Daily Encouragement

“Holy Matrimony”

Stephen C. Weber — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 16:57:21 +0000

The Turkey Hill cows are often seen throughout our area for special functions. This last weekend, Longwood Manor, an assisted care center where we serve as chaplains had their tenth anniversary and had a special celebration. Yesterday when we made a visit we ended up parking right next to the Turkey Hill cow!

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“Holy Matrimony”

“Marriage should be honored by all, and the marriage bed kept pure, for God will judge the adulterer and all the sexually immoral” (Hebrews 13:4).

Several years ago Fox TV aired a reality show called, “Who Wants To Marry A Millionaire?” It caused quite a stir at the time, though sadly not for the reasons of which I write today. It was essentially a contest where a millionaire would select a bride from among 50 potential candidates who were vying for the “honor” of marrying him though none of them had ever met him. The show ended with a broadcast wedding with all the expense and beauty of a wedding ceremony but it was void of an honorable marriage. Two months later their marriage was annulled and the bride sold the 3 Karat diamond engagement ring on an online auction site.*

So let’s turn from a shallow example of an industry seeking to make money and gain ratings from a media blitz marriage ceremony and look instead at the sacred meaning of marriage as taught in the Scriptures. The Hebrews author is writing to believers under intense persecution and encouraging them to remain faithful to the Gospel of Jesus Christ. In the thirteenth chapter the Apostle provides some very specific teaching that seems to aim right at the heart of our generation, with a statement esteeming marriage and a solemn warning against immorality and materialism. Today we will examine the marriage statement and tomorrow the materialism.

“Marriage should be honored by all.” This simple, straightforward command is so needed today. It doesn’t single out a specific marriage but rather the institution of marriage itself. Today it’s under severe attack with radical and ungodly efforts seeking to redefine it, contrary to its divine design.

• Marriage is the oldest human institution, established by God Himself when He created Eve from Adam. Marriage is ordained by God, “For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and they will become one flesh” (Genesis 2:24).

• Marriage is an ongoing expression of God’s wisdom. He stated, “It is not good for the man to be alone.” He created a complementary “helper suitable for him.”

• Marriage is exclusively the covenant relationship between a man and a woman. The Lord Jesus during His earthly ministry powerfully reinforces this view, “Haven’t you read, that at the beginning the Creator ‘made them male and female,’ and said, ‘For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh?’” (Matthew 19:4,5). In another Scripture He said, “Therefore what God has joined together, let man not separate” (Mark 10:9).

“And the marriage bed kept pure.” The “marriage bed” translates the Greek word “koite” from which we get the English word “coitus”, which of course describes the act of sexual union. It seems the Apostle is emphasizing that the very act of marital love is holy and is to be “kept pure” (also translated “undefiled”).

“For God will judge the adulterer and all the sexually immoral.” In an age when the judgment of God is so often mocked we do well to solemnly hear the words that conclude the daily Scripture. Adultery is the specific form of immorality in breaking of the marriage vow (faithfulness pledge) while married and “all the sexually immoral” refers to all sexual activity apart from committed marriage between a husband and wife.

Marriage is under terrific attack today by the one whose dastardly objective is to steal, kill and destroy. The downward progression has gone from violating marriage vows (adultery) to broken marriages (divorce) to ignoring marriage (immorality), to redefining what it fundamentally constitutes (the current attempts by the homosexual movement). The last is unique to our age. Surely when God’s fundamental human institution is so greatly violated judgment will soon come.

Let us honor marriage. I find the statement “by all” interesting. If you’re married I hope that it’s a vibrant, joyful relationship, but even if yours is not, honor marriage. If you’re single (by choice or otherwise) or if you’re widowed and the deep grief still lingers, continue to honor marriage. Though your marriage may have ended in a painful divorce still choose to honor marriage. It is to be honored by all, regardless of your personal circumstances!

Be encouraged today,

Stephen & Brooksyne Weber

Daily Prayer: Father, one of the greatest mysteries in the human experience is how You blend two individuals and make them become as one. The “me” becomes “us” in our shared interests and goals in life. Things are no longer “mine” but “ours.” Our times of celebration as well as times of sadness and loss become shared experiences. Thank You, Lord, for the tremendous companionship that we can enjoy with our spouse as we both allow You to lead us making us helpers suitable and pleasing to each other. We uphold our marital vows and honor marriage today in Jesus’ name. Amen.

* I admittedly did not watch the reality show but did read up so I could share the opening illustration.

Of course the current effort to redefine what marriage as established by God and what mankind has always known it to be is a major source of contention today and will remain as the slide into apostasy continues.

Ironically the “let the people decide” (a constitutional marriage amendment) is now the concession many moral leaders are making in regard to stemming the downward spiral of the radical social deconstructionists. This very well may be needed in a secular society. But what happens when the people decide contrary to what God has established? Does it then become a valid definition? Readers know what I would say. One of the darkest times in human history was during the period of the Judges in the OT. The summary description of that time was, “everyone did what was right in his own eyes” (Judges 21:25).

Do you recall the term “holy matrimony” (which now sounds rather archaic in our present language)? The sense of this term is that the institution of marriage is “set apart” or “holy.” Marriage is not defined by judges, current opinion polls or at the ballot box. God has clearly spoken.

Amish Corn Harvest

Friday afternoon we stopped by an Amish farm where they were harvesting corn for grain and I took several photos of the process. Several weeks ago I shared some photos of an Amish corn silage harvest (silage is when they grind up the entire corn stalk).
The photos below are of the grain harvest, although the Amish harvest the entire ear and later grind it up for feed, cob and all.
(Modern combines harvest only the corn kernel.)

Elim is preparing to make a round through the field. He’s behind the team on a cart, followed by a generator, then the harvester, followed by a wagon. It takes a large team for this process!

The harvester separates the corn from the stalk and the corn on the cob goes up the chute into the wagon.

Here’s the team (you can only see the front row).
The gray harvester is to the left in the photo.

The loaded wagon is pulled up to a chute powered by the PTO on the tractor which loads the corn into the crib.

On Friday afternoon we were invited to a meal at the Shady Maple, a huge smorgasbord here in Lancaster County, to celebrate our friend Dorothy Schmidt’s 75th birthday. We met Jim and Dorothy about 10 years ago at a conference in Boston and we have stayed connected ever since. They will soon celebrate their 55th wedding anniversary. They live near Ocean City, New Jersey and work with SEND, a mission group. They have a vibrant, faith-filled walk with Christ and have had a spiritual impact on many. Dorothy gave her abbreviated testimony following our meal which always blesses our hearts.

Our Amish friends, Jesse and Anna Ruth, joined us for the meal. We introduced them to the Schmidts this past summer which turned into a lasting friendship. Moses was in school, but the other three children came along. As we were visiting afterwards the children enjoyed the view out the window as people were coming and going!

It was a beautiful fall afternoon and Brooksyne had the opportunity to visit with Dorothy for a few minutes in the parking lot. She gave her some jam and ginger snap cookies to take home.

Saturday we attended a chaplain’s conference near Valley Forge, Pennsylvania. We met up with several friends we’ve known in ministry for many years and also enjoyed visiting for a few minutes with Al Worthley, my immediate supervisor in chaplain work. For many years he was a prison chaplain. Here’s a photo of Al and his wife Adeline when we had dinner with them this summer in Springfield, MO.

Today’s Suggested Music and Supplemental Resources

Click on the link to open and play.
(In some cases you may also need to click again to start the song.)

“When God Made You” Video This song has an interesting sentiment.

“Love Songs” Video A selection of love songs by Leon Patillo. I found this video while searching for a song that Leon Patillo sang when we got married in 1976 (or at least in that time period). That song is called “Flesh of my flesh”. However it’s not in this collection!

“Wedding Song” Video Darla Day

“Here We Stand” Video

Regarding today’s top photo – Turkey Hill is a local dairy. It sells throughout the east and each carton has a small logo, “Imported from Lancaster County” on it!

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Ministry Update

“Remember The Persecuted”

Stephen C. Weber — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 16:53:12 +0000

Decorated wood hand cart on a neighbor’s porch.

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Note: Today’s message is a bit longer than usual but has a serious call for earnest followers of Christ.

“Remember the Persecuted”

“Remember those in prison as if you were their fellow prisoners, and those who are mistreated as if you yourselves were suffering” (Hebrews 13:3).

