March 30, 2009

Read Psalm 31

For you are my refuge, into your hands I commit my spirit.--Psalm 31:4b-5

Everyone has experienced a “terrible, horrible, no good, very bad day.” Whether it is work or the economy, terrible two’s or tempestuous teens, cancer battles or even death, sometimes life makes you want to crawl back in bed, pull the covers up and hope that it all goes away.

In Psalm 31, the psalmist, overwhelmed with grief, pain and surrounded by enemies, begs God for mercy. However, he continues to look to God with enduring faith and places his life and soul in God’s hand expecting help and protection.

One of the recurring themes in our commitment class is creating time in our life for things that bring us closer to Christ. Worship, prayer, service, giving and learning will bring us to greater faith and willingness to commit our life and spirit to God. As we grow closer to God, it is easier to face the bumps in the road. We know that he will watch over us and support us. For me, this is what gives me the courage to rise each day, to try again to be more kind, more patient, more what God wants me to be.

Pray: Dear God, Remind me to commit my life and soul to you each day. Give me the courage to face each difficulty with grace and dignity, to find the good in all those I meet. Amen

Barbara Ziegler, an orthotist, works primarily on helmeting for children with plagiocephaly. Often she can be found in the Tykes room on Sunday.

March 29, 2009

Read Psalm 51: 1-12

Have mercy on me, O God, according to your steadfast love; according to your abundant mercy blot out my transgressions. Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin. –Psalm 51:1-2

Of all the reasons I look forward to the season of spring, spring cleaning nears the top of my list. While to some it may be a dreaded undertaking, to me it is an opportunity to review and assess, sort through and throw out maybe, too.

Every year it seems I commence the task with high expectations. Initially, it feels refreshing to drag everything out, re-evaluate its functionality, and discard what is deemed unnecessary. It doesn’t take long however, before I’ve emptied every last drawer and my once-good intentions are now sprawled over my entire apartment. Suddenly, what began as a pretty straightforward task has quickly become something a bit more overwhelming.

In Psalm 51, David is engaging in the ultimate act of soul cleansing. He is confessing his wrongdoings and as he sorts through his sins, is asking for God’s help. In this Psalm, David provides us with a model for confessing our sins to God. His example instructs us to simply acknowledge our sin and ask for God’s forgiveness. Spring cleaning is, in the simplest sense, an opportunity to clear away our self-made obstacles and begin anew.

God who makes all things new, I come before you, believing in faith that you know me by my true heart. Here I stand, in my nakedness and need, recognizing in my very vulnerability, the hope offered by your "steadfast love." Create in me a clean heart, O God and renew a right spirit within me for it is your love alone that will hear me and heal me. Amen.

Kalen Brune lives in Clayton and loves her job as a school social worker!

March 28, 2009

Read John 6:60-71

When he entered the house, the blind men came to him, and Jesus said to them, “Do you believe I can do this?” They said, “Lord, we do.”—Matthew 9:28

What a great affirmation this verse of Scripture has been over the past month as I have struggled with the trials of life. There were times when the loss of my job and the subsequent impact on my family was overwhelming. The persistence of these thoughts would only seem to deepen the sense of despair and magnitude of the problem. In the midst of this internal chaos was an inner voice that kept stating “Dear child of mine, lift your eyes upward and seek me. I know the concerns you have and the fears of the unknown, but I ask only that you trust in me and allow me time to work in your life.”

Trusting in God is one of the hardest things to do as a Christian. Yet, as I have opened up to complete trust in the Lord, the feelings of despair and gloom dissipated and I have felt my spiritual life renewed. I have come to sense that the more I trust in Him…the more He reveals Himself to me. I have found that by trusting in Him and being obedient in my prayer life, He is active in my situation and He is REAL.

Lord God - In all times and in all situations, may we know that you are an awesome and all-powerful God that is always in work in our lives. Despite our limited and finite understanding, You remind us to place our trust and hope in You knowing that You are in charge and will lead us. In Your most Holy name, we say Amen.

Sue Curfman is a new member of The Gathering and works in the healthcare field.

March 27, 2009

Read Jeremiah 23:1-8

Then I myself will gather the remnant of my flock out of all the lands where I have driven them, and I will bring them back to their fold, and they shall be fruitful and multiply. I will raise up shepherds over them who will shepherd them, and they shall not fear any longer, or be dismayed, nor shall any be missing, says the LORD.—Jeremiah 23:2-4

During the season of Lent, I often find myself feeling a little misplaced - disoriented maybe. It’s a strange time of year: the seasons are on the cusp of changing, but you can still expect to have a balmy Spring-like day followed by a wintry blast of cold, cloudy air. It’s unsettling. And it doesn’t help that in our communal life at church, we’re a little more somber, more penitent, more reflective. Lent reminds us of Jesus’ time in the wilderness and the years the Israelites spent wandering in the desert. So it’s little wonder that we might feel slightly misplaced. Things just aren’t quite right. We’re not “at home.”

In Jeremiah, the Israelites were far from home, too. They’d been scattered all over the place as a result of some bad leadership. They know they’re not where they belong. And God knows they’re not where they belong. So God makes a promise - a pretty incredible promise. God promises that everyone will make it home. Everyone. They will be brought back to the fold. They will be fruitful. They will have good leaders. They will not fear or be dismayed. And they will all be there.

However misplaced we might find ourselves, however far we’ve been scattered from our home in God, God takes it upon Godself to gather us up and bring us back. And no one will be missing.

Pray: O God, greatest of all shepherds, help me keep my faith in your promise that you will always find me and bring me home. Amen.

Yvi Martin is a seminary student at Emory University in Atlanta, GA, and a candidate for ministry in the Missouri Annual Conference.

