June 7 devotion - A Better Place

Exodus 16:2-3 In the desert the whole community grumbled against Moses and Aaron. The Israelites said to them, “If only we had died by the Lord’s hand in Egypt! There we sat around pots of meat and ate all the food we wanted, but you have brought us out into this desert to starve this entire assembly to death.” (NIV)

            The ancient Israelites were an ungrateful community. They had been delivered by God from slavery and given the opportunity to begin their lives afresh, but because of the initial hardships that faced them, they yearned for the ‘good old days,’ of drudgery and bondage. They may have been miserable under their Egyptian taskmasters, but at least they could sit around pots of food and eat until their bellies were full. Instead of embracing the freedom God had given them, they were willing to throw it all away and return to slavery. They really were a thankless crowd of grumbling folks. Even though God’s grace was right in front of them, they didn’t appreciate His presence and gift for what it was: life with liberty.

            We live on a beautiful planet in a unique solar system. As we spin through space, are we aware of how much grace God has invested in our world? None of the other planets can sustain life. We have beauty all around us each day – mountains, valleys, rivers, seas – all with a remarkable abundance of life – and yet we are just as ungrateful as the ancient Israelites.

            Instead of celebrating the bounty that God has given, we constantly destroy what we have received. Rather than making this world a better place, we fill it with pride and bitterness, greed and hostility. This may be the only planet in our galaxy that has life, beauty, and wonder, but we ravage its resources, spoil its loveliness, and selflessly plunder the environment as if it all is personally owned by us. We forget that the world belongs to God – we are only His servants and tenants who are meant to preserve its uniqueness, protect its splendor, and pass it on caringly to our children. Initially, God gives it to us graciously in the hope that we will embrace this godly gift with thankfulness, respect, and love. May we one day fulfill that divine dream.

Point to ponder

What am I doing with my life to make the world a better place? What blessings of God’s grace am I passing on to the next generation?

Prayer: Lord God, You have given the uniqueness of life on our planet and we are blessed because of Your abundant grace. Grant us the will and the wisdom to preserve the beauty around us so we may gratefully pass on the bounty of blessings that Your gift has given us. In Christ’s Name, we pray. Amen.

John Stuart is the Scottish pastor of Erin Presbyterian Church in Knoxville, Tennessee. You can read the church website at www.erinpresbyterian.org.

Today’s image is one of John’s latest Trinitarian drawings called ‘Blue Trinity.’ If you would like to view a larger version, click here: Trinity.

Finding the Light - Psalm 27:1

Psalm 27:1 The Lord is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life—of whom shall I be afraid? (NIV)

We all go through some dark and fearful times in our lives. A serious illness or injury to ourselves or a loved one may create some anxious moments. Domestic strife or a conflict at work may distress us and cause us to despair. Trying to meet a crucial deadline or struggling with important homework can put us under a lot of pressure. Losing a job or being disappointed by a friend can make us feel worthless or abandoned. Whatever the circumstance or situation, we feel vulnerable and weak, as well as scared and anxious, causing us to struggle with life and thinking about giving up on our dreams.

Whenever I experience something like that, I frequently turn to the Book of Psalms for consolation, support, and wisdom. There’s usually a verse from those ancient sacred poems that resonates with my current situation which makes me feel as though God is speaking directly to me. One of those incredible verses is highlighted today. To know that in the midst of my darkness and despair that God is my light and salvation greatly helps me. To feel that the Lord is the stronghold of my life makes me feel protected, embraced and loved.

Perhaps you need a message or a sign or a Biblical verse to get you through today. Maybe you have more going on in your life than you can handle. Whatever your circumstance, please take today’s verse as something from God that you can both lean on and rely upon. Let God lead you with His light; let God shield you from all that stresses you.

Point to ponder

What is currently stressing me? Am I willing to let God help me?

Prayer: Lord God, You know our lives completely and are perfectly aware of all that is presently happening to us. In the midst of our trouble, be the light that leads us to better times. In our fearful moments, grant us Your strength and loving support. In Jesus’ Name, we pray. Amen.

John Stuart is the pastor of Erin Presbyterian Church in Knoxville, Tennessee. Come and join us for worship at 11:00 AM on Sundays. You will be made most welcome 😊

Today’s image is one of John’s Easter drawings called ‘Beyond the Cross.’ If you would like to view a larger version, please click this link: Cross.

One Minute Message - Love Wins

Love Wins

Hebrews 9:28 Christ was sacrificed once to take away the sins of many; and He will appear a second time, not to bear sin, but to bring salvation to those who are waiting for Him. (NIV)

Without Jesus redeeming us, we would remain unforgiven. Without Christ’s supreme sacrifice, we would be separated from God forever. His commitment to our salvation cost Him everything, so our devotion to His life is worth more than anything. We wait for Him because He won all for us.

Prayer: Lord Jesus, take away our sins and save us for God’s Kingdom. Amen.

