Hear my prayer, O Lord; let my cry come to you.
Psalm 102:1
My thoughts, on this passage were at first very straight-forward. The Psalm is literally asking God to listen to a request. With the word "cry" used, it shows that it is a more desperate request and for God to pay a lot of attention to our prayer. We cry out to God when we are really suffering and need his help.
The Psalm then continues on: “Do not hide your face from me in the day of my distress. Incline your ear: answer me speedily in the day when I call.”
The desperate plea had more emphasis in it and an urgency. When we are in situations that we cannot control and we are really without hope, we then cry out to the Lord. Our words might be very similar to those used here. We are telling him that we need some action on this request. A similar crying out took place in the New Testament. Jesus was in the garden and he is praying to God and crying out in anguish and sorrow that he be spared the ordeal of the crucifixion.
Jesus did receive an answer and we will too. The most important answer is that God is always with us and He is suffering with us and He will not abandon us. We need to pray to Him and have faith that He is in each of us every day throughout our life. He will send us Grace to make it through our crisis and bless us.
Shay Hall
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Monday, March 30, 2009
Lenten Reflection - March 30, 2009
You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.
Psalm 23:5
How wonderfully comforting it is to know that the Lord is our shepherd, both protecting us and providing all we need to flourish, just as he was King David’s shepherd when David wrote this psalm so many years ago. Sheep and goats were the most important domestic animals in David’s time, providing meat, milk, fat, skins, wool, and horns. Shepherds, although lowly, were very important and were counted on to lead their flocks on paths to good pastures and safe water where the sheep would flourish. Shepherds were really the first “pastoral” care committee!
Just as David did, we enjoy a special bond of friendship with our Lord, and he invites us to His heavenly banquet table right in front of our enemies to show them that we are His flock. He anoints our heads with oil, treating us as honored guests were treated at banquets in David’s time. He pours out His love and goodness on us so that our cup overflows and spills out on those around us, passing on his blessings to our friends and enemies alike.
How meaningful to me to be writing about this passage as I am preparing for the womens’ weekend with the theme “Come to the Table”—the Lord’s Table, where I am nourished in body, mind and spirit. Even today, we often honor our friends by inviting them to our table to share a meal with us to celebrate our bond of friendship. We want to shower blessings on those we love. So does God, if we will only let Him.
Marjie Mack
Psalm 23:5
How wonderfully comforting it is to know that the Lord is our shepherd, both protecting us and providing all we need to flourish, just as he was King David’s shepherd when David wrote this psalm so many years ago. Sheep and goats were the most important domestic animals in David’s time, providing meat, milk, fat, skins, wool, and horns. Shepherds, although lowly, were very important and were counted on to lead their flocks on paths to good pastures and safe water where the sheep would flourish. Shepherds were really the first “pastoral” care committee!
Just as David did, we enjoy a special bond of friendship with our Lord, and he invites us to His heavenly banquet table right in front of our enemies to show them that we are His flock. He anoints our heads with oil, treating us as honored guests were treated at banquets in David’s time. He pours out His love and goodness on us so that our cup overflows and spills out on those around us, passing on his blessings to our friends and enemies alike.
How meaningful to me to be writing about this passage as I am preparing for the womens’ weekend with the theme “Come to the Table”—the Lord’s Table, where I am nourished in body, mind and spirit. Even today, we often honor our friends by inviting them to our table to share a meal with us to celebrate our bond of friendship. We want to shower blessings on those we love. So does God, if we will only let Him.
Marjie Mack
Sunday, March 29, 2009
Lenten Reflection - March 29, 2009
Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and sustain in me a willing spirit.
Psalm 51:12
The context of this passage is David’s plea for mercy, forgiveness and cleansing following his adultery with Bathsheba. The prophet Nathan had just come to David to confront him about it and the whole of Psalm 51 is about the process and effect of David being restored to God when sin has broken his formerly close relationship with God. David knew the joy of a full relationship with God, but like all of us, David willfully sinned. When the sin was pointed out to him and he began restoring the relationship first by an immediate about face, a confession and a heartfelt repentance. He sought God’s mercy from the bottom of his heart.
By nature I am a risk-seeker and adventurer. But I am reminded that God wants me to allow His Holy Spirit to be in perfect communion with my spirit. For God is always with us, in us and operates through us when sin does not block the flow. For me the joy that is restored in His salvation comes from allowing God to work His will out in me as I submit my will to His good pleasure. It is not me in control, but letting go to Him. The joy comes from experiencing God’s surprising unfolding in my life when that happens. Like David, I must always ask that God give me a willing spirit to continue in that vein. And in so doing, allow my will to be subjected to His. Therein lies the joyous communion.
Dean Lewis
Psalm 51:12
The context of this passage is David’s plea for mercy, forgiveness and cleansing following his adultery with Bathsheba. The prophet Nathan had just come to David to confront him about it and the whole of Psalm 51 is about the process and effect of David being restored to God when sin has broken his formerly close relationship with God. David knew the joy of a full relationship with God, but like all of us, David willfully sinned. When the sin was pointed out to him and he began restoring the relationship first by an immediate about face, a confession and a heartfelt repentance. He sought God’s mercy from the bottom of his heart.
By nature I am a risk-seeker and adventurer. But I am reminded that God wants me to allow His Holy Spirit to be in perfect communion with my spirit. For God is always with us, in us and operates through us when sin does not block the flow. For me the joy that is restored in His salvation comes from allowing God to work His will out in me as I submit my will to His good pleasure. It is not me in control, but letting go to Him. The joy comes from experiencing God’s surprising unfolding in my life when that happens. Like David, I must always ask that God give me a willing spirit to continue in that vein. And in so doing, allow my will to be subjected to His. Therein lies the joyous communion.
Dean Lewis
Saturday, March 28, 2009
Lenten Reflection - March 28, 2009
O let the evil of the wicked come to an end, but establish the righteous, you who test the minds and hearts, O righteous God.
Psalm 7:9
As I read this passage, I feel it’s saying that God tests our hearts and minds constantly and hope that we will make the right decisions. Remember that your thoughts, feelings and even intentions are never hidden from God; they are like an open book. This can either be terrifying or comforting, as God also knows our motives and there is no place to hide them away from him, leaving no way to pretend we can “get away” with sin.
At the same time, that very same knowledge gives us comfort, knowing that we do not have to put up a front to impress God. Instead, we can trust him to help us work through our weaknesses in order to serve him as he planned. When we truly follow God, He rewards our efforts as we must remember God will execute the final justice even if it’s not during our lifetime. We can be assured that God will be fair if we continue to involve Him in our activities.
Jamie Alford Steuart
Psalm 7:9
As I read this passage, I feel it’s saying that God tests our hearts and minds constantly and hope that we will make the right decisions. Remember that your thoughts, feelings and even intentions are never hidden from God; they are like an open book. This can either be terrifying or comforting, as God also knows our motives and there is no place to hide them away from him, leaving no way to pretend we can “get away” with sin.
At the same time, that very same knowledge gives us comfort, knowing that we do not have to put up a front to impress God. Instead, we can trust him to help us work through our weaknesses in order to serve him as he planned. When we truly follow God, He rewards our efforts as we must remember God will execute the final justice even if it’s not during our lifetime. We can be assured that God will be fair if we continue to involve Him in our activities.
Jamie Alford Steuart
Friday, March 27, 2009
Lenten Reflection - March 27, 2009
The LORD is near to the brokenhearted, and saves the crushed in spirit. Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the LORD rescues them from all.
Psalm 34-17-18
As I read this passage, I can’t help but think of how much suffering there is in the world today and how it has grown more prevalent over the last year. More job losses, more hungry, and more homeless people. The number of people suffering seems endless. It’s no longer just a stranger you hear about; it’s you, your neighbor or your friend.
One of the first things we ask when we experience suffering is "Why me?" It may be a car accident, a sickness, loss of a job or a home or the death of a friend. The sadness we feel overcomes our understanding that we are not alone.
Life is often very hard for the people of God. He does not make life easy for us. He does give us help, though. Even when we so easily forget His presence and give up hope, He is there to rescue us. We must remember that God is near us when this suffering happens to us. He wants to share our broken heart. He wants to give us help when we hurt inside.
Let us remember that the Lord is with us, especially in difficult times. Let this passage be a reminder that even in the most difficult, darkest of times, there is optimism in this world. The troubles of our hearts move Him, and He mourns with us. He promises to redeem us when we take refuge in him. Remember that we can call on Him to do so.
Cindy Carrier
Psalm 34-17-18
As I read this passage, I can’t help but think of how much suffering there is in the world today and how it has grown more prevalent over the last year. More job losses, more hungry, and more homeless people. The number of people suffering seems endless. It’s no longer just a stranger you hear about; it’s you, your neighbor or your friend.