March 26, 2009

Read Romans 8:12-27

[W]e ourselves, having the first fruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting eagerly for our adoption as sons, the redemption of our body. 24For in hope we have been saved, but hope that is seen is not hope; for who hopes for what he already sees? But if we hope for what we do not see, with perseverance we wait eagerly for it.—Romans 8:23-25

Today’s scripture refreshes the idea that we are on this earth not just of our own will, but to fulfill the will of our Father in Heaven. We have heard “we are all children of God” since we were kids in Sunday school. That hasn’t changed just because we grew up. We are reminded not to live life for the daily physical “things,” but for our future lives with Christ. Be joyful and eager. Just as you keep checking your cell phone for that call, we should also be ready and waiting with bated breath for God to call us home. It may not be familiar to talk to God in prayer. He is always listening and will help you find the words. Prayer means practice. If we follow God and not the desires of the flesh we will find not only time for prayer, but that it comes more easily to us.

Pray: Father in Heaven, help us to forget the will of this world and look toward the fulfillment you provide us. Let the spirit excite us and help us to feel that child-like eagerness for you. We know we do not pray as we should, but you are always listening. Lead us to find the words we seek to speak to you. Let your will be done. We lift up thanks and praise in your holy name, Amen.

Heather Neun is an undergrad in biology at Saint Louis University and mother to 3 year old Sean.

March 25, 2009

Read John 6:27-40

Jesus said to them, "I am the bread of life, whoever comes to me will never be hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty.—John 6:35

This evening I made myself a peanut butter and jelly sandwich for dinner. It wasn't really a sandwich, though, because we didn't have any bread. I needed to find a substitute. After a thorough search of the fridge -- I even looked behind the Christmas cheese log -- I found find a tortilla. But, the PB&J tortilla was not very satisfying. A while later, I was back in the pantry searching for something to snack on.

Every day we search for things that will fulfill us -- literally, emotionally and spiritually. Some things leave us wonton, others leave us sick. And we search, often in vein, in odd places for satisfaction despite God's presence all around us. We often ignore Jesus' call to come to him while looking for something else that will satisfy our hunger and quench our thirst.

Yet, unlike my PB&J tortilla, Jesus satisfies. When we come to him there is no need to search for anything more, for he provides for and sustains us. The Spirit fulfills us totally when we dine at His table.

Dear Lord, guide us to your Son so that we may never be hungry and enrich our belief so that we may never be thirsty. Satisfy us with the bounty of your love. Amen.

Brian Reuwee is a native of West St. Louis County, but went to high school in Springfield, Mo.

March 24, 2009

Read John 6:16-27

Labour not for the meat which perisheth, but for that meat which endureth unto everlasting life, which the Son of man shall give unto you: for him hath God the Father sealed.—John 6:27 (King James Version)

In this passage, Jesus says that we should seek what is enduring, not what is in the moment, and reminds us that what is enduring is the promise of everlasting life.

Life isn’t always easy. In fact there was a six-month period from October ’07 until March ’08, where I thought God was punishing me for some big sin, or maybe for my collective sins. During that time my 19-year-old and my Dad both died. I wondered: where was the benevolent Jesus I believed in?

The truth is that I didn’t do anything to “make” it happen. It just happened. I had turned my back on Jesus, then found The Gathering where my heart has filled with God’s grace and I am learning to bask in the promise of everlasting life where I can be reunited with those I love. And I am at peace in that promise.

Dear Jesus, may we learn through your teachings to trust in you, that even when we don’t understand, you will provide not only what we need in the moment, but for all eternity. Amen.

Lonni Schicker is a Registered Nurse, currently completing a Doctorate in Education. She works for SSM and is a Professor of Health Administration at Lindenwood University. Her children, grandchild and family, as well as the gift of The Gathering and the love of Jesus Christ are her joy.

March 23, 2009

Read Psalm 89:1-18

I will sing of your steadfast love, O LORD, forever;
With my mouth I will proclaim your faithfulness to all generations.
I declare that your steadfast love is established forever;
Your faithfulness is as firm as the heavens.—Psalm 89:1-2

When I was younger, I remember hearing a bible story about a man proclaiming all the good deeds he had done in God's name. My teacher told me that the important point was to do the good deeds, but to also do it with no hope of ever being recognized for it. As a kid, I thought that was ridiculous. No one did something for nothing, until one day I noticed some trash that a driver had thrown from his car. Without even thinking about it I picked it up and threw it away. No one ever said thank you, but I felt 10 feet tall. I had helped and was part of a special team. I imagine singing God's steadfast love forever with deeds that are loud, but with proclamations untold. Visualize a world where everyone acts daily in small ways to make the world a better place just for the pure joy of it.

Dear God, may I be presented with a small opportunity to make the world a better place and may that magnify into a chain of events with unimaginable results. Amen.

Becky Foster is the Director of Children’s Ministry at the Gathering.

March 22, 2009

Read Luke 15:11b-32

So he got up and went to his father. But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him.—Luke 15: 20

A wastefully extravagant consumer. A quick Google search told me that was the definition of prodigal. A further search of several dictionaries confirmed it and the words “wasteful” and “extravagant” were common throughout. Wait. What? I thought I knew this story! I’d colored countless Sunday school activity sheets and listened to numerous sermons. I knew the story. A son runs away, makes bad choices, eats with pigs, and returns home. But adding those three words to the description, adds a new layer to the story for me.

Once again, Jesus tells a story 200 years ago that we still need to hear today. In our world of wastefully extravagant consumerism, it is easy to lose focus. We like gadgets and toys. We always want more. We have more in common with the son in our scripture than we think.

But like the prodigal son, our Father is waiting, with compassion, for us with open arms.

During this season of Lent, help us to regain our focus on you, Lord. Amen

Jan Nelson is a 10-year transplant in St. Louis from Lima, Ohio. During worship you are most likely to find her in the balcony operating the laptop for the projector.

March 21, 2009

Read Romans 6:12-23.

