2025-04-20T12:46:50-04:00

The Risen Jesus Calls You by Name and Feasts on the Bread of Life

April 20, 2025/Barbara (Doll) Creelman/Leave a comment

There’s a beautiful, intimate moment in the Gospel of John (20:11-18). As we celebrate the resurrection of Jesus, this moment invites us to think about the personal call of Jesus. It highlights the nourishment He offers us through His resurrection. This passage tells the story of Mary Magdalene’s meeting with the risen Christ. Through this powerful meeting, we see themes of grief, recognition, transformation, and spiritual nourishment. Let’s take a closer look at how this meeting can speak to our hearts today.

1. Grief and the Empty Tomb (John 20:11-13)

Mary Magdalene stands outside the empty tomb, weeping. She has just lost Jesus, and all she can think about is her grief. Her sorrow is so deep that she doesn’t instantly recognize that Jesus is standing right before her. She is blinded by her pain and incapable of seeing the hope that is right in front of her.

We can all relate to Mary’s sorrow. We’ve all experienced loss. It is the death of a loved one. It is the end of a season in life. Or it be the loss of hope. Grief can sometimes feel overwhelming, and it can be hard to see past our pain. Yet, the empty tomb reminds us that even in our darkest moments, God is at work. The resurrection is a powerful reminder that hope can emerge from despair.

2. Jesus Calls Mary by Name (John 20:14-16)

In the midst of her sorrow, Jesus calls Mary by name: “Mary.” The moment she hears her name spoken by Jesus, her grief turns to joy. She recognizes the risen Lord. Jesus’ call is personal. It’s not just a call to the masses; it’s a call to Mary—and it’s a call to each of us.

In our own lives, there are times when we feel lost, lonely, or distant from God. But just like Mary, Jesus calls us by name. He knows us intimately. In those moments when we’re struggling, He is right there, calling us into His presence. He invites us to leave our sorrow behind and find new life in Him.

3. The Bread of Life—Jesus Offers True Nourishment (John 20:17-18)

After Mary recognizes Jesus, her grief is transformed into joy, and she becomes the first messenger of the resurrection. Her meeting with the risen Christ completely changes her. Jesus, in this moment, offers her more than just a comforting word; He offers her the Bread of Life—Himself.

In John 6:35, Jesus says, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty.” Jesus is the true nourishment for our souls. He doesn’t just feed us physically; He satisfies our deepest spiritual hunger. In Him, we find what our hearts have always longed for—peace, hope, love, and life eternal.

Mary’s meeting with Jesus reminds us of something important. When we come to Jesus, we are invited to feast on the Bread of Life. As we do, our grief is turned into joy, and our lives are transformed. Just as we eat to nourish our bodies, we must also come to Jesus to nourish our souls.

4. The Transformation of Mary (John 20:17-18)

Once Mary encounters the risen Christ, she is no longer the same person. Her sorrow has turned into a message of hope. Jesus tells her to go and share the good news with His disciples. She becomes the first to proclaim the resurrection.

Mary’s transformation shows us that when we meet the risen Jesus, we are not meant to keep it to ourselves. We are called to share the hope we have in Christ with others. We are invited to take the nourishment we’ve received from Him and offer it to a hungry world.

Conclusion

The resurrection of Jesus is not just a historical event—it is a living reality that continues to transform us today. Jesus calls each of us by name and invites us to feast on the Bread of Life. This meeting with Jesus brings us from sorrow to joy, from grief to hope. It transforms us, and like Mary, it sends us out to share the good news with others.

So, take a moment today to think about how Jesus is calling you by name. Are you ready to come to Him for nourishment? Are you ready to share the hope of the resurrection with those around you?