Keeping Connected - Hebrews 6:10

Hebrews 6:10 God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them. (NIV)

            One of the problems that the Early Church had to face was how to keep people connected to the local congregation. When the Gospel was first preached, its novelty attracted and excited many people, but as the years passed by, their enthusiasm diminished and the burden of maintaining their faith, especially in the face of persecution, was too much to carry, sustain, and endure. It was far easier to return to their old ways and give up on the church; it was also much more convenient because having faith complicated their lives and affected their decisions.

            The author of Hebrews dealt with this dilemma by cautioning church folks to safeguard their faith and to preserve their salvation by remaining active members. Falling away ran the risk of losing everything which the letter writer called ‘crucifying Christ again,’ as if it were an act of betrayal. Some folks worried about this and felt as though they were losing their connection to God, so the author reassured them that by maintaining their good works and loving God’s people – the church – they would not be forgotten by God. In other words, they kept both their faith and salvation alive by continually serving, worshiping, and glorifying God with their lives.

            Today, there’s a lot being discussed and written about the ‘nones’ and the ‘dones,’ – people who will have nothing to do with the church, as well as folks who say they are done with church. As always people make their own choices, but the consequences to their eternal souls can be devastating. We may want God to uphold our beliefs and give us a pass when it comes to being inconsistent as Christians, but there’s nothing in the New Testament that would indicate this is how God operates, or how salvation is sustained. If we’re not reading the Bible, how can we know the Truth? If we’re not worshiping Christ, how can we call ourselves ‘Christian?’

Point to ponder

How much attention do I give to maintaining my faith? What does God expect me to do in order to follow Christ?

Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are gracious and merciful, loving and forgiving, but You are not indulgent or indifferent about our lives. You died for us to offer salvation for our souls. Help us to value this gift as the most amazing blessing of our earthly lives and teach us to embrace it respectfully, gratefully, and faithfully. In Your Holy Name, we pray. Amen.

John Stuart is the pastor of Erin Presbyterian Church in Knoxville, Tennessee. Come along and join us for worship on Sunday mornings at 11:00 AM – we will be delighted to see you 😊

Today’s image is one of John’s Celtic Cross drawings called ‘Neo-Celtic Cross.’ If you would like to view a larger version, click on this link: Cross.

Prompted By Faith - 2 Thessalonians 1:11

2 Thessalonians 1:11 With this in mind, we constantly pray for you, that our God may make you worthy of his calling, and that by his power he may bring to fruition your every desire for goodness and your every deed prompted by faith. (NIV)

            Most church people that I know, try to make the world a better place. They understand their weaknesses and shortcomings; they are aware of their limits and abilities, and they are conscious of their faults and sins. Despite this, they pray, hope for, and work towards making their congregations, circles, and communities safer and just places, full of caring and supportive people. They also understand the strength that a faith community can bring into their lives, as well as to those around them.

            Paul’s prayer for the Thessalonian church in today’s highlighted verse was meant to encourage the Christians in that community. They were already experiencing some forms of discrimination and persecution, but the apostle knew that if they endured their hardship and still worked toward the betterment of the whole community, their witness would be effective and their work for Christ would expand. Thankfully, those Christians took Paul at his word and practiced what he was preaching to them. To this very day, their faithful work still carries on.

            Today, we will all be given opportunities to do good and apply our faith in supportive ways. We can become embracers of those who need support and encouragers to those who need guidance. We don’t have to be extra-holy or superbly saintly about it; all we have to do is respond lovingly, care sincerely, and serve humbly. If we do this, then the world around us will become a better place, especially in someone else’s life.

Point to ponder

Who needs my help and support today? Am I willing to encourage them?

Prayer: Lord Jesus, throughout this day we ask that You grant us guidance and wisdom to help those around us who need compassion and support, love and understanding. In your Holy name, we faithfully pray. Amen.

John Stuart is the pastor of Erin Presbyterian Church in Knoxville, Tennessee. Come along and join us for worship on Sunday mornings at 11:00 AM. You will be made very welcome 😊

Today’s image is one of John’s latest bird drawings of a hummingbird which, in some cultures, is a symbol of encouragement. If you would like to view a larger version, please click this link: Hummingbird.

Labor of Love - 1 Thessalonians 1:3

1 Thessalonians 1:3 We remember before our God and Father your work produced by faith, your labor prompted by love, and your endurance inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ. (NIV)

                In every church that exists, 20% of the members usually end up doing 80% of the work. Their commitment to Christ and the congregation is a wonderful gift to the faith community. The hours, days, weeks, months, and years of service make a huge difference in the life, ministry, and mission of the entire congregation. Whether it comes from elders or deacons, team leaders or volunteers, their gifts of time, talents, and resources are both essential to the continuing work of the church, as well as being an effective witness of God’s presence, care, and love.