Since we're free in the freedom of God, can we do anything that comes to mind? Hardly. You know well enough from your own experience that there are some acts of so-called freedom that destroy freedom.-Romans 6:15-16 (The Message)

Four years ago, Leon’s father’s growing dementia and worsening medical condition forced us to make a choice between maintaining our own agendas and lifestyle or taking responsibility for his care. With many misgivings, we moved Dad Waxer to Missouri. The ensuing chaotic months brought late-night phone calls from the nursing home concerning anything from needs for foot powder to exploding toilets, the unmasking of decades-old family tensions, and significant disruptions to carefully-laid work and school plans. We also discovered a grandfather who delighted in our newborn son, an artist who enjoyed sketching portraits of new friends, and a free spirit who would discuss his latest political theories with anyone who would listen. Had we held onto our old freedoms, we would have missed a transformation from family as a source of burden and obligation to family as a formidable source of strength, grace, and love.

Suscipe (St. Ignatius of Loyola) Take, Lord, and receive all my liberty, my memory, my understanding and my entire will. All I have and call my own, you have given all to me. To you, Lord, I return it. Everything is yours; do with it what you will. Give me only your love and your grace. That is enough for me.

The Waxer-Nagasakos (Leon, Elna, and Ethan) enjoy visiting coffee shops, having playdates with friends, and keeping their cat Spot happy and fat.

March 20, 2009

Read Romans 6: 1-11

Do you not know that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? Therefore we have been buried with him by baptism into death, so that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, so we too might walk in newness of life…The death he died, he died to sin, once and for all; but the life he lives, he lives to God. So you also must consider yourselves dead to sin and alive to God in Christ Jesus.—Romans 6:3-4, 10-11

When I think of baptism, my mind races back to my childhood and seeing church members being dunked or immersed in a tank of water. This immersion reminded me of one being lowered into a grave. This death, however, was of the person’s sin. What was ironic was the juxtaposition of this death of sin with water. Water that represents Creation. Water that represents human nature. Water that washes and resurrects the individual to new life.

While we don’t always immerse people in the Methodist church, the Sacrament of baptism still links God to our individual lives and into the life of the community. When we are taken into the community, it is still both a death and the creation of new life. By choosing and accepting Christ, we in essence accept death along with him. For me, that meant changing from a corporate career to public service. It meant moving five hundred miles from family and friends to serve in a church. It means having a home that does not belong to me with rusty 1980s fixtures. But at the same time, by gathering and witnessing an infant being baptized, we believe God enters our midst and creates newness. By repenting and accepting, we acknowledge that we can have new life through him and in him. For me, that means creating a community of learners where everyone feels a connection. It means moving again and knowing that new friends await me. It means knowing God and community will provide and it is more than good enough.

During Lent, repent and return to God. Try to find forgiveness and seek the ever-present grace. Remember your baptism and recognize the risen Christ as present and your Savior.

Living God, we are still trying to be the people you would have us to be. Bless our community and our individual lives this Lent. Help us to remember our baptism and allow us to live into new life. Through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Tammy Berneking is a PW raising a 2 ½ yr old PK. No wonder she enjoys (needs) a Tanq & Tonic from time to time.

March 19, 2009

Read: Psalm 42

Why are you downcast, O my soul? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God for I will yet praise him my Savior and my God—Psalm 42:11

The word “hope” has become common these days, popular even. There is a great need for hope in the uncertain times in which we are currently living, so it is not difficult to see why the word, the concept, the meaning is being used and explored so much. Being a follower of Christ does not make us immune to the troubles of this world, and sometimes brings even more stress, discomfort or even persecution.

But it does give us insight into the word “hope” that others don’t have. Our lives and our futures are God’s and in His hands. I know it’s easier said than done to grasp that Hope, for as I write this, I am sick, over-busy and worried about those I care about being jobless. However, we have to place our eternal hope in Him and not the things of this world. As the psalmist discovered, one way to attempt this is to praise Him: for who He is, what He has already done for us, and what He will do.

Pray: God, help me to find Hope in you alone and to remember your sacrifice, your promises, and your love when the world strives to have me forget. I praise you for who you are and what you have done for me! Amen.

Meagan Sinn loves to travel, and is an avid baseball fan who heads to spring training about this time every year!

March 18, 2009

Read John 8:12-20

Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, ‘I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness but will have the light of life.’—John 8:12

Remember the song we learned as kids? “This little light of mine...I’m gonna let it shine...” As followers of Christ we are called to let our light shine. Is your light shining? Do the people around you see the light of Jesus in you? What can you do to shine Christ’s light on your family/friends/neighbors?

You might want to start small, perhaps by performing a random act of kindness or a small favor for a friend. Take a sincere interest in someone’s life. It only takes a spark to light a fire. As your relationships grow, maybe mention a great sermon you heard last weekend at church. Be bold and share your life story or faith journey with them. Once a spark has been lit, you might consider inviting them to church with you or to serve food with you at Centenary Cares. Imagine how bright our city could be!

Sharing our faith with others can be difficult. This passage reminds us Jesus is the source of our light. We only have light because we are walking with Him. Cling to Him and His Word, and our light will shine brighter. Let’s not “hide it under a bushel! No!”

Pray: Dear Lord, Shine your light through me so that others may find their way out of darkness and into the light of life. Amen.

Rebecca Bergson, a native of McLean, Virginia, tries to shine her light at home with her husband, Mac; at work at St. Louis Children’s Hospital; and at school as a part-time graduate student at Washington University.

March 17, 2009

Read Psalm 78:1-39

I will open my mouth in parables,
I will utter hidden things, things from old-
What we have heard and known,
What our fathers have told us.—Psalm 78:2-3

I want to tell you a story. I love those seven words. Every time I hear them, my attention perks up. I want to tell you a story… as we listen to this “once upon a time” tale from the Psalms, this parable of ‘hidden things of old, of what we have heard and known, things our fathers once told,’ we listen to the storyteller unfold his tale and slowly we realize the story is talking and teaching about God, the Keeper of the Story of us all.

