Mary Magdalene went and announced to the disciples, “I have seen the Lord”; and she told them that He had said these things to her.
John 20:11–23
Last December, Bishop John Rabb visited our Parish and preached at our services. The Gospel for that Sunday was Matthew 11:2-11, the story of John the Baptist. Being imprisoned and knowing that his death was imminent, John sent his disciples to Jesus to inquire if He was the Messiah—the one whom they were expecting. Jesus told them: “Go and tell John what you hear and see.” Bishop Rabb kept emphasizing that they were told, “Go and tell John.” He reminded us all that each one of us needs to go and tell “others” what we have heard and seen. We, you and I, have seen and heard the Lord in our lives. The Gospel message printed above tells how Mary Magdalene “went and announced to the disciples, ‘I have seen the Lord.’” On this Day each of us must proclaim “I have seen the Lord.” As I am writing this reflection, I am recovering from a hip replacement. The prayers and love extended in my direction have made me, more and more, able to proclaim “I have seen the Lord.” The love of the crucified Jesus for us and now God having raised Jesus from the dead for us have been ever so clearly demonstrated to me by your love having been poured out from the Christ who dwells within each of us.
Bill Ticknor+
Rector
Sunday, April 24, 2011
Saturday, April 23, 2011
Lenten Reflection - April 23, 2011 Holy Saturday
Now there was a garden in the place where he was crucified, and in the garden there was a new tomb in which no one had ever been laid. And so, because it was the Jewish day of Preparation, and the tomb was nearby, they laid Jesus there.
John 19:38–42
I can recall three times that gardens are mentioned prominently in the Bible: in the Garden of Eden where death first occurred; in the Garden of Gethsemane where Jesus began His Passion; and, finally, in this garden spot that Joseph of Arimathea had provided.
As I write this, it is winter and the gardens at our house are barren and cold. It does not appear that life exists there. But I know that when Spring comes, life will become abundantly apparent as each seed that lies hidden in the ground bursts into a glorious existence.
I think back to the time that Jesus was placed in a tomb in a garden. Despite all the times that Jesus had discussed His death and resurrection, there were not many gathered in that vicinity who believed that, in this garden, apparent death and the grave would be conquered. And yet, following this time of Jewish preparation, this is exactly what happened! And the belief in this occurrence and the resultant joy began to spread. Eventually, God’s people throughout the world would be able to see in this resurrection their own salvation.
Thanks be to God, who has provided us this triumphant victory!
Charlie Wolf
John 19:38–42
I can recall three times that gardens are mentioned prominently in the Bible: in the Garden of Eden where death first occurred; in the Garden of Gethsemane where Jesus began His Passion; and, finally, in this garden spot that Joseph of Arimathea had provided.
As I write this, it is winter and the gardens at our house are barren and cold. It does not appear that life exists there. But I know that when Spring comes, life will become abundantly apparent as each seed that lies hidden in the ground bursts into a glorious existence.
I think back to the time that Jesus was placed in a tomb in a garden. Despite all the times that Jesus had discussed His death and resurrection, there were not many gathered in that vicinity who believed that, in this garden, apparent death and the grave would be conquered. And yet, following this time of Jewish preparation, this is exactly what happened! And the belief in this occurrence and the resultant joy began to spread. Eventually, God’s people throughout the world would be able to see in this resurrection their own salvation.
Thanks be to God, who has provided us this triumphant victory!
Charlie Wolf
Friday, April 22, 2011
Lenten Reflection - April 22, 2011 Good Friday
There were also women looking on from a distance; among them were Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James the younger and of Joses, and Salome…Then Joseph bought a linen cloth, and taking down the body, wrapped it in the linen cloth, and laid it in a tomb that had been hewn out of the rock
Mark 15:40–47
In this sad story on Good Friday, I was struck by the love, courage, generosity, and faithfulness of Mary Magdalene, Mary, Salome, and Joseph of Arimathea—even in the midst of their grief, they lived for him. Only real love for Jesus would have given them the courage to be seen as his followers at a very dangerous time, and Joseph even dared ask Pilate for his body. He generously bought a linen shroud and gave Jesus the tomb he had planned for his own burial. The women faithfully served Jesus while he was alive, and Joseph lived faithfully and expectantly, on the lookout for the Kingdom of God.
