Ashland UMC A church on a mission to love Jesus and love our neighbors like Jesus. https://aumcfamily.org Tue, 25 Aug 2026 08:00:02 +0000 Tue, 25 Aug 2026 08:00:02 +0000 hourly 1 3600 SnapPages.com Pastor Doug's Thought for Today October 5 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/10/05/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-october-5 Mon, 05 Oct 2026 08:02:12 +0000 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/10/05/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-october-5

Good Morning,
What a weekend!  We finished construction on the upstairs and picked out carpet.  They are coming Wednesday for final measurements and then hopefully installation in the new few weeks.  Carol ordered the new beds, we are close to finishing.  What a great football weekend! Mizzou showed up and took care of business. The Chiefs got a win, not pretty, but a hard fought win to stay undefeated.  Carol spent Saturday and Sunday with Emma and made a trip to the zoo.  Worship was great, now off to a big week at Ashland.  We got 3.5 miles in, get out and enjoy this wonderful fall weather.  Have a great day!

Blessings, Doug

Today's Scripture


Isaiah 55:6
New International Version
Seek the Lord while he may be found; call on him while he is near.

Today's Thought

We should always seek the Lord!  The Lord is as close as opening our heart to Him.  Call on Him for he is near and ready to be our strength and support.  Just a thought for today!

]]> https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/10/05/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-october-5#comments 0 Pastor Doug's Thought for Today October 2 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/10/02/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-october-2 Fri, 02 Oct 2026 07:41:14 +0000 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/10/02/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-october-2

Good Morning,
Welcome to Red Friday!  A big weekend ahead I hope you have great plans.  I got 4 miles in this morning and have increased my pace.  I am thankful the training for the Half-Marathon is over.  Carol and I are picking out carpet this afternoon to finish the upstairs project.  So glad!  Carol is off the take care of Emma this weekend, she will have lots of fun.  We have lots of football to watch, so let't get into the weekend.  As also please connect with Ashland!  Enjoy!!

Blessings, Doug

Today's Scripture


Proverbs 29:25
New International Version
25 Fear of man will prove to be a snare,
    but whoever trusts in the Lord is kept safe.

Today's Thought

I think this is a common problems for us all.  We allow what we fear in others to influence our lives.  Solomon reminds us to trust in the Lord.  I love the words reminding us if God is for us who can be against us.   Just a thought for today!

]]> https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/10/02/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-october-2#comments 0 Pastor Doug's Thought for Today October 1 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/10/01/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-october-1 Thu, 01 Oct 2026 08:00:29 +0000 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/10/01/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-october-1

Good Morning,
We welcome October with rain.  I have had over 3 inches the last couple of days.  Carol cleared the part of the garden on Monday, that may be all that gets accomplished for awhile.  We had a great night at MIdWeek@Ashland last night.  We are looking at ways to improve the experience and I would welcome any ideas you might have. Tonight Carol and I will be at the Habitat Dinner where I was asked to deliver the invocation.  This is a nice event.  Stay dry and have a great day!

Blessings, Doug

Today's Scripture


Matthew 5:11-12
New International Version
“Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.

Today's Thought

I must say this isn't a fun verse today.  I am glad to know that in the midst of a terrible time I am being blessed.  It is important to remember that being faithful to God sometimes results in unpleasant responses from others. It may not be easy but we are not alone and being faithful to Jesus will result in blessing.  Just a thought for today!

]]> https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/10/01/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-october-1#comments 0 Pastor Doug's Thought for Today September 30 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/09/30/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-september-30 Wed, 30 Sep 2026 08:07:50 +0000 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/09/30/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-september-30

Good Morning,
The day is staring off to be challenging.  I had this written and it was lost as the app renewed itself.  We had a big rain last night, I had 1.5 inches in the gage.  Tonight is MidWeek@Ashland, join us for dinner.  I hope to be around the office most of the day for the first time this week. Carol and I are going to pick out carpet Friday afternoon for the upstairs project.  We are close to wrapping it up and hoping to fill it with kids over Thanksgiving.  Stay dry and enjoy God's blessings.   Have a great day!