This is God’s story unfolding in our lives. We must not hide these stories from our children but proclaim God’s story loud and clear to the next generation. Tell the story of the praiseworthy deeds of the Lord, stories of His power, and the wonders He has done.

Tell the story.

Pray: Father, creator of the stories of our lives and weaver of the stories of the world, help us share your story with the everyone we see. Help us to see your presence in all things. In the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit, we pray. Amen

Doug and Beth Russell are new to the Gathering. We feel privileged to be a part of this joy-full faith community as we share the story.

March 16, 2009

Read John 7:14-36

Do not judge by appearances, but judge with right judgment.—John 7:24

Over the weekend I went to see the movie He Just Not That into You with a group of my girlfriends. The movie wasn’t Oscar worthy by any means, but it hit close to home. Collectively, my friends and I have spent hours overanalyzing why we hadn’t heard from guys or why we weren’t that into them. My friends who dabble in online dating sift through dozens of guys’ profiles daily, eliminating some merely for their zip code or evidence of a receding hairline in the grainy picture on their profile!

My friends’ quick judgment is like the Jews of Judea. Jesus was unfairly judged based on their rules and not by the power of his deeds. Not only were his teachings doubted by his brothers, but the Jews were out to kill him! He may have been uneducated and broke the Sabbath, but he did so to carry out the will of God. His intentions were genuine and he did not feel compelled to “be widely known.”

Although we’re often quick to judge people based on trivial factors, we should focus more on the authenticity in their actions and intentions. For me personally, a receding hairline is nothing compared to unconditional love, shared hopes and dreams, and a great sense of humor!

Pray: Loving God, grant us patience and open-mindedness to look beyond first impressions. If we must judge, teach us to see the substance within. In Jesus' name we pray. Amen.

Corey Stranghoener lives 5 stop signs away from The Gathering, with her boyfriend, Brian.

March 15, 2009

Read 1 Corinthians 1:18-25

For the foolishness of God is wiser than man’s wisdom and the weakness of God is stronger than man’s strength. –1 Corinthians 1:25

Twinkling shimmers of hope disappear. Dark gray brightens to serene magenta. Vibrant oranges give way to radiant blues. Patterns of white embark on a semi-circular journey. The symbol of life reflects its surrounding beauty. Oranges reappear and transition to vivacious reds infused with multi-layered purples. Eventually, the twinkling shimmers of hope reemerge. Afterglows brighten forming motifs across the same semi-circular journey. The cycle of color begins anew.God’s grace is witnessed each and every day of our lives. When we grow in our faith, we begin to see this beauty for how it came to be. This change in perspective allows us to see the Lord within fellow man. At this point we are tasked with helping others see the cycle of color.

Dear Lord, we ask that you instill a sense of humbleness in every person, allowing us to truly see miracles such as a sunrise or sunset as we do your will. In Jesus’ name we pray – Amen.

As a husband, craftsman, designer, and problem solver, Ryan Fronick enjoys listening to and helping others see their potential. The world is a canvas, let’s draw!

March 14, 2009

Read Psalm 19: 1-14

The Heavens are telling the glory of God; they are a marvelous display of the craftsmanship. Day and night they keep on telling about God. Without a sound or word, silent in the skies, their message reaches out to all the world.—Psalm 19: 1-4

I love listening to the Christian radio station and when I first read this Psalm, it reminded me of my favorite song called “Yours” by Steven Curtis Chapman. The chorus words in the song are: “And its all Yours, God, Yours, God Everything is Yours; From the stars in the sky, to the depths of the ocean floor; And its all Yours, God, Yours, God, Everything is Yours; You’re the Maker and Keeper, Father, and Ruler of everything.”

During the semester break I had a lot of time to think while driving to internship interviews in five different states. Even though I was traveling through the dead of winter, I found a lot of beauty from the frozen rivers of South Dakota to the glistening white snow in Ohio. The beauty of the snow was contrasted by the harsh reality of falling down buildings and the extreme poverty that surrounded the hospital complex in Columbus where I interviewed. The words of the song come back to me about the streets of London, the dirt roads of Uganda, and the sidewalks of Nashville. Everything and everyone belongs to God and is His.

This coming week I encourage you to listen to this song and to look around you and see afresh the people and places that reflect God.

Dear God, remind me that my surroundings and the people I meet are all Yours. Help me to slow down and be thankful for all the beauty you have created in this world and the people you have put in my life. Amen.

Rebecca Auch is a senior dietetics student at Fontbonne University and is working toward becoming a Registered Dietitian. She helps with altar preparation and often bakes communion bread. She has a 17 pound cat, named Smudgey, who likes to eat and watch TV.

March 13, 2009

Read Psalm 95

Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts as you did at Meribah, as you did that day at Massah in the desert.—Psalm 95:7-8

Have you ever spent a restless night listening to crickets chirp outside your window? I have spent many such nights trying to decipher those mysterious melodies without really understanding anything more than the power of that sound to put me to sleep. God's voice contains much more mystery, and it is not always predictable when it will be heard.

God has a presence among us each and every day whether it's during our morning coffee, commute home in the afternoon, or prayers at night. He is the maker of all that we treasure, and we can rejoice and find comfort in His steadfast love. He does not ask us to be conscious of his perpetual presence, but when He does speak to us, we should open our hearts and listen. With an open heart, we can be honest with God and honest with ourselves.

Pray: Dear God: Give us the strength to listen to Your message for us. Amen.

Ben Scruggs is a graduate student at WashU and spends his spare time with his wife and chasing his 8 month old puppy.

March 12, 2009

Read Jeremiah 4:9-10,19-28

So now, o Israel, what does the Lord your God require of you? Only to fear the Lord your God, to walk in all his ways, to love him, to serve the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul, and to keep the commandments of the Lord your God and his decrees that I am commanding you today, for your own well-being.—Deuteronomy 10:12

It sure sounds simple doesn’t it? All we have to do is walk in God’s way, love him and serve him with all our heart and soul. How easy, right? I know it’s not easy because I have to work on it every day, and I’ve had discussions with others who work on it every day as well, so I know I’m not alone. Keeping the commandments seems easy at first. Thou shalt not kill, no problem. Thou shalt not covet thy neighbor’s house, maybe not so easy. But what’s important is that I try my best to live my life in a way that honors Him. If I fall I pick myself up and try again. Through the years my faith has grown deeper, and my love for Him stronger, yet I have room for daily improvement!

