Monthly Archives

March 2022

Devotions by Pastor Dave Timm: Thursday- March 17, 2022

So…are you taking time to read God’s Word daily, reading devotionals, worshiping at a church, and spending quiet time with the Lord?

A few months ago, I printed this on the RR website:

Welcome to my devotions. I’m glad that you’re interested in focusing on what God’s Word has to say to you today. I started writing these devotions when Covid first began. You’ll find about 150 devotions on this page, covering many different topics and situations that we find ourselves in. Based on God’s Word, they focus on His blessings in the good days, as well as in the storms of life.

Before reading, pray first. Then I would suggest you go back and pick a date or start with the first one. Each devotion should take you about 15 minutes to read. After you’ve read it…let it percolate. As you personalize them, ask God to speak to you, and to help you make healthy, Christ-centered choices.

If I can help you in your spiritual journey, email me at [email protected]

I followed my own advice and thought I would pick a devotion to read. I chose to go back one year ago today……here it is!

March 17, 2021

Have you ever been driving down the road or sitting at a traffic light and noticed a bumper sticker that really got your attention? Perhaps it was funny…or offensive…or profound. Here are a few you may have seen:

  • Watch out for the idiot behind me!
  • I bet Jesus would have used His turn signal!
  • The closer you get the slower I go!
  • If life gives you lemons, throw them at someone!
  • I express my individuality thru mass-produced bumper stickers!
  • Your kid may be an honor student, but you are still an idiot!
  • Sometimes I wake up grumpy, other times I let him sleep!
  • Change is inevitable, except from a vending machine!
  • Why is abbreviation such a long word?
  • There’s no reason to tailgate when I’m doing 50 in a 35…and those flashing lights on top of your car look ridiculous!

Well…maybe you have seen unusual ones. Some are funny, some informative, some make you mad or embarrassed. The fact is that those stickers are a reflection of the person driving the car:

If it’s funny, we think the person driving the car has a sense of humor.

If it’s mean or vulgar, we may hope we don’t have to talk to that person.

If it’s political, you may like or hate that person driving the car.

Truth is that what’s on the outside of the car is often a reflection on who is inside the car!

Well…what so-called bumper sticker are you wearing? I’m not talking about your car. What do people see when they see you? What message do you send by your words… or actions…or aroma?

Our Words:

Proverbs 11:9 msg…The loose tongue of the godless spreads destruction; the common sense of the godly preserves them.

Proverbs 15:1 msg…A gentle response defuses anger, but a sharp tongue kindles a temper-fire.

Our words can say a lot about what is going on inside us. They reveal who we really are. People can see through our hypocrisy when we proclaim to be Christians but speak like heathens…. when we proclaim peace and speak hatred…When we want people to like us, so we speak evil about fellow Christians.

Our Actions:

Ephesians 4:20-24 msg…But that’s no life for you. You learned Christ! My assumption is that you have paid careful attention to him, been well instructed in the truth precisely as we have it in Jesus. Since then, we do not have the excuse of ignorance, everything—and I do mean everything—connected with that old way of life has to go. It’s rotten through and through. Get rid of it! And then take on an entirely new way of life—a God-fashioned life, a life renewed from the inside and working itself into your conduct as God accurately reproduces his character in you.

1 Peter 3:15…But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.

Let me remind you that people are watching. Your kids/grandkids are watching…your neighbors are watching…your co-workers are watching. They want to see how you put your faith into action. Are you loving and kind? Do you care about others? Are you living a life that glorifies your Lord and Savior?

Our Aroma:

A funny thing happened to me last week. I have been noticing a foul smell when I am driving in my car. At first, I blamed it on the fact that the car windows have been tightly closed in the cold winter months. I then started to think that maybe it was me…that I stink! Well, as the nicer weather came last week, I got the car washed. I was feeling energetic, so I got out of the vacuum. As I poked it under my seat, I pulled out 2 onions. They had been there a while and were bolting fresh growth…and they stunk!

How is your aroma? Now, I’m not talking about if there are onions under your seat…or how well your deodorant is working! But, are there “onions” in your life? Items that seem hidden but impact who you are and how you “smell” to others?

Several years ago, Chicago newspapers carried the story of a busboy in a Chinese restaurant who went to a bank to get change for $500.  The restaurant needed $250 in coins and $250 in one-dollar bills.  The teller grabbed a stack of $100 bills by mistake and gave the young man $250 in coins and $25,000 in bills!

The young man noticed the error immediately, but detecting a windfall, didn’t say anything. He left the bank with the money and hid it at a relative’s home. With some of the money, he went to another bank and got $250 in one-dollar bills. He then returned to the restaurant, thinking he had made a small fortune.

