AboutDebbie, bloghome, Lutheran Reflection, Lutheran Resources, Lutheran Women in Mission

Forgetfulness and Grace

Last week I forgot I was to lead the Thursday morning LWML Bible study. I’m not sure why it wasn’t on my calendar — I simply forgot.

In our local group, we take turns leading the Lutheran Woman’s Quarterly Bible studies and hosting our bimonthly gatherings at church. I had missed the last Bible study and was looking forward to delving into the Word once again with this wonderful group. The night before our gathering I felt I was forgetting something. I checked my calendar — saw nothing, so I slept soundly. Again the next morning, I felt a tug on my conscience and called a friend. “Who’s hosting this morning?” I asked. After a slight pause (possibly shocked at my lack of preparedness) she said, “You are.” 

I know everyone can be forgetful, but I’m the LWML President! How could I forget something so important? I felt embarrassed and very humbled. I left everything and grabbed my coat and keys. It’s a 30 minute drive to town and I needed to purchase a coffee cake and fruit for refreshments! The Bible study comes with a leaders guide (thank you, Quarterly staff!) and I had already gone over the study so, if I hurried, I could accomplish what needed to be done. The morning went smoothly and everyone enjoyed our time together.

I did forget. I am an imperfect, sinful child of God. My hope lies in the simple and powerful truth that I can trust that my Lord will never forget His promises made through His Son, Jesus Christ. For all the promises of God find their Yes in him. That is why it is through him that we utter our Amen to God for his glory (2 Corinthians 1:20).

God also forgets, but it’s not His promises He forgets. God forgets for His purpose and for the benefit of His children. “I, I am he who blots out your transgressions for my own sake, and I will not remember your sins (Isaiah 43:25). 

What a blessing to be surrounded by His grace. What a comfort to know I can count on His promises. What a privilege to share Jesus with others so they, too, have this blessed assurance!

Today, and always, we are surrounded by HIS grace,

Debbie

AboutDebbie, bloghome, Lutheran Reflection, Lutheran Women in Mission

Dad’s Wooden Spoons

Throughout the holiday season, I do a lot of cooking and baking, and I’m sure you do, too. My kitchen is well stocked with needed utensils that I use daily, plus a few that I have never used, but I use my Dad’s wooden spoons every day, all year long.

My father, Keith Young, went to heaven in 2012. He was a farmer, an incredible mentor, and a great craftsman. In the winter, he loved to work with wood. He made dressers, stools, bookcases, children’s furniture — and he loved to carve spoons. Each time someone came to visit he’d give them a spoon. When Scott, our kids, and I went home to the farm, he’d ask me if I wanted another spoon. Of course, I did! I have quite a collection (see photo for a few of them), and I cherish them all.

I love my Dad’s wooden spoons. I treat them special because he formed them with his own hands and branded them as his own. In a similar way, God treats us very special. He formed us and made us His own in baptism. 

… then the Lord God formed the man of dust from the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living creature (Genesis 2:7).

For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother’s womb (Psalm 139:13).

In baptism, we have His cross on our forehead and on our heart. We are His. Let’s treat our bodies with respect because God formed us with His own hands. Let’s thank God for our earthly fathers and our heavenly Father today, and into the New Year!

Today, and always, we are surrounded by HIS grace,

Debbie

AboutDebbie, bloghome, Lutheran Reflection, Lutheran Women in Mission

Don’t Wait. Pray Now.

Prayer

I like to think of prayer as a verb. This last week I hosted my annual Christmas lunch with the women of our ranch. It was a small group this year, as schedules become packed during the holidays, but seven women gathered for lunch, laughter, and fellowship. We are a close group, and one of the women shared personal news and asked for prayer. We prayed together, right then, for her, and asked God, the great Healer, to restore her health and grant favorable medical test results. Thy will be done, oh Lord.

I’ve often had friends share worries and frustrations, and I’ve caught myself saying, “I’ll keep you in my prayers.” True, this is a good thing. In fact, it communicates our dependence on and trust in our Savior. But many times I’ve gotten busy with life and have forgotten to include my friend’s frustration in my prayers. So I’ve come to realize I need to stop and pray — in the moment — together with those who need prayer.