In this season of Lent, let us all work everyday to improve our Christian life.

Pray: Lord, thank you for giving yourself for me. May I use your examples as a reminder of the person I want to be. Amen

Barb Guess enjoys exercising, Godiva chocolate, and a good merlot, not necessarily in that order.

March 11, 2009

Read Psalm 72

He shall come down like rain upon the mown grass: as showers that water the earth.—Psalm 72:6

For all of the metaphors that represent one’s life, the above strikes me as a beautifully fresh and timely parallel to the stage of life that I find myself. I’ve lived through the Spring season of my blessed time influencing people in many ways but much of that influence was focused on seemingly mundane subject matter. I spent many a moment to convince people to listen to certain music or do their work in a particularly efficient manner. Told others how they should dress or how to approach a sporting activity tactically. Explained endlessly the pros of purchasing a certain brand of automobile or...so on and so forth. Amidst all these interactions with people they always seem to be important at the time. But now as I have matured and grown to a significant potential, I have been given a new perspective and I have realized that God’s word takes precedence over all of those mundane things. Now it is my time to share his strength with those people who value my opinion. It is more important now than ever before because in helping others to grow in his word, I am continuing to grow.

Pray: Dear God: Open my heart to the influence of God’s strength. Help me to take the time to share my understanding of Your word with those around me as it will only make me stronger. Amen

Stephen Barr was brought up in the Methodist church in urban Des Moines, Iowa where his family drove in from the suburbs every Sunday to worship at the building his Grandparents help build. Life truly is cyclical as he now drives his family into the city to worship at a new church that they became involved with near the very beginning of its conception.

March 10, 2009

Read John 4:43-54

Unless you people see miraculous signs and wonders,' Jesus told him, 'you will never believe.—John 4:48

John 4:43-54 tells the story of the royal official who asks Jesus to heal his son. The boy is close to death, and the official begs Jesus to come to his home and heal the boy. Jesus utters the lines quoted above and then tells the official that his son will live and that he can return home.

What is most shocking to me about this story isn't that Jesus heals the boy. It's the fact that the man takes Jesus at his word and goes home. In such a dire situation, could you have done that? I'm not sure I could have.

We pray for things all the time--for healing, for wisdom, for courage--but how often to do we wait patiently, believing that in time God will fulfill the promises he's made to us?

I know that I often expect miraculous answers to my prayers. I have a hard time letting things happen on God's time and terms. When big things don't happen, I get disheartened.

I think Jesus is right. I think that it's hard sometimes to believe in the promises of God without miraculous proof. If we look closely, though, those miraculous signs and wonders are all around us, and our prayers are being answered in small and unexpected ways. This story, and especially this passage, reminds me that I need to wait for God's answer on God's time.

Pray: Dear God:Thank you for all of the unexpected ways you answer our prayers. Remind us that you are at work in our lives, even when the answers to our prayers aren't big or life changing. Grant us the patience to experience your works in your time and in your way.
Amen.

Erin Leach is a wife, librarian, and amateur crafter. She enjoys naps, jogging on the treadmill while watching bad reality television, and taking part in The Gathering's small group ministry

March 9, 2009

Read Romans 1:1-15

To all God's beloved in Rome, who are called to be saints: Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for all of you, because your faith is proclaimed throughout the world. For God, whom I serve with my spirit by announcing the gospel of his Son, is my witness that without ceasing I remember you always in my prayers, asking that by God's will I may somehow at last succeed in coming to you. For I am longing to see you so that I may share with you some spiritual gift to strengthen you—or rather so that we may be mutually encouraged by each other's faith, both yours and mine.—Romans 1:7-12

We are called by God. As citizens of the world, as people from different faiths and backgrounds, we are called to proclaim and live God’s message of compassion, charity, and tolerance, and to pursue justice and peace. Like Paul finds solace and encouragement in the community of his fellow believers, we should remember one another in prayer as we navigate the difficulties and opportunities of life, and as we work to create opportunity where it is needed. By celebrating the gospel and proclaiming our faith to God and to one another as followers, we strengthen our belief in humanity and we recognize the gifts that God has given to us. We should celebrate our shared faith and vision of God’s world, because it encourages our individual efforts and provides a sense of well-being.

Pray: Dear God, grant me the discipline to recognize your call. Help me take time to honor your name, to live your message, to 'lead by example', to live by your word, and share the good news about your love to those hungry for acceptance, or in need of encouragement. Let me not forget the others that have been called, let me reach out to them and find encouragement and strength in our connection. Help us stay optimistic that with hard work, faith, and devotion we can make a positive change in the things that we encounter. Amen.

Josh Kennerly has attended The Gathering for 2 years. He lives in Maplewood, MO with his wife and two daughters.

March 8, 2009

Read Mark 8:31-38

Then he called the crowd to him along with his disciples and said: "If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for me and for the gospel will save it. What good is it for a man to gain the whole world, yet forfeit his soul? Or what can a man give in exchange for his soul? If anyone is ashamed of me and my words in this adulterous and sinful generation, the Son of Man will be ashamed of him when he comes in his Father's glory with the holy angels.”—Mark 8:31-38

As we read this passage, especially the first command, it may be difficult to comprehend all that Jesus is asking us to do. Just how many things, how much, should we be denying ourselves? How big a cross will we have to bear? Or you may be thinking, I feel like I already bear the weight of a heavy cross...how much more can I take? More importantly, let's focus on the last two words: "follow me.” Jesus is asking us to focus on a relentless pursuit of faith. He is asking us to embark on an emotional, amazing-grace, soul-searching, life-saving adventure. Would you hike up Mount Everest and bring everything you own? Sometimes the journey requires only the essential equipment and in this case, it only requires you. Sure, we want to celebrate the many blessings in life along the way, but we want to be mindful that the greatest gift of all is grace and salvation through faith in Christ.

