Dear Prince of Peace and friends,
Fall is my favorite season by far! The temperatures are mostly wonderful – not too hot and not too cold – even Goldilocks would be happy. And the colors are absolutely gorgeous and they’re everywhere. I wouldn’t mind this weather 6 months of the year. The only problem is that it doesn’t last. Soon the leaves fall, and the freeze comes. Days get shorter and you practically go to work and come back home in the dark. Winter arrives. Not my favorite, though I do enjoy splitting wood to heat our home. I must confess winter has beauty unique to it as well.
God gives us seasons for a reason. Not just Winter, Spring, Summer, and Fall, but all the seasons of life ripe with all the joys and struggles therein. People can come for a time and go, yet still make an impact on us. We can go through lean times, and those of prosperity; times of searching, and times of discovery; times of want, and times of contentment. I commend Ephesians 3 to you for a quick read “For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven”.
Whatever season of life you’re in right now, and whatever the weather is like in that season, my prayer is that you hold the promises of God close to you. He is with you always and works every time and season under heaven for your eternal good. As things around us continue to change, remember that God never changes. He is the same yesterday, today and forever. He forgives you, loves you, and cares for you.
Blessings on your week!
Pastor DeHope
Pastor DeHope's October 18th Message
Alicia hasn’t seen her brother’s family in several years so, thanks to a cheap flight and Southwest points she and baby Ben are visiting them in Selma, NC for several days this week. As usual I have a list of things I want to do what she’s gone even though Josh and Leah are still here and all my regular responsibilities daily await me. I’m surely trying to do too much!
In our Gospel this week, a young man asks Jesus what he has to do to inherit eternal life. Jesus doesn’t give our standard simple answer of: do nothing – it’s free – just believe in Jesus and it’s yours. Instead, Jesus says Keep the commandments – you know them. The man claims to have kept them since his youth, so Jesus instructs him to sell all he has and follow him.
Ask a law question, get a law answer. Ask a gospel question, get a gospel answer. The man was looking to justify himself by his works. He asked a law question and got a law answer. He wanted to do something to be saved. We know he didn’t perfectly keep the commandments as he boasted. Neither do we – we’re sinners and we know it. That doesn’t’ always stop us from trying to justify ourselves or our actions before God by our works or to bargain with God to get something. It doesn’t work that way.
Jesus died for the sins of the world – for yours and mine. The work of saving us has to be 100% Jesus or it will fail. Jesus looked at the man and loved him, just as he looks at you and loves you no matter your situation or circumstance. Don’t bargain with God or try to get extra credit for your goodness. Instead, ask a gospel question: what has God done for me and my salvation? The answer is everything; he’s given you Jesus and that’s enough because Jesus saves.
He loves you and you follow him because he has the words of eternal life.
Blessings on your week!
Pastor DeHope
Today is Ben’s first day in the Regalo which is a portable covered play pen with a bottom, so that he can play outside with us, contained covered and protected from the sun. Leah and Josh loved it– I’m so glad we kept it for when we had another kid. It’s a well-loved hand-me-down, but it still works great and gets the job done.
Some hand-me-downs are good, and even desirable – like the Chicago Bulls “Starter” brand jacket I got from my cousin in 6th grade. It was a nice jacket on its own, but it instantly elevated my social status at a new school as well. Other hand-me-downs are less desirable or worn out. We can tire of getting someone else’s rejects, or something old when what we want is new, something that is just and only ours, that we can call our own.
The Bible, our Lord Jesus, and the sweet Gospel of forgiveness and life is really a hand-me-down in a way. It’s not new. Passed down through generations it is a priceless treasure – a family heirloom. The thing about it is it’s not just for us or our family, it’s for the world. The gospel is better shared, lived out and multiplied. It never wears out. In fact, the more you’re in it, and live it and rejoice in it, the sweeter it gets! Forgiveness, life, trust and hope in Jesus is just as good for you today was it was for Adam and Eve, the apostles, your grandparents, or whoever came before you in the faith.
Yet, there’s also something new about it. Each day our need for it is new. The Lord daily - gives new life, forgiveness, and mercy in abundance to all, but specifically to you too! Our need for it is always new. And so is our neighbors. The beauty of the Gospel is that you can spend your life growing into it, living in it, and sharing it but you’ll never grow out it, stop needing it, or deplete it. It’s never old or outdated. You can always grow in your understanding of the riches and depth of God’s love for you in Christ.
My prayer for us this week is that we’ll gather as a church family around these gifts of God where he’s promised to be found – for us, and for our salvation. You have a place in God’s family – a promise handed down to you through generations, and you have a new life in Christ that endures forever.
God’s blessings,
Trust is a lot of things. It’s confidence to rely on someone or something’s character, ability, strength, or truth. It’s hope to depend on something in the future. It’s a responsibility – a duty and a position of trust or to leave valuables in the care of another. It can be a financial relationship. Trust can be a funny thing…. Some people are more trusting than others. Some people are more trustworthy than others. Trust is usually earned and built over time.
Perhaps you’ve heard: “Trust me, I know what I’m doing”. I gotta warn you…results may vary. When I tell Josh to trust me and jump – that I’ll catch him, the odds are pretty good that I will. Now, reverse the roles and it doesn’t look so good… despite the confidence of my 4-year-old, and the reassurance that he’s an expert. Famous last words…
The Bible says a LOT about trust. Proverbs 118:8 – It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in man. Psalm 40:4 Blessed is the man who makes the Lord his trust, who does not turn to the proud, to those who go astray after a lie! Proverbs 3:5 – Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. Psalm 13:5 But I have trusted in your steadfast love’ my heart shall rejoice in your salvation. Philippians 4:6-7 – Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Psalm 28:7 – The Lord is my strength and my shield; in him my hearts trusts, and I am helped; my heart exults, and with my song I give thanks to him.
These are just a few. The Lord your God is worthy of your trust. He’s earned it by His faithfulness – not that he owes us anything! Jesus has perfectly kept God’s law in our place which is the will of the Father. He has done the will of the Father, and we are saved by His grace. He does all things well. He has kept his promises. You can place your trust in him
I pray this week that you trust in the Lord and lean not on your own understanding. Come to church and receive God’s gifts to you and be strengthened and renewed. Whatever is going on in your life, or not going well, as the case may be, all will be resolved in the end and your salvation is secure in Jesus. The one true God, your God has promised.