                When the apostle Paul wrote to the Christians in Thessalonica, he wanted to commend them for their faithful, loving, and hopeful service to Christ. They were dedicated to spreading the Gospel and also devoted to the well-being of their people. They supported other churches with their gifts and exemplified what it meant to be a Christian in their own community. Paul’s positive words would have encouraged them to be and do even better for the Lord. His commendations were powerful and have been so effective that the churches still survive in the area after more than nineteen hundred years!

                Every one of us who belongs to a church has both the potential and opportunity to faithfully and effectively serve God through the ministries and missions, projects and programs our congregations undertake. All we have to do is personally volunteer and cheerfully give of ourselves, our time, and our resources to build up the church and make our world a better place.

Point to ponder

Am I willing to give my church more of my time and resources? Am I waiting to be asked or ready to volunteer on my own?

Prayer: Lord Jesus, as Christians we are Your hands and feet, hearts and voices in the world today. Help us to see where our gifts and time could be used effectively in our faith communities. Grant us opportunities to serve You through Your body, the Church. In Your Holy Name, we pray. Amen.

John Stuart is the pastor of Erin Presbyterian Church in Knoxville, Tennessee. Come and join us for worship on Sunday mornings at 11:00 AM. You will be made most welcome 😊

Today’s image is one of John’s early psalm drawings based on a verse from Psalm 85. If you would like to view a larger version, please click this link: Psalm 85.

Sermons - John 4:42

John 4:42 They said to the woman, “We no longer believe just because of what you said; now we have heard for ourselves, and we know that this man really is the Savior of the world.” (NIV)

As a preacher of the Gospel, I put a lot of time, research, and effort into creating and writing a sermon. I try to make it both a teaching instrument, as well as a challenging one. The whole purpose of a sermon, in my opinion, is to draw someone closer to Christ. In today’s cosmopolitan world, this is not a given, even among church folks. People have so many different sources of information that it is very easy to get distracted from our Christian Gospel roots and dabble in other faiths which, although they may have some good points, actually lead people away from Christ.

            The ending of the Gospel story of the woman at the well finishes with her people becoming completely convinced that Jesus is the Savior of the entire world. They no longer need to be persuaded by her testimony; they have reached that life-changing moment for themselves. This is exactly the point of conversion that every preacher hopes their sermons will attain. It occurs when the preacher’s words become real, when the power of the Gospel actually enters the hearts and minds of the hearers of God’s Word.

            So long as I live and am able, I will continue to preach and write about the Gospel in the hope that someone, somewhere, and at some time, will make that connection to Jesus. In my opinion, it’s absolutely crucial for every person to make that decision; and it’s eternally necessary for those who want to be with Christ beyond this world.

Point to ponder

Have I accepted Jesus as the Savior of the World? If so, how do I display my faith in Him alone?

Prayer: Lord Jesus, life is beautiful and wonderful, a time and space to enjoy and explore. However, life is not a game to play, but a gift to prepare ourselves to be with You forever. Help us to both understand and accept this reality today. In Your Holy Name, we pray. Amen.

Today’s image is one of John’s bulletin cover drawings called “I Am the Way.” If you would like to view a larger version, please click this link: Way.

John Stuart is the pastor of Erin Presbyterian Church in Knoxville, Tennessee. You can read the church website at www.erinpresbyterian.org. You can also send John an email to Traqair@aol.com.

Walk in Love - 2 John 1:6

2 John 1:6        And this is love: that we walk in obedience to his commands. As you have heard from the beginning, his command is that you walk in love. (NIV)

            Like most people, I’ll be glad when this Presidential Election is well and truly over. It seems to have brought out the worst in most of us and, unfortunately, has not been a good civil exercise in community building. I’m as guilty as anyone else, so quite recently I stopped making political comments on Facebook and other places in order to maintain both my sanity and friendships with other folks. It is my fervent hope and prayer that after this is all over, we can live and work together as free people, who love their liberties and cherish their relationships.

            Looking at today’s highlighted verse, it seems to me that as Christians, we have a greater responsibility to walk in love and grow that peace. If we get too caught up in party politics and partisan divisiveness then we’ve forgotten the higher road, as well as the greater standard, that we are supposed to follow. In the Christian Church, loving one another is not just a personal elective or individual choice; it’s a command that came straight from Christ’s lips to those who would be His followers and disciples.

            So perhaps the best way to walk in Christ’s love is to begin it today and not to wait for the Election to end. If we treat each other respectfully, faithfully, and lovingly, then we won’t get caught up in the frantic turmoil that usually occurs in the last days before voting ends.

Questions for personal reflection

How has my witness as a Christian been displayed during this campaign? Am I willing to follow Christ’s command to love one another, especially those who support a different candidate?

Prayer:            Lord Jesus, we pray for our nation like never before. We confess to being polarized by politics and characterized by our candidates. Help us to take a higher path and walk throughout this time in Your love, in order to display Your grace and peace. In Your Holy Name, we humbly confess and sincerely pray. Amen.

John Stuart is the pastor of Erin Presbyterian Church in Knoxville, Tennessee. If you would like to ask questions or make comments about today’s message, please send him an email to Traqair@aol.com.

