A church on a mission to love Jesus and love our neighbors like Jesus. https://aumcfamily.org Mon, 01 Jun 2026 08:00:01 +0000 Mon, 01 Jun 2026 08:00:01 +0000 hourly 1 3600 SnapPages.com https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/07/15/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-july-15 Wed, 15 Jul 2026 07:33:12 +0000 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/07/15/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-july-15

Good Morning, We have reached the middle of July, time is flying by.  We went to the movies last night and saw Young Washington.  It is a great movie!  I ran 3 1/4 this morning at my best pace since surgery.  It is slow but I am getting there.  I have an extraction this morning, we shall see how that goes.  I encourage you to listen today for the still small voice of God as you get out and enjoy this beautiful  day! Blessings, Doug

Today's Scripture

James 1:21 (New International Version)   Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you.

Today's Thought

What is moral filth?  I think we should consider what James means by this.  Moral filth is more than lust and pornography.  Moral filth is hate and prejudice.  Moral filth is choosing not to follow Christ, but appealing to the pleasures of the culture.  James wants us to accept and live out what Jesus did and what Jesus taught.  This is the way we change our life and the world around us.  Just a thought for today!

]]> https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/07/15/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-july-15#comments 0 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/07/14/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-july-14 Tue, 14 Jul 2026 07:54:06 +0000 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/07/14/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-july-14

Good Morning, A lovely morning on the Parkway.  The days will get warmer as the week progresses so enjoy.  The kids last full day of camp is today, they will be arriving home tomorrow exhausted.  Today is MDO and I believe Ideker Construction will be bringing equipment to show the kids.  We are getting excited about MidWeek@Ashland and will bring running a Pilot Program this fall, watch for details.   Get out and enjoy this beautiful  day! Blessings, Doug

Today's Scripture

John 15:10 (New International Version)   If you keep my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commands and remain in his love.

Today's Thought

When my kids were little we had volunteer pumpkins grow along our driveway.  The plants put out runners and they wanted to come out onto the drive itself.  We would be careful to pull them back to the soil so they could find another root.  Eventually one escaped and was fun over by the car.  The vine lost connection with the real roots and died.  I use this as an example of what happens if we don't remain connected to God.  Keeping God commands keeps us connected to God. We remain in his love and maintain a connection with Him.  Just a thought for today!

]]> https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/07/14/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-july-14#comments 0 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/07/13/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-july-13 Mon, 13 Jul 2026 07:55:18 +0000 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/07/13/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-july-13

Good Morning, What a weekend!  I hope yours was enjoyable.  Saturday we had a great celebration of Don Mahaffy's life!  Carol and I made it to see Hunchback that evening for a stellar performance.  Sunday was worship and then Mark and family joined us for the afternoon.  Emma was such fun! We have a new week in front of us with great possibilities.  Get out and enjoy this beautiful  day! Blessings, Doug

Today's Scripture

Philippians 2:9-11 (New International Version)   Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

Today's Thought

Jesus.  The name alone should make us stop and give thanks.  Jesus gave us the chance to have our life changed.  We have an opportunity for a new beginning.  Jesus grants us a do-over every day.  I hope we appreciate God's gift.  Just a thought for today!

]]> https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/07/13/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-july-13#comments 0 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/07/10/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-july-10 Fri, 10 Jul 2026 10:07:30 +0000 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/07/10/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-july-10

Good Morning, I am late at writing this morning.  I ran 5 miles and then had a meeting downtown, so I am just writing this at 10:00 am.  Friday welcomes the weekend.  Carol is mowing and I hopefully can trim up after lunch.  Tomorrow is Don Mahaffy's funeral so it will be a busy day.  Sunday Mark and family will be up, looking forward to time with them. Don't forget our kids leave for camp in the morning, keep them in our prayers.  Enjoy this beautiful  day! Blessings, Doug

Today's Scripture

Philippians 1:6 (New International Version)   being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.

Today's Thought

When we are sealed God begins a work, a good work that never ends.  The seal comes from accepting the Holy Spirit and following the leadership of Christ.  The good work is the action of Christ in our life.  The more we reflect Christ the more we reflect the work of God in our lives.  Just a thought for today!