I’ve learned so much from my LWML sisters and brothers in Christ, but one of the most valuable lessons is trusting in the power of our Lord and knowing He hears our prayers. I saw these words on a poster and I think they’re worth sharing:

  • Trust in HIS timing
  • Rely on HIS promises
  • Wait for HIS answers
  • Believe in HIS miracles
  • Rejoice in HIS forgiveness
  • Delight in HIS presence

In this season of Advent, as we anticipate the celebration of the birth of our Savior, I realize waiting may be a good thing. I think of Psalm 27:14, which says, Wait for the Lord; be strong, and let your heart take courage; wait for the Lord! I also know there are times when we should not wait, but act now. So when it comes to communicating with my Father in heaven, I will pray. I will pray, now. 

Gracious Father, 

This morning I thank You for the gift of prayer. I come to You in thankfulness, in sorrow, in frustration and anger, and with requests that only You can grant. You hear my prayers. I ask You to help me keep You at the center of my life and give me the courage and faith to share You with others. In Your Holy Name I pray. Amen.

Today, and always, we are surrounded by HIS grace,

Debbie

AboutDebbie, bloghome, Lutheran Reflection, Lutheran Women in Mission

Soup on a Cold Day

Soup on a Cold Day

I can’t believe I’m going to talk about food after we’ve all probably stuffed ourselves with a good Thanksgiving meal and all the leftovers … but I am. I do like a good turkey meal but my favorite days are the days following, with leftovers made into good soup.

As I write this it’s snowing outside — and cold and windy — but I’m inside by the fire. Yes, Scott makes a fire in the hearth each and every morning. It’s now slowing dying and I’m watching the embers and listening to the crackles of the last of the fire. I’m beginning to think about dinner and how good a bowl of hot soup would be. I love to make it in the morning so I can smell it simmering all day.

The making of the soup: I used to use a food processor to chop the onions, carrots, and celery. Now I’ve found I like to do this by hand. I love the process of dicing each vegetable and wondering where it was grown and marveling at how God has allowed us to have fresh vegetables all year long. I’m using the gifts God gave me to make this soup: a mother who taught me to cook, the ingredients themselves — a miracle of growth, the ability to purchase the ingredients, and the gas to boil the broth — all of these gifts and so many more for one meal.

The aroma and anticipation: The aromas start when the onions hit the hot oil and they continue to grow in intensity and complexity as more ingredients are added. Scott is out plowing snow and I know his first remark when he walks through the door will be, “Wow, it smells good in here!” God knows I’m not a very patient person and He knows I’ll sample the broth throughout the day but I think He’ll understand as He knows how much I appreciate these additional gifts. Do you ever marvel at how our Lord just keeps on giving?

The taste and fulfillment: And finally we dish up a healthy helping of soup and enjoy the fruits of my labor. Before the first bite, we are privileged to invite our Lord to join us: Come Lord Jesus, be our guest and let these gifts to us be blessed. Amen. As we enjoy our soup, my prayer is that each of you find joy and comfort in every gift God has given us. 

Today, and always, we are surrounded by HIS grace,

Debbie


AboutDebbie, bloghome, Lutheran Reflection, Lutheran Women in Mission

Exclusively Inclusive

Amidst winter storms at the end of October, I flew to St. Louis and met with our seven, still serving joyfully, LWML past presidents. I was aware they got together every four years, but as I packed, I had no idea how to prepare for a meeting with these incredible leaders. How was it possible that I was now to be counted as part of this exclusive group of servants? How would I ever measure up to the responsibilities of the office?

The purpose of this get together, the sixth of its kind, was to allow these past presidents to encourage, challenge, counsel, and support me regarding the responsibilities and opportunities of the office of LWML president. And they did just that. Ida Mall (1991-1995), Gloria Edwards (1995-1999), Virginia Von Seggern (1999-2003), Linda Reiser (2003-2007), Jan Wendorf (2007-2011), Kay Kreklau (2011-2015), and Patti Ross (2015-2019), covered me in prayer during our time together. I know they will continue to pray for me.

I believe each of these past presidents would agree that while this particular group may be exclusive, God has called us to be completely inclusive as we share His saving Gospel with the world. 

The reason we share the Gospel? For there is no distinction: for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus (Romans 3: 22b-24). 

And the reason we rejoice as we share? This is good, and it is pleasing in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth (1 Timothy 2:3-4).