This coming Sunday is a day of prayer for the persecuted church. It’s very difficult for many of us to identify with our persecuted brethren around the world. I have memorized the above Scripture verse and I earnestly desire that God would help me to live in prayerful remembrance of my persecuted brethren. Frankly the Holy Spirit convicts me in this regard that I am not more consistently concerned and moved by their plight.

I am thankful for “prison ministries” and we normally use that title to describe ministry to those imprisoned for crimes they have committed. But in his call to “Remember those in prison” this is certainly not what the writer of Hebrews had in mind. He is surely speaking of those who were imprisoned specifically due to their obedience to Jesus Christ. In many countries of the world this is happening today. Scripturally, we are called to remember them.

We are also to remember those “mistreated”. In my judgment the NIV uses far too mild a word here. The KJV states “suffer adversity” and the literal Greek word “kakoucheo” means “torment.” It is used only one other time in the entire NT, also in Hebrews referring to persecuted believers through the ages, “They were stoned, they were sawn asunder, were tempted, were slain with the sword: they wandered about in sheepskins and goatskins; being destitute, afflicted, tormented. The world was not worthy of them. They wandered in deserts, and in mountains, and in dens and caves of the earth” (Hebrews 11:37,38).

Imagine being in the early church when this portion of Scripture was first read. Moments earlier the pastor had read the warning from Scripture, “Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing” (Hebrews 10:25). You intently listen as your pastor solemnly reads the letter from the esteemed apostle. As you’re listening you also look around and note not only those present, but those who are missing. No, they’re not at the game or the mall or sitting home reading the Sunday cartoons. They’re not even sick.

Right away you notice Mary sitting alone with her children. Her husband is imprisoned for his faith. You look over and see John whose tongue has been cut out attempting to silence the gospel message that fell from his lips. James is missing, his whereabouts unknown, but many suspect he was killed.

You really have no problem identifying with the missing since you know you could be next. The cost of being a disciple of Jesus is very great. The sense of the call to “remember” is not that they had forgotten but a solemn reminder of the cost of following Jesus. This is a present tense experience for many. I merely consider the brutal treatment of believers in Saudi Arabia and so many places in the world, especially where the Muslim religion dominates. One of the despicable lies of our time is the oft repeated notion that Islam is a “religion of peace.” Trying telling that to our Christian brethren living and dying for their faith in those regions.

One of most gratifying aspects of this online writing ministry is the ability to share a message of hope and encouragement with those who are in spiritual isolation. We regularly get email replies from readers all over the world. We recall a message from a believer living in one of the most notoriously oppressive countries of all. He shared how he had made a soundproof room so he could pray without being caught. Most of us cannot imagine living under such danger or confinement.

Today’s encouragement is specifically prompted by a concern I’ve had for this Christian as well as other recipients. In some sense I feel I now know them and my heart goes out to their plight.

When the letter to the Hebrews was written very likely the recipients actually knew someone under persecution. Perhaps they could put a family member’s face on the suffering or had even suffered themselves. Very few of us reading this Scripture passage can identify with the writer, but the early church sure did. Paul wrote many of his letters from prison. He recounts his sufferings in some detail in 2 Corinthians 11:23-28. The early church watched and cried as the budding preacher Stephen was stoned. They grieved when James was put to death with the sword. Persecution did not stop with the closing of the apostolic age. It actually intensified at times and one of the most severe times was early in the fourth century.

All throughout the church’s history our fellow believers have endured persecution. The 20th century is considered to be the most severe in terms of sheer numbers. And now, early into the 21st century, it seems that this persecution is intensifying even more.

Let us pray and “remember”. We are called to seek to identify with these believers, “as bound with them” and “as being yourselves also in the body.” As I seek to identify I consider the unwavering faith required if I were to face persecution or even execution as I persevere in my profession of faith in Jesus Christ as my Savior and Lord.

Be encouraged today,

Stephen & Brooksyne Weber

Daily prayer: Father, help us to be moved by the plight of those who are prepared to suffer and even lay down their lives for the sake of Christ. Presently, most all of them are from other lands, which leads to our forgetfulness. But we do want to remember them in our prayers and remember them as warriors of the faith, who for the joy set before them endured the suffering, shame and agony of their tormentors. As they endured the humiliation they also overcame by the blood of the Lamb. So many were presented the crown of life in heaven that is rewarded to those who received the sentence of death on earth by their persecutors. On Coronation Day when we all gather in heaven we look forward to fellowship with these tried and true saints of our faith who did not give up meeting together, no matter the penalty, as they worshiped You. Keep us faithful when tested by fire, we pray in Jesus’ name. Amen.

Note: Today’s message may seem like a less than encouraging message to see on your screen, but it is a much needed message. We need to be reminded and shaken from our lethargy. Let’s remember and pray. Today, this weekend, and I pray onward, let us remember these dear brothers and sisters who deal with persecution. And God, help us to truly be moved by their plight. Their stories serve as examples to follow and empower us should we face similar circumstances which may actually be sooner than we think.

We pass many of these small family-operated produce stands along the country roads we travel in eastern Lancaster County. We get fresh produce for a great price. (The large heads of Cauliflower were just 75 cents and the Broccoli heads were 50 cents!)

We bought two more neck pumpkins and since they keep a long time Brooksyne will not need to process them till mid-winter. For several months they serve as an interesting decoration and then make multiple great meal servings! In a message last week we shared how Brooksyne processes these. We had some additional inquiries concerning this and here is a source to order seeds. We’ve never grown them ourselves though since they are abundantly available at farm stands in our area.

Today’s Suggested Music and Supplemental Resources

Click on the link to open and play.
(In some cases you may also need to click again to start the song.)

“The Voice Of The Martyrs” Information about our suffering brethren. Here’s a video

“Press On” Video by Selah I dedicate this song to all those suffering for their faith.

An interesting brief video presentation concerning Christian martyrs.

“Forty Brave Soldiers For Jesus” Tom Green (Audio) (Video) This is a powerful ballad concerning an event that happened in Armenia in 320AD and will touch you! This story is even more inspiring as a few additional details are added in the version included in the “Christian Heroes” book (mentioned below.)

The Complete Book of Christian Heroes By Dave & Neta Jackson/Tyndale House Are there any true heroes? Discover the remarkable stories of those who have suffered for the cause of Christ throughout the course of history. This book reveals what inspired the great heroes of faith and drove them to give their all. Featuring such gripping accounts of each hero’s life, this book gives the historical and cultural information as well as quotations and Scripture passages that amplify what each hero stood for. You will learn about John Bunyan, Mary Dyer, Brother Andrew, Todd Beamer and over 200 more heroes of yesterday and today. This is an excellent resource for any home library. For more information or to order click here.

“Forty Brave Soldiers For Jesus” 320 AD in Armenia
(The rest of the story below from “The Complete Book of Christian Heroes”)

The next morning as the guards were retrieving the stiff bodies and loading them onto a wagon to be taken away and burned, they discovered that the youngest of the martyrs was still breathing slightly. They set him aside, thinking that once he revived, he would surely recant. But it so happened that his mother was present. As she watched closely, her son made a small hand signal indicating his wishes. “Go, go, my son,” she cried. “Proceed to the end of this happy journey with your companions, so you will not be missing from those who present themselves before God.” Then with uncommon strength, she picked him up and put him into the wagon with his brothers.

After the bodies had been burned, local Christians retrieved the ashes and remains and distributed them to the fledgling groups of converts in the surrounding cities and towns. As dramatic reminders of the faithful witness offered by the forty martyrs of Sebaste, these relics encouraged and inspired the believers to preach the gospel more boldly than ever, and soon numerous churches were erected in honor of these men, firmly establishing Christianity in the whole region.

“By Their Blood: Christian Martyrs of the Twentieth Century” is a tremendous book I read about 15 years ago that chronicles the stories of modern day martyrs. I was unable to find it on CBD but see it is available on Amazon.

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Ministry Update

“Open Hearts”

Stephen C. Weber — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 15:12:44 +0000

“Beauty”
This white swan, Beauty, lives on Gene and Doris Wenger’s farm pond here in Lancaster County, PA.

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“Open Hearts”

“One of those listening was a woman named Lydia, a dealer in purple cloth from the city of Thyatira, who was a worshiper of God. The Lord opened her heart to respond to Paul’s message” (Acts 16:14).

