes on ahead of them, and his sheep follow him because they know his voice.” (John 10:1-4)

How about it? Do you know the voice of Christ? In this Lenten season, are you listening to the voice of Christ? Again, we live in a world in which we’ve got lots of voices, and those voices cause a lot of worry and stress and anxiety for people from young ages to old ages. And yet, do we truly hear THE voice – the voice of the Shepherd. Today my prayer is that you hear the Shepherd, and only the Shepherd.

God bless. Have a great day.

Midweek Message Email March 8, 2023

 

 

Wednesday, March 1, 2023

Good morning and welcome to Wednesday Wondering. I’m wondering what you’re wondering about. Do you find yourself wondering about the economy? About inflation? About investments? Do you find yourself wondering about Ukraine, Russia, China, the Middle East? Do you wonder about the natural disasters that have happened with flooding, drought, and earthquake? Do you wonder what is next?

To wonder is one thing. But to get stressed out and filled with anxiety is another. We need to trust – trust God, trust God’s plan for our lives, trust that God is in control. 2 Thessalonians 3:16 “Now may the Lord of peace Himself give you peace at all times in every way. The Lord be with you all.”

How about it? Are you filled with some anxiety? Are you stressed out? Does your wondering turn into something that’s really negative? It’s time to trust God. To let go and to let God lead and guide and for us to follow. Have a wonderful and a blessed day. May the Lord be with you. And may you trust. God bless.

Midweek Message Email March 1, 2023

 

 

Wednesday, February 22, 2023

Good morning and welcome to Wednesday Wondering. I’m wondering if you remember maps. That’s right! Paper maps. The ones you unfold and spread out as you journeyed across some continent somewhere. Or then the atlas that came out in a book and you could look up various places. Then it turned into MapQuest and printing out directions. Now you just look on your phone and you try to follow the little dot on the highway or byway.

When we go somewhere, we need some direction. The question today is: where do you get your direction from? That’s right! Or Psalm 119:105 “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.”

As we enter the season of Lent, and we begin the journey to the cross, what is your guide? Hopefully, prayerfully, it is the word of God, the Holy Spirit. As we look to Christ, and figure out how is it that we might better our relationship, and serve a risen Savior and Lord. How about it? Is it MapQuest? Or is it the word of God? God bless. Have a great day! And welcome to the season of Lent.

Midweek Message Email February 22, 2023

 

 

Wednesday, February 15, 2023

Good morning! Welcome to Wednesday Wondering. And I’m wondering, how’d you do? That’s right, how did you do? No, I’m not talking about Super Bowl predictions or Super Bowl pools. I’m wondering how’d you do yesterday. Valentine’s Day. Did you let somebody know that they’re loved? Did you make a difference in somebody’s life? Did you take some time and let God know how much you love God for sending His Son? Remember Matthew 22 where Jesus replies, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: Love your neighbor as yourself. All the law and the prophets hang on these two commandments.”

How about it? How did you do? Did you let somebody know that God loves them and that you did too? Well, guess what? Tomorrow’s Thursday. You can try again. But don’t forget. Share the most powerful thing: the grace and the love of God Almighty through Jesus Christ. Have a wonderful day. God bless.

Midweek Message Email February 15, 2023

 

 

Wednesday, February 8, 2023

Good morning and welcome to Wednesday Wondering. Isaiah 42:1-4 “Here is my servant, whom I uphold, my chosen one in whom I delight; I will put my Spirit on him, and he will bring justice to the nations. He will not shout or cry out, or raise his voice in the streets. A bruised reed he will not break, and a smoldering wick he will not snuff out. In faithfulness he will bring forth justice; he will not falter or be discouraged till he establishes justice on earth. In his teaching the islands will put their hope.”

How about it? Do you feel like that faithful servant? I said it Sunday: I don’t like to ask for help. And sometimes it just feels like things are falling down around you and we’re afraid to ask for help. We’re afraid to cry out. We’re afraid to believe what it says in Isaiah that, you know what, God’s got us, even if we are bruised, even if we are a smoldering wick, even if we are broken! Our hope is in Him!

So, if you are having a tough time, ask for help! God loves you and that will never change. Have a great day. God bless.

Midweek Message Email February 8, 2023

 

 

Wednesday, February 1, 2023

Good morning and welcome to Wednesday Wondering. I’m wondering if you’re preparing. That’s right! If you are seeking the very face of God. It says in Romans 8:6, “The mind governed by the flesh is death but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace.” This week we’re moving towards a communion Sunday and we’ve been asked to prepare. To seek the very face of God. To always involve God in our decisions, in our questions, in our daily lives. And so I’m wondering, are you seeking God’s face? Or another way to think about it is Jesus says, “I am an ever-present help in trouble. Trust me. Though the earth give way or the mountains fall into the heart of the sea.” (Psalm 46:1-2)

How about it? Are you seeking? Are you trusting? Are you preparing to meet Jesus face to face? Have a great week and a blessed Sunday around the table. God bless.

Midweek Message Email February 1, 2023

 

 

Wednesday, January 25, 2023

Yaaaawn, oh, sorry! I was yawning.
Welcome to Wednesday Wondering. I don’t know, some days it just seems like… whew, I could doze off… at about any moment! I don’t know about you but sometimes I feel that way during my devotions or my prayer time. There I sit and I’m trying to connect with God and the next thing I know it’s ten minutes later and I’ve fallen asleep! Sometimes that’s the way it is in our relationship all the way through! We come and we go. We think we’re ready to go and then we show our weakness.
But the beautiful thing is that God understands that, that Jesus was aware of that. Whether that be in the garden with the disciples, whether that be with us every day, that we are weak. But what we need to remember is this: God says, “My strength and My power show themselves most effective in your weakness.” (2 Corinthians 12:9) The key is keep trying. If we’re dozing off, well, get back at it as soon as you wake up. Splash a little water in your face, walk around the room, whatever it takes to spiritually wake up and reconnect with God. God doesn’t hold it against us. God just wants us to try again.
So even if you’re “yaaaaaaaawn” yawning and a little out of it, God’s always there and loves you. Have a great day! Seek Him at every turn. God bless.