]]> https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/07/10/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-july-10#comments 0 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/07/09/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-july-9 Thu, 09 Jul 2026 08:03:09 +0000 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/07/09/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-july-9

Good Morning, A rainy morning in St Joseph.  I woke at 5, heard the rain, cleared my alarm and went back to sleep.  I love to sleep with the sound of rain.  The Youth had a wonderful night at the Trampoline Park and they leave Saturday morning for camp.  Saturday at Ashland will be very busy.  We have a funeral, a BD Party, and the kids leave for camp.  A blessing in all instances, but it keeps us hopping.  It should be a little cooler today, so take advantage and get out and about after the rain.  Enjoy the day! Blessings, Doug

Today's Scripture

Ephesians 3:20-21 (New International Version)   Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.

Today's Thought

Paul appreciates God being at work through Jesus Christ in his life and notes that this happens through all generations.  God wants to work in everyone's life. He is clear that this work happens by the power of His Spirit that is within us.  We are talking about being Marked in this sermon series at Ashland and being Marked means we welcome God into our life.  If we want the power of Jesus Christ we must welcome it.  Just a thought for today!

]]> https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/07/09/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-july-9#comments 0 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/07/08/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-july-8 Wed, 08 Jul 2026 08:07:38 +0000 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/07/08/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-july-8

Good Morning, I hit the Parkway alone this morning, Carol is resting the knee.  I got a 5K in as I continue to prepare for the St. Joseph Marathon.  ( My plan is the 1/2). My mom seems to be improving and appreciates all the prayers.  Tuesday was Water Day at MDO, the St. Joseph Fire Department brought a truck and supplied the water spray. The kids had a wonderful time.  Don Mahaffy's funeral will be at Ashland Saturday at 1:00 pm.  We are making preparations for a celebration of his life.  It is to be another really hot day so be careful and stay hydrated.  Enjoy the day! Blessings, Doug

Today's Scripture

Psalm 138:2 (New International Version)   I will bow down toward your holy temple and will praise your name for your unfailing love and your faithfulness, for you have so exalted your solemn decree that it surpasses your fame.

Today's Thought

A great way to experience God's blessing is to recognize the blessings in your life.  David is mindful to remember and give thanks to God for the blessings in his life.  He knows that God is always there and the unfailing love of God is with him.  I hope you take a moment today and remember your blessings and feel the presence of God in your life.  Just a thought for today!

]]> https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/07/08/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-july-8#comments 0 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/07/07/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-july-7 Tue, 07 Jul 2026 07:59:44 +0000 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/07/07/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-july-7

Good Morning, It is a lovely morning.  The Parkway was a nice way to start the day.  Thank you for the prayers for my mother.  We visited yesterday and she is better.  It appears dehydration has contributed to weakness and balance issues.  A few days in the hospital and then a stint is rehabilitation hopefully does the trick.  We lost a great one yesterday.  Don Mahaffy went home to be with the Lord Monday.  I will share details as they are available.  Tom and the crew are getting prepped to leave for camp Saturday morning.  What an opportunity for our young  folks to deepen their connection with God. It will be hot again today so get out early and take in some summer.  Enjoy this beautiful day! Blessings, Doug

Today's Scripture

Psalm 18:30 (New International Version)   As for God, his way is perfect: The Lord’s word is flawless; he shields all who take refuge in him.

Today's Thought

Monday we heard from Matthew of how valuable God's word is to our life.  Today we hear from David that the word of God is perfect.  We are made perfect through Jesus who is the living word.  The living word is perfect and we are to follow in the perfection of God's word.  Just a thought for today!

]]> https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/07/07/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-july-7#comments 0 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/07/06/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-july-6 Mon, 06 Jul 2026 07:51:14 +0000 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/07/06/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-july-6

Good Morning, I hope you had a great weekend and a wonderful 4th of July celebration.  Carol and I stayed close to home and caught up from the trip to Hawaii.  We had plenty of things to do around the house and yard.  We did make a quick trip out for dinner and got back to our pizza routine on Sunday.  I got a call from my sister last night that mom was admitted to the hospital last night.  They don't know what the problem is, but overall weakness and some disorientation.  Looks like a trip to KC this afternoon to see what's going on.  I would appreciate your prayers.  Ashland is in recovery mode from VBS and Tom is prepping for camp with the Youth Group.  Enjoy this beautiful day! Blessings, Doug

Today's Scripture

Matthew 24:35 (New International Version)   Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away.

Today's Thought

Some things change and some things stay the same.  All things will pass away, but the word of the Lord will never pass away.  I hope we can cling to and live out those everlasting words.   Just a thought for today!