We’re praying for a man who is preparing to undergo open heart surgery in about a week. He’s dealing with some of those troubling issues such as blocked arteries that are all too common to those in their 50’s and above. We recall sitting at the bedside of our daughter, Ester, through her five open heart surgeries due to her congenital heart defect. These surgeries took place before she was four years of age. Now at the age of twenty, through much prayer and with the help of a pacemaker and heart medications, her health has stabilized in recent years. Last week she got a glowing report from her heart doctor that her echocardiogram revealed that she continues to do well. Our ardent prayers continue for her that her spiritual heart be open, soft, and receptive!

The daily text records the story of a woman in Philippi named Lydia responding to the message of salvation. She was a “worshiper of God.” This may mean she was a devout Jew or perhaps she was in a group of monotheistic Gentiles in the ancient world who worshiped the God of the Old Testament, similar to Cornelius prior to his conversion to Christ.

“The Lord opened her heart to respond to Paul’s message” (the Gospel). The phrase, “the Lord opened her heart”, has often intrigued me. It reminds me of the sovereign role of God in the salvation of individuals. We should pray in our evangelism endeavors that God will open the hearts of those to whom we share His message. As important as our obedience and preparations are we must consider the sovereign work of God in the salvation of souls. The word “respond” translates the Greek word “prosecho” which conveys the sense “to hold the mind towards, i.e. pay attention to”. Isn’t that what we want among those we witness to!

We live in a world where most pay little or no attention to God and are careening toward a most certain judgment. We desire that they would stop and pay attention to God’s message. What about the loved ones for whom you’ve been praying for many years? They just won’t take you seriously. They may be like Lot’s foolish sons-in-law who thought he was joking when he warned of the impending destruction of Sodom (Genesis 19:14). Or they may just evade the issue. As you pray remember to ask that the Lord to open their hearts so that they respond to your witness for Christ.

There is another great spiritual truth when I consider this. We need to pray not only for others, but for ourselves also, that we will have open, soft and receptive hearts. I will admit that my heart is not always receptive. Sometimes hardness will come over me; certainly not hardness toward salvation at this point, but a hardness that blocks spiritual receptivity to the things the Spirit of God is wanting to do in my life. He may be wanting to purge the impurities that clog my heart or He may be challenging me to a new level of spiritual growth. Perhaps He wants to develop a new gift unnatural to the inborn talents I was born with and this requires an extra measure of trust.

Sometimes there can be “scar tissue” from past hurts, disappointments, failures and even deep-seated bitterness that contribute to this struggle. Of course most illustrations have a breakdown point and we know that God can heal broken-hearts or renew our hearts as we pursue Christ.

But I also pray that God will keep our hearts open and receptive to His Spirit all through life as believers. May God keep our hearts open, soft and receptive today!

Soften my heart, Lord, soften my heart.
From all indifference set me apart;
To feel Your compassion, to weep with Your tears;
Come soften my heart, Oh Lord, soften my heart.

Be encouraged today,

Stephen & Brooksyne Weber

Daily prayer: Father, we pray that You would make us pliable and yielding to Your touch which can happen only as we open our hearts to You. We want to be like clay in the hand of the Potter and receptive to the Spirit’s working. The process can be painful as impurities are removed and reshaping goes against the grain of our sin nature. But the end result makes us a vessel fitting for Your honor and useful for Your kingdom. We desire to glorify You today as our hearts are open, soft and receptive to Your Spirit. Amen.

Last night the farmer harvested the corn in the large field across from our church, while we were having a small group Bible Study. I suspect, based on how much he had done when we left around 9:00PM, that he worked through a long part of the night. Much of the corn in our area has not yet been harvested and now the farmers are busy day and night getting the harvest in. They need to wait till the corn is at a certain degree of dryness before harvesting for the grain. Last night it was clear, crisp and cool and we have a beautiful day early this morning!

Today’s Suggested Music and Supplemental Resources

Click on the link to open and play.
(In some cases you may also need to click again to start the song.)

“Praises/Soften My Heart” Video Maranatha Worship Singers We used to sing this version of “Soften My Heart” as a worship chorus and a call to consecration many years ago. It begins at the 2:50 point in the video.

“Refiner’s Fire” (“Purify My Heart”) Video Brian Doerksen

“Open The Eyes Of My Heart” Video Oslo Gospel Choir

“Ancient Words” (Video) Last night on the way to our small group Bible Study we heard this song on the radio and not only is it musically beautful but it has such rich spiritual meaning.

Ancient words, ever true
Changing me, changing you
We have come with open hearts
O let the ancient words impart.

“Soften My Heart” A thoughtful blog post on this topic for further study.

Ester’s testimony

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Ministry Update

“Being Hated” (Luke 21:17)

Stephen C. Weber — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 18:01:06 +0000

Stone house in Strasburg, PA

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“Being Hated”

“All men will hate you because of Me” (Luke 21:17). “If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated Me first. If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you” (John 15:18,19). “Do not be surprised, my brothers, if the world hates you” (1 John 3:13).

Awhile back I read an editorial cartoon from a newspaper. In the first panel the cartoon showed a thoughtful, respectful looking man in a suit pondering with this caption: “It’s a central question in the abortion debate: When does life begin? At conception? At birth?”

The next panel shows the same man dressed in camouflage as a wild-eyed sniper smirking, “I know when it ends.” He is wearing buttons that declare “I Love Life” and “Right To Snipe”. It was another cheap effort from the secularized view point to characterize the view of Christians as violent extremists which I earnestly believe will contribute to future persecution for the believer.

It wasn’t long ago that a popular entertainer said, “Radical Christianity is just as threatening as radical Islam.” That’s an astonishing statement and has been repeated often by others in the media. It is one more indication of the direction our culture is headed and the world’s increasingly hateful attitude toward followers of Christ.

I am quite certain that I would be considered a radical Christian by those who made the above statement and that’s just fine by me. Indeed I am a radical Christian in the sense of commitment, seriousness and being sold out to the cause of Christ. I take the words of my Lord and the Bible seriously and seek to obey them.

Actually I don’t think I’m nearly as radical as I should be based upon what I read in the New Testament and the complete surrender to Christ that we are called to make. In complete honesty, I’m still holding on to this world more than I should. I am certainly not as radical as scores of my dedicated brothers and sisters in other parts of the world who are really paying a price for following Christ and experiencing the hatred of the world.

“All men will hate you because of me” is a statement made by our Lord Jesus Christ found in all three of the synoptic gospels. Have you ever thought much about it? Actually we have lived most of our lives during a time of religious freedom and forbearance. Few reading this actually know what it means to be hated by the world. But that is rapidly changing.

I don’t want to be hated. I want to be loved and accepted by everyone or at least as many as possible. I certainly don’t want to intentionally offend, but I do want to be true to my call in faithfully proclaiming the Name of Jesus Christ to a dying world as I uphold Biblical standards of morality.

In the second daily text the Lord Jesus Christ is speaking to His disciples just prior to his death. These final instructions in John’s gospel are among the most familiar portions of God’s Word. Many of us who have followed Christ for any length of time have memorized some verses from John 13-17. This portion is a sea of red in my red-letter reference Bible (which places the words of Christ in red type).

Dominant culture shows an increasing disdain for Jesus Christ and His serious followers. This expression of our Christian faith is increasingly being called radical and perceived as dangerous by the world system.

One distressing area of accommodation in which I see this is when believers seek to find acceptance with the world and avoid offense by eliminating what seems to be the greatest source of offense; the Name of Jesus Christ.

Join me this day in boldly and unashamedly proclaiming the Name of Jesus Christ! And as we do so quite frankly we must prepare to be increasingly hated.

Be encouraged today,

Stephen & Brooksyne Weber

Daily prayer: Lord, You know the spiritual pulse of our hearts. The allurement to go with the popular and trendy way of thinking is ever before us. This is especially true since we’re barraged with these kinds of messages each day. Some of our readers are subjected daily to these same messages in their own families. Help us to be intentional in taking a bold stand as we go against the waves of humanism and false religious systems. May our love and devotion to You rise up and overtake any fear or intimidation that would paralyze our witness in settings where Your name is not revered. We love You, Jesus, and since we no longer belong to this world we will never find a comfortable place here. Give us grace and endurance to be a faithful witness in this world even when hated and maligned by others. Amen.