Today’s image is this week’s bulletin cover art for the Church, based on a timely Bible verse from 2 Thessalonians. If you would like to view a larger version, please click this link: Bulletin.

Faith for the Future - Jeremiah 29:11

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.”(NIV)

            Last weekend, my eldest daughter got married to her sweetheart. It was a beautiful wedding and I was very proud of the newly wedded couple. I pray that they have a great future ahead of them and that God will bless them in many ways.

            Marriage is a leap of faith, as well as a loving ceremony. The two people involved publicly promise to love, support, and cherish one another for the rest of their lives. It’s a beautiful part of life, but it’s also a unique covenant which can sometimes be hard to sustain and prolong.

            Today’s verse from Jeremiah reminds us of the loving covenant that God has maintained with His people throughout the centuries. The words of reassurance were originally meant for the displaced Jews who had been defeated by the Assyrians and taken into exile. God’s promise through Jeremiah is a loving statement of His faithfulness toward His people. Whatever the future would bring in exile, they still seek God’s reassurance, comfort, and love. Things might be initially bleak, but God’s constant faithfulness to them would one day bring His people back to their precious homeland.

            Today, you may be experiencing uncertainty or are perhaps anxious about the future. You might think that you are isolated and alone, vulnerable and weak. Please know this: God’s reassuring love and reaffirming presence are with you, even now. Seek Him and He may be found; look to Him for help, and He will give You His love.

Questions for personal reflection

What are my hopes for the future? How can God help me attain them?

Prayer: Gracious God, we thank You for Your loving presence with us each day. We look to You for guidance and we place our future into Your faithful hands. Be with us and bless us, in Jesus’ Name, we pray. Amen.

John Stuart is the pastor of Erin Presbyterian Church in Knoxville, Tennessee. If you would like to comment or ask questions about today’s message, please send him an email to Traqair@aol.com.

Today’s image is one of John floral drawings called ‘Roses’. If you would like to view a larger image, please click this link: Roses.

Human Holiness - Hebrews 10:10

Hebrews 10:10 And by that will, we have been made holy through the sacrifice of the body of Jesus Christ once for all. (NIV)

            Holiness is not something that human beings are known for, unless you ascribe it to Bible characters, New Testament saints, or noble historical people like Francis of Assisi, Father Damien of Molokai, or Mother Theresa of Calcutta. Holiness, however, is what we need if we are to eventually come into the sacred presence of God. Without it, we will be separated from our Creator forever.

            Thankfully, even though we cannot earn, produce, or obtain this holiness for ourselves, Jesus has enough holiness to cover our sins and make us sacred in God’s eyes. This process has a church word for it – it’s called Sanctification. Jesus sanctifies us through His own sacrifice and makes us holy with His Cross. This is unbelievably simple and something which a number of people will never understand. We are so used to accomplishing tasks for ourselves or getting what we want by working for it, that we find it difficult to accept Christ has already fulfilled what is eternally required. However, think about it this way: what more can we add to what Christ has done? Nothing – absolutely nada. If there was something we could add, then Christ’s sacrifice would be incomplete. If there was something else we could achieve to merit sanctification, His offering would be imperfect.

            So today, let’s celebrate our sanctification and cheerfully embrace Christ’s holiness as our own. By His sacrifice, we are reconnected to God and restored to His dream forever.

Prayer:            Lord Jesus, thank You for receiving us as human sinners and transforming us into holy children of God. Your sacrifice perfectly restored us to our Creator. Your death decidedly reconnected us to God. In Your Holy Name, we gratefully pray. Amen.

John Stuart is the pastor of Erin Presbyterian Church in Knoxville, Tennessee. Please feel free to send him an email to Traqair@aol.com.

Today’s image is one of John’s latest crayon drawings called ‘Moonlight Waves.’ If you would like to view a larger version, please click this link: Waves.

Truth Has Perished - Jeremiah 7:28

Jeremiah 7:28 Therefore say to them, “This is the nation that has not obeyed the Lord its God or responded to correction. Truth has perished; it has vanished from their lips.”

            Sometimes when I read the prophecies from the Old Testament, I feel as though those ancient words could have been written yesterday. It seems to be that we are experiencing the same kind of things that were going on in ancient Israel. I guess this also means that as a species, we never seem to learn much from the past.

            Honestly, when I read today’s chosen verse, I couldn’t help but think, “That’s us. That’s exactly where we are right now.” It didn’t comfort me at all and has only led me into thinking, “What’s my part in all of this? What can I do to make things change?” I certainly don’t want to become a Jeremiah, weeping and wailing about the mistakes and misfortunes of our nation; but at the same time, I don’t want be deluded or hide somewhere safe and comfortable until God sorts things out for Himself. If I did that, I would be serving myself and not God.