Midweek Message Email January 25, 2023

 

 

Wednesday, January 18, 2023

Good morning and welcome to Wednesday Wondering. I’m wondering, how is your fig tree, or maybe your grapes? Okay, your olives? Just in general, your food crops? Or maybe your sheep or your cattle? How are they doing? You know God wants us to have life and have it abundantly. But sometimes we get thrown a curve ball. Sometimes we go through that valley. And Habakkuk (3:17-19) reminds us:

Though the fig tree does not bud

and there are no grapes on the vines,

though the olive crop fails

and the fields produce no food,

though there are no sheep in the pen

and no cattle in the stalls,

yet I will rejoice in the Lord,

I will be joyful in God my Savior.

The Sovereign Lord is my strength;

he makes my feet like the feet of a deer,

he enables me to tread on the heights.

Life isn’t always perfect. It is not always easy. Sometimes it’s downright hard, difficult, challenging, and a bummer. And yet, I’m wondering, does the truth of God’s love reign over all of that. Are we able to walk, to tread on the heights, even though we’re feeling like we’re in a valley? Today’s a day where I wonder, how are your fig trees? And does it matter? Because you know deep down God loves you and God’s got your back. I hope you’re treading on the heights and walking with the Lord. Have a great day. God bless.

Midweek Message Email January 18, 2023

 

 

Wednesday, January 11, 2023

Good morning and welcome to Wednesday Wondering. I’m wondering if you’ve ever heard anybody say, “My way or the highway.” Or maybe you know somebody who kind of lives or operates in that manner? My way or the highway. But I’m wondering if each of us needs to look at our own lives and ask the question: is that the way we operate with God’s planning in our life? My way or the highway. We have ideas, we have thoughts, we have things that WE want, and do we say, “My way or the highway”?

Or do we trust God? Do we turn our lives over to God? Do we walk in a patient manner day-to-day, moment-by-moment, trusting in God’s plan and allowing for His leading, not our way? So, my way or the highway? Does it play a role in your life and in your journey with God?

God bless. Have a good day.

Midweek Message Email January 11, 2023

 

 

Wednesday, January 4, 2023

Good morning and welcome to Wednesday Wondering 2023. I’m wondering if you happened to watch Monday night football. Or maybe you have seen the news stories. The news stories about this young man, Damar Hamlin, who in an instant had his life changed. I wonder if you saw how, in a moment, all of these athletes, who have fame, wealth, power, health and so much more in our world’s eyes, were brought to their knees, asking God for His presence in a tragic, tragic situation. It truly reminded me of how fragile life is. And how important it is to be right with God.

Jesus says in Luke 12, “But God said to him, ‘You fool! This very night your life will be demanded from you.’” How about it? What if we were like Damar and tonight our life was demanded of us? Are we one with Christ? Is He truly our savior? Is our life committed completely to Him?

As we begin 2023, maybe we need to ask that question and really, really commit ourselves to walking with Jesus and knowing He died for us. I pray you have a great year. I pray for Damar. And I pray that God will teach us and walk with us. God bless. Have a great day.

Midweek Message Email January 4, 2023

 

 

Wednesday, December 28, 2022

Well, welcome to Wednesday Wondering. I’m wondering how tired you are. Here we are smack in the middle of Christmas and New Year’s. I’m wondering how wise the wise men really were. That’s right. You can take a look at Matthew 2:1-12 – I mean, sure they went to see Jesus. Yep, they brought some gifts. They thought they were appropriate. They cost some money; they were worth maybe a royal kind of gift-receiver. Well, what’s interesting is that they left. That’s right! If they were so wise, couldn’t they figure out that what God had called them to was to follow Jesus, to support Jesus, to again, make Jesus number one, the light in their life. And yet, did they get it?

I guess as we sit here between Christmas and New Year’s and we think about a new year, how about you and me? Do we get it? Will we make Jesus number one, or do we just say, well, we did the Christmas thing and let’s move on. Wise men. I think if we’re wise people, we’ll follow, we’ll love him, we’ll live for him. I just wonder if that’s the way it’ll be. God bless. Happy New Year!

Midweek Message Email December 28, 2022

 

 

Wednesday, December 21, 2022

Good morning. Welcome to Wednesday Wondering. And yes, it’s almost Christmas. Have you read the Christmas story? Will you read it this week? Will you read a little bit further all the way through where Jesus is brought to the temple? And an old guy comes into the story by the name of Simeon. And here this old man celebrates because, before his death, he can meet the Messiah. He is filled with great joy and yet quickly it turns to pain because he knows that Mary will be pierced. Jesus will be pierced. That there will be pain and anguish because this Messiah will change the world but also be rejected by the world.

How about it? This Christmas be filled with joy and celebration, but take some time to reflect and ask the question how is Jesus changing your life? How is Jesus challenging you? How is it that you might just be beat up, maybe pierced a little bit, in order that the good news of Christ goes forth. Have a wonderful Christmas, a blessed New Year and keep on wondering.

Midweek Message Email December 21, 2022

 

 

Wednesday, December 14, 2022

Good morning and welcome to Wednesday Wondering. I’m wondering about Christmas that’s just around the corner. I’m wondering about Mary. That’s right. The mother of Jesus. We take it for granted that she brought Jesus into the world but how in the world did she deal with Jesus being her child – but really not being her child? Being her son, but really being the Son of God. I mean, how difficult to watch him stumble and fall, to do his ministry, to be humiliated, persecuted, crucified. To watch him die on a cross. How challenging for a mom to watch her child suffer but also know that he really wasn’t hers.

And then of course there’s us. You and I who make Jesus God, put him up there on a pedestal, but we really don’t get personally connected. We do just the opposite of Mary – we make Jesus God, and we forget to call him friend and we forget that he walks with us every day and loves us. And so today wonder. Wonder how Mary felt. Look at the passages in the story of Christmas and Christ’s birth. Look at how she felt, what she dealt with, and then ask yourselves: do you have Jesus at a distance or is he truly part of your family and a friend? Wonder about Mary and Jesus and you.

Midweek Message Email December 14, 2022

 

 

Wednesday, December 7, 2022

Good morning and welcome to this Christmas season Wednesday Wondering. I’m wondering what do you think of when I say blended family? It’s a term we use quite a bit nowadays. It reflects the complicated relationships between mother, father, children, and again relationships we have. When did this all start? I wonder if Joseph and Mary and Jesus were the first blended family. Think about it. Joseph was not the father. Joseph could have very easily divorced Mary. Joseph and Jesus could have had a rather contentious relationship, and yet in a beautiful way, Joseph and Mary and Jesus show us what a blended family should be all about. The beauty of Joseph loving Jesus as his own, being concerned for him throughout his life and ministry, and again, knowing he wasn’t dad, he wasn’t father, but on this earth, he was someone very important in Jesus’ life.