We are children of the Heavenly Father. That sounds pretty exclusive! Let’s continue to share Jesus’ message of salvation and strive to be exclusively inclusive. This news is just too good to keep to ourselves!

Have a blessed Thanksgiving holiday, my dear friends.

Today, and always, we are surrounded by His grace,

Debbie

AboutDebbie, bloghome, Lutheran Reflection, Lutheran Women in Mission

Flat Tires, Friends, and Faith

In my last blog I shared with you that the LWML Board of Directors, along with many Lutheran Women in Mission, would be meeting in St. Louis for planning purposes. Much preparation took place to get ready for that week, but I was not prepared for the flat tire I found on my car the night before I needed to drive over the mountain pass to catch my flight at 4 a.m. the next morning.

One should be prepared for a flat tire. I should have read the manual for my Subaru. I should have known where the spare tire was stored and how to access it. I should have determined the location of the tire jack and where to attach it to the undercarriage of the vehicle so I could lift and lower the car safely. I should have carried gloves in the car for this purpose. All these thoughts ran through my mind on that Saturday night as I stared at the flat tire.

I don’t want to offend women out there with my lack of feminism, but I will shamelessly state that I do not have any wish to ever change a tire, clear the snow from the driveway, or chop wood. I’m not saying I can’t do those things, but I am stating that I’d rather my husband Scott take care of those tasks. Alas, Scott was in Minnesota.

Before I could even formulate a plan of action, my neighbors drove up. Gary and Loretta have become forever friends here on the ranch, and I have no doubt that God directed them to be there just when I needed them. Gary assessed the damage, changed the tire, and told me I was not allowed to drive over the pass to Colorado Springs with that spare. Loretta announced that she would pick me up and take me to the airport (think mountain roads at 4 a.m.), and I had better have coffee for the ride. Tears sprung forth, not because I was frustrated, but because I was overwhelmed with gratitude and love.

With no time to ask, my Lord provided help and comfort. For the Lord is good; his steadfast love endures forever, and his faithfulness to all generations (Psalm 100:5). His grace abounds and my faith rests in the promises of His Word. I am blessed.

Tomorrow we buy new tires. 

Today, and always, we are surrounded by His grace,

Debbie

AboutDebbie, bloghome, Lutheran Reflection, Lutheran Women in Mission

Preparations

In my very first blog I shared with you the writings of Jan Schmidt, a sister-in-Christ from my home congregation. She is a gifted writer, and I share some of her thoughts with you today integrated with my own.

Prepare. This word has been on my mind and heart a lot as the LWML Board of Directors (BOD) has been preparing for this week’s Interdepartmental Meeting in St. Louis. All LWML national committee members come together to plan for this biennium (please keep us in prayer). Much time has been spent preparing, many prayers have ascended seeking our Lord’s guidance, and I would say thousands of emails have been sent back and forth. We want to be prepared.

Much of our time, yours and mine, is spent in preparation. We prepare meals every day. We prepare our bodies for the day, showering and dressing for the weather. We prepare for company and vacations. We prepare for going to bed. We prepare for retirement. We may even prepare to die.

Preparation is important for a better future. The probability of things going smoothly are greatly increased by good preparation. Does God want us to prepare for future events? Yes, I believe He does. Let’s look at the very beginning: Only six chapters into the book of Genesis, the earth is filling with people. Already things are not going well. … all flesh had corrupted their way on the earth (Genesis 6:12b). God could have just destroyed the whole earth, but that was not God’s plan. Our God’s heart is that of a Redeemer. He prepared a way for Noah and his family to survive the cleansing flood. Not only did God save Noah, but God designed the ark for the salvation of animals, birds, and every creeping thing of the ground. It was a good plan. But it involved a lot of preparation and trust on the part of Noah.

The LWML BOD is prepared to guide the various committees through the planning process so that they will feel prepared to step out in faith, trusting that God will lead them to develop programs and resources that can be used to share Jesus with our families, community, and the world.

As you engage in various preparations today, take some time to thank God for His work of preparation in your life. As you look back, can you see how He has prepared you for certain experiences? You and I are almost certainly unaware of how He is today preparing us for what tomorrow will bring. But we can be sure He is doing just that. We may not have to build an ark, but we are engaged in the work of preparing hearts to be ready for Jesus’ coming again. And that is good work in which to be engaged. Prepare. He is coming!