            As Christians, we are called to obey God and display the truth. It’s not an easy task because most of the world wants to do neither of those things. However, if we truly seek to serve Christ then unpopular things like truth and obedience have to play a central role in how we live our lives. There are supposedly more Christians in our nation than any other religions or faiths. Perhaps if we all honored truth and obedience, things would be much better for everyone, in our homes, schools, workplaces, churches, and country.

Questions for reflection

What truths are evident in our nation today? How can we serve God by faithfully dealing with those truths?

Prayer:            Lord Jesus, life is never simple and living up to God’s truth is never easy. Open our hearts and minds to what is happening in our community, our country, and our world. Grant us the gift of discernment, as well as the hearts to follow through with service and obedience. In Your Holy Name, we pray. Amen.

John Stuart is the pastor of Erin Presbyterian Church in Knoxville, Tennessee. If you would like to comment or ask questions about today’s message, please send him an email to Traqair@aol.com.

Today’s image is an abstract drawing of John’s called ‘Way, Truth, and Life.’ If you would like to view a larger version, please click this link: Truth.

Devotion: Forgetting the Past - Isaiah 43:18

Isaiah 43:18     “Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past.”

            Living in the past is a sure fire way to spoil the present and sabotage the future. As human beings, we are both blessed and cursed with powerful memories. Some of them are really good and cause us to be cheerfully nostalgic. Other remembrances are very painful and can sometimes be unhealthy.

            Letting go of the past is something that God calls us to do. It’s not easy to accomplish, but neither is lumbering a lot of baggage which weighs us down emotionally, spiritually, and even physically.

            God urges us to forget former things and not dwell on the past. His Son Jesus died painfully on the Cross, but God does not dwell on that terrible moment. Instead, He looks forward to the brightness of an eternal future where we will abide in His Kingdom and enjoy His everlasting love. This is why God wants us to let go of the past – so that we can look ahead to our future with Jesus.

Questions for reflection

What am I still carrying as a burden from the past? Am I willing to let it go and allow God to grant me a better present, as well as a brighter future?

Prayer:            Lord Jesus, You are our Savior; please save us from ourselves. Release us from the past and guide us to a hopeful future. In Your Holy Name, we pray. Amen.

John Stuart is the pastor of Erin Presbyterian Church in Knoxville, Tennessee. Please feel free to share this email with family & friends.

Today’s image is one of John’s Creation drawings called “Let There be Light.” If you would like to view a larger version, please click on this link: Creation.

Short devotion - What is Church? - Ephesians 3:10-11

Ephesians 3:10-11      His intent was that now, through the church, the manifold wisdom of God should be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly realms, according to his eternal purpose that he accomplished in Christ Jesus our Lord.

            Some people these days question whether or not churches should exist. Rather than bring people together for worship, missions, or programs, would Christianity not be better served by individuals and small groups going out into the community at large, doing good deeds and showing compassion to those who are unloved, unwanted, and uncared for? After all, didn’t Jesus Himself go from place to place, offering His compassion and healing those who needed His help? Surely, it is argued, local congregations should do the same.

So why were churches established in the first place, and what purpose do they serve now?           

I like what the Apostle Paul has to write about church, especially in this passage from Ephesians 3. He describes church as being the established vehicle through which the wisdom of God is made known. Churches are receptacles, gathering places, or domains where the rich teaching, history, and experiences of our knowledge of God are faithfully kept. They become storehouses for people who are hungry for God’s Word; they become wells where folks can quench their spiritual thirst with Christ’s teaching. In other words, churches equip people with faith to help them in their daily lives, current events, and personal circumstances.

We are all seeking meaning for our lives, which comes to us through our relationship with God. His knowledge shows us the best ways and paths for our lives. Churches can help us find that wisdom by providing teaching and encouragement, studies and support, opportunities and missions which will bolster our faith and give us a worthwhile purpose throughout our days on Earth.

Questions for personal reflection

What wisdom and guidance has God given to me through the church? How have I shared those gifts with others in my life?

Prayer:            Lord Jesus, we sometimes forget that the Church is Your Bride, so You are always supporting, caring, and loving toward it. Bless our churches with Your Holy Spirit and grant them opportunities to share God’s wisdom in positive, cheerful, and effective ways. In Your Holy Name, we pray. Amen.

John Stuart is the pastor of Erin Presbyterian Church in Knoxville, Tennessee. If you would like to ask questions or make comments about today’s message, please send him an email to Traqair@aol.com.

Today’s image is another of John’s Pentecost drawings for 2016. If you would like to view a larger version, please click this link: Pentecost

Bible devotion: From Afar - Psalm 138:6

Psalm 138:6    Though the Lord is exalted, He looks kindly on the lowly; though lofty, He sees them from afar.

            Every day, I look at my Facebook page. Because most of my family live 3000 miles away in Scotland, it’s about the only regular contact I have with them. I like to read their comments and see what they are doing. I like to share a few jokes with them and look at their photos. I’ve not seen my family in person for over 11 years, so Facebook gives me the ideal opportunity to interact with them from afar.