So just think about the blending in your life. Think about the beauty of the complicated relationships and simply love the people. Take a look at Matthew 1 & 2, Luke 2 & 3 and look at the relationship – the first blended relationship. What a beautiful one! Have a great day. God bless.

Midweek Message Email December 7, 2022

 

 

Wednesday, November 30, 2022

Good morning! And welcome to Wednesday Wondering. I’m wondering about a lot of things. Especially since it’s Advent. That’s right – Christmas is coming! So I’m wondering about the birth of Jesus. I’m wondering if you’re wondering. Or is Christmas just Christmas, another one to put under your belt?

This morning I’d like you to think about King Herod. That’s right. King Herod, remember him? He was the guy who tried to get rid of Jesus from birth. He sent those Magi in order to find Jesus and then report back so he could take care of him. But guess what? The Magi didn’t, and Herod was frustrated. So then he just ordered the death of all male children two years and younger. I’m wondering, why? And the answer is simple. Herod had enormous power but guess what? A little baby in diapers had even more power. That’s right. Herod was afraid. Afraid of what would happen with Jesus in the world.

I’m wondering. Are you ever afraid? Do you ever wonder how life might be different? And because of that, we avoid getting close to Jesus. Hey, Christmas is coming. Keep wondering.

Midweek Message Email November 30, 2022

 

 

Wednesday, October 19, 2022

Good morning and welcome to Wednesday Wondering. I’m wondering, what’s your nickname? That’s right! Maybe it was a long time ago in school, maybe it was just yesterday, but what do people call you? Wouldn’t it be amazing if somebody were to call you “Light-giver”? Or “Morning Star”? Or maybe “Son (or Daughter) of the Dawn”? Well, guess what. Those were names – names of Lucifer. That’s right! The devil.

Later on, in Medieval times it was “Old Scratch”, or “Old Nick”, or “Old Harry” and a bunch of other nicknames but in the beginning, Lucifer was the “Son of the Morning.” Read Isaiah 14:12. “How art thou fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning!”

You know, sometimes we think a whole lot of ourselves. Sometimes we think we have it all together. And the truth is, much like Lucifer, we’re just one step away from falling when we give up on trusting God more than we do ourselves. So this week, as again, you think about Halloween month and all those spirit things, what’s your nickname? And are you close to a fall? Or are you living humbly, doing and being what God wants you to do and be. So again, what’s your nickname? Hopefully, hopefully it’s a good one. Hopefully you don’t end up like Lucifer.

Have a great day. God bless.

Midweek Message Email October 19, 2022

 

 

 

Wednesday, October 12, 2022

I’m wondering if you’re wandering. What do I mean? Again, we’ve been looking at whales, and at eunuchs, and at donkeys, and at giants, and, well, it’s October so I thought, why not a witch? That’s right! 1 Samuel 28 – the witch of Endor. Do you know the story? Really, it’s about where do I turn when I want to know what’s coming next.

King Saul, you know, he just passed a law against witchcraft and yet he was so worried about David that he had no place else to turn and so he went and found himself a witch. That’s right! Read the story, look into it, and ask yourself, where do you turn when you really need some answers? Sure, you might pray. Sure, you might ask God for something and some clarity. But when you don’t get it do you trust? Do you wait? Are you patient? Or do you roll the dice? Do you draw a straw? Do you look at a fortune cookie and say hey, this is my future?

Again, it’s October. Halloween. Witches all around. Which do you choose when you’re wondering? Trust in a plan of the Almighty? Or, wandering to a witch for a forecast?

Have a great day. Have a great Halloween month and again, watch out for those witches.

Midweek Message Email October 12, 2022

 

 

Wednesday, October 5, 2022

Good morning and welcome to Wednesday Wondering. I’m wondering if you’re wondering. Yeah, wondering about what am I talking about lately. We talked about a donkey, we talked about a whale, we talked about a eunuch. Well, how about today we talk about a giant. That’s right. 1 Samuel 17:4-55, a very familiar story of a giant who is defeated by a young man with just a stone. You know who I’m talking about: David and Goliath. Again, that giant, that huge man who nobody wanted to face except for a brave young man who trusted God.

I’m wondering, have you faced any giants in your life? Are you facing any giants? And do you trust in the faithful hand of God? So, read up about that giant. Think about the giants in your life. Then load up a stone, whirl it around, and ask God to help you with your aim and take that giant down.

God bless, have a great day. Keep on wondering.

Midweek Message Email October 5, 2022

 

 

Wednesday, September 28, 2022

Good morning and welcome to Wednesday Wondering. Maybe even Wednesday Wondering of the Strange and Unique. I had you thinking about a donkey, and then I had you thinking about a whale, and now how about an Ethiopian Eunuch? Do you even know what I’m talking about? He was someone who is a different color than many of us, someone with different social status than many of us, someone who quite frankly has been mutilated in their body. And yet someone who is changed forever because of the gospel of Jesus Christ. When’s the last time that you really learned from an Ethiopian Eunuch? Take a look at Acts chapter 8 starting at verse 26 and look at the amazing story of how he discovers the love of Jesus and how his life is changed forever. Once again, maybe a donkey, a whale, or an Ethiopian Eunuch. God can speak to us in so many unique and beautiful ways. God bless. Have a great day!

Midweek Message Email September 28, 2022

 

 

Wednesday, September 14, 2022

I’m wondering, when was the last time you took some advice from an animal? That’s right – an animal! A cat, a dog, a bird, maybe even a donkey. I’m wondering if you remember the story from Numbers 22:22-31, the story of Balaam and his donkey. It’s amazing to me that he couldn’t see the challenges ahead, but the donkey could. You know, sometimes we as human beings think we know best, and yet it’s often children or animals or innocence – people without an agenda that see things that we don’t. So as you look out into the future, as you look to what your next steps might be, consider all the information around you. Consider all the input from those of all creation around you and then move forward in the glory of God. Check out that story and remember, listen to some animals. Have a wonderful and blessed day.