Blessings, Doug

Today's Scripture


Philippians 1:9-10          New International Version
And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ,

Today's Thought

How do we know what is best?  We look to Jesus because what he said and did inform us.  We also listen to God's Holy Spirit.  Jesus told us he would send one to be with us and that is the Holy Spirit.  This is important because as I read in my morning devotion our faith is not about rules, it is about relationship.  May we stay close to Jesus and have a vision for what is best.   Just a thought for today!

]]> https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/09/30/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-september-30#comments 0 Pastor Doug's Thought for Today September 29 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/09/29/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-september-29 Tue, 29 Sep 2026 07:47:48 +0000 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/09/29/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-september-29

Good Morning,
I spent most of yesterday in meetings interviewing pastors in our Northwest District.  A part of my responsibility is to assure our pastors that are not ordained are providing great ministry to our congregations.  I am honored to be able to help in this way.  Today is another day packed with meetings.  I will be out all morning, but hopefully back to the office this afternoon.  We have had a busy September, but October will be even busier.  It is a great day to get out and enjoy this fall weather.  Have a great day!

Blessings, Doug

Today's Scripture

John 3:20-21       New International Version
Everyone who does evil hates the light, and will not come into the light for fear that their deeds will be exposed. But whoever lives by the truth comes into the light, so that it may be seen plainly that what they have done has been done in the sight of God.

Today's Thought

A disciple's life is always on display.  If we profess Jesus then expect our life reflects following Jesus.  That is a pretty big role to fulfill.  We all sin and fall short of the glory of God, yet when we are humble and strive to live as Jesus the Holy Spirit will cover our weakness.  May we live into the life of Jesus and may the Holy Spirit cover us.  Just a thought for today!

]]> https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/09/29/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-september-29#comments 0 Pastor Doug's Thought for Today September 28 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/09/28/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-september-28 Mon, 28 Sep 2026 08:08:54 +0000 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/09/28/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-september-28

Good Morning,
Today we enter the last week of September.  What a weekend!  The St. Joseph Marathon went really well.  Thank you to all our Ashland folks for making it a great day.  I finished, not my fastest, but I finished.  Yes you can overcome knee surgery.  I got a nice text from Mike Smith, my surgeon after the run.  He made it all possible.  Today is packed with meetings and the week is packed with activity.  Get out and enjoy a beautiful day here in St. Joseph!  
Blessings, Doug

Today's Scripture

1 Corinthians 2:14      New International Version
The person without the Spirit does not accept the things that come from the Spirit of God but considers them foolishness, and cannot understand them because they are discerned only through the Spirit.

Today's Thought

We are into a sermon series that leans into this verse.  The Beatitudes seem to turn everything we know and feel upside down.  They do because the heart of God and the heart of humanity are not the same.  However when we lean into the Spirit everything, including our perspective changes.  May the Spirit move in us as we accept the things the come from God. Just a thought for today!

]]> https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/09/28/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-september-28#comments 0 Pastor Doug's Thought for Today September 25 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/09/25/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-september-25 Fri, 25 Sep 2026 07:30:06 +0000 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/09/25/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-september-25

Good Morning,
Friday has arrived and we are home.  I great trip to the Berkshires for a few days.  The weather was incredible.  The leaves were turning, we had some great experiences such as the Norman Rockwell Museum and ate great food!  Today a little catch up and get ready for the St. Jospeh Marathon.  Am I ready?  We shall see.  I did run while we were away, in fact I ran to Stockbridge.  Today is Red Friday, hope you are representing.  It is a big weekend of football on tap.  My friends have a great weekend, I missed you all and look forward to time together.  
Blessings, Doug

Today's Scripture

1 John 2:1.   New International Version
My dear children, I write this to you so that you will not sin. But if anybody does sin, we have an advocate with the Father—Jesus Christ, the Righteous One.

Today's Thought

We are encourage to not sin, however we are human thus Jesus offers us forgiveness. The grace of God makes up for our sin.  May we celebrate the goodness and grace of God. Just a thought for today!