One of the first things we ask when we experience suffering is "Why me?" It may be a car accident, a sickness, loss of a job or a home or the death of a friend. The sadness we feel overcomes our understanding that we are not alone.
Life is often very hard for the people of God. He does not make life easy for us. He does give us help, though. Even when we so easily forget His presence and give up hope, He is there to rescue us. We must remember that God is near us when this suffering happens to us. He wants to share our broken heart. He wants to give us help when we hurt inside.
Let us remember that the Lord is with us, especially in difficult times. Let this passage be a reminder that even in the most difficult, darkest of times, there is optimism in this world. The troubles of our hearts move Him, and He mourns with us. He promises to redeem us when we take refuge in him. Remember that we can call on Him to do so.
Cindy Carrier
Thursday, March 26, 2009
Lenten Reflection - March 26, 2009
How can you believe when you accept glory from one another and do not seek the glory that comes from the one who alone is God?
John 5:44
Do you believe?
In this chapter of John, Jesus has healed the man by the pool at Bethesda. This man has had his infirmity for thirty eight-years and was unable to get into the pool when the waters "moved." Others were faster and hurried before him. They cut him off from the healing. Jesus saw his predicament and said, "take up thy bed and walk."
When the Jews found out that Jesus had healed on the Sabbath, they were especially incensed. There was no recognition of amazing grace— no praise, nor belief. There was criticism and hate.
We in our daily lives must not be so short-sighted. Honor and praise are due our Lord continually. For the many loving blessings he has given us, and for the perfect guidance he gives that we cannot know. If we believe in Him we must thank Him for his presence in our lives, reflect it in our actions, and connect more fully with Him through daily prayer or quiet Bible-reading.
But I am convinced that instead of asking for more help, we should be thanking for help already given , trusting in His knowledge of our needs, knowing that nothing is lacking in his care.
Beverly Fahlstrom
John 5:44
Do you believe?
In this chapter of John, Jesus has healed the man by the pool at Bethesda. This man has had his infirmity for thirty eight-years and was unable to get into the pool when the waters "moved." Others were faster and hurried before him. They cut him off from the healing. Jesus saw his predicament and said, "take up thy bed and walk."
When the Jews found out that Jesus had healed on the Sabbath, they were especially incensed. There was no recognition of amazing grace— no praise, nor belief. There was criticism and hate.
We in our daily lives must not be so short-sighted. Honor and praise are due our Lord continually. For the many loving blessings he has given us, and for the perfect guidance he gives that we cannot know. If we believe in Him we must thank Him for his presence in our lives, reflect it in our actions, and connect more fully with Him through daily prayer or quiet Bible-reading.
But I am convinced that instead of asking for more help, we should be thanking for help already given , trusting in His knowledge of our needs, knowing that nothing is lacking in his care.
Beverly Fahlstrom
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Lenten Reflection - March 25, 2009
Sing for joy, O heavens, and exult, O earth; break forth, O mountains, into singing! For the LORD has comforted his people, and will have compassion on his suffering ones.
Isaiah 49:13
SING, SING, SING!
What do we have to do to emphasize enough how important it is to sing to the Lord?
The word sing is in the Bible in 75 different verses. Isaiah has 16 verses and Psalms has 31. Doesn’t that tell us that singing is a very important part of how we are to praise God?
Singing is a wonderful way to praise God, and when you sing you pray twice, but we need to remember that speaking is a form of singing also. I know some people think they can not sing or that they do not have a very good voice. However, when we are singing to God, it is beautiful music and he loves us whether we think it sounds nice or not.
So SING, SING, SING FOR JOY. God is always listening.
Jeanie Zseltvay
Isaiah 49:13
SING, SING, SING!
What do we have to do to emphasize enough how important it is to sing to the Lord?
The word sing is in the Bible in 75 different verses. Isaiah has 16 verses and Psalms has 31. Doesn’t that tell us that singing is a very important part of how we are to praise God?
Singing is a wonderful way to praise God, and when you sing you pray twice, but we need to remember that speaking is a form of singing also. I know some people think they can not sing or that they do not have a very good voice. However, when we are singing to God, it is beautiful music and he loves us whether we think it sounds nice or not.
So SING, SING, SING FOR JOY. God is always listening.
Jeanie Zseltvay
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
Lenten Reflection - March 24, 2009
God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.
Psalm 46:1
The first time that I was really made aware of this Psalm was at a Guild of Organists’ choral concert of ”Psalms” at the Naval Academy Chapel in Annapolis. It was a most powerful statement played on the big organ and with orchestra accompaniment. The whole Psalm was magnificent.
Many people have learned to pray by praying the Psalms. The Hebrews are responsible for writing them. Jesus would have prayed the Psalms.
God is available to us at all times through prayer. We can imagine Him with arms open and just waiting for us to come to him. Another translation of this same verse says “God is a safe place to hide, ready to help when we need him.” (Eugene H. Peterson, The Message )
Our life on earth includes moments of insecurity and loneliness. During these moments man has been able to recognize and turn to the Lord. That ability is man’s greatest help. The lonely man needs refuge, and the insecure man needs strength and help.
This particular psalm is sometimes called “Martin Luther’s Psalm.” It is thought that his hymn, “A Mighty Fortress is Our God,” might have been based on this Psalm.
Priscilla W. Hardesty
Psalm 46:1
The first time that I was really made aware of this Psalm was at a Guild of Organists’ choral concert of ”Psalms” at the Naval Academy Chapel in Annapolis. It was a most powerful statement played on the big organ and with orchestra accompaniment. The whole Psalm was magnificent.
Many people have learned to pray by praying the Psalms. The Hebrews are responsible for writing them. Jesus would have prayed the Psalms.
God is available to us at all times through prayer. We can imagine Him with arms open and just waiting for us to come to him. Another translation of this same verse says “God is a safe place to hide, ready to help when we need him.” (Eugene H. Peterson, The Message )
Our life on earth includes moments of insecurity and loneliness. During these moments man has been able to recognize and turn to the Lord. That ability is man’s greatest help. The lonely man needs refuge, and the insecure man needs strength and help.
This particular psalm is sometimes called “Martin Luther’s Psalm.” It is thought that his hymn, “A Mighty Fortress is Our God,” might have been based on this Psalm.
Priscilla W. Hardesty
Monday, March 23, 2009
Lenten Reflection - March 23, 2009
Hear, O LORD, and be merciful to me; O LORD, be my help.
Psalm 30:10
Hear me! Here I am! Pay attention! Here I am!
I’ve done bad things. I’ve been wrong. Punishment would be fair. Can you ease it off? Cut me some slack? Don’t hurt me. Forgive me.
I can’t, I can’t, I can’t. I can’t do it alone. I can’t do it by myself. I need your help. I’m too weak, small, scared, whatever. I can’t do it by myself. You’re the one who can help me.
It’s a basic prayer. The kind a child can pray, the kind we can pray to our parent, our God. It solicits God’s attentiveness, so that we’re not overlooked, so that we will be heard, if God wills it. It solicits mercy. By asking for mercy, it acknowledges our wrongdoing, our sins, our trespasses. It wants for us that quality of mercy that we say God has. It solicits assistance. By that seeking, it recognizes our weakness, our inability to do it all, our failure at going it alone.
How do we respond when others ask the same of us?
Greg Davis
Psalm 30:10
Hear me! Here I am! Pay attention! Here I am!
I’ve done bad things. I’ve been wrong. Punishment would be fair. Can you ease it off? Cut me some slack? Don’t hurt me. Forgive me.
I can’t, I can’t, I can’t. I can’t do it alone. I can’t do it by myself. I need your help. I’m too weak, small, scared, whatever. I can’t do it by myself. You’re the one who can help me.
It’s a basic prayer. The kind a child can pray, the kind we can pray to our parent, our God. It solicits God’s attentiveness, so that we’re not overlooked, so that we will be heard, if God wills it. It solicits mercy. By asking for mercy, it acknowledges our wrongdoing, our sins, our trespasses. It wants for us that quality of mercy that we say God has. It solicits assistance. By that seeking, it recognizes our weakness, our inability to do it all, our failure at going it alone.
How do we respond when others ask the same of us?
Greg Davis
Sunday, March 22, 2009
Lenten Reflection - March 22, 2009
For by grace you have been saved through faith, and this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God – not the result of works, so that no one may boast.