In Christ,
Pastor DeHope
We're back! There's nothing like being home again; my smile was wide as I pulled into the driveway Tuesday night. A week sure seems like a long time when you're anticipating something good or can't wait to put it behind you. Boy, does it seem like a short amount of time when you're traveling and visiting people. We got to see most of my family and worship at my home church - all of which was a huge blessing. We all brought back a cold for a souvenir as well. This too shall pass!
There is so much to do when we return, much of which we were looking forward to, but it will have to wait for now. Our Lord Jesus reminds us "My grace is sufficient for you, my power is made perfect in weakness. Therefore, I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses so that the power of Christ may rest upon me (2Corinthians 12:9). I don't feel much like boasting of my weakness much at the moment, but I ought to stop complaining about the struggle and rejoice in the Lord. "Rejoice in the Lord always; again, I will say, rejoice. Let your reasonableness[a] be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:4-7).
I pray this week and always that God's peace, which surpasses all understanding keeps your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus and that you rejoice in him always - come what may.
Dear friends in Christ,
Leah has a tooth that is hurting; she’s got a bad cavity between two teeth. Thankfully, she’s scheduled for some dental work on Tuesday. At 7 years old, she’s not had all that much pain or hardship in life, so this is a big deal for her. There’s the pain, but she’s also worried about the whole procedure (she probably gets that from me).
Our Christian life is a little like this tooth. God doesn’t call us to a comfortable life. Sometimes there’s pain and hardship we must endure. In pain, we must face the future. We pray God would take it away, fix it, or make it not hurt – that he would rescue us out of it. And sometimes he does. Other times we must endure it, and the only way move past it, is to face the scary thing and move through it. That tooth won’t get better on it’s own, we must proceed, even worried and afraid, but we are not alone.
Our Lord is with Leah, and with all of us, working all things for our benefit, alongside every step. He is our strength and our shield – an ever-present help in time of trouble. Unfortunately, this tooth issue is not the worst thing Leah will ever face; but God doesn’t gauge his presence with us or his help by the size of the problem. He knows our needs and he cares for us.
Jesus says “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.”.(John 16:33)
God go with you this week and give you His peace, as you face your fears and struggles. He is with you. Leah will triumph over her trouble, as will you. Whatever it is in the world, your Savior has overcome it. Take heart!
Pastor DeHope
Dear friends in Christ,
We're often called upon, even expected to do things we don't want to do. You know this; you’ve had your fair share. These tasks can find us in any of our God-given vocations: as a parent, spouse, child, employee, friend, etc. Some of them hurt us, or make us stronger, or grow us in some way. Some of them we just do and get past them, then others… we’re still wrestling with. All of this is because of sin in the world. That’s why bad things happen. That's probably not new information for most of you.
In our gospel this week, some of those following Jesus responded to his teaching with “This is a hard saying; who can listen to it?” And they stopped following him. Jesus asks the 12 if they too want to turn away. Peter replies with "Lord to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life!" I know this and I believe this with Peter and the others and yet I struggle with some of the things Jesus says in his Word, and the tests and hurdles he's given me to go through in this life. I know you do too.
A couple of things come to mind; first the parable of the two sons in Matthew 21:28-32 where the father sends both to work in his field. The first son says no, but then goes and works; the second son says yes, but then disobeys. It is the first son who does the will of the father. Next is the prayer of the father of a sick child: "Lord, I believe! Help my unbelief!" This really SHOULD be a regular prayer for us as Christians as we daily battle the devil, the world, and our own sinful flesh. I also pray simply, "Lord help" because I'm just lost, hurting, stuck, or don't know what to pray for in a given situation. Then, also "Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light" - Matthew 11:28-30.
Life is full of tough choices, difficult days, and hard sayings. Sometimes the burden doesn't feel light - it feels like we're wrestling with God, as Jacob did in Genesis 32:22 and following. God blesses Jacob after his wrestling. Jacob goes on to reconcile with brother Esau after fighting over a birthright.
It is tempting to turn away and not follow God at times. Maybe you have, or are truly wrestling with it, or know someone who has. Know that your Lord Jesus will wrestle with you; He desires reconciliation like Jacob and Esau. He forgives you and heals you - just like the father with the sick child. He has promised to be with you always to the end of the age - to never leave you or forsake you. So, my hope and prayer for us both, this week and always is that we seek reconciliation with God and one another; that we pray without ceasing - Lord I believe, help my unbelief, and that by the power of the Holy Spirit we receive the hard teachings with all of life's struggles through the eyes of faith. Lord let us follow where you lead. As hard as it can be to endure, to see with Peter that there is nowhere else to go - only Jesus has the words of eternal life, and he cares for you.
God's Blessings,
Pastor DeHope
Dear friends in Christ,
Vacations are fun! At least they’re supposed to be. Circumstances preceding them may be hectic, and sometimes things don’t go as we plan, or there’s trouble along the way, but the hope is that everything thing ends well. As I write this, it’s too soon to say what will be of our family vacation. We only have hope. The kids are full of excitement and their bags have been packed for days. For me, the “being there” is better than the “getting there” so that’s where my sights are set.
I’m thankful for all the help and support that allows things to go on in my absence. I’m thankful for the time off and the ability to travel and see our family. It is a luxury not everyone has. Reflecting on Sunday’s reading from Genesis 9:8-17 I’m most thankful for God’s Words of promise. Here God promises Noah and the world that the earth will never be destroyed again by a flood. The rainbow is the sign of the promise. Each one we see is a constant reminder from God of his faithfulness. He keeps His promises.
That same faithfulness led Jesus to die on the cross for the sins of the world and we have God’s promise in Romans 8:38-39, that nothing in all creation, not even the devil and all evil can separate us from God’s love in Christ Jesus. Then, also in John’s gospel our Lord promises us a place with him for eternity, and that he’ll bring us safely there.