Who knows how many people noticed and were inspired by the acts of these people—then and over the next 2000+ years? They might be surprised to know their acts were written in the Bible as examples for us all! We each do what we might think are small things—writing notes or making calls of encouragement, providing meals for another family, making donations to charities, making the bread run, serving on committees, attending Bible studies, singing in the choir, serving on altar guild, fixing things around the church buildings, or teaching a class. Who knows how many people notice and are inspired by each of us?
Even in the midst of hard times, if only I could live for Jesus with the love, courage, generosity, and faithfulness they had! If only we all could live expectantly each day, on the lookout for the Kingdom of God!
Marjie Mack
Mark 15:40–47
In this sad story on Good Friday, I was struck by the love, courage, generosity, and faithfulness of Mary Magdalene, Mary, Salome, and Joseph of Arimathea—even in the midst of their grief, they lived for him. Only real love for Jesus would have given them the courage to be seen as his followers at a very dangerous time, and Joseph even dared ask Pilate for his body. He generously bought a linen shroud and gave Jesus the tomb he had planned for his own burial. The women faithfully served Jesus while he was alive, and Joseph lived faithfully and expectantly, on the lookout for the Kingdom of God.
Who knows how many people noticed and were inspired by the acts of these people—then and over the next 2000+ years? They might be surprised to know their acts were written in the Bible as examples for us all! We each do what we might think are small things—writing notes or making calls of encouragement, providing meals for another family, making donations to charities, making the bread run, serving on committees, attending Bible studies, singing in the choir, serving on altar guild, fixing things around the church buildings, or teaching a class. Who knows how many people notice and are inspired by each of us?
Even in the midst of hard times, if only I could live for Jesus with the love, courage, generosity, and faithfulness they had! If only we all could live expectantly each day, on the lookout for the Kingdom of God!
Marjie Mack
Thursday, April 21, 2011
Lenten Reflection - April 21, 2011 Maundy Thursday
…He said to them, “I am deeply grieved, even to death; remain here, and stay awake with me.” And going a little farther, he threw himself on the ground and prayed, “My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from me; yet not what I want but what you want.”
Matthew 26:36–45
Following the Last Supper, Jesus took his disciples to Gethsemane, on the lower slopes of the Mount of Olives, just east of the temple mount area in Jerusalem. Surrounded by ancient olive trees, Gethsemane literally translates to “olive press,” for it was there that olives from the neighborhood were crushed for their oil. Jesus chose Gethsemane because Judas knew of the place. It offered seclusion, but not to the point of secrecy; during his final hours of freedom, Christ would neither give himself up nor hide like a coward.
When they arrived at Gethsemane, Jesus told his followers to sit and wait while he prayed. Through his prayers we see an initially anguished Jesus, distressed at the pain and horror that lay ahead on the Cross. Ultimately, though, his words reveal a readiness to bear the load of his sufferings, for he was willing to submit for our redemption and salvation.
Gethsemane was a pivotal decision-making time for Jesus, and each of us has analogous moments in our own lives. When we encounter difficult situations (though few that could compare with an impending crucifixion) we doubt ourselves, and our ability to face the events or crises that lay ahead. We can follow Christ’s example, by facing our trials head-on, rather than hiding from our problems, or succumbing to them. Most importantly, though, it is prayer that enables us to bear our crosses and burdens in life. As Jesus demonstrated, it is through prayer that we both find the strength to embrace God’s will, and to accept the suffering that sometimes accompanies it.
Tricia and Chris Hurlbutt
Matthew 26:36–45
Following the Last Supper, Jesus took his disciples to Gethsemane, on the lower slopes of the Mount of Olives, just east of the temple mount area in Jerusalem. Surrounded by ancient olive trees, Gethsemane literally translates to “olive press,” for it was there that olives from the neighborhood were crushed for their oil. Jesus chose Gethsemane because Judas knew of the place. It offered seclusion, but not to the point of secrecy; during his final hours of freedom, Christ would neither give himself up nor hide like a coward.