]]> https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/07/06/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-july-6#comments 1 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/07/02/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-july-2 Thu, 02 Jul 2026 08:02:15 +0000 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/07/02/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-july-2

Good Morning, Thank you for all the Birthday greetings yesterday.  The kids sang Happy Birthday at the closing of VBS.  The staff brought donuts and wished my Happy Birthday.  It was a very nice way to celebrate.  Carol and I are going out tonight to celebrate both my Birthday and our Anniversary.  VBS is in the books and it was a great year thanks to such wonderful support and volunteer excitement.  It was an outstanding time!  Tonight we say our goodbyes to Jenny Raines in the Fellowship Hall from 5:00 to 7:00.  She will be missed.  We said goodbye to Leonard Williams yesterday. Death in Christ is indeed Life! Blessings, Doug PS.   Dora Howard will celebrate her 97th birthday on July 4!  It would be great to have everyone shower her with cards. Dora Howard 3021 Hampton Road St. Joseph, MO             64505-1826

Today's Scripture

Jeremiah 17:9-10 (New International Version)   The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it? “I the Lord search the heart and examine the mind, to reward each person according to their conduct, according to what their deeds deserve.”

Today's Thought

It is said the heart wants what the heart wants.  Jeremiah reminds us that what the heart wants isn't always a good thing.  The heart he tells us in deceitful.  May our heart want what God wants.  Just a thought for today!

]]> https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/07/02/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-july-2#comments 0 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/07/01/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-july-1 Wed, 01 Jul 2026 08:01:02 +0000 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/07/01/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-july-1

Good Morning, It looks to be another hot day in St. Joseph.  I hit the Parkway for another sweaty 3 miles.  Carol is resting the knee and she went to the garden.  She has done a fantastic job with the garden, it looks great.  Tonight is the final night of VBS for 2026.  Bring friends and family for a great night of kids!  Hope you have a great day and stay safe in this heat. Blessings, Doug Please keep the Leonard Williams family in your prayers.          www.heatonbowmansmith.com/obituary/rev-leonard-williams PS.   Dora Howard will celebrate her 97th birthday on July 4!  It would be great to have everyone shower her with cards. Dora Howard 3021 Hampton Road St. Joseph, MO             64505-1826

Today's Scripture

Romans 12:3 (New International Version)   For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the faith God has distributed to each of you.

Today's Thought

This verse needs repeated by each of us everyday.  We live in a society that promotes self promotion.  We learn to brag at an early age and we see it promoted in social media.  We have leaders that want to self-promote rather than lead by example.  It is time for us to give sober judgment to ourselves and give God the glory.  Just a thought for today!

]]> https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/07/01/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-july-1#comments 0 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/06/30/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-june-30 Tue, 30 Jun 2026 08:05:57 +0000 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/06/30/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-june-30

Good Morning, The heat continues.  Carol tweaked her knee and decided to rest it this morning.  I got 3 miles in running and it was really hot.  I am glad for some breeze.  We had a wonderful night at VBS.  Great kids and great volunteers make for a great experience.  Today is the last day of June which marks the halfway point of 2026.  We have had some awesome things happen thus far but the best part of 2026 is yet to come.  No VBS tonight and then back tomorrow to wrap it up.  Be careful out there today, hydrate and be heat aware.  Have a great day! Blessings, Doug PS.   Dora Howard will celebrate her 97th birthday on July 4!  It would be great to have everyone shower her with cards. Dora Howard 3021 Hampton Road St. Joseph, MO             64505-1826

Today's Scripture

Zechariah 14:9 (New International Version)   The Lord will be king over the whole earth. On that day there will be one Lord, and his name the only name.

Today's Thought

We serve one King and one master, Jesus Christ.  I want us to consider what it means to serve our king and master.  Jesus wants us to be attentive to Kingdom principles, not earthly principles.  Power in the Kingdom is expressed by love and grace.  How can you serve your King today?  Just a thought for today!

]]> https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/06/30/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-june-30#comments 0 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/06/29/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-june-29 Mon, 29 Jun 2026 07:56:57 +0000 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/06/29/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-june-29

Good Morning, What a week we had with the Valencia family in Kauai.  We renewed their wedding vows for their 50th anniversary.  I was a special trip.  Carol and I arrived Sunday morning at 3:00 am to KC, which meant yesterday was blurry.  We celebrated our wedding anniversary yesterday and we had the first night of VBS.  VBS was great!  What an outstanding effort by the team.  We continue tonight at 5:00 pm with dinner and activities at 5:45.  We end June and begin July this week so lots to do.  Have a great day and be careful in this heat! Blessings, Doug PS.   Dora Howard will celebrate her 97th birthday on July 4!  It would be great to have everyone shower her with cards. Dora Howard 3021 Hampton Road St. Joseph, MO             64505-1826

Today's Scripture

Psalm 138:8 (New International Version)   The Lord will vindicate me; your love, Lord, endures forever— do not abandon the works of your hands.