So, while I have plans for vacation, travel, and the rest of life, whether we have an unexpected layover or something far worse befalls us, God’s promises, hold fast. That helps me keep a healthy perspective in travel and all things. I have hope. Hope is a good thing! My prayer is that your eyes remain fixed on Jesus, this week, and always, and that it gives you hope as well. Until we meet again, (hopefully at our regularly scheduled time and place) …
The peace of Christ be with you!
Pastor DeHope
Dear friends in Christ,
This is a busy time for many people with travel and school starting. Last week we had Vacation Bible School. This Friday we have two funerals and on Tuesday we leave to visit Alicia’s family in Ct & NY. There’s packing to be done, but all the other upkeep and maintenance still must be done, even when we are not here. The lawn still must be mowed, and hopefully before we go.
Now, Alicia and I both enjoy mowing the lawn. That’s a good thing because this time of year, there’s no shortage of mowing to do. Lots of edging and week control also need to be done but neither of us like that part of it. Like so many things in life, it has to constantly be done again and again or bad things happen.
This reminds me of a C.S. Lewis quote:
“We say a great many things in church (and out of church too) without thinking of what we are saying. For instance, we say in the Creed “I believe in the forgiveness of sins.” I had been saying it for several years before I asked myself why it was in the Creed. At first sight it seems hardly worth putting in. “If one is a Christian,” I thought, “of course one believes in the forgiveness of sins. It goes without saying.” But the people who compiled the Creed apparently thought that this was a part of our belief which we needed to be reminded of every time we went to church. And I have begun to see that, as far as I am concerned, they were right. To believe in the forgiveness of sins is not nearly so easy as I thought. Real belief in it is the sort of thing that very easily slips away if we don’t keep on polishing it up” (From #The_Weight_of_Glory Compiled in A Year With C.S.Lewis).
He puts the truth so beautifully …if we don’t keep polishing it up, it slips away. We need to be in church, and in the Word - to repeat and confess these glorious truths so we keep them polished up, so we don’t lose them. It’s just like the yard and the grass. They must be tended, so they’re not overtaken and lost to the weeds.
This week, I pray you’re able to get done all the things that must be done, and I encourage you to “keep polishing up” the most important things pertaining to faith in Christ and His Kingdom. To God be the Glory! We’ll see you in a week!
Pastor DeHope
Dear friends in Christ,
We had a fin-tastic time at our scuba Vacation Bible School this week! Many hours of hard work and planning went in to make this wonderful for the kids. A big “Thanks” to all our volunteers, helpers, and our youth for making this happen. In addition to all the creativity and effort that made this happen, we inherited a lot of useful themed items from other churches that had completed the same VBS. We benefited from those who went before us. Much of life is like this. Many of us inherit or benefit from the work of others. Marriage and family are a team, working and learning together. The Christian church stands on the word of God and the empty tomb, but we have the witness of the apostles, prophets, and all those who have gone before us, even grandma and grandpa, mom and dad, friends, and others.
As Christians we’re repeaters of the good news. That’s what Vacation Bible School is really all about - sharing and repeating the good news about Jesus salvation that has been given to us. By the power and working of the holy spirit, we believe, and so we bear witness with our words and actions.
Our lives as Christians are about bearing witness to Jesus in all our vocations – through all the joys and struggles of this life. We have a hope and joy in Jesus that the world needs and doesn’t have. Jesus has made us salt and light to world so that we may season and enlighten the world with God’s word of truth.
Blessings on your week and thanks for all you do for the kingdom with your prayers, your time, treasure, and talents.
Pastor DeHope
Dear friends in Christ,
One of the hard things about celebrations is that they come to an end. It’s already been a week and our fireworks fun is a memory until next year. Each year’s celebration is a little different but goes down in the history of our memory banks and/or photo collection. Birthdays, anniversaries, and other special days are much the same.
This weekend we have a double-header celebrate of a baptism (Colt Stephens) and a confirmation (Bella Leal) at Saturday’s service. What a wonderful opportunity for us to remember God’s gifts and promises as we remember our own baptism and confirmation – even if you’re struggling to remember them.
I have no memory of my baptism. I was a tiny baby born 8 weeks early. There’s even been some debate as to whether it was the same day or the next that Pastor Durfey came to the hospital to baptize me. That doesn’t matter. What does matter is that God is faithful to his promises, and he does not change. Hebrews 13:8 reminds us that Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever. James 1:17 tell us that every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change.
So, when Almighty God promises in baptism that you are his child and that your sins are forgiven – you can trust him. When Jesus says from the cross that “it is finished”, He means the plan of salvation, the forgiveness of sins for the whole world is completed. The payment has been accepted by the Father and we are free! We have new life in Him – forgiven and redeemed sinners! God’s words and actions leave no room for doubt. He loves us, He cares for us, and He will take us to be with Him in the place He has prepared for us. Those are His promises. The same yesterday, today and forever. You can take it to the bank – God has already made good on it.
Rejoice and be glad! Celebrate in all circumstances, my friends! The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases or comes to an end.
Blessings on your week!
Pastor DeHope
Dear friends in Christ,
I hope you enjoy your time this weekend celebrating our nation’s independence with thankfulness and joy. We’ll be celebrating our nation with some friends across the street by blowing up a small part of it! We’ll bring drinks! It’ll be great!
It’s a blessing to have such freedoms and we’ll be remembering and praying for those who fought and are fighting so we have and keep them in the good ‘ol USA!
There are other freedoms that we should also be mindful of and celebrate regularly as well. The first is our mobility and health – both mental and physical. Mobility and a clear mind are gifts from God that we often take for granted until there’s a problem.
The other freedom I’d like you to think about this week is our freedom in Christ. Sin separates us from God, but our Lord Jesus died on the cross for our sins and rose from the dead and gives us his righteousness. We are forgiven children of God and a new creation. We are reconciled to God in Christ and freed to a right relationship with him. It is in this newfound Christian freedom that we can love God and serve our neighbor.