The bank teller, when she discovered her mistake, couldn’t identify the person to whom she had given the $100 bills. But she remembered how he smelled.  She knew from his scent that he worked in a Chinese restaurant. She not only remembered the aroma, but she was able to connect it with the exact restaurant where the busboy worked. With the police, she located the restaurant and identified the busboy. He was promptly fired, and the money was recovered. The bank decided not to prosecute since the mistake was theirs, and they wanted to preserve good relations with the restaurant.

What do you smell like? As Christians, we are to carry with us “the aroma of Christ.” There should be something about us that radiates the love of Christ.

2 Corinthians 2:15…For we are to God the aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing.

Obviously, the word “aroma” here is not to be taken literally. The aroma Paul is talking about is not necessarily detected with the nose. But it is sensed by those who come in contact with us.

Ordinarily, the aroma is a byproduct of activity. When you exercise, you work up a sweat and get body odor. When you eat garlic, you get garlic breath. If you douse yourself with perfume, you smell like the fragrance counter in a department store.

In the same way, when you serve Christ and do it in a spirit of love and humility, you begin to pick up the aroma of Christ.

Stay connected to the Lord daily…and others will “sense” that you are a child of God.

St. Francis of Assisi once said, “Preach the Gospel at all times; only if necessary, use words.” He was talking about the aroma of Christ. Can people smell you?

So, over the next week, I challenge you to watch yourself to see how you reflect the Lord.

  • Watch what you say! Are your words sweet and uplifting?
  • Watch what you do! Do your actions reflect your Savior?
  • Watch your “aroma”! Do you radiate the Love of Christ!

Humor for the day:

The frugal Lutheran walked into the house panting and almost completely exhausted. “What happened, honey?” inquired his wife.

“It’s a great new idea. I have to be a better steward of our resources,” he gasped. “I ran all the way home from the stewardship committee meeting behind the bus and saved $1.50.

“That wasn’t very bright,” replied his flustered wife. “Why didn’t you run behind a taxi and save $10?”

Spend time with your Lord daily. Go back and read one of my devotions for the last few years at Royred.org

Pastor dave

Devotions by Pastor Dave Timm: Friday – January 14, 2022

Welcome to my devotions. I’m glad that you’re interested in focusing on what God’s Word has to say to you today. I started writing these devotions when Covid first began. You’ll find about 150 devotions on this page, covering many different topics and situations that we find ourselves in. Based on God’s Word, they focus on His blessings in the good days, as well as in the storms of life.Before reading, pray first. Then I would suggest you go back and pick a date or start with the first one. Each devotion should take you about 15 minutes to read. After you’ve read it…let it percolate. As you personalize them, ask God to speak to you, and to help you make healthy, Christ-centered choices.If I can help you in your spiritual journey, email me at [email protected]

Devotions by Pastor Dave Timm: Wednesday – October 27, 2021

A main goal for me as I write these devotions, is to encourage you to read, find Hope, Joy and direction in God’s Word!

I had the honor of officiating at a funeral the other day. After most funerals, people will come up to me or email me, saying things like…”Thanks for explaining what Psalm 23 is all about.” They say that they read, but sometimes do not understand the Power of God’s Word…How it applies in the good times as well as the not so good times…Hope this helps!

PSALM 23…with explanation

Many times, when life gets tough, we turn to God’s Word for comfort. Sometimes we read the Word and yet we’re not quite sure how it applies to our situation. Now most of us know Psalm 23 as one of those psalms that should bring us peace…. And yet when I ask people about it, they are not really sure what it’s all about. So here is psalm 23 with an explanation of each of the blessings that God offers to us.

“The Lord is my shepherd.” I don’t know about you. But I’ve never met a shepherd in real life. But I do know what they do. They take care of the sheep… they provide for them… they protect them… they guide them…and they are even willing to die for them. Jesus is our Good Shepherd.

 “I shall not want.” Well, if we are honest, we will admit that we want a lot of things. Turn on the TV and see the commercials and we all want those things. And they’re not bad in themselves. But this verse is talking about not having to want for anything of value because God generously provides all that we really need.

“He makes me to lie down in green pastures.” I really love this verse. It’s a reminder to me of God’s peace. The image is us lying in a green pasture on a sunny day… Looking up at the clouds and God’s creation. Total Peace!

“He leadeth me beside still waters.” Well, The Bible is full of many references to water. We know that there’s the waters of creation….The waters of the flood. Crossing rivers and seas… and most importantly we know that there are the baptismal waters. The still waters when God adopts us into his family. Heirs to His Kingdom.

“He restores my soul.” Well, we are known by our bodies. The tents we live in… But it’s our soul that is the essence. It’s our relationship with the Lord…and through faith… He restores our soul.