            In today’s psalm reading, we are told that God kindly watches us from afar. He is really interested in who we are, what we do, and wherever we are situated. Even though God is in the highest halls of divine holiness, He is still focused on what is happening in the lowest levels of human lives. We are His created people; He is our wonderful God.

            So wherever we find ourselves today and whatever we set out to do, let’s be assured that God is always with us, and that the presence of Jesus Christ our Savior abides with us each day through the amazing gift of the Holy Spirit in our lowly lives.

Questions for discussion

What am I hoping to accomplish this day? How will I know that God is with me?

Prayer:            Ever present and Almighty God, thank You for being lovingly interested in our personal lives. Thank You for Your constant watching of what we do, where we go, and whatever we complete. Continue to be with us and bless us with the presence of Your Son Jesus throughout our lives. In His Holy Name, we pray. Amen.

John Stuart is currently the pastor of Erin Presbyterian Church in Knoxville, Tennessee. If you would like to ask questions or comment on today’s message, please send him an email to Traqair@aol.com.

Today’s image is one of John’s bulletin cover images for churches called ‘Bread of Life.’ If you would like to view a larger version, please click on this link: Life.

Short devotion: Winemaker - John 2:11

John 2:11      What Jesus did here in Cana of Galilee was the first of the signs through which He revealed His glory; and His disciples believed in Him. (NIV)

            Even these days, a person who could turn water into wine, would be very popular and handy to invite at any wedding. Despite this, Christ’s first miracle seemed to be unknown to most of the wedding party, in the midst of all the celebrating and carousing at Cana. Only Mary, the mother of Jesus, Christ’s disciples, and a few house servants knew that a miracle had taken place. Everyone else was oblivious to what had occurred; all the other guests had no earthly idea about the heavenly event that had just taken place.

            In church, we sometimes experience something similar. Miracles of healing, God-answered prayers, gifts of beautiful blessing frequently occur in our congregations, no matter how big or small. People of Christian faith, from many different backgrounds, have actually known of individual miraculous moments in their lives. Sadly, the rest of the world appears to miss out on these special events because folks are too busy, too distracted, too distant, or too unconnected to God to be able to realize, or even recognize, that miracles are taking place in churches all around the globe.

            Each time I come across and re-read the story of the wedding in Cana, Jesus continues to make me smile because I know that He is still in the miracle business, taking empty lives and filling them with His beautiful Spirit. He makes the best out of the worst. He turns critical moments into miraculous events. He changes sinners into servants, as well as making dedicated disciples out of the most desperate and disastrous of people. In other words, He still turns ordinary water into the choicest wine.

Personal questions:             How has Christ wrought changes in me? Where have I seen His miraculous works in my church and community?

Prayer:          Lord Jesus, thank You for the miraculous changes that You constantly make throughout the world. Thank You for turning our lives around by allowing us the opportunity of becoming Your servants. Be with us and help us to carry on Your great work of changing the world. In Your Holy Name, we pray. Amen.

John Stuart is currently the pastor of Erin Presbyterian Church in Knoxville, Tennessee. If you would like to make a comment or ask questions about today’s message, please send him an email to Traqair@aol.com. If you should ever find yourself in Knoxville on a Sunday morning, Erin Church people would be delighted to welcome you to their 11:00AM worship service.

Today’s image is one of John’s latest silhouette drawings called “Moon Catcher.” If you would like to view a larger version, please click on this link: Moon Catcher.

Church Growth devotion: Rebuilding the Church - Psalm 102:16

Psalm 102:16           For the Lord will rebuild Zion and appear in His glory. (NIV)

            There’s a lot of rebuilding that needs to be done in many churches, including our own. The conflicts that we've all been involved in over the last three decades have taken their toll. Worship wars, culture wars, marriage wars, and atonement wars have diminished the life, work, and mission of the Church as Christ’s Bride on Earth. We are meant to be healers in a broken world; sadly, we have become so disjointed, disfigured, and disunited that we are broken, too.

            We need to ask God to rebuild us, one day at a time, and one person at a time. It will not be an easy process because it will require focus, energy, discipline, and commitment. There’s no other way to rebuild congregations or churches. There’s no magic wand, instant success, or easy button to do it. However, it is not insurmountable or unachievable. It can be done and it will be done among those churches who humbly yield to God and sincerely say, “Thy Will be done.”

            Five hundred years ago, the Christian Church faced a similar challenge. The early Reformers like Jan Hus, Martin Luther, and John Calvin knew that the people and priests had to get back to a form of basic New Testament Christianity. It was an uphill struggle – Jan Hus was burned at the stake; Martin Luther was declared an outlaw and hunted down; John Calvin faced death threats on a regular basis. They were successful in growing a new movement and a new church because their message was true to the Gospel. They accomplished much because they remained true to Christ.