St. Paul writes in 2 Corinthians 5:14-15: For the love of Christ controls us, because we have concluded this: that one has died for all, therefore all have died; and he died for all, that those who live might no longer live for themselves but for him who for their sake died and was raised.
People can be quick to retort: you can’t tell me how to…(you fill in the blank). We can forget that just because we have the freedom TO do something, doesn’t mean we should exercise that right. Or that doing so best serves God, us, or that neighbor. We have the power not to. Our freedom in Christ is a wonderful thing – not bound by the law or sin but bound by Christian love and service knowing we have been forgiven everything, and that the very kingdom is ours in Christ.
Dear Lord, Thank you for this good land and many freedoms; for the means by which you have delivered these gifts to us, and those who have served both you and country. Thank you for the salvation, Jesus won on the cross and for the freedom from sin and death that gives us. Help us celebrate and share with others all the gifts you daily and richly provide – both temporal and eternal. In Jesus name, Amen.
Blessings on your week,
Pastor DeHope
Dear friends in Christ,
This week I had to have a couple moles removed from my back. It may not seem like much, but I REALLY don't like doctors’ offices, needles and the like. Leah had to go to the dentist because a cavity was hurting her. No one likes going to the dentist. She was a trooper! We all have to go through hard things in life. Sometimes we get to choose whether or not to undertake or endure the hard thing; it might be for the benefit of another. Sometimes the situation is upon us, and we don't have a choice. Either way, the experience grows us, stretches us, and makes us stronger.
In Romans 8:28-39 the apostle Paul reminds us that God works all things for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. Be strengthened and encouraged this week as you work and walk through hard things. Nothing in all creation can separate you from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord. Deuteronomy 31:8 reminds us that the Lord himself goes before us and is with us. He will never leave us or forsake us. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.
Blessings on your week,
Pastor DeHope
Dear friends in Christ,
Sometimes people have a problem with church because they expect to see the saints of God, and what they find instead are a bunch of sinners. This can be disheartening, but there's always room for one more, right? We always hope for the best, but reality is sometimes different. Even shiny "new" minivans sometimes turn out to be less than picture perfect. No matter the case, we're quick to jump to judgements and conclusions all too quickly before the time is ripe, before we have the facts. In our Thursday Bible study on the Gospel of John we looked at ch. 12 where Jesus is at a dinner party in his honor after having raised Lazarus from the dead. He anointed there at Bethany in preparation for his burial that was yet to come with the expensive ointment made of pure nard as Mary wipes his feet with her hair. You might recall the Judas objects that this should be sold, and the money given to the poor (after he helps himself to a portion, because he's a thief, and he carries the moneybag).
With the feeding of the 5,000 this is the only other account found in all 4 gospels. Matthew, Mark, and Luke share with us that it wasn't just Judas who saw this grand gesture as wastefully extravagant. Luke's account (Luke 7:36-50) contains even more juicy details - They are at the house of Simon the Leper who obviously was no longer afflicted by it, or Levitical law would have forbidden him to associate with others. (Some scholars believe this is the same man healed of leprosy in Matthew ch. 8 when Jesus had come down from the sermon on the mount). Even though Simon was cured, and knew Jesus and his forgiveness, he's quick to judge Mary for her sins (though unsubstantiated) to the point of questioning Jesus’ judgement in even letting her near him. I encourage you to read the account and let it sink in. There's a heavy dose of hypocrisy there which is something Jesus points out and preaches against throughout the New Testament.
Now look in the mirror. We do those same things all the time, even without thinking, even when we don't mean to. Oh, how we love to compare ourselves to others, and even brag to God about it. We're quick to condemn our neighbor - to help them with the speck in their eye without first removing the plant from our own. We regularly fail to be those living saints God has called us to be. Here's the good news friends - that same forgiveness that is for Mary, for Simon, for the disciples - even Judas, is for you too! Look at how patiently and kindly Jesus calls Simon to repentance, calls him back to himself. He who is forgiven much, loves much.
Let us not object or complain when we see God being wastefully extravagant with his gifts of forgiveness, love and
mercy in the cross of Christ. Let us not jump to conclusions and assume the worst of others. Instead let us love and serve our neighbor in joy and rejoice at what they have been given and forgiven. We too are the beneficiaries of these priceless treasures. We too have been forgiven much, because God first loved us!
Blessings on your week dear friends.
Dear friends in Christ,
“You Choose.” That’s the title of Leah & Josh’s favorite books series right now. IF you could go anywhere, where would you go? And when you got tired and felt like a snooze, where would you sleep? You choose. Our family is closing in on a minivan this weekend if all goes according to plan. What make, model, year, trim, price, and color? Henry Ford’s quip “you can have any color as long as it’s black” isn’t sounding so bad right now. One less decision to make.
Life is full of options and choices – everything from what to wear in the morning to what to eat for dinner – have you seen all the choices on some of these restaurant menus? It all looks and sounds good. Which product do you purchase? They're all about the same; are any made in the USA? What career path will you take? Who will you date? Will they make a good mate? Should you leave now, or do you wait? Don't be early, but don't be late. What tasks on your list take priority, and what do you risk leaving for another day? What will you do in retirement? Can you even afford to do that? What do you do with the extra 30 minutes while you wait? There are so many large and small decisions we must make every day. Some don't matter in the grand scheme of life, but others come with life-changing consequences - good and bad. It can often be hard to decide, even on small things. "You choose" can seem like a burden more than a benefit.
Thankfully God declares to us: you did not choose me, but I chose you -John 15:16. Jesus lays down his life for us, He calls us friends. There is no need to worry about the wrong choice with Jesus. You are at peace with God through the cross of Christ. Your salvation is secure. There are no bad consequences to endure for a wrong or bad choice here on your part. God chose you; he saved you; he did the work and the choosing. He has given and declared His gifts to you and His love for you in Christ. You have His spirit to lead and guide you in the path of righteousness.
This may not help you with dinner or retirement planning; but it certainly gives you peace and perspective in a chaotic world full of choices. Don't sweat the small stuff. Your Lord and Savior has conquered death and hell for you. Have no fear little flock, the Father has chosen to give you the kingdom! It's all going to be ok. God has chosen you.
Blessings on your week.