Ephesians 2:8-9
We tend to take ourselves too seriously when we reflect on the fact that we are made in God’s image. We somehow get the idea that we and our good works are God-like. Likewise, when we hear that Jesus died on the cross for our sins, we think we must be pretty special if the son of God would make that sacrifice for us. But - - what does the writer of the letter to the Ephesians have to say about these things?
When we read these words, it quickly becomes clear that our salvation is not dependent on our wonderful works or on our creation in God’s image. The writer tells us that it is through God’s love for us and God’s immeasurable mercy and benevolence that we are saved. It doesn’t matter how spectacular our good works are. It doesn’t matter if we have earthly wealth, fame and recognition. It doesn’t even matter if we preach good sermons. It only matters that God loves us and that God bestows on us divine grace in amounts we can’t even imagine. Don’t boast. Believe! Worship! Give thanks!
The Rev. Bob McCoy
Ephesians 2:8-9
We tend to take ourselves too seriously when we reflect on the fact that we are made in God’s image. We somehow get the idea that we and our good works are God-like. Likewise, when we hear that Jesus died on the cross for our sins, we think we must be pretty special if the son of God would make that sacrifice for us. But - - what does the writer of the letter to the Ephesians have to say about these things?
When we read these words, it quickly becomes clear that our salvation is not dependent on our wonderful works or on our creation in God’s image. The writer tells us that it is through God’s love for us and God’s immeasurable mercy and benevolence that we are saved. It doesn’t matter how spectacular our good works are. It doesn’t matter if we have earthly wealth, fame and recognition. It doesn’t even matter if we preach good sermons. It only matters that God loves us and that God bestows on us divine grace in amounts we can’t even imagine. Don’t boast. Believe! Worship! Give thanks!
The Rev. Bob McCoy
Saturday, March 21, 2009
Lenten Reflection - March 21, 2009
Let us know, let us press on to know the LORD; his appearing is as sure as the dawn; he will come to us like the showers, like the spring rains that water the earth.
Hosea 6:3
This scripture immediately brings to mind one of my favorite poems. Mary Stevenson’s words remind us that God often carries us when we need him the most, like the earth needs rain in the spring.
One night I dreamed I was walking along the beach with the Lord.
Many scenes from my life flashed across the sky.
In each scene I noticed footprints in the sand.
Sometimes there were two sets of footprints,
other times there were one set of footprints.
This bothered me because I noticed
that during the low periods of my life,
when I was suffering from
anguish, sorrow or defeat,
I could see only one set of footprints.
So I said to the Lord,
"You promised me Lord,
that if I followed you,
you would walk with me always.
But I have noticed that during
the most trying periods of my life
there have only been one
set of footprints in the sand.
Why, when I needed you most,
you have not been there for me?"
The Lord replied,
"The times when you have
seen only one set of footprints in the sand,
is when I carried you."
With God’s help, I continue to grow, learn from my mistakes, and strive to share the skills and abilities that God gave me. With God’s presence as sure as the dawn, I know that What I AM is God’s gift to me, What I DO is my gift to God.
Linda Rines
Hosea 6:3
This scripture immediately brings to mind one of my favorite poems. Mary Stevenson’s words remind us that God often carries us when we need him the most, like the earth needs rain in the spring.
One night I dreamed I was walking along the beach with the Lord.
Many scenes from my life flashed across the sky.
In each scene I noticed footprints in the sand.
Sometimes there were two sets of footprints,
other times there were one set of footprints.
This bothered me because I noticed
that during the low periods of my life,
when I was suffering from
anguish, sorrow or defeat,
I could see only one set of footprints.
So I said to the Lord,
"You promised me Lord,
that if I followed you,
you would walk with me always.
But I have noticed that during
the most trying periods of my life
there have only been one
set of footprints in the sand.
Why, when I needed you most,
you have not been there for me?"
The Lord replied,
"The times when you have
seen only one set of footprints in the sand,
is when I carried you."
With God’s help, I continue to grow, learn from my mistakes, and strive to share the skills and abilities that God gave me. With God’s presence as sure as the dawn, I know that What I AM is God’s gift to me, What I DO is my gift to God.
Linda Rines
Friday, March 20, 2009
Lenten Reflection - March 20, 2009
“I will be like the dew to Israel; he shall blossom like the lily, he shall strike root like the forests of Lebanon.”
Hosea 14:5
In the context of the Lenten season, on first read, this passage fondly puts a smile on my face, as it reminds me of spring. It renews my spirit by reminding me that from the cold, still, dark hopelessness of winter follows the promise of spring. Even my 6 year old son understood the reference to spring.
On the second read, I began at the beginning of Hosea’s book and found the readings to be harsh. Hosea describes with grueling, bitter symbolism, how the people of Israel will be punished by God for disavowing Him. All 13 chapters prior to this passage are filled with descriptions of the sins against God. Read alone, the 13 chapters depict our God as jealous and revengeful, without forgiveness; but read as a whole book with the 14th chapter, I believe I understand the meaning of Hosea’s writings and the Lenten season; despite our sins against Him, God is love and will forgive those who seek to understand Him.
I now understand that this passage, in context, is about repentance. Hosea wanted to evoked a feeling of regret about our sins but reminds us that through repentance our spirits will be renewed.
Michelle & Jackson Perkins
Hosea 14:5
In the context of the Lenten season, on first read, this passage fondly puts a smile on my face, as it reminds me of spring. It renews my spirit by reminding me that from the cold, still, dark hopelessness of winter follows the promise of spring. Even my 6 year old son understood the reference to spring.
On the second read, I began at the beginning of Hosea’s book and found the readings to be harsh. Hosea describes with grueling, bitter symbolism, how the people of Israel will be punished by God for disavowing Him. All 13 chapters prior to this passage are filled with descriptions of the sins against God. Read alone, the 13 chapters depict our God as jealous and revengeful, without forgiveness; but read as a whole book with the 14th chapter, I believe I understand the meaning of Hosea’s writings and the Lenten season; despite our sins against Him, God is love and will forgive those who seek to understand Him.
I now understand that this passage, in context, is about repentance. Hosea wanted to evoked a feeling of regret about our sins but reminds us that through repentance our spirits will be renewed.
Michelle & Jackson Perkins
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Lenten Reflection - March 19, 2009
O that today you would listen to his voice! Do not harden your hearts…
Psalm 95:7-8
The first seven verses of Psalm 95 are an exhortation to praise God for his goodness as reflected in the declaration of our relationship to God opening Verse 7. Verse 7 then transitions into Verse 8 which abruptly delivers a warning not to tempt God as did our forefathers wandering in the wilderness. The message in Verse 8 exhorts the reader not to let their heart be stubborn, insensitive and unresponsive to God as did their ancestors, while being led by Moses in the wilderness days at Meribah and Massah. Moses found himself burdened with a quarreling, bickering and distrustful people who repeatedly (over 40 years) professed their lack of faith in Moses and God. These Hebrews finally succeeded in turning God against them and as a result were denied their ultimate home and heritage in Cannan.
How many times do we in our day-to-day lives harden our hearts to God? When a parent dies, when a child dies, when economic troubles decimate us? How many times do we doubt that God cares? How could God let this happen to such a good person? How can disease take such a devout Christian, yet leave the unbeliever ……? Are these not the same doubts that plagued the Hebrews in the wilderness …. and caused God to forever deny them, as stated in Verse 11 “so I have swore in my anger that they would never enter into my rest.”
It seems to me that as modern day Christians we must work diligently to keep our faith in God and not “harden our hearts” to God because in our ignorance we cannot understand God and his plan for us and our salvation.
Cal Steuart
Psalm 95:7-8
The first seven verses of Psalm 95 are an exhortation to praise God for his goodness as reflected in the declaration of our relationship to God opening Verse 7. Verse 7 then transitions into Verse 8 which abruptly delivers a warning not to tempt God as did our forefathers wandering in the wilderness. The message in Verse 8 exhorts the reader not to let their heart be stubborn, insensitive and unresponsive to God as did their ancestors, while being led by Moses in the wilderness days at Meribah and Massah. Moses found himself burdened with a quarreling, bickering and distrustful people who repeatedly (over 40 years) professed their lack of faith in Moses and God. These Hebrews finally succeeded in turning God against them and as a result were denied their ultimate home and heritage in Cannan.
How many times do we in our day-to-day lives harden our hearts to God? When a parent dies, when a child dies, when economic troubles decimate us? How many times do we doubt that God cares? How could God let this happen to such a good person? How can disease take such a devout Christian, yet leave the unbeliever ……? Are these not the same doubts that plagued the Hebrews in the wilderness …. and caused God to forever deny them, as stated in Verse 11 “so I have swore in my anger that they would never enter into my rest.”