Pray: Gracious Father, help me to walk closer to you each day as I navigate the temptations of the world. By your grace I am saved, and there is no greater blessing. Amen.

Christy Kleinbeck enjoys working in youth and urban education at UrbanFUTURE in Tower Grove South. She spends Sunday mornings at the Gathering with her fiancé, Kameron.

March 7, 2009

Read John 4: 1-26

The woman said to Him, “I know that the Messiah is coming. When He comes, He will tell us all things.” Jesus said to her, “I who speak to you am He.”—John 4:25-26

The Jews did not like the Samaritans. When Jesus left Judea to depart for Galilee, he needed to go through Samaria. This was not a problem for Jesus, and he didn’t make a big announcement of his arrival. Instead, he simply shared his identity in the shade of a well to an ostracized Samaritan woman. Jesus knew her past and did not condemn her. Suddenly, the insignificance of her life disappeared in the glory of that moment. “God is here! God has come! God cares for me!” She is joyous.

Leaving the well, she grabbed the first person she saw and announced her discovery. “I just talked to a man who knows everything I ever did…and he loves me anyway!” There it is…that unconditional love. That’s Jesus…doing what he does best…telling us and showing us that God is love.

All of us make mistakes and poor choices. We are human. I am overwhelmed with gratitude when I think that God forgives me, welcomes me into His arms, and showers me with unconditional love. Isn’t it amazing to know that there is not a checklist of things that we must do first in order to receive this unconditional love? There are no strings attached, no plea bargains to be made, and no fine print to read. He loves me. When I know that someone loves me and does not place conditions on that love…well, I strive to honor that loving gift by working diligently to improve my life and the life of others, to share kindness with others, to be more accepting and tolerant of others, and to freely offer to others that unconditional love that is given to me. Jesus loves me this I know…and by His love and my love for him, I am redeemed!

Father, help me learn from the teachings of Jesus. Work with me in strengthening my faith so that I can “see” others in the way that Jesus would see them. Allow me to offer unconditional love to all that I meet and to be an instrument of your word as I share the good news and joy of the love of Jesus Christ. Amen

Michael Muren joined The Gathering in June of 2008.

March 6, 2009

Read Psalm 95

O that today you would listen to His voice! Do not harden your hearts as at Miribah, as on the day at Massah in the wilderness, when your ancestors tested me, and put me to the proof, though they had seen my work.—Psalm 95: 7-8

Everyday I experience God’s goodness in my life: in the strength of my marriage; in the eyes of my children; in the gift of enough to eat and a house to live in; in the companionship of my friends; in the community of my church. I know that all I have is a blessing, and yet how often am I put out by small meaningless occurrences in my hectic life. How easy I forget to listen to His voice, or when I do hear Him, how quickly I brush it aside to keep on my schedule. We need to keep our eyes and ears open EVERY DAY…keep our heart open EVERY DAY! Proof of His love is around us; our task is to be open to Him EVERY DAY.

Pray: God, help me use my eyes, ears and heart to experience your glory every day, Amen.

Barb Guess is a wife, busy mom of 2 teenagers, and teaches early childhood in a special education classroom.

March 5, 2009

Read John 3:16-21

And this is the judgment, that the light has come into the world, and people loved darkness rather than light because their deeds were evil. For all who do evil hate the light and do not come to the light, so that their deeds may not be exposed. But those who do what is true come to the light, so that it may be clearly seen that their deeds have been done in God.—John 3:19-21

John 3:19 confronts us with the fact that we sometimes love darkness. We all do evil. We may congratulate ourselves that we do not have malice in our hearts, but evil can come from other sources such as apathy, indifference, and sloth. And what is more natural than to hide evil when you realize what you have done? Christ warns us that an impulse to hide something we have done is an indication that the act was evil. Our first task is simple: stop doing evil. Christ urges us to do good and come to the light. John Wesley, the founder of Methodism, echoes Christ when he makes one of his three rules simply “Do good.” Very simply then, Christ’s message to us is to stop doing evil, and start doing good. Evil has many faces and can be difficult to discern, but at least Christ has given us a clue for finding it. If it is something that you don’t want others to know about, it’s probably something you shouldn’t do.

Heavenly Father, help me to recognize the evil that I do and to cease doing it. Grant me the strength and virtue to do good in this world. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

David Parnell enjoys keeping checked-out library books for as long as possible.

March 4, 2009

Read Hebrews 3:12-19

For we have become partners of Christ, if only we hold our first confidence firm to the end. As it is said, ‘Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts as in the rebellion.”—Hebrews 3:14-15

As a child I learned that the 40 days of Lent were a time for self-denial and a time to honor the 40 days that Jesus withdrew into the wilderness before he started his ministry. The idea of self-denial always made sense to me but only recently did I start wrestling with the idea of wilderness and its purpose in the season of Lent. Before he began his ministry in this world, Jesus went into the wilderness to prepare his heart for the great works God had in store for him. During Lent we too have the opportunity to venture into the wilderness to prepare our own hearts for what God has in store for us. It turns out though that sometimes the wilderness of our lives can be pretty daunting. In the wilderness one may feel alone and lost, confused and ambivalent, anxious and scared. Yes, we have chosen to become partners in Christ but how do we hold our first confidence in Him firm to the end? How do we find our way back out of the wilderness during this season of lent? Listen. Listen for God’s voice. Listen for God’s voice calling to you in the wilderness. As you prepare your heart during this season of Lent do not be afraid to spend time in the wilderness; but if you hear God’s voice calling to you, listen to it. Do not harden your heart in rebellion. Be vigilant, focused, and sincere in your effort to hold your first confidence in Him firm to the end.