Last night our longtime friends Mike and Kathy Matangelo, along with their daughter Tina, stopped by and spent the night at our place. We met the Matangelos 32 years ago when we started a church in northern PA. They were in the first service and became a vital part of our church impacting many for Christ and they continue to be a vital part of our lives. They now live in the Hickory, North Carolina area where Mike is a Realtor. Apart from being very active in their local church they are both involved in a prison mentoring program known as Yokefellow Prison Ministry.

Today’s Suggested Music and Supplemental Resources

Click on the link to open and play.
(In some cases you may also need to click again to start the song.)

“All I Once Held Dear (Knowing You)” Video Robin Mark

“Be Thou My Vision” Video 4Him

“Before The Throne Of God Above” Video Selah

PS: Here’s a response I submitted to the paper concerning the tasteless editorial cartoon mentioned in the first paragraph (they only allowed a short response): “As a pro-life minister I am deeply insulted by the mindless editorial cartoon in the Daily Gazette implying that the pro-life movement is behind clinic shootings or other acts of violence. The leadership in the mainstream pro-life movement has uniformly condemned these acts of violence and such perpetrators in no way represent the movement. SCW

If you sense a certain passion in the encouragement message today you are absolutely correct. Let me recommend a book that really clarifies this issue; “The Name” by Franklin Graham. (In fact just doing a search to verify the information about this book revealed the disdain held for Christ’s Name and message.) The other current threat is syncretism, which is “the attempted reconciliation or union of different or opposing, principles, practices or parties as in philosophy or religion. (Webster’s Unabridged Dictionary.)

Thoughtful links on worldview issues and apologetics related to today’s message:
Just yesterday I received this insightful article titled “Back To The Oppressive Future” by Dr. Robert Gagnon, a professor at Pittsburgh Theological Seminary concerning another front. (pdf)
Probe Ministries
Christian Information Ministries
Leadership University
Stand to Reason

Here’s the testimony of a daily encouragement reader who has suffered persecution.

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Ministry Update

“We Win!”

Stephen C. Weber — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 18:27:46 +0000

Our friend Nancy Martin sent us this photo taken here in Lancaster County

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“We Win!”

“But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ!” (1 Corinthians 15:57). “In all these things we overwhelmingly conquer through Him who loved us” (Romans 8:37).

The majority of our readers live here in the USA and undoubtedly some are baseball fans who are following the World Series. Lancaster County is near Philadelphia and most of the baseball fans in this area follow the Philadelphia Phillies. Certainly there are many avid fans among them. I especially consider our friend Everett who works in a company we serve whom I’ve rarely seen without his very well-worn Phillies baseball cap. Last night was an exciting game as the Philadelphia team came back to keep the series alive and force a Game Six.

However what prompted today’s message was an ad that appeared in yesterday’s Philadelphia newspaper congratulating the Phillies and declaring them to be World Champions! How could that be since at that point the Phillies were down 3 games to 1? The mighty Yankees from New York seemed to be on a roll and with the momentum they had they may very well have ended the series that same evening. To many readers in Philadelphia it may have seemed to be a cynical mockery to the demoralized Phillies fans, but apparently it was merely a big goof.

Although we are in the midst of a great spiritual conflict and sometimes with our eyes we may not see the victory the Bible informs us that we are on the winning side. Perhaps many of you have seen the preacher hold up his Bible and declare, “I looked ahead to the back of the book and We Win!”

One of the great sports scenes I’ve enjoyed since my childhood is that of a winning team gathering on the field to celebrate after winning a championship game. Of course it’s all the more meaningful if it’s “my” team but I can even get into the sensation of the moment when it’s not. This photo shows the joyous celebration on the field after the Red Sox won the World Series several years ago.

I’m glad the Bible declares that those who serve Christ are all winners. Your role in service for God may be quite visible or you may work quietly behind the scenes as you utilize your gifts for God. No matter what position you serve in the body of Christ you will face the inevitable moments of discouragement and disappointment. In the midst of seemingly impossible odds hold onto this important truth Paul writes about in Romans 8: “We are more than conquerors through our Lord Jesus Christ.”

Whether you’re a sports fan or not, those who are in Christ have a future celebration that makes the most celebrated earthly event miniscule in comparison. Imagine with me the scene of our future reunion in heaven; when we see our Redeemer Jesus Christ, our loved ones who faithfully completed the spiritual race, and believers from every region of the globe and from every generation. No longer will foreign language, age difference, or distance be a barrier to our communicating with one another from other lands or historical settings, before our life or after our existence (should the Lord tarry). I expect that reunion to be quite an emotional time! But among the major differences is that our spiritual victory is not just for one season, nor is it competition based. It is for all eternity and this victory is infinitely more significant than a sporting contest.

In the first daily text the word is simply translated “victory.” In the second verse it’s a part of the wonderful Greek compound word “hupernikomen” which means “to be more than a conqueror, to gain a surpassing victory.” The two daily verses complement each other. Both have a similar underlying Greek word that is very familiar to those who enjoy sports. That word is “nikos.” The popular sports shoe company, Nike, is based on this word.

Early on I taught Ester to use this word to describe herself in the overcomings she has experienced as a heart patient and other setbacks in life as well. Over the years I’ve invited her to come to the front of the church where I was guest speaker and then I’d ask, “Ester, what are you?” Without hesitation she would say in a rather grown up way, “I’m a hupernikomen!” Of course no one in the congregation had any idea (which she loved, by the way). I would then ask, “What does that mean?” She would respond in a confident voice through a big smile, “I’m an overcomer!”

I’m sure glad to be on God’s team today. Yes, there are setbacks for every believer and even apparent losses in this great spiritual contest. But God turns our losses into gains, our failures into His victory, our conflict into His peace, and our weakness into His strength. The all-surpassing power from God is seen through the endurance of the believer in the midst of life’s ups and downs. Paul encourages us not to lose heart as he describes the challenging turmoil believers suffer and the triumphant outcome: “We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed” (II Corinthians 4:8,9).

God’s Word says, “He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ” and “in all these things we overwhelmingly conquer through Him who loved us.” Let these blessed truths encourage you today as you consider our ultimate lasting victory. Indeed, We Win!

Be encouraged today,

Stephen & Brooksyne Weber

Daily Prayer: Father, none of the celebrations we’ve attended compare with the overwhelming joy we’ll feel at the ultimate victory party in heaven. We’ll rejoice with the saints from all generations telling of the marvelous saving and sustaining power of Christ. We look forward to sharing stories about the times we faced trouble, hardship, persecution or danger and the miraculous way that You delivered or sustained us through those difficulties. We’re not there yet, so help us to keep on keeping on, until that glorious day! It is in the matchless name of Jesus that we pray. Amen.

We watched 2 year old David while his mother had an appointment this morning. He sat beside Brooksyne while she edited our message at her computer in the kitchen. The pumpkin coasters entertained him as he diligently arranged the four coasters and put them in their proper order. Then he’d dump them and do it over and over.

Today’s Suggested Music and Supplemental Resources

Click on the link to open and play.
(In some cases you may also need to click again to start the song.)

“Victory Ahead” Video This is a song I don’t recall singing since Bible College in the seventies!

This selection of songs from the Intergrity Scripture Memory series deal with personal victory. If you choose to listen click on the “Play All” button.

Andrew Hostetler, pictured here with his wife Jessica, is the worship team leader in a church I spoke at several times last year in southern Lancaster County. Brooksyne and I enjoy this song he and Valerie Kreider wrote, based on Psalm 33. Here’s the key thought for our readers today: “The Creator of the universe cares about each one of us.” audio mp3

Today message mentioned an advertisement. Was it prophetic?! Here’s an article about it. Have other sports fans noticed how that immediately following a championship game the winning team places on championship caps, t-shirts and other apparel. I assume the losing team also has them and I wonder what they do with them after the loss.

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Ministry Update

“Knowing God’s Peace”

Stephen C. Weber — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 20:59:56 +0000

A peaceful scene on Meadow View Road, Lancaster PA.
Click here for larger image with Scripture

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“Knowing God’s Peace”

“Then He arose and rebuked the wind, and said to the sea, ‘Peace! Be still!’ And the wind ceased and there was a great calm” (Mark 4:39 NKJV). “And the peace of God which transcends all understanding will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:7 NIV).