It seems to me that as modern day Christians we must work diligently to keep our faith in God and not “harden our hearts” to God because in our ignorance we cannot understand God and his plan for us and our salvation.
Cal Steuart
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
Lenten Reflection - March 18, 2009
And what other great nation has statutes and ordinances as just as this entire law that I am setting before you today? But take care and watch yourselves closely, so as not to forget the things that your eyes have seen nor to let them slip from your mind…
Deuteronomy 4:8-9
Moses wanted to make sure the Israelites did not forget all they had seen God do. They had witnessed their escape from slavery, the parting of the Red Sea, the destruction of Pharaoh’s army, the pillar of fire, giving manna and quail in the desert, the defeat of the Amalekites, His voice and glory at Mt. Sinai and the delivery of the Law and Commandments. How awesome to think of personally experiencing so many miracles! So here he urges parents to remember these things and to teach their children about God’s great miracles. This helped parents remember God’s faithfulness and provided the means for passing on from one generation to the next the stories recounting God’s great acts.
But despite having this written Word, it is easy for us today not to see God’s loving hand all around us now. It is easy to forget the wonderful ways and miracles God has worked in all our lives.
But just as Moses told the Israelites not to forget, we can remember God’s great acts for us by telling our children, friends, and all we encounter what we have seen God do in our own lives.
Woody Wooddell
Deuteronomy 4:8-9
Moses wanted to make sure the Israelites did not forget all they had seen God do. They had witnessed their escape from slavery, the parting of the Red Sea, the destruction of Pharaoh’s army, the pillar of fire, giving manna and quail in the desert, the defeat of the Amalekites, His voice and glory at Mt. Sinai and the delivery of the Law and Commandments. How awesome to think of personally experiencing so many miracles! So here he urges parents to remember these things and to teach their children about God’s great miracles. This helped parents remember God’s faithfulness and provided the means for passing on from one generation to the next the stories recounting God’s great acts.
But despite having this written Word, it is easy for us today not to see God’s loving hand all around us now. It is easy to forget the wonderful ways and miracles God has worked in all our lives.
But just as Moses told the Israelites not to forget, we can remember God’s great acts for us by telling our children, friends, and all we encounter what we have seen God do in our own lives.
Woody Wooddell
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
Lenten Reflection - March 17, 2009
Do not remember the sins of my youth or my transgressions; according to your steadfast love remember me, for your goodness’ sake, O LORD!
Psalm 25:7
In this time of reflection, it is good to look back on our lives and think about those things we have done in all our humanness that we now recognize failed to live up to God’s plan for us. This passage reminds us that we all have committed acts against God’s teachings. When David speaks of youth in this passage, does he speak of childhood sins? More likely he is talking about both the sins he has committed in his immature understanding of what God wants him to do and in his childish desire to do what he wants to do. We, too, are “youth” in our childish desire to do what we want rather than what God wants and that can lead us to unworthy acts. Perhaps we judge others and treat them poorly because they don’t look or act in a certain way rather than treating each person as the fellow child of God that they are. We may focus our attention on that new, big, flat-screen, hi-def TV that will break in a few years, rather than the spiritually fulfilling things which will enrich our lives forever. Today, we might want to focus on actions that are in keeping with God’s will rather than our own. Secondly, David reminds us that no matter what our transgressions may be, God is all loving and good, and He will forgive us whatever our sins if we ask, and He will love us always.
Taylor Milbradt
Psalm 25:7
In this time of reflection, it is good to look back on our lives and think about those things we have done in all our humanness that we now recognize failed to live up to God’s plan for us. This passage reminds us that we all have committed acts against God’s teachings. When David speaks of youth in this passage, does he speak of childhood sins? More likely he is talking about both the sins he has committed in his immature understanding of what God wants him to do and in his childish desire to do what he wants to do. We, too, are “youth” in our childish desire to do what we want rather than what God wants and that can lead us to unworthy acts. Perhaps we judge others and treat them poorly because they don’t look or act in a certain way rather than treating each person as the fellow child of God that they are. We may focus our attention on that new, big, flat-screen, hi-def TV that will break in a few years, rather than the spiritually fulfilling things which will enrich our lives forever. Today, we might want to focus on actions that are in keeping with God’s will rather than our own. Secondly, David reminds us that no matter what our transgressions may be, God is all loving and good, and He will forgive us whatever our sins if we ask, and He will love us always.
Taylor Milbradt
Monday, March 16, 2009
Lenten Reflection - March 16, 2009
As a deer longs for flowing streams, so my soul longs for you, O God.
Psalm 42:1
To me this passage strikes right at the heart of what we seek as Christians. Animals, such as deer, thirst, search, and eventually find something to satisfy them. Fortunately for deer, their thirst is in the physical realm, unlike ours which can exist on many levels. As Christians, we are constantly seeking something else to better our relationship with God, whatever it may be. This passage says to me that to want something, to need something important to us is a thirst from deep in our hearts. For this kind of thirst, God is in fact the water we seek to satisfy us, even though we don’t always go to Him first. As we read deeper into Psalm 42, there is more detail about what can be taken as a deep longing for God and His help in distressing situations. Verse three reads: My Tears have been my food day and night, while people say to me continually, “Where is Your God?”
God is the water that can give us anything, but we need to remember not to be greedy (to drink the well dry), but quench ourselves little by little, until eventually we thirst no more. After seeking and searching, by the grace of God, we can be at peace with ourselves and our brothers and sisters in Christ. We can accept that we never have to worry “where is my God,” because we know He has His own place in us and through us.
John Knouse
Psalm 42:1
To me this passage strikes right at the heart of what we seek as Christians. Animals, such as deer, thirst, search, and eventually find something to satisfy them. Fortunately for deer, their thirst is in the physical realm, unlike ours which can exist on many levels. As Christians, we are constantly seeking something else to better our relationship with God, whatever it may be. This passage says to me that to want something, to need something important to us is a thirst from deep in our hearts. For this kind of thirst, God is in fact the water we seek to satisfy us, even though we don’t always go to Him first. As we read deeper into Psalm 42, there is more detail about what can be taken as a deep longing for God and His help in distressing situations. Verse three reads: My Tears have been my food day and night, while people say to me continually, “Where is Your God?”
God is the water that can give us anything, but we need to remember not to be greedy (to drink the well dry), but quench ourselves little by little, until eventually we thirst no more. After seeking and searching, by the grace of God, we can be at peace with ourselves and our brothers and sisters in Christ. We can accept that we never have to worry “where is my God,” because we know He has His own place in us and through us.
John Knouse
Sunday, March 15, 2009
Lenten Reflection - March 15, 2009
For Jews demand signs and Greeks desire wisdom, but we proclaim Christ crucified, a stumbling block to Jews and foolishness to Gentiles…
1 Corinthians 1:22-23
Paul first arrived in Corinth during his second missionary trip around AD 50. During his stay, the Jews took Paul to court for breaking the law. The governor threw the case out because it was a religious dispute. Paul was given freedom to evangelize and converted a number of people and began a Church before he left. This passage is taken from Paul’s first letter to the church in Corinth.
The passage talks about Jews demanding a sign to validate the message and Greeks holding to their philosophical wisdom, while Christians continued to spread the Good News about Jesus Christ. What faith it must have taken for these Christians to go out and spread the Good News. There are many of us today who are not comfortable discussing our belief in Jesus Christ, yet these Christians risked their very lives spreading the Word. The early Christians dealt with Jews wanting miraculous signs and when they saw them for themselves some continued to doubt Jesus was the Son of God. In such a dark time, a place where talking person to person was the only way news was spread, it was truly a miracle that Christianity itself was founded. Even though we are true believers in our Lord Jesus Christ, many of us continue to search for a sign from God. I believe our search for a sign is not about Jesus’ existence, but a search to help us find the right path to follow. We pray about issues, ask for guidance, ask for forgiveness, and give thanks. We must accept the fact that God is with us every day, helping us through the good and the bad. I believe sometimes we look back at a situation and find that God guided us, or “gave us a sign” of the path to follow. We must believe that with God all things will be done as he planned them.
There are many people in this world today who do not believe in God or any spiritual being. It is marvelous when someone recognizes the Glory of God for the first time, or when someone has their faith renewed. To be saved from our ignorance and recognize that Jesus Christ died and was resurrected for our sins is the core of our Christian belief. As we live we know that when we die we will be born again in him. Without this belief we are just existing day to day. We must hold firm to the belief that it is not what we acquire on this earth that matters, but how we treat each other and hold to the Christian way of life.