Today's Thought

David has such a powerful relationship with God.  Yes, David has his faults.  He is such and example of what it means to be human.  David sins as we all do, but David is quick to repent and seek God.  Sin has its consequences but God is faithful to the repentant heart.  David is sincere and shows us how restoration and new life is possible.  I hope we are attentive to his example. Just a thought for today!

]]> https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/06/29/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-june-29#comments 0 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/06/18/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-june-18 Thu, 18 Jun 2026 07:29:09 +0000 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/06/18/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-june-18

Good Morning, Carol and I got caught in a little rain this morning.  Not a big deal!  I have one more blood draw this morning, all part of my annual checkup. The office is closed tomorrow in recognition of Juneteenth!  I hope you find a way to honor the day.  Tom and the crew will be back before the weekend.  The pictures indicate a wonderful experience for them all.  I don't think the rain will last so get out and enjoy the day! Blessings, Doug PS.   Dora Howard will celebrate her 97th birthday on July 4!  It would be great to have everyone shower her with cards. Dora Howard 3021 Hampton Road St. Joseph, MO             64505-1826

Today's Scripture

Ephesians 6:4 (New International Version)   Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.

Today's Thought

Father's Day is Sunday.  This is a good verse for all fathers.  Do not exasperate your children.  Good advice, but I like the next part.  Bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.  We should strive to be parents that make a positive influence in the lives of our children.  Just a thought for today!

]]> https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/06/18/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-june-18#comments 0 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/06/17/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-june-17 Wed, 17 Jun 2026 08:08:45 +0000 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/06/17/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-june-17

Good Morning, Today the wind is blowing and it is warm.  We got our 3 plus run in this morning and then I was off to get a blood draw.  This is medical week for me.  I had an appointment at Mosaic yesterday, a blood draw today and another blood draw tomorrow.   Nothing out of the ordinary, kind of the annual inspection.  Carol is doing such wonderful job with the garden, it looks great.  It is beginning to look a lot like VBS at Ashland.  Invite your friends and neighbors.  Get out and enjoy the day! Blessings, Doug

Today's Scripture

Psalm 68:4-5 (New International Version) Sing to God, sing in praise of his name, extol him who rides on the clouds; rejoice before him—his name is the Lord. A father to the fatherless, a defender of widows, is God in his holy dwelling.

Today's Thought

Do you sing to God?  I must admit I do and it does wonders for my soul.  I try to sing where no one else will hear me because I make up my songs.  It is kind of like speaking prayer, but singing it.  When I praise God I hope God is blessed, because it really blesses me.  I recommend you give it a try.  Just a thought for today!

]]> https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/06/17/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-june-17#comments 0 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/06/16/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-june-16 Tue, 16 Jun 2026 07:05:28 +0000 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/06/16/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-june-16

Good Morning, It is rainy morning in St. Joseph.  I was up at 5:00 and the thunder rolled in and the rain came down.  No Parkway today, but I needed to get to the office anyway.  I have to be a Mosaic this morning for a checkup.  We got home late last night from the wedding.  Pete's girls danced the night away with Carol and me.  It was a fun night.  Tom and crew got away for Colorado Monday, keep them in your prayers.  I hope you have a great day and can get out and enjoy it at some point.   Blessings, Doug

Today's Scripture

Psalm 103:13 (New International Version)   As a father has compassion on his children, so the Lord has compassion on those who fear him;

Today's Thought

It is because of the Lord's compassion Jesus came to redeem us.  We were lost in our sin, unable to save ourselves. God's heart could not stand the separation and gave Himself that we might be restored.  This is God's gift to us.    Just a thought for today!

]]> https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/06/16/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-june-16#comments 0 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/06/15/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-june-15 Mon, 15 Jun 2026 07:55:19 +0000 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/06/15/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-june-15

Good Morning, It is another beautiful cool morning in St. Joseph.  We ran a little over 3 miles to start the week.  We were in KC for a wedding rehearsal Sunday afternoon and will be back there for a wedding this afternoon.  I am officiating for Pete's best friends wedding.  This is the 3rd wedding I have officiated for their family.  Tom and crew are off for Senior Summit this morning.  What could be getter than studying God's word in the mountains of Colorado.  Please pray for God to move in their lives.  I hope you get our and enjoy this magnificent day. Blessings, Doug

Today's Scripture

Proverbs 23:24 (New International Version)   The father of a righteous child has great joy; a man who fathers a wise son rejoices in him.

