Show me your ways, Lord, teach me your paths. (Psalms 25.4)

I grew up in Southwest Minnesota. The winters there can be very cold and filled with blizzards. Many times, we would be at school when the wind would begin to blow and the snow would start blocking the roads in the country. School would then be cancelled and the buses would line up to take us home. In town the weather never seemed that bad but out in the country, it was another story.

I remember a day when school let out early. I got on the bus and sat down by my friend. My sister Kris sat in front of us. We were around eight and nine years old. The mood on the bus was celebratory. We were getting to go home early! My friend Debbie had brought a bag of popcorn with her so we sat on the warm bus and munched our way home. I don’t think we were concerned about the weather. We were just happy to be heading home early.

When the bus pulled up at the end of our long driveway, Kris and I got off. I doubt that we were bundled up as well as we could have been. We hadn’t been paying attention to what was happening outside. When the bus pulled away, we were hit with a cold wind that took our breath away. The snow was blinding and was hitting our faces like needles. The driveway was blown shut with snow. I remember wanting to lie down because the wind was hitting me so hard. I didn’t know how we would make it home. At that moment I saw a shadowy figure coming towards us. It was our Dad. He had been watching for the bus and had come to meet us. He took us each by the hand and led us through the grove where the trees provided some relief from the wind. Before we knew it, we could see our house up ahead. I believe that he saved our lives that day.

I’ve often thought about that moment and how it applies to my life today. Many times, we are not prepared for what we face. We don’t know which way to turn and sometimes we feel like giving up. I believe that it’s in those moments that God takes us by the hand and leads us home. He may lead us by a different route than we expected or would have considered but we can trust Him to keep us safe. He watches for us and guides us home.

Melody Maass
Pastoral Assistant

People that know me are often surprised to hear that I suffered a profound episode of depression that lasted over the course of several years. Although it occurred over 25 years ago, there were several pivotal turning points I experienced as I righted my ship toward recovery.

One such occurrence happened by surprise. Carol and I purchased some vacation property, perhaps attempting to provide some solace and refuge in my tumultuous life. At the time, we were living in a condo. While we enjoyed that carefree lifestyle, I still longed to get my hands in some dirt. One of the things I most looked forward to in purchasing this property was to own some dirt so I could grow some flowers.

One result of my depression was losing my job, which occurred shortly after purchasing the property. As a result, money was tight. Not to be deterred, I resigned myself to planting flower seeds instead of purchasing our customary flower flats. One of the flower seeds I chose was celosias. The package stated the flowers would grow 12” – 18” in height so I thought stems of these showy blooms would be a nice addition to a vase.

I toiled for many hours to prepare a virgin planting bed that would hopefully become a showplace of blooms in the coming weeks. I can still recall the sinking feeling I had when I opened the package of seeds and dumped them into my hand. The seeds were smaller than poppy seeds! “How in the world would these seeds grow into anything worthwhile?” I thought. Nonetheless, I lovingly placed the seeds in the ground thinking, “Please God. I need some beautiful flowers in my life right now.”

Each Friday we would arrive at our property only to find weak little seedlings struggling for survival. I would think, “Please God. I need some flowers!” After some weeks, these tiny seeds took hold and started growing strong and sturdy. By August we had a towering forest of celosias that were chest height and exploding with color and beauty. I was stunned!

Even all these years later, I am feeling my breath being taken away as I recall this sight. The story doesn’t end there though. For many years, these same celosias re-seeded themselves and grew proudly. We had so many re-seeded plants in the following years, we had enough to share. The blessing continued for many years.

The lesson I learned is that God surprises us many times over our expectations if we just have faith and trust Him. Of course, the Bible verse that comes to mind is Matthew 17:20. He said to them, “Because of your little faith. For truly I tell you, if you have the faith the size of a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move; and nothing will be impossible for you.”