‘He leadeth me in paths of righteousness.” I have to admit that this is one that makes me laugh a little, because I have GPS in my car…. And yet I like to mess with it. I say I want to go to point (A). And it knows the exact right way to get me to point (A). It says turn left after two traffic lights. And I turn right at the third traffic light. And yet it never gives up on me. It recalibrates over and over again with one goal in mind. To get me to point (A). God is the same, He is leading you on a path that leads to His plans for you. He never gives up…His one goal is for you to spend eternity with Him.

“For His name sake.” As Christians we have His name “Christ” in our title. We live by and for His most precious Name sake.

“Yea though I walk through The Valley of the shadow of death.” The most important word in this section is the word “through”. We don’t end up in a Valley of death. Through faith in Jesus Christ we walk through that Valley from life here to life eternal. And by the way, you can’t have a shadow unless you have a light… and of course we know who that light is.

I will fear no evil.” We live in an evil world…and yet we don’t have to fear any evil. Jesus came to overcome evil. We read in Revelation that God wins…He already won!

“For thou art with me.” That’s the faithfulness that God gives us. His promise is that He will never leave you… He will never forsake you. He is there on the good days and the not so good days.

“Thy rod and thy staff comfort me.” Well, this is an interesting verse because it’s back to the shepherd again. A rod to ward off the evil Wolf…as well as a shepherd staff to gently nudge the sheep back as they wander off into danger. If you have wandered…He is searching for you!

“Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of my enemies.” The Bible is full of stories and many important ones happened around banquet tables. We gather as well, as we gather around the communion tables at our churches. Opportunities for God to come to us in a very special way.

 “Thou anointest my head with oil.” That’s an Old Testament image of a priest having oil poured over his head to anoint him or set him apart. Sounds like it’s just for priests. No! In the New Testament, you and I are the “priesthood of believers.” A great time to share the Gospel with someone is when you’re leaving a funeral. Grieving the loss of a loved one…but in the Hope of eternal life. That is a great time to share your faith with others…The reason for your Hope!

“My cup runneth over.” Your cup is not half full or half empty… it’s overflowing with blessings from God. Count them daily and thank the Lord for them.

“Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life.” Well there is a church word in this section (mercy.)…That’s when God does not give us what we deserve….instead He gives us what we don’t deserve. The word is grace. A free gift of eternal life. God loves you in spite of you!

 “and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever.” That’s God’s blessing, leading to our future face to face with our Lord and Savior. It’s ours simply through faith in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior!

**If you have been following these devotions, note that I will be taking a break from creating them. I encourage you to go back, pick a date over the last 19 months, look up the devotion that I wrote for that day…you can find them on royred.org/devotions and reread that devotion.**

HUMOR FOR YOUR DAY:
A shepherd owned a remarkable dog, gifted at sheep herding and able to speak. At the end of the day, after his dog had herded the flock into the pen, the shepherd asked his canine friend to confirm how many sheep were in. “40,” the dog barked. “40? I counted 37.” “Yes,” replied the dog, “but I rounded them up.”

Devotions by Pastor Dave Timm: Wednesday – October 20, 2021

Romans 6:23: “For the wage of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

We have all seen the ads and heard the commercials that seem too good to be true:

  • “A limited time offer…buy one, get one free!”
  • “A free gift to the first 100 callers!”
  • “Act now and save!”
  • “Call now, and we will throw in free shipping!”

They all fall into a category that our parents would warn us against when they said, “there is no such thing as a free lunch!”

And yet, that’s what the Gospel is all about. It’s not about us doing anything to deserve God’s Love. Which is good, because we can’t. It’s about God loving us in spite of ourselves. His Grace is a free gift of infinite worth.

Follow along with me as I share this illustration:

Suppose the Cleveland Cavs were in the NBA finals. (that idea made people laugh prior to us doing it in 2016!) The series is tied 3-3. It’s game number 7…Cleveland has home court.  After a long sad journey of Cleveland never being the champs, this promises to be the game of all games. The prospect of us being the champs. Everyone is eager to watch the game, and to celebrate!

Now suppose that I go down and buy every seat. I have the rights to every ticket. I invite you….and everyone else to join me for the game. My treat! You could never afford it, but it’s free for you. I tell you that I want you there…that I cannot imagine watching the game without you being there. This is the greatest gift for all fans to enjoy! I tell you to just show up at the ticket window and say my name.

Now, the sad truth is that…I am sure that there would be empty seats:

  • Some will say, “I don’t believe you would do that for me.”
  • Others will say, “He’s a pastor, he can not afford to do that.”
  • Others will say, “No thanks, I’m too busy.”
  • Or, “I don’t like basketball…I’m going to a soccer game instead.”

And the excuses would go on and on. About now…you are wondering where I am going with this devotion. I think this illustration helps us to better understand the truth of the Gospel.

Jesus purchased you a ticket (not to a Cavs game, but) to eternal life in His heavenly Kingdom. It’s free…just say His name to get in. Greatest gift of all time! Forgiveness…eternal life.