]]> https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/09/25/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-september-25#comments 0 Pastor Doug's Thought for Today September 18 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/09/18/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-september-18 Fri, 18 Sep 2026 08:30:43 +0000 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/09/18/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-september-18

Good Morning,
Friday has arrived and with it the weekend.  I ran my last longer run today, 6 miles and it was hard.  The heat and humidity certainly took their toll.  This weekend there are a lot of things to do around the house.  We are so very close to finishing upstairs.  The hope is to pick carpet and have it installed by mid-October.  The heat should be coming to an end soon, but today will be a hot one.  Enjoy some football the next few days.   I hope you have a great weekend and connect with us at Ashland on Sunday morning.
Blessings, Doug

Today's Scripture

Philippians 2:3-4 (New International Version)
 
Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.

Today's Thought

This verse pushes back against the culture.  The present culture drives both selfishness and conceit.  Social media centers us on ourselves and creates an environment of posting to one up each other.  Paul reminds us that real joy comes in humility.  Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit.  Humility creates joy in our hearts.  Give this approach a try today and feel the joy and blessing. Just a thought for today!

]]> https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/09/18/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-september-18#comments 0 Pastor Doug's Thought for Today September 17 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/09/17/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-september-17 Thu, 17 Sep 2026 07:56:30 +0000 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/09/17/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-september-17

Good Morning,
This week seems to be flying by.  We had over 3 inches of rain yesterday and this morning it was humid.  I put 5 miles behind me, the St. Joseph Marathon is just around the corner and I hope to be ready.  A great night at MidWeek@Ashland.  Our 3rd graders are going through Bible Blast and will be aware Bibles this Sunday.  Today we say our earthly goodbyes to Keith Besco.  Keith was a special man.  I hope you have a great day.
Blessings, Doug

Today's Scripture

Ephesians 5:1 (New International Version)
 
Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children.

Today's Thought

The life of discipleship is a life of following the example of God.  We listen to Jesus word's and hear of what Jesus did.  The task is then to replicate that life.  We are faithful as we follow.  Just a thought for today!

]]> https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/09/17/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-september-17#comments 0 Pastor Doug's Thought for Today September 16 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/09/16/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-september-16 Wed, 16 Sep 2026 08:14:06 +0000 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/09/16/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-september-16

Good Morning,
We had a little storm last night resulting in down tree limbs and lot of rain.  I had 2 inches in the gage this morning.  Last night I had a let meeting and coming home found a huge limb in the street across from the house.  Love to have the wood, but I simply don't have the time to cut it up.  Tonight is MIdWeek@Ashland.  I want you to know how nice it would be to have you join in the evening.  We eat at 5:00 and then meet in the sanctuary at 5:30.  The youth band will open this evening followed by something for every age.  Hope you have a great day and come to Ashland tonight.
Blessings, Doug

Today's Scripture

James 3:13 (New International Version)
 
Who is wise and understanding among you? Let them show it by their good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom.

Today's Thought

Humility is a sign of wisdom.  In fact wisdom without humility isn't wisdom at all.  I want you to put this to the test.  Do you know any braggart that is wise?  Humility is a sign of God in a person's life.  Humility leads to good deeds and lives out the Greatest Commandment.  Lean into those that are humble and be cautious of the braggarts in your life.  Just a thought for today!

]]> https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/09/16/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-september-16#comments 0 Pastor Doug's Thought for Today September 15 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/09/15/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-september-15 Tue, 15 Sep 2026 08:09:08 +0000 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/09/15/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-september-15

Good Morning,
What a great night of football!  The Chiefs looked like their old selves having fun and playing winning football. Thank you Bob Bucher for the trip to Arrowhead.  It was a late night, but I was up and got my 5 miles this morning.  September 26 is coming fast and the St. Joseph Marathon.  My goal is to finish the Half.  It is another busy Tuesday, may you enjoy each minute of it. 
Blessings, Doug

Today's Scripture

1 John 4:16 (New International Version)
 
And so we know and rely on the love God has for us. God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in them.

Today's Thought

The way we life reflects what we believe about God.  We are reminded this morning that God is love and loves us.  The love God has for us we should invest as love in others.  When we love following the love of God we are assured that God lives in us.  Just a thought for today!