We pass the peaceful farm scene shown above as we drive through the country on our way to church. To me it conveys a sense of peace and a slower pace from a bygone era. It also reminds me of an illustration many of you perhaps have read.

Two artists were once commissioned to paint a picture that would depict peace. One painted a landscape with a mountain lake – calm, tranquil, unperturbed, set in beautiful green hills, encircled by tall pine trees reflected in the mirror-like surface of the lake.

The second artist painted a turbulent scene with a violent waterfall crashing down on jagged rocks. Alongside the waterfall was a slender birch tree, with its fragile branches reaching just above the crashing foam. In the fork of one of the branches was a bird’s nest, in which a small bird, lying serenely, was fast asleep.

The second artist had captured the feeling of peace that we can know in our troubled world amid the storms of life that daily rage about us.

But how about another scene. I was unable to find an artist’s rendition of it and it took place long before the invention of the camera. A man peacefully sleeping on a boat as experienced fishermen panicked for their lives during a furious storm!

Matthew, Mark and Luke tell the story of Jesus climbing into a boat with His disciples to cross the Sea of Galilee. Jesus had called four of his disciples into ministry from this sea. Seven hundred feet below sea level its deepest point descends 150 feet. The sea is 13 miles long and 7 miles wide, surrounded by hills.

The winds blowing across the land intensify close to the sea, often causing violent and unexpected storms. Several of the disciples were seasoned fishermen who had spent their lives on this huge lake and undoubtedly survived many storms, but when this squall released its windy furor it caused the still waters to erupt and plunge powerful waves over the boat.

Can you just imagine the scene: the men scrimmaging to find watertight containers to bale out the water as it first covered their feet, rose up to their knees and would soon swell over their heads. All the men panicked and feared for their lives. All except One; the Son of Man who, of all things, was sleeping on a cushion in the stern!

With shattered nerves the disciples awakened Jesus and asked passionately, “Teacher, don’t You care if we drown?” (Mark 4:38b). Jesus responded to the disciples with a reprimand for their lack of faith, “You of little faith, why are you so afraid?” (Matthew 8:26). He then got up and rebuked the winds and the waves, “Peace! Be still!” and the winds and waves obeyed their Creator.

The disciples, still shaken and terrified, noted the incredulous and instant calming of the storm after Jesus commanded the elements to be still. Consider the roller coaster ride their emotions took as the sudden storm broke loose, the waters rose, and then the miracle that followed. Their emotions went from concern to worry, then fear, then terror, then disbelief, tremendous relief, and finally amazement. Stunned by what they had seen, they surely shook their heads in astonishment as they began to ask each other, “Who is this? Even the wind and the waves obey Him” (Mark 4:41).

When our hearts become troubled they’re much like the storm tossed sea. It causes unrest within our soul and our passions become unruly. Fear and anxiety are inevitable as the deadly water of doubt, unbelief, rebellion and other harmful attitudes rise up within us which drown our faith in God.

Challenges, trials, and tragedies will always exist. But God has promised that His peace is available to all who seek Him – He offers a peace that transcends human understanding. This peace will guard our hearts from anxiety, fear, terror, and strife. “He will cover you with His feathers, and under His wings you will find refuge; His faithfulness will be your shield and rampart. You will not fear the terror of night, nor the arrow that flies by day” (Psalm 91:4,5).

Jesus looks on but eagerly awaits our beckoning call. He comes into our lives upon our invitation as we ask Him to save us. He says, “Peace! Be still!” to the conflict, doubts, fightings, and fears that grip our hearts. We no longer strive to save ourselves, but we ask Jesus to save us. Fear is overcome by faith when we ask Jesus to be our Savior, to guide us over the troubled sea of life.

Just as I am, though tossed about
With many a conflict, many a doubt,
Fightings and fears within, without,
O Lamb of God, I come, I come.

Be encouraged today,

Stephen & Brooksyne Weber

Daily prayer: Father, we thank You for the powerful God that You are. Even the winds and waves recognize the Creator and obey Your voice. Your Word is like a lighthouse that directs us safely toward heaven when the furious waves swirl about us and the water rises around us. Keep us firmly anchored in Your ways so that we endure to the very end. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

Today’s text can be read at Mark 4:35-41

Last Sunday afternoon I drove in to have a closer look at the beautifully restored brick farmhouse on the farm featured in today’s photo.

A peaceful farm pond on the property.

The maple trees near our church were at their peak on October 25.
Yesterday most of the leaves were gone.

Today, Darryl Eckert, a friend of mine came over and placed this sign in our front yard as a witness to passers by.

Today’s Suggested Music and Supplemental Resources
Click on the link to open and play.
(In some cases you may also need to click again to start the song.)

“Just As I Am” Video Brian Doerkson
Background Story: Charlotte Elliot of Brighton, England was an embittered woman. Her disability had hardened her. ”If God loved me,” she muttered, “He would not have treated me this way.” She and her family were having dinner one evening with Dr. Malan when she lost her temper and railed against God and her family. Her family left her in the room alone to talk with Dr. Malan.

“You are tired of yourself, aren’t you?” he asked. “You are holding to your hate and anger because you have nothing else in the world to cling to. Consequently, you have become sour, bitter and resentful.” “What is your cure?” asked Charlotte. ”The faith you are trying to despise” he responded. As they talked into the evening Charlotte softened: “If I wanted to become a Christian and to share the peace and joy you possess,” she finally asked, “what would I do?” ”You would give yourself to God just as you are now, with your fightings and fears, hates and loves, pride and shame.”

Charlotte did come to Jesus just as she was and wrote the hymn “Just As I Am” in 1836. She lived to be 82 and wrote about 150 hymns, thought she never enjoyed good health. After her death family members found over 1000 letters she’d kept in which people expressed their gratitude for the way this hymn had touched their lives.
(Adapted from “Then Sings My Soul” by Robert J. Morgan)

“Peacespeaker” Video Instrumental

“Wonderful Peace” Video Dene Taylor

“He Hideth My Soul” Audio Lifespring Podcast with Scott Wesley Brown or Video instrumental with Smokey Mountain Hymns

“Till The Storm Passes By” Video Vestal Goodman

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Ministry Update

“Exposing Darkness With Light”

Stephen C. Weber — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 16:10:20 +0000

Yesterday we passed this stately white barn and silo near Lampeter, PA

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“Exposing Darkness With Light”

“The light shines in the darkness” (John 1:5). “Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them” (Ephesians 5:11).

For about 7½ years we served the Lord Jesus Christ in New England, pastoring a church about 35 miles south of Boston in Taunton, Massachusetts. Only once did we drive through Salem which is about 16 miles north of Boston. This historic town is best known for the witch trials held in the late 1600’s. It is still a center for witchcraft and other deeds of darkness. In fact it proudly promotes its reputation as the “witch city”. I recall sensing the spiritual darkness even as we drove through.

There are several Bible-preaching churches in the city and certainly in the surrounding area. What a mighty job they have in letting the light of Christ shine through them to the darkness that pervades that area. Halloween is a very significant day for witchcraft and other satanic activities in Salem (and elsewhere), and yet the true church will have mission outreaches.

The light of Christ will shine as they expose the fruitless deeds of darkness. May the Lord bless these worthwhile efforts! Thankfully, God has a light shining in the midst of this darkness and the true church has seen many people turn from fruitless deeds of darkness to God’s marvelous light.

The first daily verse fundamentally speaks of Christ. He is the Light and indeed He shines in the darkness. Wherever you live there is darkness, although some places are certainly much more spiritually dark. We noted such a difference in this regard when we moved from Northern Pennsylvania to New England and now to Lancaster County. But when we compare our Christianized nation to dark places such as Papua New Guinea and other unreached tribal regions the darkness is even more pervasive. (We do thank God for Bible translators and missionaries who are going into these dark strongholds and reaching these souls for Christ.)

“The light shines in the darkness.” The verb “shines” is in the present tense and can be understood as “the light keeps on shining.” Jesus teaches His followers. “You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:14-16).

In our second daily verse the Apostle Paul makes a very unambiguous statement: “Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them.” It’s a call desperately needed in our culture and increasingly so in the Church but it will subject us to ridicule among many who “love the darkness rather than the light” (John 3:19). In fact the world wants to silence those who speak out for truth exposing darkness with the Light of His Word.