Pastor DeHope
Dear POP friends,
I’ve always enjoyed a good mystery! As a kid I loved Encyclopedia Brown and the Hardy Boys books. They were especially good when Dad read them to us at bedtime. Later I enjoyed shows like Perry Mason, The Avengers, and even Matlock! They always wrapped up well in the end. The bad guys were caught, the mystery was solved, and the protagonists prevailed. I think that’s why I liked them. God wins and all the questions were answered.
Real life isn’t always that way. There are more profound mysteries that go unanswered. Why doesn’t this person love/like me? Why can’t I get ahead or get that promotion? Why does this keep happening to me? Why do I have____ (fill in your malady or issue). We’re left feeling like Job, when God tells him he’s not owed an answer for his question of struggle. Some things are part of the hidden will of God and will remain a mystery to us.
We celebrate the Holy Trinity this week. One God in three persons is how God revealed himself to us, and we are to believe this to be saved. It’s a mystery to us that we cannot comprehend. There is nothing to compare it to. While this is frustrating at times that we must simply accept something we cannot fully understand, even though we want to know more, I find great comfort in it, and I’ll tell you why. If I could fully understand the God and creator of the universe, his works and his ways, his essence and all there was to know about him, I might question his ability to save and rescue me, and to know and be in control of all things at all times. I’d question his omnipotence and his omniscience; I’d question a lot of his attributes and maybe if he was even truly God. But of course, I don’t. I trust in the Triune God to save, defend, protect, and uphold me and all things, even if it is a mystery and I must trust in faith.
In the midst of mystery and what I don’t understand, I turn to and cling to what I know, and what I can understand. The true God, the Trinity has revealed the truth to us in His word. There we can know for certain how much he loves us – shown in the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. There we can know how we are to live, love and serve him. There we can be certain of all his promises, and see their fulfillment, and trust in what is yet to come because God always keeps his word, even if there is still mystery with Him.
So, whether you’re a big mystery fan or not, the Trinity is one you can be ok with. It ends well for you dear Christian. So let us worship one God in Trinity and Trinity in Unity; neither confounding the Persons, nor dividing the essence.
Blessings on your week!
Pastor DeHope
“You never cease to amaze me!” This was the compliment I received from a friend after I shared some knowledge on a subject. It was sure nice hear. It felt good to be encouraged, to be recognized, to know that I, or at least information I had, was useful and valuable and that it helped him. It made me smile. It made me want to reciprocate. There was a part of me that was tempted to say, “I know – I’m an expert, an amazing expert”. And while I might be at some things, I really lack in others. It was convicting as well. I surely don’t encourage and build up a lot of people like I should, like I could, if I looked a little harder or more frequently for opportunities. Each day is a new day, right?
It’s so easy to fall into the temptation of thinking that we truly are amazing, that WE can do anything by ourselves and that we are responsible for all our successes. We amaze ourselves. It’s easy to get too big for our britches, as they say; or like Icarus, to fly too close to the sun.
Does God amaze you? Does He ever cease to amaze you? Do you think about it much? How often do we bask in His amazing work? Thank Him for his gifts and providence? Recognize that God is the builder of everything (Heb 3:4)? Do you appreciate his perfect ways – even when they’re not your way? Do you give him credit for your successes? These are hard things. It’s easy to get caught up in the business of life, and the reliability of God’s good gifts. Every day our heart still beats, and we wake up in the morning; the sun rises in the east and sets in the west.
This week we celebrate confirmation and several of our young members will confess their faith in Christ before the congregation. How fitting that this is on Pentecost Sunday as we celebrate the gift of the Holy Spirit! Our Lord Jesus promises the Holy Spirit, the Helper. The work of God the Holy Spirit is to point us always to Jesus who is our salvation, our life and our light. The Holy Spirit has led these young members to believe and confess their faith in Christ Jesus. The Holy Spirit has brought us to faith so that we believe, confess, and gather around Word and Sacrament for the forgiveness of sins. All these things truly are miracles each time they happen and keep happening since the devil the world and our own sinful flesh fight against it constantly.
Dear friends, think on these things. Thank, praise, and glorify God for the wonders he has done and continues to do in our lives and for our good. Pray. Dear God, Thank you for providing for my needs of body and soul and for the forgiveness Jesus has won for me. Guide me by your spirit in paths of righteousness for your names’ sake that we remain faithful and live to serve you and our neighbor. Open our eyes to see you clearly and to be amazed. Draw us to seek you where you have promised to be for us and for our salvation in your Word and Supper. To you alone be the glory, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Amen.
Blessings on your week,
Pastor DeHope
Dear friends in Christ,
It’s not fair…. That’s been the morning mantra at our house lately. It usually goes something like: it’s not fair Josh gets… or you get… or my friend gets… or not fair, sister had…. Todays’ complaint was: It’s not fair I have to get up and get dressed EVERY SINGLE DAY! It was hard to keep a straight face for a minute. Oh, the injustices at the DeHope house abound! The horror! Leah did calm down when she saw that everyone has to do that, and that mommy had it rougher with all the wake-ups and feedings though the night. Even though Mommy does get to sleep in, her job isn’t easy.
Life is not fair. Leah didn’t like that part, but it’s the truth! What’s fair isn’t always equal, and what’s equal isn’t always fair. Harsh truths for kids and adults alike. Honestly, after her heartfelt complaint, and after I stopped laughing inside, I thought; I don’t want to do any of that either! But it’s my job, my duty to get up, get the kids up, get them dressed, ready and fed, take them to school and go to work. EVERYDAY! That doesn’t stop me from complaining to you, to my family, and to God about all the injustices in the DeHope house, in His house the church – both here in greater Topeka as I see it, in synod and in the world, as well as life in general. I complain: my friend has..., that Pastor has…, I used to have…, I want…, I wish… my brother has…, my sister did…it’s not fair….! I’m just like kids, and so are you! It’s not so funny when it comes from us, is it?