Midweek Message Email September 14, 2022

 

 

Wednesday, September 7, 2022

Good morning. Welcome to Wednesday Wondering. I’m wondering, have you heard the call? Not just a robocall, not just a marketing call, but have you heard God call you by name? That’s right. In John 10:3 you see it stated clearly, He calls us by name. Throughout Scripture, we see Him calling people by name. Have you heard the call? Or have you stubbornly doubted or denied Him? Again, “I’m not going to pick up the phone.” Because in many ways, we need to be born again. John 3:7. The whole idea, that our whole self must be transformed to be one with Christ. And so, I’m wondering if we’re willing to take the call, to hear the call. I’m wondering if we’re willing to be changed – to be born again in order to be one with Christ. I know that’s a lot to handle just after a holiday, but may God bless you and reveal Himself to you. Have a great day.

Midweek Message Email September 7, 2022

 

 

Wednesday, August 31, 2022

Good morning and welcome to Wednesday Wondering. I’m wondering, how many people hang up – just, about, now. That’s right.
  • “Oh, it’s just another one of those recordings.”
  • “Just another one of those things to remind us to be godly.”

Whatever it might be, you don’t have the time and hang up. I wonder how many of us hang up on God. When the Holy Spirit speaks and we “quench the Spirit.” 1 Thessalonians 5:19 “Quench not the Holy Spirit.” When God’s Holy Spirit moves amongst us and we say, “I don’t have time. I don’t want to be more religious. I don’t want to do this.” And we quench the Spirit.

Or, when we’re struggling, and we think we don’t want to follow – Hebrews 7:5 “Despise not the chastening of the Lord.” Again, those tough times when the Lord maybe is wrestling with us and we with the Lord and we give up rather than try and learn.

Anyway, this morning I’m wondering how many of you have hung up. Hopefully, you don’t hang up on God. Have a great day. God bless.

Midweek Message Email August 31, 2022

 

 

Wednesday, August 24, 2022

Good morning! And welcome to Wednesday Wondering. I’m wondering, have you ever suffered? I mean, you know, suffered. Maybe not like from a workout or because you accidentally hit your thumb with a hammer, but I mean, suffer. It says in 1 Peter 4:19, “Let them that suffer according to the will of God, commit the keeping of their souls to Him in well-doing.” Sometimes when we suffer, we need to keep God in the right place. As we walk through life and live the life He’s got planned for us, there will be ups and there will be downs. But are we committed, and will we keep our souls in Him? Remember, that Jesus had said, “Father, I thank You that You have heard Me.” (John 11:41) And we need to remember, even when we’re suffering, even when it is the will of God, try to keep that great Spirit, and remember the presence of God and that He always hears you. So have a great day, even if you’re suffering, know that God loves you and is right by your side.

Midweek Message Email August 24, 2022

 

 

Wednesday, August 17, 2022

Good morning! And welcome to Wednesday Wondering. But today I’m just letting you know that I’m wondering. That’s right, when I look at these two devotions, I’m wondering how I fit. If you look at Luke 2:49, we see that Jesus is in his Father’s house, and after that we see that he grows in stature among God and man. I’m wondering how much time do we spend in our Father’s house and I don’t mean church on Sunday. I don’t even mean the church building, I mean really one with the Father. So much one that we’re reminded of Jesus’ birth. If you look at Luke 1:35 where we see that the angel speaks about how the Holy Spirit will come upon Mary, be overshadowed and the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God. Remember that Jesus was part human and in that we share those same characteristics. And yet he always identified with his Father. So how about it? I’m just wondering how much time do I spend identifying with the Father and living in His House. Have a great day. God bless.

Midweek Message Email August 17, 2022

 

 

Wednesday, August 10, 2022

Hi! Will you accept the charges for a collect call from Pastor Paul? I’m wondering. Do you remember those days? Do you remember collect calls? Do you remember people calling on a home phone? Our world is changed.

The call of God is baffling. Even more confusing than you are probably right now. Where again throughout all of the Old and New Testament, God calls people to His family. And I’m wondering today, do you understand your call? In Luke 18:31 and 34, it talks about how all things have been written, and yet still they didn’t understand all of them. It’s hard, but God calls us to a purpose.

And the way that we find that purpose is through prayer. Prayer in and around the cross. “At that day, you shall ask in My Name.” John 16:26. If we ask God, if we accept the call, then we will understand who we are called to be.

So today, accept the charges. Talk to God. Pray. Begin to understand who He’s asking you to be. God bless. Have a wonderful day.

Midweek Message Email August 10, 2022

 

 

Wednesday, August 3, 2022

Good morning and welcome to Wednesday Wondering. I’m wondering if you know that communion is right around the corner. That’s right, the first Sunday of August we will have communion together. We will celebrate the Lord’s Supper. As part of that, we always try to prepare ourselves, and I’m wondering have you already begun preparing or do you need to begin preparing? You know, looking at your relationship with Christ and seeing how close you are. Because sometimes we have to think about, well, let’s just say, His ways versus our ways. Sometimes we like to stay where its comfortable, and yet Jesus always tells us to go.
Take a look at Matthew 11:1 and you can see where He departs, which means we need to depart and make a difference in the world. Or take a look at James 1:4 where you can see we need to be entirely His, not just a piece of us, not just one or two things, just a couple hours a week, but do we make Jesus part of ourselves in a way in which we are entirely His, at all turns, at all corners, entirely His.

So, hey, are you preparing? Are you wondering? Are you asking, how is my relationship with Christ? Have some fun this week. Take a look. Wonder along with me. God bless. Goodbye.

Midweek Message Email August 3, 2022

 

 

Wednesday, July 27, 2022

Good morning and welcome to Wednesday Wondering. I’m wondering, what are you good at? If you look at Matthew 14 and look at the story of Peter walking on the water, he wasn’t very good at that at all. Let’s be honest, Peter struggled with a lot of things. Whether it be denying Christ or whether it be jumping to conclusions and cutting off ears… I mean, he wasn’t really gifted. But then take a look at John 21 where Jesus looks at Peter and simply says, “Feed my sheep.” Love my people.

So often, we get lost in the storm. Our world is full of that right now. Our nation. There is so many opinions out there, so many politics, so many things going on that so many people are confused. We wonder, what are we good at, what should we be doing. And Jesus makes it pretty clear: love people. “Love people like I’ve loved you.” Peter understood that. Peter built the church on that. So let’s not get caught up in all the “what if’s” and get caught up in all the words and all the blogs and all the websites. Let’s just love people because God loved us first and sent His Son.