Today's Thought

The proverb is inspiring.  The parent of a righteous child does have great joy.  The part I want us to think about is how that child learns righteousness.  I am a part of a group that researches our young people and their preferences.  Did you know the greatest impact on a child is their nuclear family.   Righteous is learned at home.  Just a thought for today!

]]> https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/06/15/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-june-15#comments 0 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/06/12/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-june-12 Fri, 12 Jun 2026 08:33:49 +0000 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/06/12/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-june-12

Good Morning, A beautiful cool morning in. St. Joseph.  Today I was able to run 5 miles nonstop.  It wan't easy, but it happened.  The knee felt great!  A big weekend ahead.  Carol and I have several things around the house to accomplish.  We have a big Sunday planned and you will want to connect with Ashland this weekend.  Sunday evening I have a wedding rehearsal for a Monday wedding in Kansas City.  It is Pete's best friend and a couple I am so excited to unite in marriage.   I hope you have a great weekend and as always I hope to connect with Ashland.  Blessings, Doug

Today's Scripture

Psalm 19:1-2 (New International Version) The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands. Day after day they pour forth speech; night after night they reveal knowledge.

Today's Thought

I am reminded each day that we have a creator.  This amazing world we live in was created, it didn't just happen.  Creation is not random, it is planned and when we look deeply at the world we see the glory of God.  May we appreciate all that God has done.  Just a thought for today!

]]> https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/06/12/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-june-12#comments 0 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/06/11/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-june-11 Thu, 11 Jun 2026 08:03:57 +0000 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/06/11/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-june-11

Good Morning, This weather is crazy!  Hot, humid, rain and then tomorrow morning predicts temps in the 50's.  I am ok with that as tomorrow is a 5 miles run and cooler would be better.  Good news!  Craig Curnutt was transferred back to Mosaic on Wednesday.  Craig would love to see you if you have time.  MDO is today, it will be a packed house.  This weekend we have new members and baptism and of course great worship. Get out and get wet today.  I hope you have a great day! Blessings, Doug

Today's Scripture

Psalm 46:10 (New International Version)   He says, “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.”

Today's Thought

It can be difficult to hear God is the clutter and noise of the day.  We live in a fast pace and busy world.  It is important to be intentional about making time to listen.  During your prayer time stop talking and be still.  God isn't the voice screaming in your ear, but often the still small voice.  Listen and feel the touch of God.  Just a thought for today!

]]> https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/06/11/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-june-11#comments 0 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/06/10/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-june-10 Wed, 10 Jun 2026 08:07:36 +0000 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/06/10/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-june-10

Good Morning, We are 1/3 of the way through June.  VBS is coming quickly, please get your kids registered.  Registration is online or you can register in the lobby on Sunday.  Carol and I were out and ran before the rain this morning.  It was humid and the thunder was rolling.  It is another day of getting caught up,, but the light is at the end of the tunnel.  I hope you have a great day! Blessings, Doug

Today's Scripture

Colossians 3:13 (New International Version)   Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.

Today's Thought

Forgiveness is at the heart following Christ.  Jesus gave his life for our life.  That is forgiveness.  Forgiveness may indeed cost us something, but it cost Jesus his life.  We can do better at this.  Let it go today and forgive.  Just a thought for today!

]]> https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/06/10/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-june-10#comments 0 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/06/09/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-june-9 Tue, 09 Jun 2026 07:48:53 +0000 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/06/09/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-june-9

Good Morning, We had another tenth of an inch of rain last night.  It is nice to not be using the irrigation every day.  I am still playing catch up from Annual Conference and trying to process all that happened.  Good things are happening in the United Methodist Church.  The Parkway was nice this morning, a little less humidity and a little cooler.  Today was a walk day so tomorrow, the run day will be hot and humid.  MDO is today so lots of littles and parents.   I hope you get out and enjoy the day!!   Blessings, Doug

Today's Scripture

Matthew 7:13-14 (New International Version)   “Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.

Today's Thought

We not only walk through the small gate, but we are to point the way to the gate.  It should be our personal mission to direct folks to the gate.  Grace and love will lead folks where they need to go! Just a thought for today!