When they arrived at Gethsemane, Jesus told his followers to sit and wait while he prayed. Through his prayers we see an initially anguished Jesus, distressed at the pain and horror that lay ahead on the Cross. Ultimately, though, his words reveal a readiness to bear the load of his sufferings, for he was willing to submit for our redemption and salvation.
Gethsemane was a pivotal decision-making time for Jesus, and each of us has analogous moments in our own lives. When we encounter difficult situations (though few that could compare with an impending crucifixion) we doubt ourselves, and our ability to face the events or crises that lay ahead. We can follow Christ’s example, by facing our trials head-on, rather than hiding from our problems, or succumbing to them. Most importantly, though, it is prayer that enables us to bear our crosses and burdens in life. As Jesus demonstrated, it is through prayer that we both find the strength to embrace God’s will, and to accept the suffering that sometimes accompanies it.
Tricia and Chris Hurlbutt
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Lenten Reflection - April 20, 2011 Wednesday, Holy Week
In the morning, while it was still very dark, he got up and went out to a deserted place, and there he prayed.
Mark 1:35–39
Was he purposely hiding? His friends hunted high and low for him and others frantically joined in the search. He was nowhere to be found.
Q. What IS he doing?
A. Praying, conversing with his Father.
Q. Why on earth does he of all people need to do that? He’s Jesus the greatest, God incarnate, our Messiah?
A. Because he entered history as a man, a servant, active, on the move, serving, healing, sacrificing, and saving. Constantly giving out, teaching, preaching, facing rejection at every turn, yet relentless, and desiring that all who heard his message would choose to follow him, and consequently know his Father. Vs 38. “This is what I came out to do”.
“In the morning while it was still very dark” – You know those dark night times when we lie in our beds churning, fretting, and feeling very alone, “how am I going to manage what’s ahead?’ It’s so encouraging to know that Jesus, the Messiah, Son of God, but also fully human, knowing the frightening path he had to take, found it absolutely necessary to come to his Father, quiet and alone, in prayer. Prayer - a ‘life line’ to his Father, for focus, nurture, guidance, quiet council, realignment, companionship, assurance, energy and impetus just for the next moment.
Matthew 11:27 - 28 (Message). Jesus says “The Father has given me all these things to do and say. This is a unique Father-Son operation coming out of Father and Son intimacies and knowledge. No one knows the Son the way the Father does, nor the Father the way the Son does. But I’m not keeping it to myself. I’m ready to go over it line by line with anyone ready to listen.---------Get away with me and you’ll recover your life--------learn the unforced rhythms of grace-------Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly…”
By regularly finding the time and place alone to chat with our Father, bringing our worship, our concerns, our thrills, our whole life really, to Him. This readies us to go out and live meaningfully and purposefully trusting He is with us through it all, because Jesus came to make it possible. Jesus, our perfect role model!
Nan Lewis
Mark 1:35–39
Was he purposely hiding? His friends hunted high and low for him and others frantically joined in the search. He was nowhere to be found.
Q. What IS he doing?
A. Praying, conversing with his Father.
Q. Why on earth does he of all people need to do that? He’s Jesus the greatest, God incarnate, our Messiah?
A. Because he entered history as a man, a servant, active, on the move, serving, healing, sacrificing, and saving. Constantly giving out, teaching, preaching, facing rejection at every turn, yet relentless, and desiring that all who heard his message would choose to follow him, and consequently know his Father. Vs 38. “This is what I came out to do”.
“In the morning while it was still very dark” – You know those dark night times when we lie in our beds churning, fretting, and feeling very alone, “how am I going to manage what’s ahead?’ It’s so encouraging to know that Jesus, the Messiah, Son of God, but also fully human, knowing the frightening path he had to take, found it absolutely necessary to come to his Father, quiet and alone, in prayer. Prayer - a ‘life line’ to his Father, for focus, nurture, guidance, quiet council, realignment, companionship, assurance, energy and impetus just for the next moment.