So, what are you good at? Hopefully you’re good at loving others. God bless, have a great day.

Midweek Message July 27, 2022

 

 

Wednesday, July 20, 2022

Good morning and welcome to Wednesday Wondering. I’m wondering, were you a fan of Judge Judy? Yeah, that’s right, you have to look back a few years, but it was really the first of one of those crazy shows where somebody becomes a judge on TV and we watch people bicker back and forth and come to some sort of judgment. Now there’s all sorts of famous judges, famous people, paternity courts and family courts and everything on TV. It seems like everybody wants to be a judge!

I’m not sure I do though. Because if we look at Scripture, especially Matthew 7:1-2, it’s pretty clear: “Judge not, that you would not be judged.” We’ve got to be careful! Because the way we look at others and judge them is exactly the way we are going to be judged! If we think certain things are so super important, well then guess what, God’s going to look at us and see how we did in those same areas. So, I don’t want my own TV show. I don’t know if you do. But be careful! Otherwise, we just might be pointing a finger – not at others – but right back at ourselves.

Hope you’re having a great day! Turn off that TV. Forget about those court shows. Enjoy your life. Enjoy life because of the grace of God. Have a wonderful day. God bless.

Midweek Message Email July 20, 2022

 

 

Wednesday, July 13, 2022

Welcome to Wednesday Wondering! And I’m wondering, when was the last time you looked at 2 Peter 1:3-9? When’s the last time you took the time to figure out that even when life seems challenging, even when it just seems overwhelming, maybe even boring – God has a plan! And God has given us everything we need to move forward. I’m wondering if you claim that promise.
Or to take it a step further, if you look at John 15:4, it’s simple. Jesus just says, “Abide in Me.” ABIDE. I’m wondering if we really take the time to abide in God, to trust His will, to find that ability to overcome in whatever this world might throw at us.

So, are we ready to get a move on? Are we going to give up or are we going to make it through? And are we going to be determined to be children of God? I wonder if we’ll celebrate this day. Have a great day. God bless.

Midweek Message Email July 13, 2022

 

 

Wednesday, July 6, 2022

Good morning and welcome to Wednesday Wondering. I’ll be honest, I have been wondering about this one. So often we think we’ve read it all, heard it all, repeated the same verses, and then something like this happens. John 15:13, 15 “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends…. I have called you friends…” So often when we read that, we think “lay down our life” means that we would die for a friend, die for Jesus. What I’ve been challenged with is that it doesn’t say “die,” it says, “lay down your life.” Lay it down – that means that you will humble yourself and serve. At every turn you’re going to lay down your life and give it to Jesus. The way we live, the way we parent, the way that we work, the way that we’re neighbors. All the stuff going on in our world right now – are we being Jesus’ followers? It really struck me. Lay down my life. To die for someone, let’s be honest, it’s kind of easy. But to lay down your life every day, every moment and live for Jesus? Wow. I’m wondering. I hope you are too. Have a great day.

Midweek Message Email July 6, 2022

 

 

Wednesday, June 29, 2022

Good morning, good afternoon; I’m not sure when you get this. But will you listen? What am I getting at? That little word, “but.”

So often we say, “yes…”

  • We’re going to do what God wants, but….
  • We’re going to put God first, but….
  • We’re going to be obedient, but….
  • Well, I meant to do that, but….

It’s a pretty powerful word. I’d just like you to take a look at number one: who IS first in your life? No ifs, ands, or buts. But who’s first? Who’s needs do you put first? Who is it that you trust first? Is it God? Or is it someone or something else?

And don’t forget about that little word. The disciples struggled with it. “Yeah, I’ll follow you, but I have to take care of this first. I have to do something else first.” Who is first? No buts! Look honestly at your life and at our world. And WHO IS first? “But, Pastor Paul… But…” Just be honest with God. Who’s #1?

Have a great day!

Midweek Message Email June 29, 2022

 

 

Wednesday, June 22, 2022

Welcome to Wednesday Wondering. I’m wondering if you’re at Bible School. That’s right. V.B.S. right now. It’s happening! Over a hundred kids, so many volunteers, so much energy. It’s not an easy undertaking. I’ve watched the leaders work hard to make it all happen. Are we at Vacation Bible School? You see, that’s the real choice. Are we going to follow, or are we going to fade away? In John 6:66, it talks about Jesus’ disciples and how some followed, and some didn’t. It’s not easy. It’s not easy to step up and to make things happen. And we have to be reminded, and I am reminded with Vacation Bible School what Matthew 18:3 says, and that is unless we become like little children and believe, we’re going to struggle. So maybe we all need to go to VBS. Maybe we all need to be committed. Maybe we all need to be like little children and follow rather than fade away. Have a great day. Thank you for wondering. God bless.

Midweek Message Email June 22, 2022

 

 

Wednesday, June 15, 2022

Good morning! Welcome to Wednesday Wondering and I’m wondering do you remember “Hide and Seek”? Maybe when you were a kid, and you would look and look and look for your friends and your family and just seek all the time. Or maybe it’s as a parent or a grandparent or an uncle or whatever. And you watched the kids look for you and look for you and pursue you and seek you.

It says in Scripture, “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness and all these things shall be added unto you.” (Matthew 6:33 How are you at seeking the kingdom of God? How are you at giving it your all, never giving up but always looking at every turn for the hand of God in your life? I know it’s scary. It’s probably the most difficult thing to do. And when we really trust the kingdom more than this world, it’s scary.

But we also need to remember: “Who shall separate us from the love of Christ?” (Romans 8:35). Nobody! Nothing! So regardless of what happens, regardless of how you might move in a different direction than the world, God’s got your back. So today, seek the kingdom of God and know that nothing can ever separate you from Christ. God bless.

Midweek Message Email June 15, 2022

 

 

Wednesday, June 8, 2022

Good morning! I’m wondering: how is your check book? Well, maybe I mean, how is your bank account? Or another way to say it is: how wealthy are you? Or maybe we should think about what 2 Peter 1:4 says: “that we are partakers of the divine nature.” Do you realize how wealthy you can be, to be one with Christ, to be one with the Holy Spirit? To, as Christ always told His disciples, to be one with the Father and to enjoy that power, that responsibility, that wealth of being part of the family of God! Because it’s then that we get in the habit of rising to the occasion. Ephesians 1:18 “that we might know the hope of His calling.” That’s right, that He is calling us to a divine purpose, that He’s calling us to something special in our lives here on earth. How wealthy are you? That you are a child of God and that you have a purpose that God has given you to execute in this world. Wow! I wonder how wealthy are you feeling nowadays because we are extremely rich if we walk in step with our creator, savior, and Lord. Have a great day. God bless.