And yet:

  • Some will say, “He would not do that for me…He does not Love me.”
  • Others will say, “He can not afford to do that…He did not die for me.”
  • Others will say, “I’m too busy”…”I don’t believe what the Bible says”…”I like being my own God.”

And so, sadly, there will be those who miss this greatest event ever!

William Barclay has written about a group of soldiers during World War II who had lost a friend in battle and wanted to give their fallen comrade a decent burial. So, they found a church with a graveyard behind it, surrounded by a white fence. They found the parish priest and asked if their friend could be buried there in the church graveyard.

“Was he Catholic?” the priest inquired.

“No”, he wasn’t, answered the soldiers.

“I’m sorry, then,” said the priest. “Our graveyard is reserved for members of the holy church. But you can bury your friend outside the fence. I will see that the gravesite is cared for.”

“Thank you, Father,” said the soldiers, and they proceeded to bury their friend just outside the graveyard on the other side of the fence.

When the war had finally ended, before the soldiers returned home, they decided to visit the gravesite of their friend. They remembered the location of the church—and the grave, just outside the fence. They searched for it but couldn’t find it. Finally, they went to the priest to inquire as to its location.

“Sir, we cannot find our friend’s grave,” said the soldiers to the priest.

“Well,” answered the priest. “After you buried your fallen friend, it just didn’t seem right to me that he should be buried there, outside the fence.”

“So, you moved his grave?” asked the soldiers.

“No,” said the priest. “I moved the fence.”

That is exactly what God has done for us. We don’t deserve a place “inside the fence.” We don’t deserve to go to heaven when we die. But God has graciously moved the fence. He sent his Son, Jesus Christ, to die for us so that we could be included in his forever family.

Romans 5:1-2: “Now we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith.”

HUMOR FOR THE DAY:
I went to Walmart today, and I was there for literally 5 minutes. When I came out there was a state trooper writing a parking ticket for being in a handicap spot.

So I went up to him and said, “Come on, buddy, how about giving a guy a break?”

He ignored me and continued writing the ticket. So I called him a pencil-necked cop. He glared at me and started writing another ticket for worn tires!

So I then asked him if his psychiatrist makes him lie face down on the couch cause he’s so ugly.

He finished the second ticket and put it on the windshield with the first. Then he started writing a third ticket!

This went on until he had placed 5 tickets on the windshield…the more I insulted him, the more tickets he wrote. I didn’t care. My car was parked around the corner.

Devotions by Pastor Dave Timm: Wednesday – October 13, 2021

According to an ancient legend, a man became lost in his travels and wandered into a bed of quicksand. Confucius saw the man’s predicament and said, “it is evident that men should stay out of places such as this.” Next, Buddha observed the situation and said, “let that man’s plight be a lesson to the rest of the world.” Then Mohammed came by and said to the sinking man, “Alas, it is the will of God.” Finally, Jesus appeared on the scene and said, “take my hand, brother. I will save you.”

There are many religions in the world…and they all have things about which are admirable and even true. But only one provides salvation from sin. Jesus said “I am the way the truth and the life and no one goes to the father but by me.”. No other religious leader has ever made that claim because they can’t. No other worldview or mindset can shower us with the Love that we have in the Triune God!!!

We all base our meaning of life on some set of foundations and beliefs.

  • Some base their lives on science to “prove” a set of data. (“the systematic study of the structure and behavior of the physical and natural world through observation and experiment”)
  • Some use Sociology to explain and predict patterns of people. (“the study of the development, structure, and functioning of human society…social problems”)
  • Some use psychology to understand an individual. (the study of the human mind and it’s functions”)
  • Some use philosophy to share their meaning of life. (“the study of the fundamental nature of knowledge, reality, as an academic discipline”)

What I find interesting with these approaches is the fact that they are all moving targets. They change with time. The foundation of all of them is shaky and has cracks in it. A new “discovery” makes them go back and re-write what was at one time supposed to be the truth.

I am not knocking any of these disciplines…but when it comes to the “meaning of life”…to the meaning of my life and yours. I want the facts…the always true, never changing, facts about life, creation, sin, forgiveness, my purpose, eternal life, and true unconditional Love.

John 14:6…Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.

There is only one foundation to build your life on…Jesus Christ as your personal Lord and Savior!!!

That’s the beauty of God’s Word…the Bible….the best selling book of all time. That is where we learn about the Lord. That is where we learn about how to live and what is our purpose to exist. In it we find:

  • We find the truth about creation…and the beauty of the Garden of Eden.
  • The truth that God made man to have an everlasting relationship with God.
  • That man sinned…wanted to be God…to make the rules and define his own reality.
  • God restored the broken relationship through Jesus’ life, death, resurrection.
  • And the truth and Joy that God hand made you…Loves you in spite of your sinfulness…wants you to spend eternity with Him.