You see, when we become accustomed to the darkness it just may not seem as dark anymore. When we were children playing at dusk our moms would call out, “Come into the house. It’s dark outside.” But we’d continue to play since we could still see. A few days ago I was mowing my lawn in the early evening. Afterward I entered the house and looked out the window and it was dark. But while I was mowing my eyes got used to the dark since the dimness was gradual. I believe that can be true of our spiritual eyes as well and all the more reason why we must be on guard.

Today, all over the world serious believers are allowing the light of Christ to shine through them. This light exposes the fruitless deeds of darkness and this is the essence of spiritual warfare. Darkness hates the light. Yet faithful followers of Christ will continue to let their light shine, essentially reflecting the true Light, who is Christ.

May each reader today shine brightly. As for me and my house we will stand up for the One True God today and seek to let His light shine through us!

Be encouraged today,

Stephen & Brooksyne Weber

Daily Prayer: Father, You created us to be people who function and thrive by light. Your placement of the sun by day and the moon by night is the way You provide for our physical needs enabling us to see as we carry out our multitude of duties. As important as light is for the eyes to see, it is even more essential that the eyes of our heart see the magnificent light of Your glory. As we walk in Your light we will be able to discern that which is evil from that which is good. Jesus, we know that goodness cannot partner with wickedness for there is no harmony between You and the devil. We are one with You as we walk in Your truth and dispel the darkness everywhere we go, for greater is He who is in me than he who is in the world. Amen.

Yesterday we had a number of visits throughout Lancaster Country including several chaplain calls, a memorial service, a Company Bible Study and in the evening a banquet. We would like to share some photos from our travels.

We stopped by the Village Farm Market east of Ephrata PA to purchase some apples. We bought delicious northern spy, crisp and sweet, which is how we enjoy them. The market is beautifully decorated for Autumn.

As we drove through the country we passed an Amish wedding. Following harvest time on Tuesday’s and Thursdays hundreds of Amish gather in homes and barns for weddings. The wedding service starts early in the morning and the festivities lasts through the evening. We passed this spot in the late afternoon and three groups were playing volleyball; older boys, younger boys, and girls (left in photo). Several years ago we were invited to an Amish wedding and share of our experience here.

Driving along from a distance we saw this big red hot air balloon and ended up driving practically underneath it. As we snapped photos the people in the basket waved down to us.

As we were watching the balloon we came upon some Amish children also watching. The photo doesn’t really show how cute the five children appeared as they excitedly looked on. One girl was walking (in front of the pony). A little boy was riding the miniature pony. The older girl in the front of the photo was on a scooter with a basket holding two very little children! (You can see only the arm of the little girl in pink, but another young girl was also squeezed onto the bike.)

We never know what interesting sights we will encounter.
This is a minor traffic jam caused by an Amish mule team followed by an Amishman on a steel-wheeled tractor pulling some farm equipment.

Here in Lancaster County we have many banquets to raise funds for ministries. Local individuals and businesses pay for a table setting of food (usually for 8 -10 people). People sign up and come for a great meal at no cost. (Of course the table sponsors are prayerful that those who eat the free meal will give money to support the represented ministry or cause in the offering that is taken). Last night we attended a banquet at the Willow Valley Resort sponsored by one of our local Christian radio stations (WDAC) and Back To The Bible with Woodrow Kroll speaking. He is one of our favorite Bible teachers and shared a message concerning God’s faithfulness to all generations and gave a testimony from his own life.

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Today’s Suggested Music and Supplemental Resources
Click on the link to open and play.
(In some cases you may also need to click again to start the song.)

“Here I Am To Worship” Video “Light of the world, You stepped down into darkness…” Michael W. Smith

“Shine On Us” Video Avalon

“This Little Light Of Mine” Video

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Ministry Update

“Staying On Course”

Stephen C. Weber — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 14:04:50 +0000

Fall foliage along Risser Mill Road, Lancaster County, PA

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“Staying On Course”

Note: Today’s message is longer than usual but is a sober reminder for all who serve Christ, but especially those in leadership.

“But I do not consider my life of any account as dear to myself, so that I may finish my course and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify solemnly of the gospel of the grace of God” (Acts 20:24). “Be diligent in these matters; give yourself wholly to them, so that everyone may see your progress. Watch your life and doctrine closely. Persevere in them, because if you do, you will save both yourself and your hearers” (1 Timothy 4:15,16).

Many of you have read about the Northwest Airlines flight last week that flew past its destination by 150 miles. The pilots, in one way or another, were not paying attention, placing the entire crew and passengers in peril. (They have since had their pilot’s licenses revoked). I happened to fly with Northwest to get out to Missouri last week and had read about the incident prior to coming back to Pennsylvania Friday morning. As I departed the plane I peeked in the cockpit and said, “Thanks for staying on course.” We usually take for granted that our pilots will stay on course, get us to our proper destination, and land the plane safely.

We also expect that our spiritual leaders will stay on course, live godly lives and espouse solid Biblically based teaching. But sadly there are far too many who have not “stayed on course”.

Paul’s prediction in 1 Timothy 4:1 and Ephesians 4:14 is evident in those who fall away: “But the Spirit explicitly says that in later times some will fall away from the faith, paying attention to deceitful spirits and doctrines of demons…..tossed here and there by waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, by craftiness in deceitful scheming.”

Today we see a departure from the course that our forefathers could not have envisioned. Even in my own lifetime who would have predicted that something so foundational as the basic constitution of holy marriage would be a serious issue of departure.

The two daily Scripture portions have long gripped my heart. I specifically recall their richness when I was preparing for my ministerial ordination in 1979. At that time I wrote down many verses pertaining to ministry and memorized many of them.

In the first verse Paul is addressing the Ephesian elders in a powerful farewell message, “But I do not consider my life of any account as dear to myself, so that I may finish my course and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify solemnly of the gospel of the grace of God.” The apostle Paul was determined to faithfully finish the course of life to which God had called him. In 2 Timothy 4:7 shortly before his martyrdom he in good conscience declared, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the course, I have kept the faith.”

The second verse reminds us that we must be diligent and stay in good spiritual condition if we are to positively influence others for Christ and eternity. We’ve all seen examples of those who didn’t and its effect not only on their lives but those whom they influence. It is a solemn call to all who minister for Christ, whether vocationally or as dedicated lay people. Paul is writing instructions regarding church life and ministry to young Timothy and through the Holy Scriptures to all of us.

“These matters” certainly include the immediate context, but I believe they also include the entire content of the letter and due to the unity of Scripture the entire Bible.

True ministry is a very serious calling. The word for “diligent” conveys “to take care of.” I’m so glad our Lord has provided such an adequate instruction manual for those who serve Him! We are called to devote ourselves “wholly” to this call. Whatever your form of service for Christ give of your whole self so that others will see your progress. ”Progress” is translated from a wonderful word (“prokope”). In fact one of our favorite preachers, Warren Wiersbe, had a newsletter with this title. It essentially conveys advancement and increase. Is your faith and the character traits of Christ advancing in your life? Do others see this increase?

“Watch your life and doctrine closely.” That is, pay close attention to how you live and what you believe. So many start the race well but some neglected sin or doctrinal aberration creeps in. We know those who have served for a “season”. I think of fellow Bible College students and associates in ministry who have not “stayed the course.”

May God help us to regularly examine our lives and doctrine frequently and persevere in doing what is right! Don’t let popular opinion of the day sway you. God’s Word is settled once and for all; its truths and principles apply to every generation.

The final phrase is amongst the most sobering in the Bible: “because if you do, you will save both yourself and your hearers.” I certainly don’t believe this negates other teachings about salvation through Christ by grace. Of course Paul is not saying that “we” save. Only Christ can save.

But our influence on others is great, both for good and bad. Certainly there are those who have abandoned the faith due to the fall of preachers and Christian leaders. May God help each of us to stay faithful and stay on course, for both ourselves and for our hearers! “God, help me to persevere today!”

Be encouraged today,

Stephen & Brooksyne Weber

Daily prayer: Jesus, stir in my heart the desire to be diligently immersed in the Word of God. The deceiver is diligent in planting seeds of doubt, confusion and clever lies always intending to lead me off course in my spiritual walk. As I persevere in reading and applying truths inscribed throughout Your Word I ward off the incessant pleas from Satan to yield to sin. I desire to be Your faithful follower not just for a season but all through eternity. It is my heart’s desire to influence as many as possible to join me in this noble calling. May You find me faithful so that those who watch my life daily may also find me faithful!