Closing Prayer:

Lord, thank You for calling us by name and offering Yourself as the Bread of Life. Help us to recognize Your presence in our lives, especially in our moments of sorrow. We feast on the nourishment You offer and be transformed by Your love. Empower us to share the good news of Your resurrection with others. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Climbing Trees & Changing Lives: A Letter from Zacchaeus

April 6, 2025April 6, 2025/Barbara (Doll) Creelman/Leave a comment

A short work of fiction –

“I got a letter in the mail today—from my son, Zacchaeus. Yes, that Zacchaeus. He wrote:

“I heard Jesus was coming through Jericho. As chief tax collector, I knew people hated me—maybe for good reason. I’d built a life on their losses. But something stirred. I ran ahead and climbed a sycamore tree like a child, just to see Him.”

Then Jesus stopped. Right under that tree.

“Zacchaeus, come down. I must stay at your house today.”

He knew my name. He didn’t rebuke me. He invited Himself in.

“It changed everything, Mom. I gave half of what I owned to the poor. I paid back four times what I stole. Jesus came to find the lost—and He found me.”

And then, his letter turned tender:

“Mom, maybe He’s calling your name too.””

Let’s take a few moments to reflect on this story.

Zacchaeus reminds us what Lent is really about: repentance, change, and grace. He felt unworthy, but Jesus called him by name. The crowds grumbled, but it didn’t matter—Jesus saw him.

We’ve all been Zacchaeus at some point—feeling small, hidden, maybe ashamed. But Jesus sees. Jesus calls. Jesus loves—more than He hates sin.

So as we near the end of Lent, maybe we ask ourselves:

What trees are we willing to climb to see Jesus?
Who needs our apology, our kindness, our open heart?
What can we give—not just in money, but in prayer, time, and love?

May we be generous. May we be kind. And may we remember: we are called by name.

Because the community—the bread we offer each other—isn’t just within the church walls. It’s out there, waiting to be fed.

Who are you feeding today?

Please share your thoughts. Has this story spoken to your heart or life today?

00:00 Opening Worship and Call to Worship

05:45 Sharing Good News and Community Updates

12:37 Interactive Scripture Reading with Children

21:37 A Life Transformed by Jesus

24:05 Reflections on Sin and Redemption

29:01 Living a Life of Repentance and Community

*picture found on Pinterest

The Blessing of Humility and Hospitality | Luke 14:7-14

March 30, 2025October 6, 2025/Barbara (Doll) Creelman/Leave a comment

Some of my sermon and bible study notes:

1. Humility: Taking the Lowest Place (Luke 14:7-11)

Jesus tells a parable about a banquet where people seek the best seats.
He teaches us to take the lowest place, letting the host elevate us if needed.
Life lesson: Aging brings natural humility—our roles change, and we may feel overlooked.
Key verse: “For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.” (Luke 14:11)
Reflection:
- Have you experienced a time when humility brought a blessing?
- How has growing older taught you humility?

2. Hospitality: Inviting Those Who Cannot Repay (Luke 14:12-14)

Jesus challenges us to welcome those who cannot repay us—true hospitality is selfless.
We often show hospitality expecting something in return, but Jesus calls us to a different way.
Life lesson: Even if we can’t do what we once did, small acts—calls, visits, kind words—reflect Christ’s love.
Key verse: “Although they cannot repay you, you will be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous.” (Luke 14:14)
Reflection:
- Have you ever been blessed by someone’s kindness when you had nothing to give back?
- How can we show hospitality to the lonely or those in need?

3. Living with Kingdom Values

We don’t need recognition—God honors the humble.
We don’t need repayment—God blesses generosity.
Reflection:
- Where can I choose humility in my life?
- Who can I bless with kindness without expecting anything in return?
Encouragement: God sees, remembers, and will reward every act of humility and love.

Closing Prayer:
Ask God to help us walk in humility and extend kindness without expecting anything in return, trusting in His eternal promises.

📖 Key Takeaways:
✅ Humility brings unexpected blessings (Luke 14:11).
✅ True hospitality expects nothing in return (Luke 14:14).
✅ God sees, remembers, and will reward every act of love.

Reflection Questions:
🔹 Where can I choose humility in my life?
🔹 Who can I bless with kindness without expecting anything in return?