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Good Morning, We have another Missouri Annual Conference in the books.  It was a great gathering with a wonderful vision of ministry.  We were excited to have Tom Keller become a Licensed Local Pastor on his way to becoming an Ordained Deacon. I was excited to be appointed to my 10th year serving Ashland.  This is the 3rd time I have been appointed a decade of service in a church.  I am honored and his is rare.  The rain has been crazy!  I dumped 4 inches from our rain gage.  Friday was also a milestone, I ran 4.5 miles, the most continuous miles I have ran since before the surgery.  I am taking it a day at a time.  I hope you have a great week!    Blessings, Doug

Today's Scripture

Habakkuk 3:19 (New International Version)   The Sovereign Lord is my strength; he makes my feet like the feet of a deer, he enables me to tread on the heights.

Today's Thought

We don't often talk about the words of Habakkuk.  The words remind us of who God is.  God is strength.  The feet of a deer are not only fast, but they are sure.  May we lean into the strength God offers.  Just a thought for today!

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Good Morning, It is a fine day in St. Joseph.  We may have some rain before day's end, but for now it is lovely.  This afternoon Carol and I will head to Annual Conference.  Tom Keller will join us tomorrow as every United Methodist Church in Missouri gathers.  Today is MDO as they move from Friday to Thursday during the summer.  It is always fun to see the young families bring their littles to spend the day.  I hope you have a great day and I hope to connect with. you this weekend.   Blessings, Doug

Today's Scripture

1 Chronicles 29:11 (New International Version)   Yours, Lord, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the majesty and the splendor, for everything in heaven and earth is yours. Yours, Lord, is the kingdom; you are exalted as head over all.

Today's Thought

We are only on the earth for a short time.  The time we spend here is time we spend as stewards.  Everything is the Lords and we are only entrusted with parts of it while we are here.  Are we being good stewards?  We certainly have room for improvement.  Just a thought for today!

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Good Morning, I am writing this for the second time today.  A little tech glitch and start again.  It is a beautiful morning.  Carol and I ran a little over 3 miles and the cooler temps along with lower humidity made a huge difference.  I am trying to get the last minute stuff together to leave for Annual Conference tomorrow.  Tom Keller will receive his liscense on Saturday!  This is a big deal!  Good job Tom.  Folks I love you all, get out and enjoy this beautiful day! Blessings, Doug

Today's Scripture

Proverbs 15:1 (New International Version)   A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.s

Today's Thought

The old saying "Sticks and stone may break my bones, but words will never hurt me."  Folks that is rubbish!  Words are powerful and can be hurtful!  What we say matters.  I encourage us all to be gentle and filled with the grace of God.  Just a thought for today!

]]> https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/06/03/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-june-3#comments 0 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/06/02/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-june-2 Tue, 02 Jun 2026 08:07:28 +0000 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/06/02/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-june-2

Good Morning, MDO Summer Session begins today.  We will see lots of kids and families.   It is a beautiful morning in St. Jospeh, warm but less humidity than Monday.  Tuesday is a walk day so it was a very easy and nice morning.  We are hoping to find the answers to why our cameras, a projector, and lights are not working.  The techs will be here today I hope.  This is Annual Conference Week so St. Charles will be hopping this weekend.  I hope you enjoy the day! Blessings, Doug

Today's Scripture

Hebrews 9:28 (New International Version)   so Christ was sacrificed once to take away the sins of many; and he will appear a second time, not to bear sin, but to bring salvation to those who are waiting for him.

Today's Thought

Jesus overcame death.  The one time death was for us and overcoming death was to offer us life.  When Jesus comes again it will be the culmination of the Kingdom to come.  I hope we all choose to follow. Just a thought for today!

]]> https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/06/02/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-june-2#comments 0 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/06/01/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-june-1 Mon, 01 Jun 2026 08:00:01 +0000 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/06/01/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-june-1

Good Morning, We have made it to June!  Our run this morning was brutal!  The humidity made it tough.  It seems like we missed the rain last night, but we have sufficient moisture for now.  My new grass is looking promising.  Sunday we baptized, we confirmed, it was a great morning of worship.  The challenge is we had a power surge and lost all our cameras and one projector. Yikes!  I hope it is something that is an easy fix.  It looks to be a great day, get out and enjoy!  Blessings, Doug

Today's Scripture

Revelation 21: 2-4 (New International Version)   I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. ‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’ or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”

Today's Thought

I love this image of the Kingdom to come.  Revelation has a lot of challenging messaging, but his is clear.  The Kingdom will be a wonderful place remade in the sinless intent of creation.  It is the perfect place and we are invited to live toward that end every day as a follower of Jesus.  How can we bring the Kingdom a step closer today?  Just a thought for today!

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