It’s so easy to compare ourselves to others – whether the circumstances are truly the same or not, whether we know the whole story or not. Someone else always has greener grass or a fuller glass. We know 2 Corinthians 12:9 “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness,” but we forget the second part of the verse: Therefore, I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. It wasn’t fair that God died on the cross for our sins. Jesus was perfect and innocent, and yet he willingly suffered in our place and took what we deserve so that He can give us what is His, which we do not deserve.
When you’re tempted to compare yourself and complain, remember that you are equal with them in your need for a Savior, for you have both sinned and fallen short of the glory of God. They are no better than you in this regard. And you both receive the same forgiveness from a loving, gracious and merciful God in equal, full portions, so that you both are counted as righteous for the sake of Christ.
So, smile and laugh when you are tempted. Rejoice that you have Jesus; the same Jesus everyone else has. He is enough, and He is all you need. Neither Jesus, nor His forgiveness, nor your place nor your portion are any less because He is shared. You will remain full and forgiven, so spread that joy and forgiveness we have in Christ, and it will grow. Your joy will be complete.
Yours in Christ,
Pastor DeHope
Dear friends in Christ,
Scams are everywhere it seems. Thieves are out for your money, your identity, control of your device, your information etc. We really have to be vigilant and watch out. If you pay attention and ask yourself the right questions you can spot and avoid many dangers. Why would a Nigerian prince be contacting me to give me free money? That’s a scam. Click here to claim a prize for a contest you did not enter… also a scam. Oh no! There’s a problem with your account for a certain retailer – call now to fix it. That would be a problem until you realize you don’t actually have that type of account there. Good eye! You caught it and avoided trouble. Act now, and risk-free are also things we know to avoid.
Other times we’re not sure it’s a scam. Did the person I just gave $4 to really use or need it for food? What about the oil change on your car that came out with $1200 worth of needed repairs? These might be a little harder to determine. If you can spare $4 and you’ll sleep better at night then it’s worth the risk. Maybe it’s a scam, but on the other hand, many have entertained angels unawares…. Perhaps it’s a good idea to get a second opinion on your car or ask a friend who knows about those sorts of things before you shell out the big bucks so quickly.
The Bible warns us about scams and worldly troubles too. Our Lord warns us that our enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that your brothers throughout the world are undergoing the same kind of sufferings (1 Peter 5:8-9). Matthew ch. 10 is full of warnings about how the world will treat us because of our Lord Christ and his word. A student is not above his teacher so we should not expect to be treated better than he was. He says “Behold, I am sending you out as sheep in the midst of wolves, so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves. Beware of men for they will deliver you over to the authorities…”.
We are also encouraged because we know what the tricks are; we know it’s coming. So have no fear of them, for nothing is covered that will not be revealed, hidden that will not be known. We know the devil is the father of lies, and we can test all things against the word of God. God’s gift of grace to us is sufficient and his power is made perfect in weakness. We rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that the crown of life awaits us. The prophet Jeremiah reminds us in 29:11 that the Lord has plans to prosper us and not to harm us; plans to give us a hope and a future. This is far better those riches of the Nigerian prince, offered in exchange for my banking info.
Our Lord invites us to come to him “all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest”. He promises “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord you God will be with you wherever you go”, and that no one can snatch us out of his hand.
So, be warned, be wise, and be of good cheer! No scam here. The Lord is with you… always! He loves you, AND, He is risen! He is risen indeed, alleluia!
Blessings on your week.
Pastor DeHope
Dear friends in Christ,
Alicia and I are elated to celebrate Benjamin's baptism into Christ this Sunday, with you all. As a bonus Benjamin's Godfather, Pastor Trevor Mankin will be the guest preacher. He's here with my sister Lisa Mankin and their two girls, Maggie & Evie. My mom and dad will be here too! We hoped for nice sunny weather; but got rain instead. On the bright side, it's a nice reminder of our baptisms; not as a washing away of dirt from our bodies, but the forgiveness of sins as we are brought into God's family the church - sometimes kicking and screaming... or Benjamin's case, crying.
In Acts 16:25-34 we read of the Philippian jailer and his family coming to faith and all being baptized. I rejoice that my whole family now is baptized into Christ, and that you are too!
What a joy to share this common bond with you as your Christian family. Please join us for some cake after church.
God's blessings,
Pastor DeHope
Dear friends in Christ,
When a big or meaningful event takes place in our lives. we have a tendency to fixate and focus heavily on them; at least I do. Because of all that concentrated focus on one area, our thoughts and words become all about that big thing, or one event or at least directed by them. This could be a big trip, a job change, a surgery, a loss, or in our case, an addition. So much of our lives right now, even our thoughts are about Benjamin and things pertaining to him. I'll try to be mindful of that and not make everything about him and his effects - at church, at home, and in emails... though he does provide some good illustrations.
Psalm 139:13-16 says: "For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother's womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. My frame was not hidden from you, when I was being made in secret, intricately woven in the depths of the earth. Your eyes saw my unformed substance; in your book were written, every one of them, the days that were formed for me, when as yet there was none of them."
I look at little Benji and I see God's marvelous work literally sitting there in my hands. I also see it in the clouds against the backdrop of the clear blue sky. No two are ever alike. Some of them look fluffy, I want to go take a nap on them. Others resemble animals, objects, or countless other things at times - really whatever our mind can imagine. Even if all your eyes see is a cloud, or a baby, God has stitched everything in all creation together so uniquely and wonderfully. We can see that God creates order and beauty, complexity, and harmony as all these pieces of the universe fit together and function day in and day out. God has given all of this to serve us that we would enjoy it, tend it, and have dominion over it because he loves us.
We ultimately see God's love for us, not in the clouds, or in creation, not even in cute little babies, but in His Son, Jesus, who became a baby for us, taking on flesh and living a perfect life without sin for us. Jesus died on the cross for me, for you, for baby Benjamin - for the sins of the world and gives us eternal life through his resurrection from the dead. While we were still sinners Christ died for us (Romans 5) - THAT is love.