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🙏 Let’s grow in faith together. Share your thoughts in the comments!

#BibleStudy #ChristianFaith #Luke14 #Humility #Hospitality #Sermon #FaithInAction

Walking Through the Final Days of Lent: A Journey Through Ephesians

March 26, 2025March 26, 2025/Barbara (Doll) Creelman/Leave a comment

As we approach the final days of Lent, we reflect on the transformative message of Ephesians. This powerful letter reminds us of our calling to walk in the light, redeem our time, and stand firm in faith. Let’s journey together through these last days, drawing strength from God’s Word.

Walking in the Light (Day 23)
“For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light.” – Ephesians 5:8

Lent is a season of transformation. We were once in darkness, but Christ has made us light. Today, take time to reflect: How is God calling you to shine His light in your daily life?

Prayer: Lord, help me walk in Your light. Let my actions reflect Your truth and goodness. Amen.

Redeeming the Time (Day 24)
“Making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.” – Ephesians 5:16

Time is a precious gift. Lent reminds us to refocus, using our time wisely for God’s glory. Consider how you are spending your days—are distractions pulling you away from His purpose?

Prayer: Father, teach me to use my time for Your kingdom. May my choices reflect Your wisdom. Amen.

Submitting to One Another (Day 25)
“Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.” – Ephesians 5:21

True submission is about humility and love. How can you serve others with a heart that mirrors Christ’s love? This Lenten season, seek ways to live out His command to love one another.

Prayer: Jesus, give me a heart of humility. Help me to serve and love others as You have loved me. Amen.

Strength in the Lord (Day 26)
“Finally, be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power.” – Ephesians 6:10

Lent can be a time of spiritual challenge, but our strength comes from God. In times of struggle, we must lean on Him. Where do you need His strength today?

Prayer: Lord, I trust in Your strength, not my own. Equip me for the journey ahead. Amen.

The Armor of God (Day 27)
“Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.” – Ephesians 6:11

Paul calls us to wear the armor of God: truth, righteousness, peace, faith, salvation, and the Word. Each piece equips us to stand firm in our faith. Are you clothed in His armor daily?

Prayer: Father, clothe me in Your armor. May I stand firm in faith and truth. Amen.

Praying in the Spirit (Day 28)
“And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests.” – Ephesians 6:18

Prayer is our direct line to God. As we prepare for Holy Week, let us deepen our connection with Him. How can you cultivate a habit of prayer in your daily life?

Prayer: Lord, teach me to pray continually. May my heart always be turned toward You. Amen.

Boldness in Christ (Day 29)
“Pray also for me, that whenever I speak, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel.” – Ephesians 6:19-20

Paul asked for boldness in sharing the gospel. This Holy Week, let’s pray for courage to live and speak our faith. Where is God calling you to step out in boldness?

Prayer: Lord, give me courage to share Your love with others. May I be a witness to Your grace. Amen.

Grace Be With You (Day 30)
“Grace to all who love our Lord Jesus Christ with an undying love.” – Ephesians 6:24

As Lent comes to a close, we rest in God’s grace. His love sustains us beyond this season. May our journey not end here, but continue with renewed faith and devotion.

Prayer: Thank You, Lord, for Your grace. May I walk in Your love always. Amen.

As we conclude our Lenten journey, let’s carry these lessons into our daily lives. May we continue walking in light, redeeming our time, submitting in love, standing strong, and boldly proclaiming Christ’s message. May His grace sustain us in every season. Amen.

Daily Bread: A Reflection

March 23, 2025/Barbara (Doll) Creelman/Leave a comment

The Lord’s Prayer in Many Forms

Have you ever prayed the Lord’s Prayer in another language?
I recall singing it in French, German, Dutch, Latin, and even French Sign Language.
It’s a prayer that unites us across cultures and time.

The Meaning of Daily Bread

Jesus taught us to pray for “daily bread”—our needs, not our wants.
The Israelites in the wilderness received manna each day, just enough for that day.
Trusting God means relying on God daily, not storing up out of fear.