            Today, let’s seriously think about reforming our ways and rebuilding the church. Instead of throwing stones at one another, let’s pick up those stones and rebuild our sacred places. Let’s call upon God to give us the grit and determination, as well as the resolve and focus to grow in His goodness, to advance Christ’s Kingdom, and to walk with the Spirit. We can do this. We can embrace this. We can rebuild.

Questions for personal reflection

What must I do to rebuild my commitment to Christ? How can I help others to do the same?

Prayers:         Lord Jesus, we are all a part of Your Church, Your Work, and Your Mission. In recent times, we have wandered away from Your Truth, forgotten Your Way, and have set aside Your Life. Forgive us for tearing down what You have built. Enable us to reform and allow us to rebuild. In Your Holy Name, we humbly pray. Amen.

John Stuart is the pastor of Erin Presbyterian Church in Knoxville, Tennessee. If you would like to comment or ask questions about today’s message, please send him an email to Traqair@aol.com. John is always interested in your thoughts. And, if you ever find yourself in Knoxville on a Sunday morning, the people at Erin will make you feel welcome and will be delighted to worship with you.

Today’s image is John’s latest Pentecost drawing. If you would like to view a larger version, please click on this link: Pentecost.

Christian devotion - A Derailed Psalm - Psalm 101:1

Psalm 101:1  I will sing of your love and justice; to you, Lord, I will sing praise.

            Psalm 101 starts off so well. The writer declares his intent to sing of noble ideals like love and justice, as well as praising God. Sounds like a great idea and a wonderful way to express his faith; unfortunately, the rest of the psalm does not live up to the initial opening statement.

            Very soon, the psalmist goes into a self-righteous mode and quickly begins to condemn those who do not follow God’s ways. At one point he further declares that:

v5 - Whoever slanders their neighbor in secret, I will put to silence; whoever has haughty eyes and a proud heart, I will not tolerate.

            We are all guilty of this and have experienced it on numerous occasions, from those with deeply entrenched views, as well from those who call themselves tolerant people. Sadly, we all currently see this all-too-human trait in the many forms of moral iconoclasm where opposing groups on abortion, sexuality, war, politics, or poverty tear down each other’s beliefs and standards, in the forlorn hope that the last person standing will win the day.

            As I read the rest of Psalm 101, I wish that the writer had just written a spiritual haiku, for his first words speak so well of what faithful folks like us should aspire toward. The world is full of wounded people and in need of a merciful holy healing, but if faithful people are wounding one another, then how can God’s message be effectively witnessed to, in our communities? I honestly think that if we get rid of our agendas and instead subscribe to the love, mercy, and truth of Christ, then we will have a substantial message to proclaim; otherwise we will fall like the wounded around us, and be of no use to anyone.

Questions for personal reflection

How can I support God’s work of love and justice? Where is God working in my congregation and community today?

Prayer:          Lord Jesus, we all have sinned and fall short of God’s standards and we know that we are unworthy of Your mercy. However, we do know that You love us and command us to love one another. Help us to see where You are working among us, in our congregation, our community, and our country. Enable us to become better servants of Your healing ministry. In Your Holy Name, we humbly pray. Amen.

John Stuart is currently the pastor of Erin Presbyterian Church in Knoxville, Tennessee. If you would like to comment or ask questions about today’s message, please send him an email to Traqair@aol.com.

Today’s attached image is one of John’s latest bulletin covers for churches for last Sunday. If you would like to view a larger version, please click this link: Easter7B.

Devotion on Prayer: Praying Persistently - Luke 18:1

Luke 18:1      Then Jesus told his disciples a parable to show them that they should always pray and not give up.

            Like many other Christians, I pray all through the day. Sometimes I pray when I’m driving my car; at other times I pray when I’m sitting at my desk, or lying on my bed. My thoughts and prayers cover all sorts of subjects, people, issues, and requests. And whenever I’m going through a difficult time, or perhaps a family member is, or even a church member, I pray continually for help, healing, and wholeness.

            I try to be persistent in what I pray. If a friend of mine is really ill or going through a hard time, I constantly ask God for mercy and grace, guidance and goodness to come into that person’s life. I try not to give up, not because I seek to pester God with my requests, but because I know that God has the power, grace, and love to bring about healing, restoration, rescue, and renewal. Prayer is both a great privilege, as well as a powerful gift, so I really try hard to focus on what I am actually asking God to do.

            All of my prayers have been answered. Sometimes the answer is “Yes.” At other times, the answer can be “No,” but usually the answer is “Not now, not yet.” So I continue to pray thankfully, faithfully, and persistently. It doesn't make me holy or saintly; instead it keeps me connected to God and seeking His guidance. It makes me realize that I am a creature and He is Creator; I am a servant and He is my King.

            Today’s parable of the persistent widow (Luke 18:1-8) was told by Jesus so that His followers would continue to use prayer as the vehicle of their requests, as well as the channel of their direct connection to God. Prayer keeps our faith activated, as well as joining our spirits to Jesus. Persistent and sincere prayer maintains our hope for healing and sustains our strength in Christ.