Pray: Lord God, thank you for the opportunity to voyage into the wilderness during this season of Lent. Please grant me the wisdom to hear your voice calling to me, the courage to follow that voice out of the wilderness, and the strength to hold strong to my first confidence in you. Amen.

Jenny Shult works as a social worker at a large non-profit that supports people with developmental disabilities and their families.

March 3, 2009

Read John 2:13-22

He told those who were selling the doves, "Take these things out of here! Stop making my Father's house a marketplace!" His disciples remembered that it was written, "Zeal for your house will consume me." The Jews then said to him, "What sign can you show us for doing this?" Jesus answered them, "Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up." The Jews then said, "This temple has been under construction for forty-six years, and will you raise it up in three days?" But he was speaking of the temple of his body.—John 2:16-21

In times of trouble, good TV drama actors can often include short prayers to God that go something like this; “If you get me through this, I promise I’ll live a better life.” Or, “If you’re really up there, give me a sign.” In our hectic lives, we often think that God has forgotten about us and we test God, just as the Jews tested Jesus, to prove divine existence. Usually, the problem isn’t in the lack of God’s presence or power, but in the lack of our serenity and calmness to hear God’s voice. I believe the marketplace in this story represents our everyday life. Our work, errands, and family commitments all hinder us from listening to God. True faith is believing before something happens. It’s believing that God will help when asked. And, it means that we are not to test God with “If you’re up there….” Or “Get me out of this and I’ll…” As we read scripture and try our best to make sense of it, let God speak to you and bring a fresh air to the ancient words.

Pray: Dear God, we know you exist. We know that you are there to hear us, comfort us and heal us. But God, we know that we must take time to talk with you, to learn more about you and to offer up our prayers. I commit to making this Lenten season a time when I will draw closer to you; because of your love for me and for the gift of your Son. Amen.

Andy Waggoner is the Director of Worship Ministries at The Gathering, and is also the Artistic Director and Conductor of the Collinsville Chorale and participates in acting and musically directing community theatre.

March 2, 2009

Read John 2:1-12

[T]he steward tasted the water that had become wine, and did not know where it came from…Jesus did this, the first of his signs, in Cana of Galilee, and revealed his glory; and his disciples believed in him.—John 2:9, 11

Sometimes, especially when I’m talking to people who don’t share my same faith in Christ, I wish that there were the sort of wine-to-water enormous and mind-boggling miracles to support my case for faith. So, from time to time, I reread the lyric to a song by Peter Mayer that I copied into my journal once: Wine from water is not so small/But an even better magic trick/Is that anything is here at all/So the challenging thing becomes/Not to look for miracles/But finding where there isn’t one.

This frame of mind changes my entire experience of any particular day. Simply walking out the door to my car each morning before work becomes a prayer of humble thanks—for the smell of the outdoors, for the satisfying crunch of the leaves still on the ground juxtaposed against the first signs of new life on the branches above me, the bright sun and the noisy birds calling overhead—God’s daily generosity and constant reminders of His mighty presence.

The enormity of the miracle isn’t the fact that Jesus turned water into wine, it’s that God loves us so much that He reveals His glory to us over and over, nourishing our belief. What’s more, He loves us so much that He sent His son to demonstrate that love in a way that we might understand.

Pray: Living God, You fill the world around us with miracles. Open our hearts and our minds so that we might recognize Your power and beauty in our encounter of the world. We praise You for sending us Your son, who revealed You through not only miracles, but also by showing understanding, acceptance and love for all Your children. May we follow in His footsteps to do the same. Amen.

Holly Knights and her boyfriend, Matt, will be very sad to say goodbye to The Gathering when they move to Chicago this summer.

Sunday March 1, 2009

Read 1 Peter 3:18-22

God waited patiently.—1 Peter 3:20

Being a parent is a trying affair. Kids often move at their own pace; sometimes racing around the house, other times totally frozen in place by a toy they haven’t seen in months, or a T.V. show, or a book, or most anything but what you want them to do RIGHT NOW.

Oftentimes, we forget the patience God has for us. Peter tells of how God waited for Noah to finish construction of the ark was built until he flooded the Earth. Thousands of years passed before Jesus arrived, while God continued to love us and we moved at our own pace—sometimes listening to God, other times chasing false idols, other gods, or whatever distracted us at that time. We are God’s children, and try as we might, we still act like children. And God still loves us.

As we enter this time of Lent, we should recognize not only God’s love for us, but his patience when we stray from His plan. He continues to love us when we stop paying attention; just as we love our children even when the Power Ranger is more important than getting dressed for school.

Pray: Dear Lord, we are blessed by your love and patience. Remind us of your grace, as we struggle to show patience towards others. Amen.

Jeff Atkinson and his wife Jennifer often ask “Is there a butterfly in here?” when Eric’s attention goes from place to place. Thankfully, since Aaron is only 2 months old, he is a bit easier to keep track of on a regular basis.

Saturday February 28, 2009

Read Psalm 30

Oh Lord my God, I cried to you for help, and you have healed me.—Psalm 30:2

While vacationing in Mexico I contracted Bell's Palsy, a paralysis of the major nerve of one side of the face. Luckily for me a friend had had it a few months earlier. I had seen his face and he had told me about the progression of his bout with Bell's Palsy. We quickly called the house doctor of the resort we were staying at and through my limited Spanish and his limited English we were able to determine it was Bells Palsy and he prescribed medications for me.

I saw my doctor the day after we arrived back home and she changed the medications and added physical therapy. The therapist sent me home with a small device that I was to use four times a day. I was to shock 4 different areas of my face, ten times each, to stimulate the nerves of my face to get them working again. It was not a pleasant thing to do, shocking myself on my eyebrow, nose, lips and cheek. But, I sure didn’t want the left side of my face to stay the way it was, drooping and not moving.