Gladys Wilson
1 Corinthians 1:22-23
Paul first arrived in Corinth during his second missionary trip around AD 50. During his stay, the Jews took Paul to court for breaking the law. The governor threw the case out because it was a religious dispute. Paul was given freedom to evangelize and converted a number of people and began a Church before he left. This passage is taken from Paul’s first letter to the church in Corinth.
The passage talks about Jews demanding a sign to validate the message and Greeks holding to their philosophical wisdom, while Christians continued to spread the Good News about Jesus Christ. What faith it must have taken for these Christians to go out and spread the Good News. There are many of us today who are not comfortable discussing our belief in Jesus Christ, yet these Christians risked their very lives spreading the Word. The early Christians dealt with Jews wanting miraculous signs and when they saw them for themselves some continued to doubt Jesus was the Son of God. In such a dark time, a place where talking person to person was the only way news was spread, it was truly a miracle that Christianity itself was founded. Even though we are true believers in our Lord Jesus Christ, many of us continue to search for a sign from God. I believe our search for a sign is not about Jesus’ existence, but a search to help us find the right path to follow. We pray about issues, ask for guidance, ask for forgiveness, and give thanks. We must accept the fact that God is with us every day, helping us through the good and the bad. I believe sometimes we look back at a situation and find that God guided us, or “gave us a sign” of the path to follow. We must believe that with God all things will be done as he planned them.
There are many people in this world today who do not believe in God or any spiritual being. It is marvelous when someone recognizes the Glory of God for the first time, or when someone has their faith renewed. To be saved from our ignorance and recognize that Jesus Christ died and was resurrected for our sins is the core of our Christian belief. As we live we know that when we die we will be born again in him. Without this belief we are just existing day to day. We must hold firm to the belief that it is not what we acquire on this earth that matters, but how we treat each other and hold to the Christian way of life.
Gladys Wilson
Saturday, March 14, 2009
Lenten Reflection - March 14, 2009
Bless the LORD, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless his holy name.
Psalm 103:1
Inspired by the Spirit of God, collected in the book of Psalms, Psalm 103 is one of the 150 jewels of biblical literature.
Israel’s king David authored Psalm 103 in his old age. In the very first verse king David tells himself to praise the Lord with all his being: heart, soul, and mind. My mother instilled in me to do the same in my early years. She did it discretely and continuously as I was growing up in communist Yugoslavia. We were not allowed to praise the Lord publicly, and school curriculum taught us to deny faith and religion. My family secretly celebrated the traditions of Orthodox faith behind closed doors.
Forty-three years ago, on March 14, 1966, my family immigrated from Yugoslavia to this blessed country where I have been allowed to openly praise the Lord without fear of repercussion. It is so right and satisfying to live in the country where one may praise the Lord over and over and enjoy all the fruits of the freedom of religious expression.
Jasmina McNew
Psalm 103:1
Inspired by the Spirit of God, collected in the book of Psalms, Psalm 103 is one of the 150 jewels of biblical literature.
Israel’s king David authored Psalm 103 in his old age. In the very first verse king David tells himself to praise the Lord with all his being: heart, soul, and mind. My mother instilled in me to do the same in my early years. She did it discretely and continuously as I was growing up in communist Yugoslavia. We were not allowed to praise the Lord publicly, and school curriculum taught us to deny faith and religion. My family secretly celebrated the traditions of Orthodox faith behind closed doors.
Forty-three years ago, on March 14, 1966, my family immigrated from Yugoslavia to this blessed country where I have been allowed to openly praise the Lord without fear of repercussion. It is so right and satisfying to live in the country where one may praise the Lord over and over and enjoy all the fruits of the freedom of religious expression.
Jasmina McNew
Friday, March 13, 2009
Lenten Reflection - March 13, 2009
So when Joseph came to his brothers, they stripped him of his robe, the long robe with sleeves that he wore; and they took him and threw him into a pit.
Genesis 37:23-24
One of the most popular Old Testament stories is that of Joseph and his coat of many colors. Joseph was given the coat by his father, Jacob, who favored Joseph over his other sons. This gift angered Joseph’s brothers and they were filled with jealousy, prompting them to devise a scheme of killing Joseph and then throwing him into a nearby pit. Their plan was to tell their father that Joseph had been killed by a wild animal. Fortunately, there was a change of plans, fueled by the brothers’ guilt, and Joseph was not murdered before being thrown into the pit. This passage can serve as a reminder to us all to trust in God, no matter what obstacles we face in life. I feel the pit is symbolic of the difficult challenges we all will face, and a reminder that God is always there for us, no matter how deep our despair. Joseph always put his trust in God by simply trusting that God would take care of him. He knew God was in charge, and that gave him comfort in the “pit” of his life. No matter how bad things become, we can always rely on God. How comforting!
“If we don’t learn to bloom in the pit, we will never blossom
on life’s mountain” (Author unknown).
Susan Dowling
Genesis 37:23-24
One of the most popular Old Testament stories is that of Joseph and his coat of many colors. Joseph was given the coat by his father, Jacob, who favored Joseph over his other sons. This gift angered Joseph’s brothers and they were filled with jealousy, prompting them to devise a scheme of killing Joseph and then throwing him into a nearby pit. Their plan was to tell their father that Joseph had been killed by a wild animal. Fortunately, there was a change of plans, fueled by the brothers’ guilt, and Joseph was not murdered before being thrown into the pit. This passage can serve as a reminder to us all to trust in God, no matter what obstacles we face in life. I feel the pit is symbolic of the difficult challenges we all will face, and a reminder that God is always there for us, no matter how deep our despair. Joseph always put his trust in God by simply trusting that God would take care of him. He knew God was in charge, and that gave him comfort in the “pit” of his life. No matter how bad things become, we can always rely on God. How comforting!
“If we don’t learn to bloom in the pit, we will never blossom
on life’s mountain” (Author unknown).
Susan Dowling
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Lenten Reflection - March 12, 2009
Blessed are those who trust in the LORD, whose trust is in the LORD. They shall be like a tree planted by water, sending out its roots by the stream. It shall not fear when heat comes, and its leaves shall stay green; in the year of drought it is not anxious, and it does not cease to bear fruit.
Jeremiah 17:7-8
This passage from Jeremiah has strong meaning in my life! I have tried to live knowing that our LORD is an extremely important part of my life. This passage concerns the keeping of faith even in difficult personal times. Thinking of the passage’s meaning - In good times - (we are well watered and feel the warm sunshine) – emotionally happy times, our relationships are all going well, and financially we prosper – these are the times when it is easy to feel our LORD’s blessings and spread our LORD’s message in a positive, confident and encouraging manner to all around us. When all is well in our lives, our Lord’s blessings seem uncomplicated and undemanding. However, when times of “heat and drought” come into our lives, how will we deal with them? Will we curse our LORD and ask why? Or will we draw on our faith? Knowing confidently that Christ is in us and He will help us struggle through the times of “heat and drought.” At difficult times it is often hard to remember that our LORD does not give us more then we can cope with. As Christians and members of a faithful community, we must also support others in their time of “heat and drought.” Many of the Church’s ministries are designed to provide the framework of care and assistance in times of trouble but still it is the members of the faithful community that can demonstrate to one another Christ’s message of love and the peace that comes from trusting in the LORD.
Cathy Stasny
Jeremiah 17:7-8
This passage from Jeremiah has strong meaning in my life! I have tried to live knowing that our LORD is an extremely important part of my life. This passage concerns the keeping of faith even in difficult personal times. Thinking of the passage’s meaning - In good times - (we are well watered and feel the warm sunshine) – emotionally happy times, our relationships are all going well, and financially we prosper – these are the times when it is easy to feel our LORD’s blessings and spread our LORD’s message in a positive, confident and encouraging manner to all around us. When all is well in our lives, our Lord’s blessings seem uncomplicated and undemanding. However, when times of “heat and drought” come into our lives, how will we deal with them? Will we curse our LORD and ask why? Or will we draw on our faith? Knowing confidently that Christ is in us and He will help us struggle through the times of “heat and drought.” At difficult times it is often hard to remember that our LORD does not give us more then we can cope with. As Christians and members of a faithful community, we must also support others in their time of “heat and drought.” Many of the Church’s ministries are designed to provide the framework of care and assistance in times of trouble but still it is the members of the faithful community that can demonstrate to one another Christ’s message of love and the peace that comes from trusting in the LORD.
Cathy Stasny
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
Lenten Reflection - March 11, 2009
But I trust in you, O LORD; I say, “You are my GOD.” My times are in your hand; deliver me from the hand of my enemies and persecutors.
Psalm 31:14-15
Reflecting on this excerpt from the middle of Psalm 31, what jumped out at me was the simple statement “My times are in your hand.” The preceding passages show a protagonist beset by enemies, scorned by his neighbors, and suffering from a terrible affliction. Following a declaration of his faith, he states that his times are in God's hand and asks for deliverance.