Today, and always, we are surrounded by God’s grace,
Debbie

AboutDebbie, bloghome, Lutheran Reflection, Lutheran Women in Mission

Thanking God for Pastors and all Church Workers

LWML Sr. Pastoral Counselor Schuessler

October is Pastors’ Appreciation month. Yes, we should show and voice appreciation year-round but I have a feeling that’s not always the case. Over the years, I’ve shared my fears and distress with my pastors. I’ve prevailed upon them for guidance over and over again in my personal life and with Bible studies of which I needed more interpretation. They have counseled me and I do appreciate each of those pastors I’ve had the privilege to know. I just don’t always tell them. Do you?  

As we praise God for our pastors this month, let’s get out our pen and paper and write notes of thanksgiving to His shepherds. Consider asking your whole family to write notes of thanks. Get your children involved so they are made aware of the blessing our pastors are in their daily lives. If you are able, include a gift certificate for a restaurant, sporting event, or movie theater. Let’s admit that our pastors aren’t in it for the money. A special gift will be appreciated. I plan on bringing the subject up during our Bible study so everyone is reminded to show their love and appreciation in some way.

LWML Jr. Pastoral Counselor Noack

I guess this isn’t really a blog. It’s more of an appeal but I think it’s worthy request and a good reminder. If you agree, please pass it on!

Today, and always, we are surrounded by God’s grace,

Debbie

AboutDebbie, bloghome, Lutheran Reflection, Lutheran Women in Mission

Sisters

Girl’s Weekend

This weekend I hosted 12 women for my family’s annual “Girl’s Weekend” at the ranch. This tradition began with my sisters and I traveling to my parents’ farm and spending time together while our father and husbands went hunting. Time passed, we had children, they married and had children, and the group grew. This group now includes my mom, sisters, daughters, nieces, friends, and an occasional dog or two.

We all love to cook (and eat!). We plan a craft or two, stay up late, and tease each other relentlessly. We reminisce, enjoy our time together, and look forward to future gatherings. Yes, we have moments of irritation and impatience, our political views are best not discussed, and we may not agree on the best way to help care for our mother as she considers her living arrangements … but we are family and that trumps all.

Three sisters, born of the same parents and raised in a Christian home, is more than enough for which to thank and praise my Lord. I know they may not always agree with me or understand my actions but, if I need them, they’re there for me. 

I am also blessed with sisters in Christ, my church family. I know they will also be there for me, to lift me up, hold me accountable, laugh and cry with me, and pray with and for me. This is a sisterhood of choice … Lutheran Women in Mission!

Today I’m exhausted, but I have a smile on my face and love fills my heart. I’m thanking my Father for the gift of sisters, all of them!

Today, and always, we are surrounded by God’s grace,
President Debbie

AboutDebbie, bloghome, Lutheran Reflection, Lutheran Women in Mission

The Hands of His Servants

I have tried to write this today without crying and I think I’ll just give up and write through tears. Please understand, these are humble, happy tears!

Last week I received a large box delivered to my home. It was sent by last biennium’s Growth and Development Chairman Crystal Miller. As Vice President of Organizational Resources (2015-2019), I served with three committees: Leadership Development (Chairman Susan Brunkow), Growth and Development, and Structure (Chairman Arlene Naasz). The incredible ladies on these committees, spearheaded by Crystal, collaborated on a gift for me that brings tears of joy to my eyes. Stretched out in canvas on this wall hanging are photos of each of their hands praying for me!

I immediately took down a large picture in my dining room and hung this one. (OK, I didn’t do it … my husband, Scott, did. I can’t hang a straight picture for the life of me!) This gift has touched my heart like few others. You see, even though this gift is tangible, I see it as servant hearts praying for me as I serve the Lord in the LWML. I see women who love the Lord, women who seek His wisdom and praise Him for His mercies; women who put everything, including the LWML, in His hands. This is what I see when my eyes and my heart look at this canvas.

I know women across the United States pray for me daily. This is a humbling and comforting thought. Please know that I pray for all of you, too, on a daily basis. What an honor to kneel before our Maker, knowing He listens and answers. Thy will be done, oh Lord!

I thank my God always when I remember you in my prayers (Philemon 1:4).

Today, and always, we are surrounded by God’s grace,

Debbie