Matthew 11:27 - 28 (Message). Jesus says “The Father has given me all these things to do and say. This is a unique Father-Son operation coming out of Father and Son intimacies and knowledge. No one knows the Son the way the Father does, nor the Father the way the Son does. But I’m not keeping it to myself. I’m ready to go over it line by line with anyone ready to listen.---------Get away with me and you’ll recover your life--------learn the unforced rhythms of grace-------Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly…”
By regularly finding the time and place alone to chat with our Father, bringing our worship, our concerns, our thrills, our whole life really, to Him. This readies us to go out and live meaningfully and purposefully trusting He is with us through it all, because Jesus came to make it possible. Jesus, our perfect role model!
Nan Lewis
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Lenten Reflection - April 19, 2011 Tuesday, Holy Week
For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven: …a time to keep silence, and a time to speak…
For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven: …a time to keep silence, and a time to speak…
Ecclesiastes 3:1-8
Some of us may be familiar with this passage from the hit song written by Pete Seeger and sung by The Byrds, “Turn! Turn! Turn!” What is this passage about? Well, the word “time” is used 29 times in only 8 verses! I am writing this on a “snow day”—truly a gift of time, when work and planned activities are cancelled. Normally, I would be running from one activity to another, often without enjoying the time I spend doing them.
Time is what we want most, especially as we get older; what our children and grandchildren really want most from us; what it takes to make relationships work; what we most look forward to in retirement; what we begrudge giving up most for something we are not eager to do. Our life can only be satisfying when we center it on God and are grateful and enjoy the time He gives us each day—whether it is working, playing, waiting, eating, praying, meeting, gardening, shoveling, or taking a class. We can be sure God will bring each of these times into our life at the right time for us.
God has set eternity in our hearts. We don’t need to look behind to what did not get done or ahead to what needs to be done. All we need to do is live day by day, enjoy each time He has given us, and keep his commandments. It all prepares us for that precious gift of eternity—all of time—which someday will be ours!
Marjie Mack
For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven: …a time to keep silence, and a time to speak…
Ecclesiastes 3:1-8
Some of us may be familiar with this passage from the hit song written by Pete Seeger and sung by The Byrds, “Turn! Turn! Turn!” What is this passage about? Well, the word “time” is used 29 times in only 8 verses! I am writing this on a “snow day”—truly a gift of time, when work and planned activities are cancelled. Normally, I would be running from one activity to another, often without enjoying the time I spend doing them.
Time is what we want most, especially as we get older; what our children and grandchildren really want most from us; what it takes to make relationships work; what we most look forward to in retirement; what we begrudge giving up most for something we are not eager to do. Our life can only be satisfying when we center it on God and are grateful and enjoy the time He gives us each day—whether it is working, playing, waiting, eating, praying, meeting, gardening, shoveling, or taking a class. We can be sure God will bring each of these times into our life at the right time for us.
God has set eternity in our hearts. We don’t need to look behind to what did not get done or ahead to what needs to be done. All we need to do is live day by day, enjoy each time He has given us, and keep his commandments. It all prepares us for that precious gift of eternity—all of time—which someday will be ours!
Marjie Mack
Monday, April 18, 2011
Lenten Reflection - April 18, 2011 Monday, Holy Week
“If you love me, you will keep my commandments. And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Advocate to be with you forever. This is the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees him nor knows him. You know him, because he abides with you, and he will be in you.”