Researching this excerpt, I found several interpretations, most having to do with length of life. However, I found Eugene Peterson's interpretation in “The Message” particularly meaningful to me: “Hour by hour I place my days in your hand.” This is not a resignation to a person's situation; it is a continual act of surrendering. Day by day, hour by hour, it is a process of affirming and then reaffirming the simple declaration from verse 14: “I trust in you, O LORD; I say 'You are my God.'” I know for me the thought is always there to trust in something or someone else – family, job, education, but most of all myself. The trick – and a step toward spiritual growth – is not to let that thought stick.
A wise friend once told me that one of the hardest things to do is to “let God be God.” Waking up each day and “placing my days in your hand” is something we will never do perfectly – it is progress, not perfection. However, having the willingness to make that effort and that progress is what allows us to live rather than simply say “You are my God.”
Rick Downs
Psalm 31:14-15
Reflecting on this excerpt from the middle of Psalm 31, what jumped out at me was the simple statement “My times are in your hand.” The preceding passages show a protagonist beset by enemies, scorned by his neighbors, and suffering from a terrible affliction. Following a declaration of his faith, he states that his times are in God's hand and asks for deliverance.
Researching this excerpt, I found several interpretations, most having to do with length of life. However, I found Eugene Peterson's interpretation in “The Message” particularly meaningful to me: “Hour by hour I place my days in your hand.” This is not a resignation to a person's situation; it is a continual act of surrendering. Day by day, hour by hour, it is a process of affirming and then reaffirming the simple declaration from verse 14: “I trust in you, O LORD; I say 'You are my God.'” I know for me the thought is always there to trust in something or someone else – family, job, education, but most of all myself. The trick – and a step toward spiritual growth – is not to let that thought stick.
A wise friend once told me that one of the hardest things to do is to “let God be God.” Waking up each day and “placing my days in your hand” is something we will never do perfectly – it is progress, not perfection. However, having the willingness to make that effort and that progress is what allows us to live rather than simply say “You are my God.”
Rick Downs
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Lenten Reflection - March 10, 2009
The greatest among you will be your servant. All who exalt themselves will be humbled, and all who humble themselves will be exalted.
Matthew 23:11-12
How cool is this?!? “The greatest among [us] will be [my] servant”!! WOW! Imagine that! My chest puffs up, my head swells…my servant!!.. but wait…”All who exalt themselves will be humbled.” Right. Check that. Slow down here. I’ll just keep reading. “…all who humble themselves will be exalted.” Great!! I’ll be exalted!!........wait a minute………let me read this again…”…all who humble themselves”..hmmm…I know about that, but it’s hard. I’m an okay person, right? But if I examine my heart, if I get quiet and really really think about it, I want to cry. Because I realize I can’t get around MYSELF!! But, Lord, I’ll keep trying. A wise and humble man, Dr. Alan Redpath, suggested that “Before you can pray ‘Thy Kingdom come’, we have to be able to say ‘My kingdom go’. So Lord, stay with me. I’m trying to let my kingdom go. Love me.
Patti Sachs
Matthew 23:11-12
How cool is this?!? “The greatest among [us] will be [my] servant”!! WOW! Imagine that! My chest puffs up, my head swells…my servant!!.. but wait…”All who exalt themselves will be humbled.” Right. Check that. Slow down here. I’ll just keep reading. “…all who humble themselves will be exalted.” Great!! I’ll be exalted!!........wait a minute………let me read this again…”…all who humble themselves”..hmmm…I know about that, but it’s hard. I’m an okay person, right? But if I examine my heart, if I get quiet and really really think about it, I want to cry. Because I realize I can’t get around MYSELF!! But, Lord, I’ll keep trying. A wise and humble man, Dr. Alan Redpath, suggested that “Before you can pray ‘Thy Kingdom come’, we have to be able to say ‘My kingdom go’. So Lord, stay with me. I’m trying to let my kingdom go. Love me.
Patti Sachs
Monday, March 9, 2009
Lenten Reflection - March 9, 2009
Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned.
Luke 6:37
We can’t survive without making judgments. From our childhood, we are taught to discern which actions are appropriate and which are not, those that threaten our safety and those that keep us safe. But Jesus isn’t talking about that kind of judgment here. He still expects us to distinguish right from wrong. The direction in this passage follows his instruction that his disciples should love their enemies. Now he is telling his followers to avoid judgment of all people, including their enemies. These words warn us to avoid gossip and all the subtle ways that we discount one another. Too often we are quick to label people and write them off because they are a liberal or conservative, white or black, Jew or Catholic. Too often we assume that we alone understand God’s prerogatives. Jesus is making it clear that there is no place for such assumptions among his followers.
Later in this passage, Jesus informs his disciples that “for with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.” Everyone has value in God’s eyes. Jesus died for the sins of all, not just those whom we judge deserving. Here in Luke, Jesus is telling us that we will be measured by the same criteria that we use to measure others. Be it judgment, condemnation, forgiveness or generosity, Jesus uses his instructions in Luke to remind us that our rewards in his kingdom will be balanced against our actions.
Susan Whitehead
Luke 6:37
We can’t survive without making judgments. From our childhood, we are taught to discern which actions are appropriate and which are not, those that threaten our safety and those that keep us safe. But Jesus isn’t talking about that kind of judgment here. He still expects us to distinguish right from wrong. The direction in this passage follows his instruction that his disciples should love their enemies. Now he is telling his followers to avoid judgment of all people, including their enemies. These words warn us to avoid gossip and all the subtle ways that we discount one another. Too often we are quick to label people and write them off because they are a liberal or conservative, white or black, Jew or Catholic. Too often we assume that we alone understand God’s prerogatives. Jesus is making it clear that there is no place for such assumptions among his followers.
Later in this passage, Jesus informs his disciples that “for with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.” Everyone has value in God’s eyes. Jesus died for the sins of all, not just those whom we judge deserving. Here in Luke, Jesus is telling us that we will be measured by the same criteria that we use to measure others. Be it judgment, condemnation, forgiveness or generosity, Jesus uses his instructions in Luke to remind us that our rewards in his kingdom will be balanced against our actions.
Susan Whitehead
Sunday, March 8, 2009
Lenten Reflection - March 8, 2009
If God is for us, who is against us? He who did not withhold his own Son, but gave him up for all of us, will he not with him also give us everything else?
Romans 8:31-32
Paul was writing this letter to the Romans, mostly Gentiles, explaining God’s love and salvation to them, yet his words now remind me of part of the wonderful hymn, How Great Thou Art:
And when I think, that God, His Son not sparing;
Sent Him to die, I scarce can take it in;
That on the Cross, my burden gladly bearing,
He bled and died to take away my sin.
Then sings my soul, My Saviour God, to Thee,
How great Thou art, How great Thou art.
Then sings my soul, My Saviour God, to Thee,
How great Thou art, How great Thou art!
How can we possibly understand the depths of God’s love for us? How can we possibly deserve the kind of love God shows us? How could he love us so much to give up his only son to die for our sins? As a parent, I cannot put words to how much I love my children, and I cannot imagine giving up a child for any reason or anyone else’s benefit. Obviously, it is beyond me to even imagine love as God loves.
We are God’s chosen ones, God’s precious children. He made us in his image. He loves us and wants us to become more and more like his son. If he loves us enough to give up his son for us, why wouldn’t he give us anything we could need or want? Since we are God’s chosen ones, who could possibly prevail against us?
Marjie Mack
Romans 8:31-32
Paul was writing this letter to the Romans, mostly Gentiles, explaining God’s love and salvation to them, yet his words now remind me of part of the wonderful hymn, How Great Thou Art:
And when I think, that God, His Son not sparing;
Sent Him to die, I scarce can take it in;
That on the Cross, my burden gladly bearing,
He bled and died to take away my sin.
Then sings my soul, My Saviour God, to Thee,
How great Thou art, How great Thou art.
Then sings my soul, My Saviour God, to Thee,
How great Thou art, How great Thou art!
How can we possibly understand the depths of God’s love for us? How can we possibly deserve the kind of love God shows us? How could he love us so much to give up his only son to die for our sins? As a parent, I cannot put words to how much I love my children, and I cannot imagine giving up a child for any reason or anyone else’s benefit. Obviously, it is beyond me to even imagine love as God loves.
We are God’s chosen ones, God’s precious children. He made us in his image. He loves us and wants us to become more and more like his son. If he loves us enough to give up his son for us, why wouldn’t he give us anything we could need or want? Since we are God’s chosen ones, who could possibly prevail against us?