More Than Physical Bread

Jesus is the “Bread of Life,” offering spiritual nourishment.
We need Scripture and faith as much as we need food.
Gratitude should be a part of our daily prayers.

Generosity & Trust

We often hold onto too much—possessions, worries, control.
How much do we truly need? Can we share more with others?
Sometimes, we are the answer to someone’s prayer through kindness and generosity.

Living Out Our Faith

Faith isn’t just about Sunday prayers; it’s about daily trust and action.
We should be mindful of how we engage with others.
A simple smile or greeting could be the encouragement someone needs.

Give Us This Day

The prayer doesn’t say “give us bread for the month”—it’s a daily act of trust.
We give thanks for what we have and trust in God’s continued provision.
How will you share God’s love today?

Amen.

Lenten Devotions for Days 15-22

March 19, 2025/Barbara (Doll) Creelman/Leave a comment

Introduction: Finding Strength in the Psalms

As we journey through Lent, we are invited to draw closer to God through reflection, repentance, and renewal. The Psalms serve as a rich source of encouragement, reminding us of God’s presence in every season of life—whether we are seeking His protection, thirsting for His presence, or crying out for His mercy.

In this week’s readings (Days 15–22), we will walk through psalms that highlight themes of trust, forgiveness, longing, and divine shelter. These passages offer a place of refuge in times of struggle and a song of praise in moments of renewal. Each day provides an opportunity to meditate on God’s faithfulness and to respond with prayer, inviting Him to work in our hearts during this sacred season.

As you engage with these psalms, consider how they resonate with your Lenten journey. What fears or burdens do you need to surrender? How is God calling you to deeper trust? May these readings strengthen your faith and remind you that He is your light, your portion, and your ever-present help.

Let me know if these readings bless you in any way.

Blessings,

Pastor Barb

Day 15: Psalm 27 – Confidence in God’s Protection

📖 Reading: Psalm 27:1-5
🙏 Reflection: The Lord is our light and salvation; whom shall we fear? This psalm reminds us that God is our refuge and strength.
🧶 Prayer Prompt: Reflect on a time when God has been your stronghold. Ask for renewed trust in His protection.

Day 16: Psalm 32 – The Joy of Forgiveness

📖 Reading: Psalm 32:1-7
🙏 Reflection: This psalm celebrates the blessing of being forgiven. Confession brings freedom, and God’s mercy covers all sin.
🧶 Prayer Prompt: Spend time in confession and thanksgiving for God’s unfailing forgiveness.

Day 17: Psalm 42 – Thirsting for God

📖 Reading: Psalm 42:1-5
🙏 Reflection: “As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for You.” In times of dryness, God remains our living water.
🧶 Prayer Prompt: Ask God to deepen your hunger for Him and to satisfy your spiritual thirst.

Day 18: Psalm 51 – A Clean Heart

📖 Reading: Psalm 51:10-17
🙏 Reflection: David’s cry for mercy is a model for repentance. God delights in a broken and contrite heart.
🧶 Prayer Prompt: Pray for a renewed heart and spirit, asking God to restore your joy.

Day 19: Psalm 63 – Seeking God First

📖 Reading: Psalm 63:1-8
🙏 Reflection: David longs for God in a dry and weary land. True satisfaction comes only from seeking Him.
🧶 Prayer Prompt: Dedicate your day to seeking God first in all you do.

Day 20: Psalm 73 – God is My Portion

📖 Reading: Psalm 73:21-26
🙏 Reflection: When our hearts fail, God remains our strength and portion forever.
🧶 Prayer Prompt: Meditate on what it means for God to be your portion and your inheritance.

Day 21: Psalm 91 – Resting in God’s Shadow

📖 Reading: Psalm 91:1-4
🙏 Reflection: Those who dwell in God’s presence will find rest and protection under His wings.
🧶 Prayer Prompt: Pray for peace and security in the shelter of the Almighty.