As you go about your week full of joys, struggles, pains, and uncertainty, take your eyes off the big things for a moment. Look at the clouds, look at your body, look at the world around you, everything has a unique beauty to it in some way. It is wonderfully made by an all-powerful God who loves you and works all things ultimately for you good. Confess your sins; your sins of worry, of selfishness, of doubt, anger and misuse of God's gifts, and lack of trust in Him - all these and more! Receive your Lord's forgiveness and trust wholeheartedly that it is so, that it is for you. Then go about your day in good cheer with the Lord's cross always before you. Let your joy be in Jesus, His empty tomb, and his love for us in ALL our circumstances. Enjoy His gifts and the mighty works of His hands!
In Christ,
Pastor DeHope
Dear friends in Christ,
Benjamin is two weeks old today, doing well and cleared from any further doctor visits. Praise God! But where did the time go? This week seems to have just flown by. Several have made remarks about how I got through holy week with a newborn... it was just one thing at a time bouncing from one service to the next it seemed. And yet the days since seem like more of a blur in many ways. A blessing for sure, but a blur. He has already changed so much.
Thursday there was a fatal accident on 53rd St & Indian Hills. A young mother was killed, and we mourn this terrible loss. It really rattled me. It was close to our home. She was known to members of our congregation, and Leah's school. She had recently had a child, and so have we. We drive this road daily. In the wake of such a tragedy we often ask why this happened, and wonder how could God have allowed it? Why didn't he intervene? I don't know, or have any answers, though I wish I did. This is part of the hidden will of God, and in these difficult times we must stick to what we know and remind one another of God's promises.
God has promised to work all things, even the terrible awful things for the good of those who love him - even this. Though we know not how. God has promised us that he will never leave us or forsake us. He loves us and has shown that by sending his Son Jesus to die on the cross for our sins. While we were yet sinners Christ died for us. He has promised to be among us with his gifts whenever two or three are gathered in his name. God has also promised to prepare a place for us, and to take us to be with him. I sure do hope this young mom knew her Savior. And while I don't know that; what I do know is that her Savior and ours knew her, and loved her and her family and friends, just as he loves all of us. His desire is to gather us to himself that we may know him, repent of our sins and be forgiven and have life in his name.
This loss is a reminder that all our days are a gift from God and are ultimately in his hand. Our Lord knows our sufferings, and he cares for us. It is a reminder of how quickly life could change for any one of us, and yet God does not change. His love for us is constant and his promises are always trustworthy and true.
As you count your blessings this week and thank God for all of it, even your sufferings, lift up all those who struggle and those who mourn. Lift up this dear family, and your own. Pray for your Pastor and his family. Make your wants and requests known to God. He loves to hear it and your neighbor needs it.
The Lord be with you all,
Pastor DeHope
Palm Sunday is already here! The kids are excited, and so are we. It's almost Easter, but first we see just how bad our sin is; that it sent God to the cross to die for us and our salvation. That is what makes the Easter resurrection news so good, so joyous! As we begin Holy Week, Palms in hand, I'm pondering again just how quickly the crowd turned on Jesus. We hailed you as king and welcomed you with our shouts, our coats, and our palms but you didn't deliver. It was fun, but I've lost interest; I expected more and better.... crucify!
Those highs and lows cycled so quickly. I see that same dichotomy in our life and in our parenting. One minute you're watching your kids play nicely and your heart is brimming with joy; the next they're at each others throats and you lose your mind, or temper.... Give it 6 minutes and they're back to being nice. Depending on how that exchange went or how deep in it you got, you might not have calmed down yet. There are so many things in life that don't go as we expect. If you go in with low expectations, you might be pleasantly surprised, but if you get too excited, you may soon be disappointed and want your money back.
One thing grandma said a lot was "it could always be worse...." and that was and is usually right. I try to temper my thinking and approach with that in mind. It often helps if I'm able to see it through that lens.
Right now, we're on high alert with baby Benjamin. He's not born yet, sorry to say. It probably won't go as planned. It's like the old joke goes - how do you make God laugh? Make plans. And yet God made a plan for us and for our salvation. It was to become one of us in the incarnation; to live a perfect life in our place and to be our substitute on the cross - to die the death we deserve, in our place so that guilty as hell, like Barabas, we go free. For Jesus, things could NOT always be worse. Nothing is worse than death by crucifixion, except being completely innocent, and then crucified. That is Jesus. There He shows His love for us.
No matter how quickly things turn for you, or on you... whether things are better than your wildest dreams or pan our worse than you feared... Jesus’ death and resurrection are for you. They are yours also. It could be worse, but it's not. Your life, your salvation, both in this life and the next are secure and certain in Jesus. Fear not, he has overcome the world.
A blessed Holy Week to you and yours!
Whether you like corned beef & cabbage or not; whether you celebrate big with Topeka's St. Patick's Day Parade & Irishfest with as much green beer as you can find, or you don't know what I'm talking about, Happy St. Patrick's Day! Whether you're Irish or not, every Christian should know a little bit about St. Patrick who was a brave hero of the Christian faith.
As with many heroes, history and legend have combined when it comes to Patrick. From his writings we know he was born near the end of the 4th century in Britain during a very rough time. Irish raiders kidnapped Patrick and his sisters and took them back to Ireland where they were sold as slaves, and he was forced to live in terrible conditions. Patrick was not particularly religious before his captivity, but during these rough and lonely years he prayed and meditated relying on the Lord.
One night in a dream he saw a vision from God to go to a specific harbor, and a certain boat to take him back home to Britain. So, he went and found things exactly as he had dreamed them and went home. After some time reunited with family, he had another vivid dream that he was to return to Ireland, to that pagan land of idol worship and to preach Christ to them so that Ireland would be converted. This became his life's work - to study, become a priest, and eventually return to Ireland with a small group.
God was surely with him, and even facing certain death he boldly proclaimed the gospel and Ireland was converted from paganism to Christianity. That one sentence covers an enormous amount of ground and almost sounds like it came from a fairytale. There was no doubt many others there doing God's work at the time, but we should remember Patrick as a champion of the Christian faith. Patrick's love for literature and history also led the Irish Christian monks to seek out, copy and protect many Christian and secular works that may have been destroyed otherwise. Otherwise, we may not have Homer's Iliad or lectures of Cicero among other great works.