Marjie Mack
Saturday, March 7, 2009
Lenten Reflection - March 7, 2009
“You have heard that it was said, love your neighbor and hate your enemy. But I tell you: love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.”
Matthew 5:43-44
This passage is so familiar and yet many of us find it rather difficult to implement. We might think for a moment, “Who are our enemies?” Many of us believe we have no enemies. However, an enemy might be someone we thought was a friend, a family member with a long-held grudge, or even a brother or sister in Christ. An enemy can be someone we feel does not like us or has hurt or mistreated us.
Jesus says “Bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you.” It is very difficult to “love, bless, do good, and pray” for a person who has hurt us.
This is a major test for God’s children. God wants us to do this so that we may resemble Him and be in His image. We all remember the story of Joseph and how he was sold into slavery by his brothers. They hated him! Years later when Joseph became a ruler in Egypt, his brothers came to him to buy food, and he treated them with kindness. Most would have said, “I don’t care what happens to you, because I have been treated badly!
Can you recall an incident in your own life where you were mistreated and you retaliated by being good to them? How often do you hear of anyone really paying someone back in kindness for an insulting remark? Well, according to Jesus, that’s what we should have done. What if we handled all our problems this way? What if when someone gives us a hard time, we respond with the energies of prayer! This is what God does. He gives us his best, to everyone, both the good and the bad, the nice and nasty! Wouldn’t we be better brothers, sisters, children, and friends? Then why not try it!
Linda Stewart
Matthew 5:43-44
This passage is so familiar and yet many of us find it rather difficult to implement. We might think for a moment, “Who are our enemies?” Many of us believe we have no enemies. However, an enemy might be someone we thought was a friend, a family member with a long-held grudge, or even a brother or sister in Christ. An enemy can be someone we feel does not like us or has hurt or mistreated us.
Jesus says “Bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you.” It is very difficult to “love, bless, do good, and pray” for a person who has hurt us.
This is a major test for God’s children. God wants us to do this so that we may resemble Him and be in His image. We all remember the story of Joseph and how he was sold into slavery by his brothers. They hated him! Years later when Joseph became a ruler in Egypt, his brothers came to him to buy food, and he treated them with kindness. Most would have said, “I don’t care what happens to you, because I have been treated badly!
Can you recall an incident in your own life where you were mistreated and you retaliated by being good to them? How often do you hear of anyone really paying someone back in kindness for an insulting remark? Well, according to Jesus, that’s what we should have done. What if we handled all our problems this way? What if when someone gives us a hard time, we respond with the energies of prayer! This is what God does. He gives us his best, to everyone, both the good and the bad, the nice and nasty! Wouldn’t we be better brothers, sisters, children, and friends? Then why not try it!
Linda Stewart
Friday, March 6, 2009
Lenten Reflection - March 6, 2009
I wait for the LORD, my soul waits, and in his word I put my hope....
Psalm 130:5
Waiting … so very hard for most of us … certainly for me! After all, taking control of our lives makes us actually believe that we can ensure our comfort and safety and even achieve our dreams and goals all on our own – such a false sense of security. We continue to feel unfilled, to anxiously search …
Maybe, at some point, we finally make the conscious decision to “let go and let God” … or maybe we just finally stumble and fall, exhausted and hopeless, and experience God in all His wonder as He reaches down, picks us up, and “gifts” us with His Peace and Grace – despite ourselves, despite our plans to control, despite our lack of patience with Him or our failure to realize He was there all along just waiting for us to “settle down” and let Him get on with the business of working through us and our lives to His purpose.
It’s just so easy to get caught up in the events of the “now” and forget all that. Yet each time I do, He patiently reminds me yet again that I can absolutely count on His guidance and forgiveness, and it becomes so much easier to put my hope in His word … to wait patiently for forgiveness … for guidance … and, while waiting, take comfort in my “downtime” as He prepares me for the next exciting adventure!
Pamela Blyth
Psalm 130:5
Waiting … so very hard for most of us … certainly for me! After all, taking control of our lives makes us actually believe that we can ensure our comfort and safety and even achieve our dreams and goals all on our own – such a false sense of security. We continue to feel unfilled, to anxiously search …
Maybe, at some point, we finally make the conscious decision to “let go and let God” … or maybe we just finally stumble and fall, exhausted and hopeless, and experience God in all His wonder as He reaches down, picks us up, and “gifts” us with His Peace and Grace – despite ourselves, despite our plans to control, despite our lack of patience with Him or our failure to realize He was there all along just waiting for us to “settle down” and let Him get on with the business of working through us and our lives to His purpose.
It’s just so easy to get caught up in the events of the “now” and forget all that. Yet each time I do, He patiently reminds me yet again that I can absolutely count on His guidance and forgiveness, and it becomes so much easier to put my hope in His word … to wait patiently for forgiveness … for guidance … and, while waiting, take comfort in my “downtime” as He prepares me for the next exciting adventure!
Pamela Blyth
Thursday, March 5, 2009
Lenten Reflection - March 5, 2009
So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.
Matthew 7:12
Of course, if we don’t know that this passage is from Matthew, we know it as The Golden Rule. This passage sounds fair and not too onerous (unlike some of the other suggestions in the Bible). The Golden Rule, often called the “ethic of reciprocity” is found in something like 23 world religions. Why is this ideal of treating each other equally so important that it resonates in almost every philosophical system, not just Christianity? And with its far reach, how come we don’t exactly always abide by this ethic of reciprocity?
This tiny passage concludes the Sermon on the Mount wherein Jesus recites the 8 Beatitudes. We’re pretty familiar with them, too—blessed are the poor, blessed are those who mourn, blessed are the meek, blessed are those who hunger for righteousness, blessed are the merciful, blessed are the pure of heart, blessed are the peacemakers, and blessed are they who are persecuted for the sake of righteousness. St. Augustine called the Beatitudes the ideal for every Christian life! The Beatitudes, unlike the 10 Commandments, are very positive and encouraging. They are not trip stones, waiting for us to mess up. They are gentle reminders that the Kingdom of God is within our reach, if only….
It’s the “if only” part that gives us trouble, maybe particularly as Americans who pretty much try to run from poverty, grief, meekness, hunger, etc. You get my point. Our secular socialization runs pretty much against the Beatitudes, and the Golden Rule. It’s really hard, at least it is for me, to embrace ideals I have been consciously and subconsciously acculturated against.
But, the Golden Rule and the Beatitudes are good reminders why we are Christians and why we make conscious decisions to go against the grain every now and then to do what’s right.
JoEllen Kelly
Matthew 7:12
Of course, if we don’t know that this passage is from Matthew, we know it as The Golden Rule. This passage sounds fair and not too onerous (unlike some of the other suggestions in the Bible). The Golden Rule, often called the “ethic of reciprocity” is found in something like 23 world religions. Why is this ideal of treating each other equally so important that it resonates in almost every philosophical system, not just Christianity? And with its far reach, how come we don’t exactly always abide by this ethic of reciprocity?
This tiny passage concludes the Sermon on the Mount wherein Jesus recites the 8 Beatitudes. We’re pretty familiar with them, too—blessed are the poor, blessed are those who mourn, blessed are the meek, blessed are those who hunger for righteousness, blessed are the merciful, blessed are the pure of heart, blessed are the peacemakers, and blessed are they who are persecuted for the sake of righteousness. St. Augustine called the Beatitudes the ideal for every Christian life! The Beatitudes, unlike the 10 Commandments, are very positive and encouraging. They are not trip stones, waiting for us to mess up. They are gentle reminders that the Kingdom of God is within our reach, if only….
It’s the “if only” part that gives us trouble, maybe particularly as Americans who pretty much try to run from poverty, grief, meekness, hunger, etc. You get my point. Our secular socialization runs pretty much against the Beatitudes, and the Golden Rule. It’s really hard, at least it is for me, to embrace ideals I have been consciously and subconsciously acculturated against.
But, the Golden Rule and the Beatitudes are good reminders why we are Christians and why we make conscious decisions to go against the grain every now and then to do what’s right.
JoEllen Kelly
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
Lenten Reflection - March 4, 2009
The sacrifice acceptable to God is a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise.
Psalm 51:17
An initial reading of verse 17 from Psalm 51 leaves a certain sense of discomfort and unease. Words such as “sacrifice,” “despise,” and “broken,” the latter of which actually appears twice in the short passage, practically jump from the page.
After reading and reflecting upon the full Psalm, however, a more positive and loving message emerges. The Psalm is David’s emotional plea for God’s forgiveness for a terrible sin – aldutery – and it describes the path to redemption. It reminds us that God loves and will forgive us in spite of our many flaws. What could be more positive than that?