]]> https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/09/15/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-september-15#comments 0 Pastor Doug's Thought for Today September 14 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/09/14/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-september-14 Mon, 14 Sep 2026 08:09:23 +0000 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/09/14/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-september-14

Good Morning,
Happy Monday!  The rain caught me off guard this morning.  I had planned on running 5 miles but did not get that in.  Tonight is the Chiefs home opener at Arrowhead against Denver.  Go Chiefs.  It is another busy week at Ashland, I hope you are ready to get busy and have a wonderful week.  If the rain stops get out and enjoy! 
Blessings, Doug

Today's Scripture

Philippians 2:1-2 (New International Version)
 
Therefore if you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any common sharing in the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind.

Today's Thought

This is a complicated passage.  Is Paul really asking us to agree on everything?  He is asking us to put Jesus first and all other differences be set aside.  We don't have to agree on everything, but loving and serving Jesus should be more important than things we disagree on.  Try some understanding today.  Put the commands of Jesus first.  Just a thought for today!

]]> https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/09/14/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-september-14#comments 0 Pastor Doug's Thought for Today September 11 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/09/11/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-september-11 Fri, 11 Sep 2026 08:34:39 +0000 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/09/11/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-september-11

Good Morning,
Today we remember the events of 9/11 that forever changed the way we live.  We remember and give thanks for the heroes and ask comfort for the families that lost loved ones. We will never forget.  I started the day running 11 miles.  I feel that I can finish the Half Marathon, thanks for your prayers and support.  Tonight it the Border War as MIZZOU plays KU, I am sporting my Black and Gold this morning.  The weekend is upon us and hope it is a blessing for you.  Please connect with Ashland this weekend we have great worship in store.
Blessings, Doug

Today's Scripture

Psalm 121:1-2 (New International Version)
 
A song of ascents.
I lift up my eyes to the mountains— where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.

Today's Thought

Twenty-Five years ago I sat in my office stunned by the events transpiring before my eyes.  I thought at first it was an accident or maybe a spoof, but as the minutes passed the reality sank in.  The sanctuary outside my office started to fill as people came seeking comfort.  People I had never met came and prayed. This Psalm was a guiding word.  I life up my eyes to the mountains - where does my help come from?  My help comes from the Lord theMake of heaven and earth.  I hope today we can turn our eyes to the mountains and find the help that comes from the Lord.  Just a thought for today!

]]> https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/09/11/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-september-11#comments 0 Pastor Doug's Thought for Today September 10 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/09/10/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-september-10 Thu, 10 Sep 2026 08:26:25 +0000 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/09/10/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-september-10

Good Morning,
We had another shower in the night and I got a little wet when I ran this morning.  The humidity was gruesome running, I hope tomorrow is better.  We had a great night at MidWeek@Ashland.  It appears our Pilot Program is successful, yet it is early to make that call.  I am making a presentation to Leadership St. Joseph this afternoon.  I have been honored to talk to each year's class about leadership.  I have rewritten the entire presentation so I hope it goes well. Enjoy the day and prepare for the weekend.
Blessings, Doug

Today's Scripture

Isaiah 46:4 (New International Version)
 
Even to your old age and gray hairs I am he, I am he who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you.

Today's Thought

I have spent most of my ministry thinking of myself as the young guy.  I believe it was because when I entered ministry I was the young guy.  I of course am no longer the young guy but I am the more seasoned one.  God sustains us through every stage of life.  He watches over our coming and going.  Yes, even unto our old age and gray hairs (or lack of hair) he will sustain us.  Just a thought for today!

]]> https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/09/10/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-september-10#comments 0 Pastor Doug's Thought for Today September 9 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/09/09/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-september-9 Wed, 09 Sep 2026 07:45:45 +0000 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/09/09/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-september-9

Good Morning,
We are having a nice shower in St. Joseph this morning.  Today was a walk day, so not the impact rain would have on a run day.  A short week this week with Labor Day on Monday, but a week packed with activity.  Tonight is MidWeek@Ashland, come have dinner and spend time with friends and make some new friends.  Dinner is at 5:00 and things start in the Sanctuary at 5:30.    I hope you have a wonderful week!