Questions for reflection:    How often do I pray? What do I frequently pray to God? How does God answer my prayers? How do I respond to His decisions?

Prayer:          Lord Jesus, thank You for teaching us how to pray faithfully and effectively. Keep us connected to You through the spiritual experience of focused prayer. Be with us and bless us this day. In Your Holy Name, we pray. Amen.

John Stuart is the pastor of Erin Presbyterian Church in Knoxville, Tennessee. If you would like to ask questions or make comments about today’s message, please send him an email to Traqair@aol.com.

Today’s image is one of John’s new woodcut type drawings called “Night Lights.” If you would like to view a larger version, please click on this link: Lights.

Church Meeting devotion: Topsy Turvy Teacher - Luke 9:48

Luke 9:48      Then Jesus said to them, "Whoever welcomes this little child in my name welcomes me; and whoever welcomes me welcomes the one who sent me. For he who is least among you all--he is the greatest." (NIV)

            One of the earliest images of Jesus that most of us have, is usually of Him playing with and surrounded by children. Most church nurseries have pictures hanging on their walls with similar drawings. The best picture that I have ever seen was in an old Scottish Church where Jesus was encircled by children who came from all over the world, all wearing their national and ethnic costumes.

            We may not know it, but Christ upgraded the importance of children through His teachings. In His day, children were usually considered to be of little importance and their fathers had the authoritative right to fully direct their future. Indeed, in some Roman families, the father had the power of life and death over their children for their entire lives.

            When Jesus brought the little child into the midst of the disciples, He was teaching them a lesson about humility as opposed to pride, as well as weakness over strength. As usual, Jesus was turning everything upside down: in God’s eyes a little child was greater than an adult man. Christ was giving power to the powerless and a voice to the voiceless. He was exalting the least, as opposed to glorifying the best.

Question:       Who are the least in our present society? How should Christ’s Church highlight their value in the world?

Prayer:          Lord Jesus, You constantly challenge us through Your teaching and example. The things and people that we think should be honored and exalted tend to be the very opposite of what You would consider. Help us to see the world through Your eyes, so that we may apply Your perception in all that we would do for You. In Your Holy Name, we humbly pray. Amen.

John Stuart is currently the pastor of Erin Presbyterian Church in Knoxville, Tennessee. If you would like to comment or ask questions about today’s message, please send him an email to Traqair@aol.com.

Today’s image is John’s latest Palm Sunday drawing called “Palm Cross.” If you would like to view a larger version, please click on the following link: Cross.

Church Devotion: Flying High - Luke 3:4

Luke 3:4        As is written in the book of the words of Isaiah the prophet: "A voice of one calling in the desert, 'Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for him. (NIV)

            This morning I had to heat my car to get rid of the frost and ice on the windows. I wasn't in a happy mood. My feet and hands were cold, and I was also in a rush to get to work. The delay was stressing me out, which is not a good start to anyone’s day. As I looked up at the moon in the frosty blue sky, I wished that I could have been somewhere else, anywhere further south, where scraping the frost from my car would not be an inconvenient problem.

            Suddenly, the sky beneath the moon was filled with what looked like sparkling stars. I could not believe what I was seeing. The sparkles were moving in one direction and were approaching my subdivision. Then I saw the large V-formation and realized it was a flock of birds, possibly ducks, heading north. The sun was reflected off their wings as they flew through the air, which caused the ‘sparkles of light’ at a distance.

            I marveled at the sight. Hundreds of birds filled the air. Separate V-formations were all over the sky, but all of them were headed north. Each V-formation had its own leader, who instinctively was preparing the way ahead for the birds behind it. I smiled as I watched them fly off into the distance and thanked God in my heart for such a magical moment. The frost on my car had melted and I felt much happier than I had before I saw the migrating flock of birds.

            Today’s Bible verse tells us about John the Baptist’s role in preparing the way for His people to receive the Messiah. He was leading them to the moment when Jesus would appear on the scene, who would then help all kinds of people spiritually migrate toward God. That special role of preparation and guidance now belongs to the Church of Christ. We, who are Christians, are primarily meant to share our faith and bring others to Jesus. We are to guide folks to Him, so that on our journey from birth to death, we can show them the truthful way to everlasting life.

Questions for reflection

Have I truly shared my Christian faith with other people? Do I actually care about other souls?

Prayer:          Lord Jesus, You are our ultimate destination and we are led toward You by Your words and ways. Help us to do whatever we can to encourage our loved ones and other folks to recognize You as the Lord of Life and the Giver of Grace. In Your Holy Name, we pray. Amen.

John Stuart is currently the pastor of Erin Presbyterian Church in Knoxville, Tennessee. If you would like to make comments or ask questions about today’s message, please send him an email to Traqair@aol.com. John is always glad to receive feedback.

Today’s image is my latest Valentine drawing. It’s called “Love is All You Need.” If you would like to view a larger version, please click on the following link: Love.