This particular passage emphasizes that it is not enough to ask for God’s mercy. We must also show honest regret, or contrition. This is what the Psalm means by a “broken spirit.” Holding ourselves accountable for our sins – having a “contrite heart” – is the only price for His forgiveness. If we have strayed, through that “sacrifice” we find the path to His love.
On Sundays at St. James’, we confess our sins and say, “we are truly sorry, and we humbly repent.” These are elegant and powerful words. If they are to be “acceptable to God,” however, we must feel them in our hearts and live our lives accordingly.
What can we do today to show God we are truly sorry for our sins?
The Pickart Family
Psalm 51:17
An initial reading of verse 17 from Psalm 51 leaves a certain sense of discomfort and unease. Words such as “sacrifice,” “despise,” and “broken,” the latter of which actually appears twice in the short passage, practically jump from the page.
After reading and reflecting upon the full Psalm, however, a more positive and loving message emerges. The Psalm is David’s emotional plea for God’s forgiveness for a terrible sin – aldutery – and it describes the path to redemption. It reminds us that God loves and will forgive us in spite of our many flaws. What could be more positive than that?
This particular passage emphasizes that it is not enough to ask for God’s mercy. We must also show honest regret, or contrition. This is what the Psalm means by a “broken spirit.” Holding ourselves accountable for our sins – having a “contrite heart” – is the only price for His forgiveness. If we have strayed, through that “sacrifice” we find the path to His love.
On Sundays at St. James’, we confess our sins and say, “we are truly sorry, and we humbly repent.” These are elegant and powerful words. If they are to be “acceptable to God,” however, we must feel them in our hearts and live our lives accordingly.
What can we do today to show God we are truly sorry for our sins?
The Pickart Family
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
Lenten Reflection - March 3, 2009
O Magnify the LORD with me, and let us exalt his name together.
Psalm 34:3
How does one magnify the Lord? Can we do it on a day-to-day basis?
When we want to magnify something, our goal is to make "it" larger! Focusing on the most widely used definition of the word: (verb) to increase the apparent size of. In doing this, we should not take for granted how "apparent" our Lord and Savior actually is in our lives. We need to make God a larger part of our life in everything we do... through our thoughts, words and deeds! To magnify His existence in our lives would be to practice our beliefs more than we "apparently" already do. We should remind ourselves of a few passages that ought to be everyday occurrences! For example:
“... as we forgive those who trespass against us.” Matt. 6:12
“... Do unto others whatever you would like them to do to you.” Matt. 7:12
“...If someone slaps you on the right cheek, offer the other cheek also. If you are sued in court and your shirt is taken from you, give your coat, too. If a soldier demands that you carry his gear for a mile, carry it two miles.” Matt. 5:39-41
“...If any one of you is without sin, let him be the first to throw a stone at her." John 8:7
When the day arrives that we are brought home to the Kingdom of God, where we finally have the opportunity to meet Him face to face... wouldn't it be amazing if he looked straight into our eyes and simply said, "Well done!"
Brooke Steuart
Psalm 34:3
How does one magnify the Lord? Can we do it on a day-to-day basis?
When we want to magnify something, our goal is to make "it" larger! Focusing on the most widely used definition of the word: (verb) to increase the apparent size of. In doing this, we should not take for granted how "apparent" our Lord and Savior actually is in our lives. We need to make God a larger part of our life in everything we do... through our thoughts, words and deeds! To magnify His existence in our lives would be to practice our beliefs more than we "apparently" already do. We should remind ourselves of a few passages that ought to be everyday occurrences! For example:
“... as we forgive those who trespass against us.” Matt. 6:12
“... Do unto others whatever you would like them to do to you.” Matt. 7:12
“...If someone slaps you on the right cheek, offer the other cheek also. If you are sued in court and your shirt is taken from you, give your coat, too. If a soldier demands that you carry his gear for a mile, carry it two miles.” Matt. 5:39-41
“...If any one of you is without sin, let him be the first to throw a stone at her." John 8:7
When the day arrives that we are brought home to the Kingdom of God, where we finally have the opportunity to meet Him face to face... wouldn't it be amazing if he looked straight into our eyes and simply said, "Well done!"
Brooke Steuart
Monday, March 2, 2009
Lenten Reflection - March 2, 2009
Then the king will say to those at his right hand, “Come, you that are blessed by my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world; for I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me.”
Matthew 25:34-35
Jesus praises those for giving him food when he was hungry, a drink when he was thirsty, and welcoming him when he was a stranger. Further along it even states that when he was naked they clothed him; sick or in prison they visited him. He refers to himself, but means all of God’s people. It’s about reaching out to those we may not want to spend too much time with ordinarily.
It reminded me of a time while driving to Annapolis with two of my children. We were at an intersection where someone was collecting money. With just having read a story in the paper about how some people were coming down from Baltimore on a coach bus to beg, I averted my eyes. My children asked why I wasn’t giving any money today. They promptly reminded me that I may be looking at Jesus and he would be disappointed in me. While I do not give out money like I use to, I do try to keep gift certificates from the food chains for giving out on such occasions.
Remembering to do what is asked of us by Christ so that we can be the sheep he calls us to be is the message of this passage for me. Living by His words and lessons prepares us for that heavenly place in God’s Kingdom.
Sharon McGlaughlin
Matthew 25:34-35
Jesus praises those for giving him food when he was hungry, a drink when he was thirsty, and welcoming him when he was a stranger. Further along it even states that when he was naked they clothed him; sick or in prison they visited him. He refers to himself, but means all of God’s people. It’s about reaching out to those we may not want to spend too much time with ordinarily.
It reminded me of a time while driving to Annapolis with two of my children. We were at an intersection where someone was collecting money. With just having read a story in the paper about how some people were coming down from Baltimore on a coach bus to beg, I averted my eyes. My children asked why I wasn’t giving any money today. They promptly reminded me that I may be looking at Jesus and he would be disappointed in me. While I do not give out money like I use to, I do try to keep gift certificates from the food chains for giving out on such occasions.
Remembering to do what is asked of us by Christ so that we can be the sheep he calls us to be is the message of this passage for me. Living by His words and lessons prepares us for that heavenly place in God’s Kingdom.
Sharon McGlaughlin
Sunday, March 1, 2009
Lenten Reflection - March 1, 2009
He was in the wilderness forty days, tempted by Satan….
Mark 1:13
Through today’s verse we encounter a Jesus who is tired, hungry, and alone after spending forty days in the wilderness being tempted by Satan. The forty days Jesus spent being tempted remind me of our own forty days of seeking and searching during this season of Lent…Amazingly, we find ourselves connected; connected to Jesus through the one thing that can weaken or strengthen our relationship with God, temptation.
The tempter knows the condition of Jesus; he knows His weaknesses (he’s hungry, tired, and alone) and he tries to take advantage of them. It’s as if the tempter is saying: “use your power to meet your own needs, use your power to meet the material needs of the world.” However, Jesus refuses and puts His trust in His Father. Jesus acknowledges the love His Father has for Him, thus enabling Him to overcome any temptation.
Like Jesus, we too, face temptations every day. How we respond to such temptations depends on whether or not we are willing to trust God and his love for us. So, this Lenten season let us spend more time recognizing our weaknesses and the places in which we are tempted, so that we may respond in ways that glorify God instead of ourselves. And may we be reminded that it is God who provides for our deepest needs and it is through His love that we are able to overcome any temptation we face.
The Rev. Amanda Knouse
Mark 1:13
Through today’s verse we encounter a Jesus who is tired, hungry, and alone after spending forty days in the wilderness being tempted by Satan. The forty days Jesus spent being tempted remind me of our own forty days of seeking and searching during this season of Lent…Amazingly, we find ourselves connected; connected to Jesus through the one thing that can weaken or strengthen our relationship with God, temptation.
The tempter knows the condition of Jesus; he knows His weaknesses (he’s hungry, tired, and alone) and he tries to take advantage of them. It’s as if the tempter is saying: “use your power to meet your own needs, use your power to meet the material needs of the world.” However, Jesus refuses and puts His trust in His Father. Jesus acknowledges the love His Father has for Him, thus enabling Him to overcome any temptation.
Like Jesus, we too, face temptations every day. How we respond to such temptations depends on whether or not we are willing to trust God and his love for us. So, this Lenten season let us spend more time recognizing our weaknesses and the places in which we are tempted, so that we may respond in ways that glorify God instead of ourselves. And may we be reminded that it is God who provides for our deepest needs and it is through His love that we are able to overcome any temptation we face.
The Rev. Amanda Knouse
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)