Blessings, Doug

Today's Scripture

Titus 2:2 (New International Version)
 
Teach the older men to be temperate, worthy of respect, self-controlled, and sound in faith, in love and in endurance.

Today's Thought

This is about the power of mentoring.  We should all strive to set an example for the generations to follow.  Discipleship is living a life patterned after Jesus and a life others might replicate.  May we all be temperate, worthy of respect, self-controlled, and sound in faith, in love and in endurance.  Just a thought for today!

]]> https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/09/09/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-september-9#comments 0 Pastor Doug's Thought for Today September 8 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/09/08/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-september-8 Tue, 08 Sep 2026 08:01:56 +0000 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/09/08/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-september-8

Good Morning,
What a wonderful Labor Day Weekend.  We enjoyed family, football, and still got some things accomplished around the house.  This is a busy and short week.  We have something every night this week making up for a day off.  I am counting the days until the St. Joseph Marathon and believing I can make it happen.  Thanks for your support.  I hope you have a wonderful week!

Blessings, Doug

Today's Scripture

Psalm 143:10 (New International Version)
 
Teach me to do your will, for you are my God; may your good Spirit lead me on level ground.

Today's Thought

The will of God is something we learn.  God's will and our will are not naturally the same.  We don't like to admit it, but humans tend to be selfish.  That nature makes seeing and following God challenging at times.  David struggled with it as well, but chose to seek the leading of Gods Spirit to make the way for him.  We should do the same.  Just a thought for today!

]]> https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/09/08/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-september-8#comments 0 Pastor Doug's Thought for Today September 4 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/09/03/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-september-4 Thu, 03 Sep 2026 10:18:58 +0000 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/09/03/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-september-4

Good Morning,
I hope as you read this I am finishing my 10 mile run on the Katy Trail in Como.  I also hope we are basking in the glow of a Mizzou Win.  In any event it is Friday and we are into Labor Day Weekend.  We have big plans with family and hope you have great plans as well.  The forecast is for the heat to break next week and I am so ready.  I encourage you to connect with Ashland this weekend.  We love spending worship with you either in house or on-line.   I hope you have a wonderful weekend!

Blessings, Doug

Today's Scripture

Psalm 127:1           New International Version

1 Unless the Lord builds the house,
    the builders labor in vain.
Unless the Lord watches over the city,
    the guards stand watch in vain.

Today's Thought

I thought this an appropriate verse for this Labor Day Weekend.  David reminds us that unless the Lord is involved our labor is in vain.  May we always strive to live in relationship with God. Just a thought for today!

]]> https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/09/03/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-september-4#comments 0 Pastor Doug's Thought for Today September 3 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/09/03/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-september-3 Thu, 03 Sep 2026 10:05:02 +0000 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/09/03/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-september-3

Good Morning,
The heat continues through the weekend.  I am late this morning as I was opening our 2026 United Way Capital Campaign.  A great way to start the morning. Carol and I are off to CoMo this afternoon for the MU Opener.  Excited to see the new stadium and hear Sheryl Crow sing the National Anthem. We should get a win but you never know until you play the game.  This is our family reunion at Mark's compound.  It is always fun to spend time with family.  I will be back for Sunday and hope to see many of you then.  I hope you have a wonderful day and week!

Blessings, Doug

Today's Scripture

Isaiah 48:17 (New International Version)
 
This is what the Lord says— your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel: “I am the Lord your God, who teaches you what is best for you, who directs you in the way you should go.

Today's Thought

The ability to teach often relies on the willingness of the student to learn.  I hope we are willing student of our Lord.  May we be enlightened and enriched by the instruction of our God.  Just a thought for today!