That fact, that reality, that blessing…is why you exist. And because of that fact…we desire to grow closer to the Lord and accomplish His plan for your life. That is a lifelong process.

Colossians 2:6-7…So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him,rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.

This verse makes me think of a healthy tree. Deeply rooted for soil and water, growing year after year season after season, overflowing with fruit and flowers.

Your life takes on meaning as you are rooted in God’s Word, prayer, worship.

You continue to grow closer to the Lord and discover what you were created to do to God’s Glory.

Bearing fruit!!

Be connected to the Lord and His Church. Seek His will for you moment by moment, situation by situation, and season by season. Tell Him that you are available to grow closer to Him, to worship Him, to serve Him, and to bear good fruit through Him.

HUMOR FOR YOUR DAY: (not sure if I shared this…but it’s funny!)

A woman says to her lawyer “I want to divorce my husband.”

‟On what grounds?”

‟Grounds? We have two acres at the edge of town with a big lawn and some fruit trees.”

‟No, that’s not what I meant. Do you have a grudge?”

‟Yes, we’ve a two car garage but only one car so we use the rest for storage.”

(getting exasperated) ‟Does he beat you up?”

‟No, I’m up by 6:30 and sometimes he does not get up until after I’ve left for work.”

‟WHY DO YOU WANT A DIVORCE?”

‟We just can’t seem to communicate.”

Devotions by Pastor Dave Timm: Wednesday – October 6, 2021

Once upon a time a man set out to change the world. Before long, he discovered that the world was far too big for one person to change. So, he decided to change his country. Crooked politicians and special interest groups unfortunately thwarted his efforts, so he decided to change his neighborhood. But his neighbors simply closed their doors and shut their windows, so he decided to change his family. Instead of changing, his children rebelled, and his wife threatened a divorce, and things got worse. Finally, the man decided to change himself…and when he did, he changed the world!

I think that this short illustration covers many points:

  1. The fact is that God has equipped us and placed us in situations that we can make meaningful change. Matthew 5:13-16 (msg)… “Let me tell you why you are here. You’re here to be salt-seasoning that brings out the God-flavors of this earth. If you lose your saltiness, how will people taste godliness? You’ve lost your usefulness and will end up in the garbage. “Here’s another way to put it: You’re here to be light, bringing out the God-colors in the world. God is not a secret to be kept. We’re going public with this, as public as a city on a hill. If I make you light-bearers, you don’t think I’m going to hide you under a bucket, do you? I’m putting you on a light stand. Now that I’ve put you there on a hilltop, on a light stand—shine! Keep open house; be generous with your lives. By opening up to others, you’ll prompt people to open up with God, this generous Father in heaven.

Isn’t that a great section of scripture? Telling us that God wants us to be agents of change! I like the fact that God wants to use us to bring out the “God-flavors” and “God-colors!” How????? By being “generous with our lives”.

  1. God wants to work in and through you to change the world, our country, your neighborhood, and your family.

God wants to accomplish His specific plan for and through each of us.

Jeremiah 29:11… For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

How cool is that? The God of the universe made you to be you…and you are part of His plan of salvation for those around you.

  1. God has equipped each of us differently. He gave each of us gifts, abilities, and passions. He then wants to use you to be part of His overall plan to reach all people with His Love.

Now…before we go off to save the world, we need to make needed changes in our life first. I think of being on an airplane…they tell you that if the plane is in trouble and the oxygen masks come down….”put your mask on first, then go help others!” It’s the same with us spiritually. We need to put on Jesus before we set out to change others.

We by ourselves, can’t change others…but God can and will work through us. By the way, we are to be ambassadors for Jesus.

2 Corinthians 5:20… We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ’s behalf: Be reconciled to God.

An ambassador represents someone else. You are to represent Jesus to a broken, sinful, and hurting world.

 So, how can you make the needed changes to yourself…so that, you can be an agent of change for the Lord?

Seek His will through regular time in His Word. Use a study guide or devotional. Ask Him to speak into your life through His Word. Read it slowly. When was it written…to whom was it written….how does it apply to me today?

Seek His plan for you through quality prayer time. Alone with the Lord, in a quiet place. Speak to Him and then sit quietly listening for His response and guidance. He may answer your prayers through other people or events. Keep your eyes and ears open.

Connect with your church through worship, group ministry, and service opportunities. You are called to be “the church” …His body! Together we are powerful.

Ask the Lord to remove any defects…to enhance your motivation to change others. Be the best you that you can be!! Always growing and maturing in your faith.

Ask God to identify who and when you should reach out to. Maybe it is by saying something, offering a listening ear, meeting a felt need, inviting them to experience the quality life that Jesus offers. Our sermon series 365+1 challenges us to find one person to pray for and to look for opportunities to share Christ with them.

I think the best verse to support this change is:

Romans 12:1-2… Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.  Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.