Day 22: Psalm 121 – My Help Comes from the Lord

📖 Reading: Psalm 121:1-8
🙏 Reflection: The Lord watches over you and will not let your foot slip. He is your keeper.
🧶 Prayer Prompt: Lift up your concerns and trust God to be your help and keeper.

Embracing the Little Things: A Journey with Faith

March 16, 2025March 16, 2025/Barbara (Doll) Creelman/Leave a comment

As I sat down to prepare my sermon, I found myself drawn to the concept of small beginnings—tiny sparks of faith that grow into something significant. This theme, often expressed through the parables spoken by Jesus, beckons us to look closer. Parables, after all, provide stories with hidden meanings, and if we’re not attentive, those messages might pass us by. The disciples notably missed the point on occasion, requiring Jesus to retell the stories, much like the one we heard today.

One parable speaks of yeast, small and seemingly insignificant, hidden within a large quantity of flour. Yet, it causes the entire batch to rise. The hidden yeast is much like the mysterious presence of Jesus Christ within us—a small, potent force that propels growth. Sometimes, we might question, is God really with us? Can He hear us? In those moments of doubt, we’re reminded that a tiny spark of the divine rests on our shoulders, urging us to keep these truths in our hearts.

Our spiritual journey is likened to a mustard seed or a grain of salt that infuses and transforms. Each of us conceives Jesus differently—perhaps as the Good Shepherd, the light of the world, or the bread of life. Regardless of perspective, the essence remains the same: He is the alpha, omega, and the Wonderful Counselor.

The disciples pondered the kingdom of God—curious if it mapped out like earthly borders. Parables, though, challenge such delineation. Imagine placing the Messiah in a box! The kingdom of God defies such constraints; it’s like a mustard seed or hidden yeast. It is a part of all of us, growing endlessly.

We’re attending worship today, and during this Lenten season, fulfilling our spiritual obligations is important. But here’s the catch: the seed of Christ in us can’t remain dormant. Just as we evolve through life’s stages, the divine spark within us must grow. Our growth is not only physical but spiritual, too. Worship, scripture readings, and hymns nourish this growth. They compel us to dust off our Bibles or explore new versions, nurturing the faith seeded in our hearts.

I recall a beloved story: a child grows into a man, much like our faith evolving from simple beginnings. This growth, often slow like sourdough bread rising, requires patience. Similarly, in our spiritual lives, patience, care, and love are necessary for fostering that divine spark. Like bread, as we rise in faith, we must be patient with ourselves, allowing room for grace and growth.

Jesus’ teachings about the kingdom of God being life-giving remind us of the simple blessings—like a stranger’s smile or a helping hand. These small gestures build us up, compelling us to continue their spread.

Do we recognize that divine leaven within us? Jesus Christ resides in our hearts daily, but do we feed that leaven and witness God’s love expanding within us? We often see growth in others, yet it is difficult to find it in ourselves due to self-critique. Still, self-examination can pave the way for improvement, encouraging us to embrace our spiritual journey.

An amusing anecdote highlights my blunders and the ongoing cycle of giving. Let’s just say, amidst donations, my bathing suit inadvertently got shifted to charity. Moments like these spark laughter and serve as gentle reminders of life’s lighthearted aspects even as we endeavor to bless others with our offerings.

In conclusion, though seemingly small in life’s grand design, each of us carries God’s kingdom within. Whether as a seed or yeast, it grows only when nurtured with love and grace. Our divine spark, when nourished, transforms us into who God intends us to be. Amen.

Join me as we sing “In the Bulb There is a Flower” and reflect upon these small, transformative blessings. Let us pray and offer gratitude for the bounty of life and lend support through music and prayer, trusting in God’s grace to guide us.

As we prepare for the world outside, let us allow our faith and hope to rise, much like the yeast in bread. May we carry this message out, in the name of God, our Creator, Jesus, our Brother, and the Holy Spirit who lifts us. Let’s hold onto these truths, examining how God’s kingdom prompts inner transformation, nourishing us to be channels of love and grace in the world.