Brooksyne’s Note: When I was a teen-ager I first heard a song that goes something like this; “Your life’s the only Bible that some people read. That’s why we must be careful of what we say and do.” I’ve stored these words in my heart over the decades as I’ve sought to live faithfully for Jesus: “To whom much is given much is required.”

Related to today’s message I think of II Samuel 11 which reveals the progression of sin in David’s life that led him to lust, commit adultery, cover up and when that didn’t work he eventually murdered an innocent man. No doubt David thought himself clever in the beginning but when we choose to commit sin we never know how far it will escalate as it takes us away from that which we know is right. It’s a sad testimonial in the life of a king also known as “a man after God’s own heart.” I consider the privileged position God gave David and yet he used his kingly position for evil. May God help us to be ever vigilant in recognizing the devil’s seducing power when we are in positions of authority. Our earthly authority is always subject to God’s spiritual authority in everything we do! So let’s be careful in what we say and do.

A sober recollection from Stephen: About twenty years ago I was going out to visit my folks in the Kansas City area. In Pittsburg I met Paul, a pastor friend who was headed to Springfield MO. We had the same flight to KC and sat together. With a broken heart he told me about a dear friend of his who had a very successful ministry and pastored a large church who had just fallen into moral failure. I recall how hard it was for Paul to believe that his pastor friend (whom I didn’t know) had so grievously failed.

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Today’s Suggested Music and Supplemental Resources
Click on the link to open and play.
(In some cases you may also need to click again to start the song.)

“Slow Fade” Video This song powerfully describes the lure into sin and getting off course. This song was featured in “Fireproof”.

Slow Fade Teaching Video Mark Hall is the youth pastor who wrote the song and leads the group “Casting Crowns”. He shares an interesting perspective from Psalm 1 that prompted this song.

“Take My Life” Video A beautful rendering of an old hymn. Here’s an audio of the original version.

“Take Time To Be Holy” Video This is another old hymn you don’t hear much these days, but its message is very relevant and timeless.

Today’s top photo with the road sign, which Brooksyne took this last Sunday afternoon, illustrates many roads here in Lancaster Country and would have been an appropriate photo to use with this message I prepared last week while in Missouri!

“Consequences Of A Moral Failure” This material, adapted from an article by Randy Alcorn, is helpful in enumerating the consequences of disobedience, especially moral but many of the points apply to any form of failure.

“Prayer for Pastor” I prepared this prayer about eight years ago when I was asked to pray for Jim Gambini, my pastor at that time, during pastor appreciation month. I then made a version for the internet and have been blessed to see how often it has been requested, one of the most popular pages on the Daily Encouragement Net website.

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Please help us continue this free encouragement ministry

Ministry Update

“Mistaken Identity”

Stephen C. Weber — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 16:26:16 +0000

A Gate View
Risser Mill Road, Lancaster County, PA
When my brother saw this he mused what a nice walk it would be down to the meadow.
I agree!

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“Mistaken Identity”

“A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones” (Proverbs 17:22). “A time to laugh” (Ecclesiastes 3:4).

Brooksyne and I are both involved in an interesting, unusual, and fulfilling form of ministry. For over ten years we’ve served as corporate chaplains. At first it was very part-time in New England, when we also served in full-time pastoral ministry. People often ask us what is involved in our worksite visits. Simply described, we walk through the workplace weekly and greet the employees individually; engendering friendships, taking personal interest and showing genuine care. There are many hurting people in the workplace and they often unload their burdens on the chaplain. We follow up in various ways. We also get involved outside of the workplace when there is a crisis, family death, hospitalization, etc. It all sounds very serious, which it is, but we also have plenty of lighter moments where we enjoy a good laugh. I’ve asked Brooksyne to share one of her experiences:

Several years ago on one of my factory worksite visits I went to a room on the second floor where two women normally occupy the desks. Due to security reasons the door remains locked from the outside but has a glass window so you can see in. As was my custom I prepared to knock on the door after which one of the women would open the door so I could enter. But on this day I first peered through the glass and observed that the first woman was not at her regular desk. Then I looked to the left of the door at the other desk. A woman was sitting with her hands folded resting them on the desk with her head leaning back on her chair. She was in full uniform along with the required hair netting and safety glasses so it was hard to identify her, although I could tell it was not the usual woman who sat there. Upon closer observation I noticed that her mouth was agape (really open!) and that her eyes were closed.

I became concerned about knocking because I didn’t want to startle her. I also didn’t want to embarrass her since she’d know that I’d seen her sound asleep on the job! Anyone who’s been awakened by another with his or her mouth wide open is quite humiliated, especially a woman. So I stood to the side of the door away from the window and knocked, hoping that the worker would hear the knock and rally herself to a wakeful position. Then she could answer as though she’d not been sleeping.

But after knocking a couple times there was still no response so I peeked through the window again. This time I became very concerned about the unresponsive woman – that she was not asleep but unconscious or, worse yet, that she was dying or was already dead since I saw no movement. Her chest did not rise to indicate that she was breathing. My heart began to race as I said a prayer to myself that I would do the right thing. Now I was in a dilemma for I felt that I must get help, but I would feel very foolish if she was indeed sleeping soundly and I might get her in trouble. (In my defense, the glass in the door was double thick which somewhat distorted my view.)

After what seemed a long time, the employee who usually sat at the main desk in this room came around the corner and immediately detected that I was troubled. “Is something wrong?” she asked me. I nervously told her, “I’m afraid that the woman in your office is in trouble.” She quickly peered through the glass and with a chuckle looked back at me as she explained, “She’s just a dummy dressed up in uniform that we use to practice CPR.” Imagine how foolish I felt! The story circulated all through the company all the way to the president’s office. It certainly changed the image of the chaplain for any who might have felt that clergy are rather starchy individuals!

Brooksyne told me the story when she came home that evening and we both had a good laugh. Ecclesiastes 3:4 tells us “there is a time to laugh.” So many times we deal with people who have a crushed or broken spirit due to marital strife, rebellious children, addiction to destructive habits, or loved ones dying from a terminal illness. But there are other times when we just enjoy laughing together. God gives us the ability to laugh at situations, with others and at ourselves.

Do you carry a heavy load today? Truly a broken or crushed spirit can dry up the bones making us feel our situation is beyond hope and that we’re carrying a heavy weight on our shoulders. But Peter tells us, “Cast your cares on Him, for He cares for you.” Make sure you enjoy some laughter today and spread some cheer since it is welcome by others as pain-relieving medicine. That’s our Daily Encouragement prescription for you today!

Be encouraged today!

Stephen & Brooksyne Weber

Daily Prayer: Father, there are many troubling situations that weigh our heart down when that is our primary focus. But You want us to bring these troubles to You in prayer, entrust them to Your care, and be joyful on our journey. Nehemiah reminds us, “The joy of the Lord is my strength.” So help us not to live in a state of alarm, but to have a joyful disposition so that we can bring cheer to those around us. In the name of Jesus we pray. Amen.

Note from Brooksyne: Thank you for the well wishes I received on my birthday last week, many through email from readers. A most recent humorous experience happened last Wednesday on my birthday. I purposely didn’t mention that is was my birthday at the three chaplain sites I visited that morning. I then walked into the fourth company expecting to do the same. But within minutes the intercom came on and a cheerful voice announced, “It’s someone’s birthday today.” I shook it off thinking, surely it must be another employee since they wouldn’t know it’s mine. But, lo and behold, the voice over the intercom sang “Happy birthday to Brooksyne.” The people looking on had such a great laugh as they saw my face turn as bright orange as my orange plaid shirt. One of the ladies brought me a fan to cool myself. All throughout the company I was greeted with “Happy Birthday” and a big smile. Once I got over the embarrassment the delightful part of it was that Everett who is 74 is the one who did the singing. He is a most cheerful employee and I often hear this said of him by others, “I’ve never seen him have a bad day.” He’s worked there for nearly sixty years! What wonderful character this man exhibits to his co-workers.