Midweek Message Email June 8, 2022

 

 

Wednesday, June 1, 2022

Good morning and welcome to Wednesday Wondering. I wonder if you like to watch people the way I like to watch people. I don’t care where I am, I find myself observing and it’s so interesting. Lately though, it’s been sad because I see so many people who are so angry, so frustrated. I find myself there sometimes. But lately, more and more, wherever it might be, even in church and in our own families, there’s anger. And I’m reminded that we need to think more like God, more like Christ. Or, as 2 Corinthians 4:10 “that the life of Jesus may be made manifest in our flesh.” That we may have a conscience void of offensive thinking towards God and other people. (Acts 24:16)

I’m just wondering how you’re thinking about others. Are you angry? Are you frustrated? Are you pointing fingers? Or are we trying to be like Jesus: welcoming, loving, accepting, caring, and when need be, challenging? But not angry. Not angry and hateful. Today’s a day to just wonder – how are we getting along with God and with our fellow human beings. I wonder. How about you? God bless. Have a great day.

Midweek Message Email June 1, 2022

 

 

Wednesday, May 25, 2022

How is your addition? That’s right! I’m wondering, how is your addition? Are you adding to your faith daily? Do you have a vision for what’s next in your life, in your faith? Whether you look at 2 Peter 1:5 or Proverbs 29:18, they both challenge us to be moving forward. If we don’t have a vision, we don’t have a future. What is it that God is calling you to? And He’s always calling us to add to our faith, to do more in order to walk with Him and change our world.

So, today I’m wondering, how is your addition? How is your vision-casting? Are you moving forward? Or, just okay with where you’re at? Have a great day. Keep on wondering and keep on dreaming of the future.

Midweek Message Email May 25, 2022

 

 

Wednesday, May 18, 2022

Welcome to Wednesday Wondering. And I’ll be honest, this Wednesday I’m wondering. I’m wondering about a word we use a lot which is “intercession” – that we will pray for the intercession of God into the lives of others. I’m wondering, do we really get this idea of intercession? If you look at Philippians 6:18 or Hebrews 10:19, you see this idea of praying with all that we’ve got for our brothers and sisters. And yet, intercession means that it’s about what God wants for them, not what we want. It’s about our ability to put aside our agenda and simply ask for God to reveal Himself. And I’ve realized how difficult that is. We may want peace in the Ukraine, but do we want it for the well-being of others? Or because gas prices will go down? The list goes on. Why do we ask for God to intercede? It’s only when we can truly allow God to act, to live in us completely, that we allow God to get in the middle and change things. So today, I’m wondering can I really, honestly, ask for intercession for others? Or am I too worried about myself? Is it God’s agenda or my agenda? I’m wondering. I hope you wonder too. Have a great day.

Midweek Message Email May 18, 2022

 

 

Wednesday, May 11, 2022

Good morning! And welcome to Wednesday Wondering. I’m wondering if you are feeling loved. Or maybe you are sharing the love. Well, how about: do you know what love is really all about? Is it really just a “secondhand emotion” like the song says? Look at 1 Corinthians chapter 13. Begin to understand the amazing power of love and that love is something that is beautiful and spontaneous and a wonderful healing moment within our lives. So I guess I’m just wondering: how are you doing at feeling love, sharing love, and living in a manner in which love overflows? Hey, if we don’t have love, we don’t have much, period. Remember, above all, God loves you enough to send His Son. Let’s start there and let it overflow. God bless! Have a great day.

Midweek Message Email May 11, 2022

 

 

Wednesday, May 4, 2022

Welcome to Wednesday Wondering. And I’m wondering what you want. I’m wondering what you’ll get. That’s right. We live in a world in which we often wonder what we want. What do we want for dinner? What do we want for clothes? What do we want for a job? What do we want for friends? We ask it a lot.

And then, what will we get? Have you ever gone through a fast-food drive-through, and you open the bag and its something different? In Jeremiah (45:5), God makes two promises: First – seek the great things for your life. And also know that I will give you a life to be part of. So what do you want and what will God give you? Have you been talking about that to God? Having you been sharing your heart’s desires? Have you been looking for God’s leading? Or, you’re just ignoring it all. I wonder if you know what you want. I wonder if you’re beginning to understand what God has for you. I hope and I pray that you understand He wants to make straight your path. God bless, have a great day. And I hope, I hope you understand what you want and what you get. God bless.

Midweek Message Email May 4, 2022

 

 

Wednesday, April 27, 2022

It’s Wednesday and welcome to some wondering! Mark 16:12 – “After that He appeared in another form unto two of them.” Has Jesus appeared to you? That’s right! Easter is now over with. We’ve moved past it, and it was after Easter that Jesus appeared to the disciples. Do you see Jesus? Do you look for Jesus? Do you want Jesus to be that guide within your life? It’s amazing, because once we’re willing to look for Jesus at every turn, then we can begin to understand what it means to “take His yoke upon us.” (Matthew 11:29) Understand what it means to live for Jesus and experience the invincibility of being a child of God, a sinner of His redeeming, a sheep, a lamb of His flock. So, have you seen Him? I guess I’m wondering. I also wonder, will I see you tonight at the fellowship dinner. I hope so! Even if you didn’t sign up, come and hang out. We’ll make things work! Again, welcome to Wednesday Wondering. God bless.

Midweek Message Email April 27, 2022

 

 

Wednesday, April 20, 2022

Hello and welcome to Wednesday Wondering. I’m wondering if you remember what Sunday was like. That’s right. Just a few days ago it was Easter and we celebrated. Around the world – celebration! And yet, you know what? So often, we forget quickly. Even Jesus, in John, talks to His disciples in John 16:32 where He lets them know that they will scatter. Scatter because they’re more concerned about their own interests.

Or we have to ask ourselves, are we really ready? The words from Exodus 3:4 where God calls him and we must respond, “Here am I.” So, it’s the Wednesday after Easter. Are you still fired up? Are you still ready to share the good news? Are you still ready to celebrate with a song in your heart? Or, have we already scattered? Have we already moved on to what we want rather than what God wants? I’m just wondering. And I hope you wonder too. God bless. Have a great day.