John 14:15–17
Sitting in the Upper Room, our Lord comforts His disciples as they discuss the news that Jesus will soon be leaving. To reassure them, He promises the Holy Spirit—the third person of the Trinity. Why was this a comfort to them? How can it comfort us today? Jesus asks the FATHER to send the Holy Spirit to us. God has proven Himself to be a promise-keeper, so we can depend on it ( we actually see that promise being fulfilled in Acts 2 at Pentecost). What will the Spirit's role be? He will be an ADVOCATE. He will be our cheerleader, always there to keep us on the right path, speaking to the Father on our behalf. He also is the SPIRIT of TRUTH. The Spirit inspired the Word of God and also illumines it. For how long? FOREVER. Once received, he will not depart from us. We can grieve his Spirit, however, which is why we need to pray often asking for a fresh infilling of his Spirit. Where will he be? He ABIDES IN US. The world does not see Him because they do not know the Son. But we, as believers, have access to Him always. Though invisible, His presence in us is evident. Jesus had dwelt with them, but now the Holy Spirit would dwell in them, and us. What a comfort in knowing we are never alone, having access to the Father and His Son by the power of the Holy Spirit!
Renee Wilson
John 14:15–17
Sitting in the Upper Room, our Lord comforts His disciples as they discuss the news that Jesus will soon be leaving. To reassure them, He promises the Holy Spirit—the third person of the Trinity. Why was this a comfort to them? How can it comfort us today? Jesus asks the FATHER to send the Holy Spirit to us. God has proven Himself to be a promise-keeper, so we can depend on it ( we actually see that promise being fulfilled in Acts 2 at Pentecost). What will the Spirit's role be? He will be an ADVOCATE. He will be our cheerleader, always there to keep us on the right path, speaking to the Father on our behalf. He also is the SPIRIT of TRUTH. The Spirit inspired the Word of God and also illumines it. For how long? FOREVER. Once received, he will not depart from us. We can grieve his Spirit, however, which is why we need to pray often asking for a fresh infilling of his Spirit. Where will he be? He ABIDES IN US. The world does not see Him because they do not know the Son. But we, as believers, have access to Him always. Though invisible, His presence in us is evident. Jesus had dwelt with them, but now the Holy Spirit would dwell in them, and us. What a comfort in knowing we are never alone, having access to the Father and His Son by the power of the Holy Spirit!
Renee Wilson
Sunday, April 17, 2011
Lenten Reflection - April 17, 2011 Palm Sunday
The next day the great crowd that had come to the festival heard that Jesus was coming to Jerusalem. So they took branches of palm trees and went out to meet him, shouting “Hosanna!”
John 12:9–18
“Hey, have you got your tickets to the festival?”
“You bet! Wouldn’t miss it. Everyone will be there! And we’re going right now. That little town fills up fast. I don’t want to miss anything. Come on with us!”
Passover was always a big deal – the biggest of the high holy days, celebrating the exodus from Egypt 2000 years earlier. At these times, little Jerusalem, a town of about 150,000 people and countless animals would swell with pilgrims from the entire diaspora: Babylon, Egypt, Syria. Josephus, the historian, numbers the people in the millions! What a time it must have been! But this year was different. Jesus had been preaching and healing all around Palestine for several years now. Many people knew of him. Some had heard him speak. Some had been healed. So it’s not surprising that, upon hearing that Jesus was coming, many, many people wanted to welcome him. Surely some were just curious (“Raised Lazarus from the dead?!? Really?!?”). They laid down palm fronds before him (John 12) and threw their cloaks on the ground (Mark11:8) in gestures of welcome and respect.
What is Jesus’ road to my heart lined with? Have I spread my cloak before him? Do I welcome him with palm fronds and hosannas? Or am I a curious seeker?
It really doesn’t matter to Jesus. He just wants to be welcomed in.
Welcome, Lord.
Patti Sachs
John 12:9–18
“Hey, have you got your tickets to the festival?”
“You bet! Wouldn’t miss it. Everyone will be there! And we’re going right now. That little town fills up fast. I don’t want to miss anything. Come on with us!”
Passover was always a big deal – the biggest of the high holy days, celebrating the exodus from Egypt 2000 years earlier. At these times, little Jerusalem, a town of about 150,000 people and countless animals would swell with pilgrims from the entire diaspora: Babylon, Egypt, Syria. Josephus, the historian, numbers the people in the millions! What a time it must have been! But this year was different. Jesus had been preaching and healing all around Palestine for several years now. Many people knew of him. Some had heard him speak. Some had been healed. So it’s not surprising that, upon hearing that Jesus was coming, many, many people wanted to welcome him. Surely some were just curious (“Raised Lazarus from the dead?!? Really?!?”). They laid down palm fronds before him (John 12) and threw their cloaks on the ground (Mark11:8) in gestures of welcome and respect.