  1. May the Lord transform you by His Grace and Mercy…to be the best version of you that you can be….eager to be used by Him…to change the world, one person at a time.

Humor for the day:

A woman who lived next door to a preacher was puzzled by his personality change. At home he was shy, quiet and retiring…but in the church he was on fire, rousing the masses in the name of God.
It was as if he were two different people.
One day she asked him about the dramatic transformation that came over him when he preached.

“Ah,” he said, “That’s my altar ego.”

Devotions by Pastor Dave Timm: Wednesday – September 29, 2021

Henry was 73 years old when he moved into the rest home. Since the death of his wife 2 years earlier, Henry had been extremely lonely. He needed some company, someone to talk to.

After unpacking his belongings, Henry walked into the activity room, where many of the other residents had gathered. Everyone in the room was either talking, reading, playing cards, or watching television. Suddenly Henry felt nervous about trying to make new friends at his age. He wasn’t sure he had made the right decision.

As he stood in the doorway surveying the room, Henry was startled by a gentle tap on the shoulder. He turned to find a small woman staring at him. Even though she must have been 85 years old, she had a kind face and was attractive. She said nothing but continued to stare at Henry. Finally, Henry said “Good day, madam. My name is Henry.” With a sparkle in her eye, the elderly woman said, “Henry, you look just like my 4th husband.” “I do?” Henry asked. “Tell me, how many husbands have you had? With a smile on her face, the woman replied…..”Three.”

Ahhhhhh, Love at first sight!

I have written a few hundred of these devotions, all would fall under the topic of LOVE. God’s unconditional LOVE for us…and then our call to LOVE one another.

Matthew 22:37-40…Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and 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.”

We LOVE God because He first LOVED us. We then respond by LOVING others.

Sounds simple! Right? Well, not really.

One of the verses that we read this weekend in the sanctuary services seems to be a good place to start. The section is labeled “LOVE in action.”

Romans 12:9-12 (NIV)… Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good.  Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.  Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord.  Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.

Can you imagine how your life would change if you lived by these words?

Can you imagine what the world would look like if we all lived by these words? I like to look up other translations of a given verse as well.

Romans 12:9-12 (msg)…  Love from the center of who you are; don’t fake it. Run for dear life from evil; hold on for dear life to good. Be good friends who love deeply; practice playing second fiddle.  Don’t burn out; keep yourselves fueled and aflame. Be alert servants of the Master, cheerfully expectant. Don’t quit in hard times; pray all the harder. Help needy Christians; be inventive in hospitality.

I suggest that you take a few minutes to re-read these verses…one sentence at a time…slowly. Read each translation 3 times. What jumps out at you? What areas do you struggle with? Take time to ask God to help you to live these verses to His Glory.

HUMOR FOR YOUR DAY:

Once there was a guy named Bill who wanted a horse. On Craigslist, Bill saw a Christian horse, so he went to check it out. When Bill got to the ranch, the horse’s owner said “It’s easy to ride him. Just say ‘praise the Lord’ to make him go, and ‘amen’ to make him stop.” Bill got on the horse and said, “praise the Lord.” The horse started to walk. “Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, praise the Lord” and the horse is running. Now Bill sees the cliff and says: “AMEN.” The horse stops and Bill says: “Whew! Praise the lord!”

Devotions by Pastor Dave Timm: Wednesday – September 22, 2021

Which are you most apt to ask:

”Why did God put thorns among the roses” Or… “Why did God put roses among the thorns”

It’s interesting how some see the beauty, and some see the pain.

The reality is that it’s easy to see evil, pain, and heartbreak. After all that’s what the news loves to focus on…that’s what our gossip centers on…and quite frankly, that’s what seems to get our attention.

And yet…there is so much beauty all around us. Look at a sunset, flowers, butterflies, the birth of a child, a baptism, and the list goes on.

So, how can we face the reality that there will be tough days and seasons…and yet be grateful for the blessings we have? I have always loved this verse.

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.”

In case you did not know it…this is not the Garden of Eden…. nor is it heaven. We live in a sin filled world that is full of pain, distress, and evil! As our verse says, “in this world you will have trouble”.

Now before you say this is a downer of a devotion and stop reading….I want to remind you that there is beauty all around….and most importantly…God is with you!

Romans 8:35, 37-39…Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? 37 No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. 38 For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, 39 neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

If God is with you…you can look for the good in all situations. The glass half full attitude in life. To be JOY-FILLED in the midst of a storm.

The only survivor of a shipwreck washed up on a small uninhabited island. He prayed feverishly for God to rescue him, and every day he scanned the horizon for help, but none seemed forthcoming. Exhausted, he eventually managed to build a little hut out of driftwood to protect him from the elements, and to store his few possessions.