]]> https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/09/03/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-september-3#comments 0 Pastor Doug's Thought for Today September 2 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/09/02/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-september-2 Wed, 02 Sep 2026 08:07:53 +0000 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/09/02/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-september-2

Good Morning,
The heat continues.  I was able to get 5 miles in but it was tough.  Tonight is MIdWeek@Ashland.  Come and have a meal and spend some time as a community in Christ.  There is something for everyone!  Dinner is a t 5:00 and we gather in the sanctuary at 5:30.  I hope to see you there.  Tomorrow we kick off the Fall United Way Campaign to raise money for community investment.  I serve as President and have the honor of sharing opening remarks.  I encourage you to support our local United Way.  Tomorrow evening Carol and I intend on being in the newly remodeled Memorial Stadium at Faurot Field in CoMo for the season opener football game.  We then roll into Labor Day weekend.  I want you all to take this heat seriously, hydrate and seek shade.  I hope you have a wonderful day and week!

Blessings, Doug

Today's Scripture

Psalm 119:64 (New International Version)
 
The earth is filled with your love, Lord; teach me your decrees.

Today's Thought

I would like to see a little more love filling the earth. We are to spread the love David is talking about.  We often talk about "Little Jesus", but it is important for us to be a little Jesus, at least a little more like Jesus.  What can you do to show love to your neighbor today?  Just a thought for today!

]]> https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/09/02/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-september-2#comments 0 Pastor Doug's Thought for Today September 1, 2026 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/09/01/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-september-1-2026 Tue, 01 Sep 2026 07:59:41 +0000 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/09/01/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-september-1-2026

Good Morning,
It is September!  I started the day with 5 miles on the Parkway.  Friday I will be in Columbian and will try to get 10 miles in on the Katy Trail.  I have the room upstairs about complete.  I am putting up trim, then chalk and paint.  Oh,I do have a door to hang and attach the outside of the mini split, but the goal is to have grandkids in the room for Thanksgiving. The paperwork at Ashland progressed nicely yesterday so we should pretty much wrap it up today.  It is another really hot day so be careful and hydrate.  Hope you have a wonderful day and week!

Blessings, Doug

Today's Scripture

Proverbs 22:6 (New International Version)
 
Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it.

Today's Thought

Raising children is one of the hardest things we have to do in life.  It takes some determination to start a child off the way they should go.  Discipline is a vital part of raising kids, they crave it.  I know they don't act like they want it, but they want correction and direction even when they contest it.  Parents, it is tough, but know people are praying for you.  Be strong and when your children are old they will go the way they should go.  Just a thought for today!

]]> https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/09/01/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-september-1-2026#comments 0 Pastor Doug's Thought for Today August 31 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/08/31/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-august-31 Mon, 31 Aug 2026 08:05:42 +0000 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/08/31/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-august-31

Good Morning,
Today we say goodbye to August.  It has been a good month but September awaits.  The theme this week is hot, it is going to be so hot!  I did get 5 miles in this morning and the breeze made it bearable.  Training is always hard, but hot and humid weather really takes the fun out of it. This weekend is Labor Day Weekend and an official close to summer.  We are headed to CoMo for the Mizzou opener then back to Mark's our little family reunion.  I will be back for Sunday, but as you can see a busy week.  It is also the United Way Campaign kickoff on Thursday morning.  This year and I am the Board Chair for United Way of St. Joseph so pretty excited for this event.  This is also a big paperwork week for The United Methodist Church.  Yea!  It is all good!  Hope you have a wonderful day and week!

Blessings, Doug

Today's Scripture

Psalm 95:6-7 (New International Version)
 
Come, let us bow down in worship, let us kneel before the Lord our Maker; for he is our God and we are the people of his pasture, the flock under his care. Today, if only you would hear his voice,

Today's Thought

Today, if only you would hear his voice.   I love that!   David precedes that saying we should worship, kneel before Him.  What he is saying is to hear God it helps to be worshipful.  I believe that to be very sage advice.  May we worship and hear God's voice today. Just a thought for today!

]]> https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/08/31/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-august-31#comments 0 Pastor Doug's Thought for Today August 28 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/08/28/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-august-28 Fri, 28 Aug 2026 08:05:07 +0000 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/08/28/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-august-28

Good Morning,
Friday has arrived and is delivering a weekend.  I was up and out early to get my 9 miles in this morning.  It seemed easier than 8 miles last week and I ran a better mile time.  Who knows?  We are home this weekend and tackling odd jobs around the house. This is the last weekend in August and next weekend will be Labor Day Weekend.  We are going to be at MIZZOU for the opening game and then back to Mark's house for a family Labor Day ReUnion.  September will be a busy month for the Walters and for Ashland.  The weather is great so I hope you get out and have a wonderful weekend! As always make it a point to connect with Ashland!  