About the 4th day I became very discouraged and just sat down on the toilet and cried. My husband heard me crying and came in. He was surprised to find me this way since I had been pretty upbeat about the whole thing, to this point. He was very understanding and gave me a pep talk, which helped a bit. I finished that shock session and went into the bed room to talk and cry with God. I honestly don’t remember much about the conversation we had, but I do remember to this day the feeling I could finish the therapy, and that God had been with me through the whole experience and would see me through this and any other tough times ahead.

Pray: Lord, thank you for sending your son to make the ultimate sacrifice for us. I can only imagine the pain he endured. I know you are watching over me. Please help me to always come to you when I am hurting or confused. I know you will give me strength. Amen.

Alice Davis gives a shout out to Brynn, her awesome step-daughter and Jeff, her sweetheart of a husband. Oh, and their cat, Abby who lets them live with her.

Friday February 27, 2009

Read Psalm 95

O come, let us sing to the Lord; let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation!—Psalm 95:1

When I read this Psalm I am reminded what a great God we have to worship. A God above all others, a God who made the earth and the sea, a God who guides us as a shepherd guides his sheep.

Some days it's so easy to feel God's presence all around me, to worship and make a joyful noise. There are other days when I struggle to feel God's presence, when I feel in the dark and alone.

It is on these days that I've found that I need to choose to worship God. I need to choose joy. In choosing to worship God, I am reminded of what an awesome God we serve. In choosing joy, I think of all that I am thankful for and I am reminded of how blessed I am. In choosing to worship, I find the darkness of the day gone and I am reminded that I am not alone. During this season of Lent, let us all intentionally choose joy and experience worship.

Pray: Lord, we all have days where we feel Your presence and days when we feel all alone. Help us remember that You are always there, even when we feel in the dark and alone. Remind us to choose joy, to choose to worship You and make a joyful noise. Amen

Steve Stack is the second of three sons of two most amazing people he knows. His parents, Jim & Mary Sue.

Thursday February 26, 2009

Read Titus 1:1-16

For this reason rebuke them sharply, so that they may become sound in the faith.—Titus 1:13

In this scripture reading, Paul addresses his colleague Titus, who was left on the island of Crete to guide the new community of Christians there. Paul does not have a high opinion of Cretans. He advises Titus to guide them strictly and firmly, calling the Cretans “detestable, disobedient, unfit for any good work.”

This passage makes me uneasy. It sounds like many complaints I heard in the middle school teachers’ lounge, especially regarding the 8th graders who were about to go on to high school. But even worse, it sounds like Paul expects Christians to hold each other accountable for their own actions, and to confront each other directly when one believes another is misbehaving. Worse yet, Jesus himself describes this process in detail in Matthew 18: 15-20.
Personally, I don’t know if I want other people to judge my behavior and get in my face about it. The Church has a well-deserved reputation for being intolerant and judgmental; there are far too many so-called Christians who think they have the one and only true answer. I frankly am not interested in their opinions, let alone their condemnations.

However, this is Lent. It’s a time of self-examination, humility, and sacrifice. Perhaps I need to examine my resistance to being held accountable; maybe I need to sacrifice my attachment to my own interpretations and beliefs; it could be that I need humbly to solicit the insight and advice of Christian people whom I trust. I know I’m far from perfect. Hearing what I need to correct or improve might not be so bad if I know that I am loved by the community of faith. I might even be able to make some changes.

Pray: Blessed and Beloved Spirit, by your holy grace give us the faith and courage to examine our pride, to sacrifice our unwillingness to change, and to trust that we are loved. Amen.

Becky Browne is an inconsistent gardener who enjoys baking bread and thinks that kids are going to the dogs only if they are volunteering at the Humane Society.

Ash Wednesday

Read Joel 2:1-2, 12-17
Yet even now, says the Lord, return to me with all your heart, with fastin, with weeping and with mourning…Blow the trumpet in Zion; sanctify a fast; call a solemn assembly; gather the people. Sanctify the congregation.—Joel 2:12 & 15-16

The prophet Joel spoke jolting words of God to Israel, “return to me with all your heart, with weeping, and with mourning.” Most of us don’t like to think God demands anything harsh of us. Most of us don’t like to think that God might engage in judgment. None of us want to believe that we’ve somehow separated ourselves from God in a way that requires a return with fasting, weeping and mourning. It makes God sound harsh and makes us sound worse than we are.
But…then I think about the life I’ve been living. I think about the waste of resources I create. I think about the abuse I perpetrate against friends (usually without even realizing it) because of my own self-centeredness. I think about how I’ve failed to be present to my family because I was too wrapped up in my job or in my own wants. And suddenly, God’s call to return, God’s judgment doesn’t seem nearly as unjustified and negative. In fact, when I take a minute to reflect on the ways I haven’t quite lived up to the expectations of God and my community, I start to realize that God’s judgment and call for penance doesn’t have to be understood as harsh. It can be understood as merciful, even necessary to bring me back to a life of faithful living.Lent is not a time to feel guilty about misdeeds. Lent is time set aside to intentionally remember how we live and to seek a return to God and faithfulness. Such a return is not easy, nor is it something we can do alone. We require the assistance of God’s grace and our community. Joel’s call to return to God is immediately followed by a call to do so with others: “Call a solemn assembly; gather the people. Sanctify the congregation.” Over the next several weeks, allow yourself to be called closer to God. Do so by opening yourself to others at The Gathering. Join this community in seeking a return to faithful living. Seek the intentionality of Tuesday morning prayer, the Experiencing Prayer sessions, weekly worship and your own private prayer life with this Lenten Devotional. And through this gathering, this solemn assembly, this sanctified congregation, I pray you grow in and towards God.

Pray: Merciful God, we are still trying to be the people you would have us to be. Sanctify our community and our individual lives this Lent. Open us to hear your Words, calling us back, and allow us to grow closer to you. Through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Nate Berneking is the Pastor of Spiritual Formation. He enjoys thinking, reading, cooking, traveling and spending time with friends and family.