But then one day, after scavenging for food, he arrived home to find his little hut in flames, the smoke rolling to the sky. The worst had happened, everything was lost. He was stung with grief and anger. “God, how could you do this to me!!!” he cried.

Early the next day, however, he was awakened by the sound of a ship that was approaching the island. It had come to rescue him.

“How did you know I was here” asked the weary man of his rescuers.

“We saw your smoke signal” they replied.

It’s easy to get discouraged when things go wrong! But we should stay positive knowing that God is at work in our lives…even in the pain and suffering. Paul, who was the poster child for “having a bad day”, (read about it in 2 Corinthians 11:23-29) writes in Philippians 4:12…I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want.

He (as we should) found the good in a bad situation. He knew the secret of being content…knowing that God will bring good out of it. Romans 8:28…And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.

I know that many of you are facing some very bad situations. I challenge you to focus on your many blessings and the God who gave you those blessings. Gratitude is the best medicine when life gets you down!

So…remember the next time your hut is burning to the ground…it might just be a smoke signal…calling for the Lord to do His thing!

The next time you see a rose….think about it’s beauty in the midst of the thorns.

Humor for your day:

An elderly couple had dinner at another couple’s house, and after eating, the wives left the table and went into the kitchen.

The two elderly gentlemen were talking, and one said:
“Last night, we went out to a new restaurant, and it was really great. I would recommend it very highly.”

The other man said: “What was the name of the restaurant?”

The first man thought and thought and finally said:<br>
“What is the name of that flower you give to someone you love? You know…the one that is red and has thorns.”

“Do you mean a rose?” “Yes,” the man said. He then turned toward the kitchen and yelled:
“Rose… what’s the name of that restaurant we went to last night?”

Devotions by Pastor Dave Timm: Wednesday – September 15, 2021

Many years ago, Wayne Rice told a story that has always impacted me.

One day a spaceship landed in the middle of a huge field just outside a small, rural community. The aliens look friendly enough, so some of the farmers cautiously approached them, hoping to establish a good relationship with them. The aliens greeted the earthlings warmly and said, “we are on a mission from the planet Zuran of the Galaxy Andromeda. We have been assigned to explore your planet to discover what you have learned. We are here to learn as much as we can about planet Earth. So, tell us, has anything significant happened here on Earth that you can tell us about?”

The farmers thought for a moment and then one spoke up and said, “Well we have radio and TV! We can send radio and microwave signals all over the planet using satellites.” The aliens replied, “Oh, well we have had that for thousands of years. In fact, that technology has become quite obsolete. What else has happened?”

Again, the farmers scratched their heads and then one said, “We have developed computers that can process information in micro-seconds that used to take years! And they are so small in size that they fit into our pockets!”

“Well, that’s old news, too,” said the aliens. “Hasn’t anything extraordinary happened here?”

The farmers were still thinking when one of the aliens asked, “we have heard a rumor that God visited your planet many years ago. Is this rumor true?”

“Well, there was a man named Jesus Christ”

“Yes! That’s it! Jesus Christ! Did He really come?” the aliens asked excitedly.

“Yes,” said the farmers…..”but….”

 “What an extraordinary thing! What a wonderful thing” exclaimed the aliens. “Tell us what did you do when God visited your planet? Did you bring gifts and throw them in his feet? Did you run through the streets celebrating and singing?  Did all the world finally realize how much He loves them? Please, tell us, what did you do?”

The farmers pondered for a moment and then sheepishly said.

“UMMMM…We killed Him!”

Ouch…sad but true!

Sin came through Eve and then Adam. This sin caused them to separate and blame each other…and to hide from God! The fact is that sin always separates and destroys! But the good news is that God still loved them, and He Loves us as well. Unconditionally! Even in our sinfulness.

He sent Jesus on a road trip…a space travel…to visit earth­­­­ and save us!

Romans 5:6-8 (msg)…… Christ arrives right on time to make this happen. He didn’t, and doesn’t, wait for us to get ready. He presented himself for this sacrificial death when we were far too weak and rebellious to do anything to get ourselves ready. And even if we hadn’t been so weak, we wouldn’t have known what to do anyway. We can understand someone dying for a person worth dying for, and we can understand how someone good and noble could inspire us to selfless sacrifice. But God put his love on the line for us by offering his Son in sacrificial death while we were of no use whatever to him.

Jesus came to live a sinless life in our place….to die for the wages of our sins…to rise, so that we too will rise some day when He calls us home to His heavenly kingdom. What are you doing with the fact that Jesus came to be your Lord and Savior?

Are you celebrating? Are you telling the world? Is he alive in your life and are you enthusiastically living for Him?

If not, then how will others know about Him?