Blessings, Doug

Today's Scripture

John 6:29 (New International Version)
 
Jesus answered, “The work of God is this: to believe in the one he has sent.”

Today's Thought

Do you believe in the one God has sent?  Jesus said that is the work that is cut out for us.  If we believe in the one God has sent we will do what he says and we will replicate what he did.  How can we faithfully live out our belief?  Just a thought for today!

]]> https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/08/28/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-august-28#comments 0 Pastor Doug's Thought for Today August 27 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/08/27/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-august-27 Thu, 27 Aug 2026 08:09:44 +0000 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/08/27/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-august-27

Good Morning,
We kicked off MidWeek@Ashland's new pilot last night and it was a great evening.  I am excited about the ability to build community that doesn't present itself on Sunday morning. I was able to get 4.5 miles in this morning, that makes 13.5 miles this week and a 9 mile on tap for tomorrow.  We are approaching the 4 week mark before the St. Joseph Marathon and I think I am on track to make it happen.  I hope today is a little calmer, but we shall see.  I hope you get out and have a wonderful day!  

Blessings, Doug

Today's Scripture

Isaiah 26:3 (New International Version)
 
You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.

Today's Thought

The Prophet is telling us that when God is in our mind, when we are trusting in God we can have perfect peace.  We must maintain focus and be intentional about having our mind set on God.  What are we doing to cultivate that so that might have perfect peace? Just a thought for today!

]]> https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/08/27/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-august-27#comments 0 Pastor Doug's Thought for Today August 26 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/08/26/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-august-26 Wed, 26 Aug 2026 07:57:01 +0000 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/08/26/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-august-26

Good Morning,
The fall semester of MidWeek@Ashland starts today.  We have a pilot program running this fall.  We want to invigorate our church community through fellowship and faith development. Dinner begins at 5:00 and is over at 5:30.  We will begin a community time at 5:30 in the sanctuary and small groups will be in full swing at 5:45.  I encourage you to come for the evening and bring the entire family.  Today was a walk day, but it is humid out.  This is my 9 mile week.  I am hoping Friday is a little cooler or at least less humid.  Have a wonderful day!  

Blessings, Doug

Today's Scripture

Romans 12:4-5 (New International Version)
 
For just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others.

Today's Thought

I am glad to back in the NT this morning.  Paul wants us to understand the church as we understand our body.  We have lots of different parts and they each have a function.  The church is made up of many people and we each bring a special skill set to the church.  The church is best when each of us are giving the best of who we are.  Please know your talent matters to the church.   Just a thought for today!

]]> https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/08/26/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-august-26#comments 0 Pastor Doug's Thought for Today August 25 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/08/25/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-august-25 Tue, 25 Aug 2026 08:00:02 +0000 https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/08/25/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-august-25

Good Morning,
A big day as for many this is the first day of school.  We have the first day of MDO Fall Semester today as well.  We need to hire another teacher of two for MDO.  Please send us some great candidates.  We have an old refrigerator and an old freezer to dispose of.  Do you have any ideas to help us?  I am on schedule to run 22.5 miles this week.  This is the most I have run in a week in several years.  This is harder to restart than I anticipated, but I am trying.  Hope your week is going well.  Have a great day!

Blessings, Doug

Today's Scripture

Psalm 119:165 (New International Version)
 
Great peace have those who love your law, and nothing can make them stumble.

Today's Thought

David is such an optimist with this verse.  I think sometimes we have to say it until we believe it, or somehow live into it.  He is correct that loving the law, attempting to live into the word of God matters, but we may still stumble.  The grace of Jesus allows us to get up and put or feet back on the path.  I may stumble, but Jesus will always be there to pick me up.   Just a thought for today!

]]> https://aumcfamily.org/blog/2026/08/25/pastor-doug-s-thought-for-today-august-25#comments 0