Midweek Message Email April 20, 2022

 

 

Wednesday, April 13, 2022

Welcome to Wednesday Wondering. I’m wondering how much have you lost over the last few weeks? That’s right. How has your diet gone during Lent? Here we are just about to celebrate Easter and I’m wondering how much have you lost?

Okay, it’s a trick question. A trick question based on the gospel of John, chapter 3 verse 30 where it says, “He must increase but I must decrease.” This is a week to reflect on: does Christ reign in your life? Is Jesus #1? Are we and our personality and our opinion and everything else decreasing so that Jesus might increase? Because ultimately it is our job to preach the gospel – to truly be people who reflect Jesus in all that we say and do. So how much have you lost? How much are you willing to lose so that Christ might fill us up? Get ready. Easter is coming, but let’s lose a little bit more before we celebrate. God bless, have a great day.

Midweek Message Email April 13, 2022

 

 

Wednesday, April 6, 2022

Boo! Did I surprise you at all? It’s Wednesday – time to wonder. You know what? Jesus surprises us. And the question is, are we ready to be surprised? That’s right. In Luke – in all the gospels – it asks us: “Be ready.” Easter is only a short time away and are you ready for the collision? What do I mean? The collision where Jesus Himself bears our sins in His body on the cross. Jesus surprises us with a visit. Are we ready? Jesus collides headfirst with sin for our benefit. Easter is around the corner. Palm Sunday is this Sunday. Are you ready for Jesus to enter your life and to collide with the sin that we all have? I’m just wondering. Have a blessed day.

Midweek Message Email April 6, 2022

 

 

Wednesday, March 30, 2022

That’s right, it’s another Wednesday Wondering. This one right in the midst of Lent. And I’m wondering, what does it mean to be crucified? What does it mean for you or I to be crucified? It says in Galatians 2:20 that I am crucified with Christ. Huh. I guess that means that we give everything we have to follow Him. So the question is, are we not only going towards the cross but are we willing to join Him on that cross? And the truth is, it’s easy for us to go away. John 6:67 – He simply asks, “Will you also go away?” I’m just wondering today: are we willing to give it all? Or are we the ones who will go away? I hope you wonder with me and make that commitment to Him and Him alone. God bless, have a great day.

Midweek Message Email March 30, 2022

 

 

Wednesday, March 23, 2022

Good morning! Welcome to Wednesday Wondering! Welcome to the season of Lent! Welcome to March Madness! That’s right – that crazy time of year with all those basketball games, where those underdogs are going up against the chosen favorites. They battle like David and Goliath and who knows what upset might take place?

The question I have for you today is: do you feel like a winner? That’s right! Are you feeling like a winner? Because you are! You’re more than a winner, you are a conqueror! What am I getting at? Romans 8:37 “No, in all things we are more than conquerors through Him who loves us.” More than conquerors! More than winners! It’s amazing! Because of the love of Christ we are changed forever. So today, in the middle of Lent, in the middle of March Madness, as you wonder, are you a winner? Because you are more than a winner, more than a conqueror. You are a child of God. God bless. Have a great day.

Midweek Message Email March 23, 2022

 

 

Wednesday, March 16, 2022

Good morning and welcome to Wednesday Wondering. It’s real simple this morning: I’m wondering, do you love pizza? Ok, maybe that was easy. Do you love ice cream? That’s even easier! How about liver? Do you love liver? Or do you love dogs? Or cats? Do you love the Tigers? The Lions? You get my idea. What do you love?

If you look in John 21, you see a discourse between Peter and Jesus. And Jesus asks Peter three times, “Do you love Me?” Peter gets frustrated but every time says, “Yes, Lord, I love You.”

Or maybe I should ask do you love the dentist? What am I getting at? We’ve got to love Jesus, but even more so sometimes when we love Jesus it hurts a little bit like the dentist. So today, just simply ask yourself – wonder – do you really love Jesus? Do you love Jesus enough to frustration? And maybe a little bit of pain? Is Jesus #1?

Hey, have a great day. God bless.

Midweek Message Email March 16, 2022

 

 

Wednesday, March 9, 2022

Welcome to Wednesday Wondering and don’t forget, this is the season of Lent. Lately I’ve noticed that there have been commercials on TV for online counseling. Really creative commercials to just ask the question: how are you dealing with some challenging feelings, thoughts – maybe even depression, despair, or anxiety? None of us like to admit it. And yet, it is part of who we are. It’s part of how we have been created. It’s been said that if we don’t every now and then get depressed, how is it that we experience the highs and exaltations of life? And so given our world situation and given that depression, anxiety, despair is higher than ever before, what do we do?

1 Kings 19 reminds us: God says to Elijah through an angel, “Arise, and eat.” Arise and eat because the journey is long, and you need to be strong. We need to arise and eat! We need to take care of one another. Or Jesus when He says to His disciples: “Rise and let us be going.”

Depression can be a challenge but it’s a reality. Despair the same, anxiety the same. But the love of God can help us to overcome – to arise and be victorious. God bless, have a wonderful day.

Midweek Message Email March 9, 2022

 

 

Wednesday, March 2, 2022

Good morning! And guess what – it’s Ash Wednesday, Wednesday Wondering. That’s right, the beginning of Lent. It also means that, well, quite honestly, I just came from the doctor’s office. The doctor told me a few things and now the question is whether or not I’ll listen and follow through.

How about it? Do you listen and follow through? Last week we talked about listening, but Lent is a season of commitment and of following through. Or simply put, the discipline of heeding – of heeding, of following, of doing what God asks. Jesus says in Matthew: “What I tell you in the dark, speak in the daylight; what is whispered in your ear, proclaim from the roof.”

How about it? Do we proclaim what God is telling us? Do we listen for God and then share what we’ve heard? Are we willing to be people who are disciplined in heeding in our lives? We do it for our doctors, we do it for our investment counselors, we do it for other people in our lives but when it comes to the Almighty, do we heed His voice? Do we stand on the roof and proclaim the goodness of God?
Welcome to the season of Lent. Have a wonderful day. God bless.

Midweek Message Email March 2, 2022

 

 

Wednesday, February 23, 2022

Good morning and welcome to Wednesday Wondering. I’m wondering if you’re listening. I’m wondering if you’ll hear anything. What do I mean? Well, who do you listen to? It’s easier to listen to your co-workers than your boss, your team-mates rather than your coach. It’s easier to talk to your siblings than to your parents. We don’t always like to talk to the person in charge.

