 "For this reason, since the day we heard it, we have not ceased praying for you and asking that you may be filled with the knowledge of God’s will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, so that you may lead lives worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to him, as you bear fruit in every good work and as you grow in the knowledge of God." Colossians 1: 9–10
As this passage notes, we are to grow in God’s will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding. Our knowledge about God’s will in our life, and about God’s kingdom will change and evolve over time. Being a lifelong disciple of Jesus Christ carries with it the responsibility to always be looking for ways to grow in our faith and in the knowledge about God and God’s word. I entered Trinity Lutheran Seminary because I thought that was what God wanted me to do. I didn’t know why I was going, only that I was meant to go. One thing for sure I realized that I wasn’t called to be an ordained pastor. I had always thought that I knew the Bible fairly well, and was firm in many of my faith beliefs. However, the first quarter at Trinity was one of the most challenging and demanding times of my life. The remaining quarters had their stresses as well, but that first quarter was off the charts. A number of things that I believed to be true about the Bible were radically changed or altered during that period. Some of the classes and the discussions from them caused me to sincerely reflect on some of my long—held faith beliefs. It took a tremendous amount of emotional and physical energy to get through those courses. I made it, but what an effort. I continued my class work and in two years received a Master of Theological Studies Degree from Trinity. Even with this degree, I still read, reflect, and learn, and continue to be challenged regarding my knowledge and beliefs. Please be open on your spiritual pilgrimage to receiving new wisdom and understanding about God’s will in your life. Also, endeavor to grow in the knowledge about God’s word. On this spiritual walk you maybe asked to change your beliefs or alter what you once thought to be truth! Lord of wisdom and understanding, help me to be open to the Holy Spirit moving me along on this spiritual journey and in the process changing me! Amen. Vernon T. Copyright © 2017 Vernon T. Jones, All Rights Reserved On Saturday, Oct. 14, I will be leading a day retreat for the Montcalm New Beginnings Cluster. The Cluster is made up of several Lutheran Churches located Northeast of Grand Rapids, MI. The retreat will be held at Settlement Lutheran Church in Gowen, MI. The theme of the retreat is “Discipleship-A Lifelong Spiritual Journey.”
I am looking to forward this event and I pray that the Holy Spirit directs and guides all that goes on at it. Please add this retreat to your prayer list, and keep all of us attending in your prayers on that Saturday. Many Thanks, Vernon T.  “Your righteousness is like the mighty mountains, your judgments are like the great deep; you save humans and animals alike, O Lord.” Psalm 36: 6
This verse immediately makes me think of St. Francis of Assisi. Each year on October 4 many liturgical churches celebrate the Feast of St. Francis. The Feast recognizes the life of St. Francis who is the Catholic Church’s patron saint of animals and the environment. It has become a good day to have a blessing of the animals service. My wife, Rev. Shirley Ross—Jones, began having a blessing of the animals service at the congregation she served in Louisville, Kentucky. She continues that practice at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Alpena, Michigan. She will have one this year on Saturday, October 7 at 10:30 A.M. in the church parking area. The service is generally held around October 4 to honor St. Francis and to bless the animals that are brought to the event. She also prays for the caretakers of the animals. It is a wonderful service for those who love their pets as well as reminding them that God loves their animals just as the Lord loves humans. If you are in the area and have a pet, please come by! This verse reminds us that God loves and cares for all of creation, humans, and animals alike. St. Francis is also remembered for his work and ministry with the poor and the lepers, besides his love for all of creation. May your spiritual pilgrimage open your heart and may it be filled with love for humans, animals, and the environment that God loves with an everlasting love! Lord of the cosmos, may your Holy Spirit help me to see your presence in all of creation and inspire me to be a good steward of the gifts that are all around me! Amen. Copyright © 2017 Vernon T. Jones, All Rights Reserved |
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