Stephen’s note: When we first became involved in corporate chaplain ministry in 1998 we worked for a company that provided these services. In 2001 I resigned from my pastoral position in New England and took a full-time job with the company, moving to Mount Joy, PA. I resigned in 2004 from that company and sought to take this online ministry to a deeper level but also desired to develop a corporate chaplain ministry directly serving local owners. Brooksyne and I have partnered with several companies since that time and our ministry is now described as multi-vocational with a mix of types, including at the present time a part-time role as pastor of a local congregation here in Lancaster County.

We had a rainy day yesterday so Brooksyne processed a large neck pumpkin we bought at an old order Mennonite road stand several weeks ago. We thought you might enjoy some of the photos.

This will give you an idea of how large the pumpkin is.

I put the 20# neck pumpkin around my neck.
I prefer neck pumpkin because it is less watery than other more common types, has fewer seeds and very little stringy pulp. It is solid pumpkin until the very bottom (see photo below) so you really get your money’s worth. I also prefer the taste over the others, but I must admit I’d never seen this kind of pumpkin until we moved to Lancaster County.

I like to peel the pumpkin first before baking. That way I can process the softened pumpkin right after it comes out of the oven.

The food processor sure does a great job pureeing pumpkin. I also use this method for butternut squash.

The pumpkin is now divided into cup size portions. I then packed 4 to 6 bags into larger gallon freezer bags before putting them in the freezer. I use the pumpkin for making Pumpkin Cranberry Bread, Pumpkin Pie, and Velvety Pumpkin Curry Soup.

Stephen and I had some Velvety Pumpkin Curry Soup for lunch yesterday. It’s so tasty I thought I’d share the easy recipe. My suggested recipe edit: I use butter instead of margarine, delete cayenne, and substitute green or red curry paste in place of curry powder (1 heaping tsp. for spicy, but not hot – taste as you go.)

Today’s Suggested Music and Supplemental Resources
Click on the link to open and play.
(In some cases you may also need to click again to start the song.)

“A Joyful Heart Is Good Medicine” Audio (the 5th song on this page.) Steve Green (Brooksyne recalled this from a children’s album!)

Since today’s message has a humorous note it brings to mind a group some of you will recall from the late seventies that had skits using humor. If I remember correctly we listened to these skits on LPs (although the cassette tape had been invented).

The name of the group was Isaac Air Freight. Here’s a history of the group. Here’s one of their skits, especially appropriate for baseball fans at this time, called “The Last World Series Report” (this is on Youtube but it’s audio only). If you are interested the “Related Videos” on the side bar have other skits by them.

I also thought our readers may enjoy this: Doris High, our photographer friend, has two recent posts demonstrating the beautiful Autumn we are enjoying in our area: Here and here.

Send a message to Stephen & Brooksyne.

Please help us continue this free encouragement ministry

Ministry Update

“How Great Is Our God!”

Stephen C. Weber — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 17:18:13 +0000

Pumpkin Wagon near Strasburg, PA
(This was on the parking lot of the Strasburg Railroad)

Listen to us share this message on your audio player.

“How Great Is Our God!”

“To whom, then, will you compare God?” (Isaiah 40:18).

The fortieth chapter of Isaiah is considered by many to be among the richest literature ever written. In our daily text Isaiah asks a question that is based on the mighty statements made in the verses previous to his question.

“Who has measured the waters in the hollow of his hand, or with the breadth of his hand marked off the heavens? Who has held the dust of the earth in a basket, or weighed the mountains on the scales and the hills in a balance?” (v.12).

Each of these questions illustrates the awesome greatness and almightiness of God. Let’s just consider the first question, “Who has measured the waters in the hollow of His hand?” Now I’ve got a pretty big hand and I tried to see how much water I could place in the hollow of my hand. As hard as I tried I was unable to hold a Tablespoon measurement!

But Isaiah says our great God “measured the waters in the hollow of His hand.” I have no idea how anybody can begin to figure this out but I read that the total amount of water on the earth is thought to be about 1,385 million cubic kilometers (1 cubic kilometer equals 1 billion liters). Please note: I was unable to personally verify this figure. But going by that figure as a measurement, if my math is anywhere near correct, that’s about 346,250,000,000,000,000 gallons. It might be easier for us to mentally calculate those 18 digits in the vast number I just wrote by realizing that 70 percent of the earth’s surface is covered by water.

Now of course neither Isaiah nor I am asserting that God is a physical being. By creating an imaginative visual picture, as Isaiah does, we are much more likely to consider and appreciate the immensity and greatness of our God. This is the mighty, awe-inspiring God we serve!

Just before Isaiah launches into these declarations of God’s greatness he reveals the contrasting, tender personhood of the Father, “He tends His flock like a shepherd: He gathers the lambs in His arms and carries them close to His heart; He gently leads those that have young” (v. 11).

That’s the greatness of our God! He is immense, beyond measure, as far as one galaxy is from another. Inaccessible to our view, and yet tenderly accessible to our soul 24/7 since His Spirit dwells within the heart of the believer. Let us stay faithful to Him today.

How big is God! How big and wide His vast domain,
To try to tell these lips can only start,
He’s big enough to rule His mighty universe,
Yet small enough to live within the heart.

Be encouraged today,

Stephen & Brooksyne Weber

Daily prayer: Father, it is commonly tempting to try to understand You in human terms and measure your worth such as Isaiah prolifically depicts in his prophetic letter. When he describes the means by which we, Your created ones, go about measuring one’s abilities it falls enormously short of what You, in Your divine nature, have done, what You are doing, and what You will do in the future. We are unable to understand or appreciate all there is to know because we are the finite created ones and You are the infinite Creator. There is nothing and no one who can compare with You. You are the *most blessed, most glorious, the Ancient of Days, Almighty, victorious, Your great name we praise! Amen.

“Immortal, Invisible” – from the powerful hymn about God the Father.

My big brother came down to visit with me Sunday evening and we spent the day together yesterday. Pat is a pastor in the Lehigh Valley, an area about 100 miles northeast of us. In talking together he wondered aloud whatever happened to his Boy Scout trunk he had when he was a boy.

Well, it just so happens that I started using it when he went to the service and have had it ever since, hauling it around from wherever we have lived. Yesterday he was so pleased that after over forty years I finally returned it to him. Just look at that big smile on his face as we’re loading it into his van!

Yesterday afternoon we headed over to the Strasburg area to visit Jesse and see what he was up to. A group of Amish men was harvesting corn silage so we observed for awhile. Here we have two teams working. On the right is the team-pulled, but generator-powered harvester which cuts a cluster of corn stalks, binds them and sends them up the chute where they are loaded on to wagons pulled by a second team.

The wagons are unloaded here. They use the PTO on the tractor to power the machine that chops up the corn and then blows it up the white pipe up into the sixty foot tall silo.

The chopping machine is being loaded here (this photo is sensitive to the Amish who do not want their faces displayed). Two groups of two teams each are working at the same time so this machine is kept pretty busy. In one group the team sensed

when to move forward as the stalks were being unloaded into the chopper! This team needed a verbal command from Jesse.

My brother and I played a round of yard golf (I won) and before he left our neighbor, Jandon, walked by with his still growing Saint Bernard puppy. I thought these three dogs make an interesting contrast (Pat is holding his Chihuahua, “Honey”). Ester is with Roxie, now 5 years old.

My brother came down in part because his wife Laverne is in Africa on a two week mission trip. She is an MK (missionary kid). Her folks were pioneering missionaries to West Africa beginning when her dad, George Hemminger, went over as a single man in 1928. Many years ago I wrote a tribute concerning his life. He was one of the most devout men I’ve ever met.

Laverne had been excited about going back to the country she grew up in. She sent an email to her supporters that described a touching moment. When she walked up to one of the elders who knew her as a child, from the Themne Church, he was overwhelmed. She wrote: “Pa Sorie held me and jumped up and down – he is 90!”

I wish I could have witnessed that blessed reunion! Just a little picture of what heaven is going to be like when we meet up with those who’ve touched our lives along the way!

Today’s Suggested Music and Supplemental Resources
Click on the link to open and play.
(In some cases you may also need to click again to start the song.)

“How Great Thou Art!” Video NewSong
Here’s a more traditional version by Crystal Lewis Video

“How Great Is Our God!” Video Chris Tomlin

“God Of Wonders” Video Third Day

“Immortal, Invisible God Only Wise” Video

Send a message to Stephen & Brooksyne.

Please help us continue this free encouragement ministry

Ministry Update