In Exodus, the people said to Moses, “Speak, and we’ll listen. But don’t let God speak with us, lest we die.” We struggle! It’s okay to listen to people at church tell stories and talk, but if we really hear from the Almighty, the living God, well we don’t want that because then we might be held accountable.

Right along with that is the whole idea of hearing. Do we really want to hear? Do we really believe the words from Samuel, “Speak Lord, for your servant hears.” I just wonder, who are you listening to? Are you really listening to God or just the voices around you? Are you really hearing God – taking the time? I’m just wondering. Maybe you’ll wonder too. Have a great day.

Midweek Message Email February 23, 2022

 

 

Wednesday, February 16, 2022

Good morning and welcome to Wednesday Wondering. I’m wondering if you like the cloud game. That’s right, you know what I mean? You’re driving down the road, you’re sitting outside, you’re in your boat on the lake and there’s those clouds up in the sky. You start to look at them and pretty soon you see animals, or you see Elvis or who knows what you see but you use your imagination. Do you ever do that with God? Do you ever use your imagination to wonder what God is like, looks like, sounds like? Or is your imagination starved? You don’t even bother to try to imagine God.

In Isaiah (40:26) it says, “Lift up your eyes and look to the heavens: Who created all these?” When was the last time that you looked up and where you imagined God, where you saw the presence of God? It’s Wednesday. I’m wondering if you have time to imagine God watching over you. God bless. Have a great day!

Midweek Message Email February 16, 2022

 

 

Wednesday, February 9, 2022

Good morning and welcome to Wednesday Wondering. I’m wondering whether or not you have thought about your offering. Well, you know what I mean – you’re offering. You are an offering. So often we think of offering as something we put in a collection plate. And yet Scripture is clear in Philippians 2:17, “But even if I am being poured out like a drink offering, on the sacrifice and service coming from your faith, I am glad and rejoice with all of you.” Or from 2 Timothy 4:6-7, “For I am already being poured out like a drink offering, and the time for my departure is near. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”
How about it? I’m not talking about putting something in the collection plate. I’m talking about offering our lives up, pouring ourselves out for the kingdom of God. Well, that’s what I’m wondering about, and I hope you wonder how you have been pouring yourself out as an offering for the glory of God. Have a great day and keep wondering and remember you’re an offering.

Midweek Message Email February 9, 2022

 

 

Wednesday, February 2, 2022

It’s Wednesday and welcome to Wednesday Wondering! I’m wondering, how is your vision? Or maybe I’m really wondering what is your vision connected to? When you see something, what happens? Do you just look and say, “That’s nice,” and move on? Or when you see something does something happen? Kind of like a batter in a baseball game: he sees the ball but he then swings the bat.

Throughout Scripture we’re asked to look and to see. But after the fact, do we think and do we commit ourselves to that which we see? It says in Matthew 6, “Take no thought of your own life.” What in the world does that mean? Then it goes on and it says, “If God so clothe the grass of the field shall He not much more clothe you?” Amazing! And do we commit to God’s clothing us?

So this week, look around, but don’t just look – act. Take action. God bless. Have a great day.

Midweek Message Email February 2, 2022

 

 

Wednesday, January 26, 2022

Well, it is Wednesday Wondering and I’m wondering, have you figured out the meaning of life? What is your purpose? Or another way to look at it is, what is God calling you to? Maybe it is a lifelong calling or maybe that calling changes depending on your life stage. Early on in school, later in a profession, then in retirement, who is God calling you to be?

In Isaiah it says, “’Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?’ Then Isaiah said, ‘Here am I. Send me.’” How about it? Are you ready to step up? Are you ready to do something amazing for God? Not only is Jesus calling, but God is calling you to a purpose, to a plan, to meaning in life and I hope you’re willing to listen and be sent. Have a great day! God bless.

Midweek Message Email January 26, 2022

 

 

Wednesday, January 19, 2022

Jesus began to teach by the lake, the crowd gathered around Him. “Listen! A farmer went out to sow his seed.” It’s Wednesday. I’m wondering if you know what comes next. That parable about the farmer and how he scattered the seed. Do you know all the details?

I’d like you to think about Mark 4:10 where it simply says, “When He was alone, the Twelve and the others around him asked him about the parables.” When He was alone… How much time do you spend alone with God? How much time does God spend alone with you? Over the last few weeks, I’ve been alone a lot recovering from COVID. And sometimes it was difficult. Many of us struggle in our alone time. And yet God teaches us and helps us to be wiser during that alone time.

So, I want you to think about that parable. I want you to think about sitting at His feet, just you and Jesus, just you and God and let the Holy Spirit teach you as you wonder. Have a wonderful day. God bless.

Midweek Message Email January 19, 2022

 

 

Wednesday, January 12, 2022

I’m wondering, what day is it? Is it Wednesday Wondering? Is it January? Is it 2022? This year has begun in a strange way for me. Covid has messed up so many things, including my ability to really worship. What do I mean? From Genesis (12:8) we hear about Abraham where it says: “From there he went on toward the hills east of Bethel and pitched his tent, with Bethel on the west and Ai on the east. There he built an altar to the Lord and called on the name of the Lord.” Worship.

Worship. How has the new year been for you and your life of worship? To really give God your attention. To really lay yourself before Him and enjoy the presence of God in your life – to really worship, even in the midst of Covid, even in the midst of who knows what. Are we able to clear our minds and to give God our best?

2022 – I hope I know what day it is pretty soon, and I hope that my worship becomes amazing. God bless. Have a great day.

Midweek Message Email January 12, 2022

 

 

Wednesday, January 5, 2022

Happy New Year and welcome to a new Wednesday Wondering. We’re going to be going through something entitled My Utmost for His Highest.

How about it? My utmost for His highest. Are we giving it all for the kingdom? Are we giving it all for Jesus? So all that we do promotes the highest in His glory and honor.

From Philippians 1:20, “I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body whether in life or in death.” How about it? As we begin the new year, is 2022 going to be a year in which we truly exhibit our utmost for His highest? This is going to be a new journey – a new challenge with a classic Christian devotional and yet again it is all about His glory and His honor and our gratitude in every day of 2022. God bless. Welcome to a new year of Wednesday Wondering.

Midweek Message Email January 5, 2022