I hope this sermon and reflection inspire your spiritual growth and journey during this Lenten season and beyond.

The Lenten Blanket: Embracing Imperfection and Seeking the Sacred

March 5, 2025March 5, 2025/Barbara (Doll) Creelman/Leave a comment

My Lenten Blanket as a Spiritual Practice

I started my Lenten project, a log cabin-style blanket, but quickly realized I didn’t like the pattern I had chosen. So, I changed it to something that felt more natural.
This blanket is made from my handspun, all Canadian wool—Shetland from Nova Scotia and a Bluefaced Leicester/Merino blend from Ontario.
Just like the season of Lent, this project is about creating a daily rhythm of prayer, meditation, and reflection as I knit.

Embracing Imperfection and Growth

As I knit, I notice how some stitches are uneven and messy, just like life. But both the perfect and the imperfect pieces come together to create something whole.
I considered ripping it out and starting over, but I decided to embrace the imperfections, knowing that growth happens in the process.
This reminds me of the Lenten journey—accepting where I am while also striving for transformation.

Feeding My Soul and Finding Gratitude

At Bible study this morning, we talked about the “bread of life” and how we nourish our souls—not just with food, but through prayer, community, and the things we take in daily.
I ask myself: How am I feeding my soul today? What am I doing to strengthen my relationship with the Divine?
Gratitude is a powerful practice. When I take a moment to notice the blessings around me, everything shifts.

As I continue knitting this blanket, stitch by stitch, I’m reminded that Lent is not about perfection—it’s about the journey. Each day, I’ll show up, knit a little, pray a little, and reflect on the ways I can grow. Some days will be smooth, and others will feel messy, but all of it is part of something bigger.

So, I invite you to join me in this rhythm. Take a moment to reflect, to pray, to create, and most of all, to notice the blessings around you. We are all works in progress, but together, we are being shaped into something whole. God bless. I look forward to sharing this journey with you.

You can find the 10 row blanket here: https://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/ten-stitch-blanket

The Light That Transforms: Reflections on Transfiguration

March 2, 2025/Barbara (Doll) Creelman/Leave a comment

Imagine walking with a friend—perhaps on a quiet path, sharing thoughts, when suddenly, they are transfigured before your very eyes. Their face shines like the sun, their garments glow with a brilliance beyond this world. How would you react? Would you be afraid? Amazed? Overwhelmed?

This is the scene that unfolds in the Transfiguration of Jesus—a moment when his divine nature is revealed to Peter, James, and John. In an instant, Jesus is radiant, and beside him stand Moses and Elijah, two towering figures of faith. The disciples, startled and unsure, react as we might: Peter impulsively suggests building tents to capture the moment, to give it form and structure. Yet, the voice of God intervenes: “This is my Son, my Chosen; listen to him!”

There are times in life when we, too, witness something extraordinary—moments that catch us off guard and fill us with wonder. The glow of a sunset over still waters, the breathtaking grandeur of an ancient cathedral, the profound peace in the laughter of a loved one. These moments remind us that the divine is not distant, but near.

But transfiguration isn’t only about grand, celestial encounters. It happens in the everyday. It happens when a new mother looks into the eyes of her child, when a person lost in despair finds hope, when someone chooses love over fear. Transformation is not just about the visible; it is about how we are changed from within.

Even the simplest things—our hands, our work, our presence—hold traces of the divine. Our hands, once seen as ordinary, become instruments of kindness, of healing, of prayer. Our daily lives, when seen through the lens of faith, become part of something greater.

So, the question remains: do we recognize the light of Christ in ourselves and in those around us? Do we, like Peter, rush to capture it, or do we allow it to change us? Do we listen when God says, “Pay attention. Listen to me.”

The challenge before us is not just to witness transfiguration, but to live it. To shine the love of God in a world that desperately needs light. To see the miracle of the ordinary, to listen deeply, and to respond with faith.

May we walk forward in that light, transformed by the One who calls us by name.