There is a hymn "I Bind Unto Myself Today" LSB #604 that is attributed to St. Patrick and deals with the topic of the Trinity - One God in 3 persons.
I bind unto myself today
The strong name of the Trinity
By invocation of the same,
The Three in One and One in Three.
I bind this day to me forever,
By pow’r of faith, Christ’s incarnation,
His Baptism in the Jordan River,
His cross of death for my salvation,
His bursting from the spiced tomb,
His riding up the heavn’ly way,
His coming at the day of doom,
I bind unto myself today.
I bind unto myself today
The pow’r of God to hold and lead,
His eye to watch, His might to stay,
His ear to hearken to my need,
The wisdom of my God to teach,
His hand to guide, His shield to ward,
The Word of God to give me speech,
His heavn’ly host to be my guard.
Against the demon snares of sin,
The vice that gives temptation force,
The natural lusts that war within,
The hostile foes that mar my course;
Or few or many, far or nigh,
In ev’ry place and in all hours,
Against their fierce hostility,
I bind to me those holy pow’rs.
I bind unto myself the name,
The strong name of the Trinity
By invocation of the same,
The Three in One and One in Three,
Of whom all nature has creation,
Eternal Father, Spirit, Word.
Praise to the Lord of my salvation;
Salvation is of Christ the Lord!
So, this was a long one.... thanks for reading or skimming this far. We remember St. Patrick on his day as a bold confessor of the Christian faith, and we pray that we too boldly confess Christ as Lord and do good, even to our enemies all our days. To God be the glory!
Yours in Christ,
Pastor DeHope
Dear Friends in Christ,
Today is a rainy day, and I love rainy days. There’s one problem though….they’re not particularly motivating, at least to me, not quite like the sunshine is. I have the utmost respect for those who work outside in the elements and the rain, because I just want to stay dry and listen to the calming sounds. The gloominess of the day fits with tone of the Lenten season of sorrow and repentance over our sins. In the gloom of today God is busy watering the earth making it bring forth and sprout, giving seed to the sower and bread to the eater. The rain is contrasted with the word of God that does not return to him empty but accomplishes the purpose for which he sent it (Isaiah 55).
Our Lord’s journey to the cross, (which is our focus) also produces fruit for the earth, and for us! This was the plan from the fall in the garden of Eden to save the world. Jesus endured suffering and darkness for us because we could not. Lucky for us, Lent does not end on Good Friday or in darkness. The light of Easter dispels all darkness as Christ is risen from the grave. He is the light of the world. So, while we endure dark days in our lives, our country, and our church (I’m not talking about the weather), it is only for a time. The light will prevail. The light of Christ endures. Christ has risen! Christ has triumphed. And so will we. He is our light and our salvation. Whom shall we fear?
I pray this week that your burdens are light as you walk in the light of the risen Christ who FOR you!
God’s blessings,
Pastor DeHope
P.S. Speaking of light…. We’re about to have some more of it! Don’t forget to set your clocks and “spring forward” so you don’t miss church or something else important!
Dear friends in Christ,
This morning as I stepped into the shower, I was surprised to find a tape measure. Surely Josh left this there….and thankfully it was not harmed. A rain shower can be a pleasant surprise assuming you’re not caught in need without an umbrella. Sunday, Prince of Peace threw a very nice baby shower for us, and while the shower itself did not catch us unaware, we were surprised by everyone’s kindness and generosity that far exceeded our expectations. We received many wonderful gifts and words of kindness surrounding baby Benjamin’s arrival. Thank you all for being such a loving and supporting congregation to your Pastor and his family. It was a shower of blessings for sure!
Ezekiel 34:26 and surrounding verses talk about God showering his blessings on his people. He will bless his people and be their God. One of the ways God blesses his people is by being faithful to his words of promise. God's promise to send a savior is fulfilled in the coming of Jesus Christ. His promise to crush the serpent's head is fulfilled in Jesus' journey to the cross to bear our sins in his death and grave; leaving them buried there and rising in victory Easter morning.
This Lenten season we fix our eyes and ears on Jesus and his cross recognizing our sins sent him there; but seeing the faithfulness of God to keep his word and save us by this same cross. From this cross we receive the showers of God's blessings upon us each and every day reminding us of God's love and care for us in all the ways he provides. It's a joy to receive God's blessings with you, but also a joy to receive God's blessings from you. Thank you for sharing all good things with us (Galatians 6:6).
We appreciate you all very much! Blessings on your week!
Pastor DeHope & family
This week our gospel reading from Mark ch. 8 includes Peter’s good confession that Jesus is the Christ. Shortly after that when Jesus is teaching about his sufferings that must take place, Peter takes Jesus aside and rebukes him for saying such things, which in turn earns him our Lord’s rebuke “Get behind me Satan! For you are not setting your mind on the things of God, but on the things of man.” So often we get in trouble when we’re trying to do good; when we’re trying to be good and even help.
The struggle for sinners, which is all inclusive of every living, breathing human being, is that it’s so easy to be focused on the things of man, our things, the daily grind, our responsibilities, and even our vocations given by God…while failing first and foremost to keep our eyes on Christ and letting all the other things fall into place. This comes to us by nature. It takes a lot of strength and effort and focus to set our minds on Godly things and it’s a struggle. We’re very much like Peter who nails it one minute and the next has his foot in his mouth and has it all wrong. The call of Lent is to repent and to fix our eyes on Christ and His cross. But we’re not left alone to struggle, and neither is Peter.
Jesus teaches. He teaches the crowds, the disciples, and he teaches us. Continually, and without fail or abandon. Peter is not just roasted for what was wrong, Jesus taught him why it was wrong, and what was right. Jesus speaks plainly concerning his death and resurrection. He speaks plainly about our salvation in him, and that there is no other way. He is the way the truth and the life.
With all the trials and struggles and temptations you face, focus on Jesus words of life to you; meditate on His word, and what he plainly speaks to us concerning what had to happen to Him in His suffering and death so that 3 days later He rose from the grave. This was so that the glory of the resurrection and the forgiveness of sins and the eternal kingdom of heaven could happen to you dear friends.
Pastor DeHope