 Prayer: Loving God, In those times in my life when we need you the most, it sometimes seems like you are the farthest away. In those times, and all times, help me to remember that you are just a prayer away. You already know what I need, and you will provide if I just trust and have faith in You. In your gracious name I pray. Amen.

Steve Spieker
Joyful Worship Wing Co-Leader

Let me hear of your unfailing love each morning, for I am trusting you. Show me where to walk, for I give myself to you. (Psalm 143:8)

Somewhere in the neighborhood of 6:00 am you can find me with a cup of coffee and one cookie (it used to be two!), ready to spend some time alone with God. How this started, I no longer remember, but it has been going on for 30 years. The location has changed through the years; a favorite chair in the living room, a quiet spot on the patio in the summertime, sitting near the water or staring at the woods.

In 2020, I have had a need to be outdoors more and began taking daily walks in the early morning hours. Those walks have turned into prayer time. Sometimes, I just begin with overwhelming thankfulness for the beautiful morning, other times, I have real concerns for the problems of the day, with my family, my friends, my world around me.

Walking and talking with God is so calming. Sometimes, I just listen for His input and He reassures me that He is still in charge. Yes, sometimes, ideas and thoughts pop into my head on a new way to deal with the very concerns I shared with Him. I often say, “Was that you God?”

We are now in the Advent Season of the church year and daily walks depend on the temperatures, the direction and pace the wind is coming from, and safety of walking surfaces. I find myself, back in my favorite chair, with devotionals and my bible, connecting with God. We are preparing for Christmas in all the usual ways. Mornings are a great time to reflect on the season at hand and appreciate what it means to believe that a baby born in Bethlehem came to save us from the troubles of the world. He said, “Come to me with all your concerns” “I will be with you.” What a great time of the year it is!

Prayer: Lord, I anticipate the celebration of Your birth and I anticipate Your return. May I forever be in an “advent” frame of mind, excited about spending time with You. Amen.

Jan Zastrow
Small Group Leader

Thy word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path. (Psalms 119:105)

Bike riding has always been something I’ve enjoyed doing. One of my favorite places to ride is on the Elroy Sparta bike trail in Wisconsin. It is one of the first trails to be made on an old railroad bed. The crushed limestone trail runs through small rural towns in Wisconsin. It is a beautiful scenic place to ride.

The trail is known for its three tunnels. There is a sign outside each tunnel telling you to walk your bike through the tunnel. Since you can see the light at the other end of the tunnel it seems like riding through wouldn’t be all that difficult. Most people can’t resist trying to ride through the tunnels.

At first it is easy but then you get to the middle of the tunnel where it is very dark. If you take your eyes off of the light at the end of the tunnel you run a very real risk of riding off the trail and crashing into the side of the tunnel. I speak from experience. The only way to ride through safely is to keep your eyes fixed on the pin point of light at the end of the tunnel and not on anything else.

I’ve often thought about how this applies to my faith walk. When I’m in the dark moments I can easily crash and burn when I focus on what I’m going through and not on God’s light. If I keep my focus on Jesus I can navigate through the difficult times.

Melody Maass
Pastoral Assistant

Trust in Him at all times, Pour out your heart to him, for God is our refuge.  (Psalm 62:8)

Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave us. (Ephesians 4:32)

Throughout this pandemic, I have given all my concerns to God especially when my immediate family was affected by the coronavirus. Knowing that God is in charge makes me so much calmer and peaceful. During this Advent season, I will make an effort to focus on God’s truth, Jesus, others and eternity. I pray that my words and thoughts this Advent season will be pleasing to you dear Lord.

Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, we ask you to grant us peace. Peace in our homes, peace in our churches, and peace in our hearts. Thank you for this Advent season and for loving us enough to send the greatest gift, JESUS. Help us to focus on You now and always. In Jesus’ name Amen

Kay Stone
New Life Ministry, Spiritual Care Leader

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and The Word WAS God. Through Him ALL things were made; without Him nothing was made… In Him was Life and that life was the Light of men…. Though the world was made through Him, the world did not know Him. He came to that which was His own, but His own did not receive Him. Yet, to all who RECEIVED Him, who BELIEVED in His name, He gave the right to become children of God… The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us! (John 1: 1,3-4, 10-12, 14)

Even in the midst of a pandemic, this year I have been blessed beyond belief! Due to extended mandatory quarantine I was able to join (via Zoom) an in depth, inductive bible study on the book of John that my sister leads in California! Reading, studying, and discussing God’s amazing Word line by line has had a life changing impact on my mind and heart, the depth of my faith, and my relationship with God!

Every chapter of John’s gospel is filled with God’s powerful message of salvation through Jesus. When we pause to deeply meditate on the above words from John they become truly miraculous! The Advent season is a special time to prepare our hearts and homes for the coming of our Lord. The incredible gift of Jesus is overwhelming and beyond our finite understanding! Jesus is the Light of the World, the Savior of the World, the Almighty, Eternal, Majestic Son of God; the Christ-Creator of the Universe, the Author and Source of All Life; Immanuel-God in Human flesh dwelling with us; The King of Kings-Sovereign over all nations and all of creation. And He left his Throne and left the Majesty and Glory of Heaven to be so humbled and confined by space and time; in a womb and a human body; and ultimately to a Scourging Post, a Roman Cross, and then a Tomb to save each of us from our sins! He willingly paid for every single one of our sins with His Perfect, Sinless, Precious blood!!

Christmas is so much more than a baby in a manger! Jesus is the most beautiful, valuable gift ever given. He is the only perfect gift ever given. This advent season, may we all “unwrap” this precious gift; and take it into the very depths of our heart, soul and spirit to worship and treasure both now and for all eternity!

Heavenly Father, this advent, this Christmas, and forever, please help us to humble ourselves, and completely surrender our hearts to you. Through your Holy Spirit help us to receive and value the gift of our Savior as never before, and become a new creation in Christ (2 Cor. 5:17); so we can be “the salt and light” (Matt.5:13,14) you call us to be, to glorify your Holy Name! Amen.

Sandy Sadowski

The Advent Season will have special meaning to me this year. I feel it should be a time of reflection on this past (not normal) year and hope looking forward into the New Year of Christ.

The last Advent started pretty normal and then the coronavirus came in March. It was overwhelming to think we would need to stay home, wear masks, not go to church, or visit friends and family. I kept reminding myself that this would pass and God was in control. I sure wasn’t prepared for the many months it has been going on.

It is very hard to watch friends and family pass away and not be able to attend their funerals or visit others hospitalized. We can call them, but not see them in person or get a hug from them. Also, I am missing the weddings, graduations and family gatherings canceled because of the virus. We have to continue to pray for those families that have lost loved ones. God’s blessings to all of them.

Enough about what we cannot do. This Advent Season, I will think about what I can do. God has blessed me with good health, my family and many friends. My family and friends keep in touch with me and are willing to do whatever it takes to keep me safe — shopping, yard work, cleaning.
Then there is my church family. Oh, how I miss all the church doings: Sunday worships, Young at Heart Luncheons, Bible Study, Cross Lutheran Church Meals, all the church gatherings. But Ascension is constantly figuring ways to keep us connected. I can call people and send cards and messages.

God is in control and he will get us over this pandemic in His time.

As we move into Advent and reflect and pray, let us praise God for taking us this far and prepare our hearts for that wonderful birth of Jesus when He came into the world to save us. We don’t deserve it, but He came to live among us and suffer more than any of us can imagine. Remember, God loves you and me.

Hugs to all of you.

Arlene Davis
Pastoral Assistant, Young at Heart Leader

I can think of multiple facets of my life that I’ve experienced God working or moving me.