It’s interesting that God’s marketing plan was to tell 12 guys to “Go and make disciples.” They had no phones, cars, or internet…and yet, God chose them and now us, to tell other people, and to share the Gospel. We are to offer His Love, Joy, and Hope to a broken and hurting nation. He works through us to share His Word so that His Holy Spirit can transform those who hear it. Those 12 told others, who told others…and low and behold there are 2 billion Christians on earth today. That is great and it turns out that God had a totally amazing plan!

And yet…that means there are 5 billion people who need to hear the message of salvation!

Who do you know that needs to hear about Jesus today? What can you do to draw them to the Lord? If each of the 2 billion Christians told 3 people in the next year…All will have heard!

HUMOR FOR YOUR DAY:

  1. I checked out a book on anti-gravity. I can’t put it down.
  2. I thought about putting an observatory in my house, but the cost was astronomical.
  3. Last week I attended a lecture on Halley’s Comet. It went completely over my head.
  4. Where do aliens park their spaceships? Next to the parking meteor.
  5. I’m so disappointed. I keep pressing the spacebar on my keyboard, but I’m still on Earth!

Devotions by Pastor Dave Timm: Wednesday – September 8, 2021

Have you ever seen someone do something good…but for the wrong reason? It appears that their motivation was out of whack. They may have helped someone by their actions (that’s good) , but the goal was self-centered (not so good).

Perhaps you helped the older woman neighbor take her groceries in…that was a good thing! But the reality is that you were going to look the other way and act as if you did not see her, until you remembered that she is rich and loves to reward helpers by giving them big tips.

So…was that a good thing (maybe)…bad motive (yes)?

I remember years ago my friend told me about a dream he had. In this dream he, his wife, and his mother-in-law were in a car crash, and they all died. Now I know all 3 of them…solid Christians…faith in Jesus as Lord and Savior. When they got to heaven, they were met by St. Peter who told them to follow him. They walked down a seemingly endless hallway.

At one point he told the mother-in-law to stand here. There was a small pile of stuff with a sign that had her name on it that was labeled “good works”. The man and his wife were led further down the hall to a pile that was twice the size of the other one. It has a sign with the wife’s name that  said, “good works.” The wife was told to stand here.

She made sure to look back and let her mom see how much bigger her pile of good works was. Now the man (who is having this dream) went down the hall and was told to stand next to a giant pile with his name on it. He was waving at his wife and mother-in-law and making sure they saw how great his pile was!

There is an interesting verse in 1 Corinthians 3:13.

1 Corinthians 3:13…1 Corinthians 3:13…their work will be shown for what it is, because the Day will bring it to light. It will be revealed with fire, and the fire will test the quality of each person’s work.

Back to my friend’s dream.

An angel came to the mothers-in-law’s small pile and tried to set it on fire. Nothing, it would not burn.

The angel then went to the wife’s bigger pile and most of it burned down to a pile ½ of her mom’s pile.

The angel went to the man having the dream and lit his giant pile and it became a giant bonfire. In the end only a few ashes were left.

That dream changed my friend…and me!

We should always look for work that does good for others….but what is a GOOD WORK in God’s eyes. One motivated by Him for His Glory.

The small catechism says:

“In God’s sight a good work is everything that a child of God does, speaks, or thinks in faith according to the ten commandments, for the glory of God, and for the benefit of his or her neighbor.”

It involves a child of God (a Christian)…the benefit of a neighbor (helping someone else)…to God’s Glory.

The guy in my story was a child of God, he helped someone else…but for his own glory and benefit! Not a bad thing to do but for the wrong reason.

1 Corinthians 10:31 says…So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.

The goal is that people will see you (a Christian) in action and want to know more about the Lord you serve!

I (most pastors) quote Ephesians 2:8-9 often…For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast.

Folks…the good news is that God loves you and paid the price for your salvation…for free. You did not earn it and do nor deserve it by anything you do or say.

And then what? Sit back and relax? NO! Verse 10 says:

For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.

We are to do all we can to help those in our circle of influence. We do physical acts of kindness…we listen to them when they are hurting…we seek out ways to address their felt needs…..spend time, resources, energy for their wellbeing.

And our motive to bring God the Glory.

My challenge for you is to keep your eyes and ears open for opportunities to help those in need…but check your motivation…will God smile at your GOOD WORKS….are you doing it with one motive in mind…..To glorify your Lord and Savior who gave His life to meet your need of salvation.

HUMOR FOR THE DAY:

A big, burly man visited the pastor’s home and asked to see the minister’s wife, a woman well known for her charitable impulses.

“Madam,” he said in a broken voice, “I wish to draw your attention to the terrible plight of a poor family in this district. The father is dead, the mother is too ill to work, and the nine children are starving. They are about to be turned into the cold, empty streets unless someone pays their rent, which amounts to $400.”

“How terrible!” exclaimed the preacher’s wife. “May I ask who you are?”

The sympathetic visitor applied his handkerchief to his eyes. “I’m the landlord,” he sobbed.