I could tell you about my single days, not understanding what I was doing wrong or simply why a relationship failed, until I met my wife. I could tell you about my son being born seven weeks early and having 45-day NICU stay and God granting my wife and I strength and patience, and his medical team the knowledge to treat him appropriately.

Instead I will tell you about my journey to faith. I did not grow up in an overly religious household. My parents are divorced and neither attended church services regularly. I saw my dad just every other weekend. My dad spent a lot of time in the yard doing yard work or cleaning the house and grocery shopping. There wasn’t a lot of “quality” bonding time.

When I was in high school, my dad decided to start attending church. In order to simply spend more time with him, I asked him to wake me up so I could go with him one day. He looked at me, surprised. At first, I didn’t pay much attention or even really follow along.

When our pastor retired, we called a new pastor who was a bit younger, closer to my parents’ age. His sermons were relatable, he used movies and music and everyday things like that to tie his sermon together. Suddenly, he had my attention. Things started clicking and I started paying more and more attention. Eventually I went through confirmation classes.

You see, I didn’t know it at the time, but God used my desire to have a better relationship with my dad to develop a stronger relationship with Him. It took years for me to see this, as a matter of fact it took almost five years for me to realize this. It was when I was studying in college at a local Starbucks, when I met two local Christian bookstore owners, that helped me see these things.

God works when we don’t even realize it. Even writing this has given me the opportunity to reflect and appreciate His work when it easily gets lost or forgotten. Thanks be to God!

Jeffrey Froh
Council Member

Wait for the Lord; Be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord. (Psalms 27:14)

Now there was a man in Jerusalem called Simeon, who was righteous and devout. He was waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was on him. (Luke 2:25)

Waiting is hard for me. My impatience often distracts me to issues over which I have no control. When I was young I could not wait for my birthday or Christmas to arrive. The anticipation and excitement for the party or celebration made it hard to concentrate on anything else.

Now I wait for the results of medical tests and procedures. I hope and pray the results will lead to treatment that deal successfully with the symptoms. Now it is not excitement, but worry and fear are the emotions I face. I tend to dwell on the bad possible outcomes and worry what those could mean for the future.

I find great comfort in prayer and scripture at times like these. I need to trust that the God who created me wants only the best for my life and the lives of those I love. I need to remember how God has answered my prayers in the past, not always the way I had hoped but in the end better than I thought possible.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, help me to wait on your time for the struggles in my life. Let me focus on all the blessings you have given me during my life. Give me the knowledge that you will meet my needs in your time. I know you want the best for me and all your children. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Jim Hahn, Pastoral Assistant

 

In our family, Advent is usually a time of extremes. A typical Advent season in our family is trying to shove as many things as possible into the three or four weeks between Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Last December brought the following: 24 hours of music rehearsals, 12 performances, 150 students, teachers and parents to The Nutcracker, 450 hyped-up students, grading countless papers and assignments, mourning the loss of our last Grandparent, a four-year-old who finally “gets” Christmas (at least the Santa part), three get-togethers, Christmas dinner for the family, and a partridge in a pear tree. Ok, maybe not the last one, but you get the idea!

This December, our calendar is empty…and that’s ok (or at least we are trying to accept this as ok)! Are you like us? Are you feeling sorrow for the lack of things to do,  people to see, places to go, and concerts this season? Could there be a blessing of finding joy in the missing out? Is God granting us the “more time” we always ask for?

We are trying to focus our hearts and minds on where we can find peace and joy this Advent season. We have been forced to take a breath, to find peace and look forward to His coming.

How will you accept this lack of busyness to truly prepare for the birth of our Savior? Join us in the journey of Advent, and accept the beautiful gift of time and quiet God has given us.

Therefore you also must be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect. (Matthew 24:44)

“I am looking for a savior I can see and know and touch, one who dwells within the midst of us. May a broken God be known within the earth beneath our feet, let our souls behold humility.” (From “Looking for a Savoir” by United Pursuit)

Scott & Sheri Greger, Choir, CRASH volunteers