What is Jesus’ road to my heart lined with? Have I spread my cloak before him? Do I welcome him with palm fronds and hosannas? Or am I a curious seeker?
It really doesn’t matter to Jesus. He just wants to be welcomed in.
Welcome, Lord.
Patti Sachs
Saturday, April 16, 2011
Lenten Reflection - April 16, 2011
And the Spirit immediately drove him out into the wilderness. He was in the wilderness forty days, tempted by Satan; and he was with the wild beasts; and the angels waited on him
Mark 1:9–13
How many small Bible stories mirror life, our lives? Writ large or small, cannot we see the larger themes that affect us?
Jesus, “born again” in his baptism by John the Baptist, now truly begins his life. Our lives take us away from those who know us (John), and we move into the greater world (the wilderness). Forty days, forty years—a lifetime. While we are there, being alive, are we not tempted, are we not surrounded by wild beasts who are likely to harm us? (It’s all relative, the beasts in your circles may be perhaps less ravenous than the ones in mine, but they’ll eat you up all the same).
But, wait. There’s hope. In our time in the wilderness, we have those who minister to us, our own angels. Perhaps they’re in the guise of family, of friends, of total strangers who pass through our lives, seen once and never again. And we have Christ, who ministers to us; so that we might come through our time in the wilderness, and come safe from out of the wilderness.
Christ doesn’t come out of the wilderness all dressed up in rich robes, leading an army to seize a kingdom, trumpets blaring. No. He comes out, probably looking a little worse for wear, but looking pretty much as he went in. As do we, who end our lives taking none of our trappings with us, but having God minister to us at the end.
Beverly Fahlstrom
Mark 1:9–13
How many small Bible stories mirror life, our lives? Writ large or small, cannot we see the larger themes that affect us?
Jesus, “born again” in his baptism by John the Baptist, now truly begins his life. Our lives take us away from those who know us (John), and we move into the greater world (the wilderness). Forty days, forty years—a lifetime. While we are there, being alive, are we not tempted, are we not surrounded by wild beasts who are likely to harm us? (It’s all relative, the beasts in your circles may be perhaps less ravenous than the ones in mine, but they’ll eat you up all the same).
But, wait. There’s hope. In our time in the wilderness, we have those who minister to us, our own angels. Perhaps they’re in the guise of family, of friends, of total strangers who pass through our lives, seen once and never again. And we have Christ, who ministers to us; so that we might come through our time in the wilderness, and come safe from out of the wilderness.
Christ doesn’t come out of the wilderness all dressed up in rich robes, leading an army to seize a kingdom, trumpets blaring. No. He comes out, probably looking a little worse for wear, but looking pretty much as he went in. As do we, who end our lives taking none of our trappings with us, but having God minister to us at the end.
Beverly Fahlstrom
Friday, April 15, 2011
Lenten Reflection - April 15, 2011
Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not let them be afraid.
John 14:27–28
Jesus speaks these words to His disciples as He prepared for His crucifixion. They were meant as works of comfort and assurance that God is always with us.
We greet our fellow parishioners on Sunday morning with the words, “The peace of the Lord be with you,” “God’s peace,” or simply “peace.” What do we mean? Are we simply repeating the words that our liturgy suggests? Are we offering words of calm and strength? Can our neighbor see in our face the serenity of knowing God is with us and our hearts and not troubled?
Or are we just following a ritual, hurrying to get on with the service, anxious about the rest of the day’s activities, worried about work or family issues?
When you reach for your neighbor’s hand during the next service, think about it. Are you offering him or her peace from within your own serenity? Are you sincere in friendship? What does your fellow parishioner see in you? God’s peace or ???
Lorraine Taylor
John 14:27–28
Jesus speaks these words to His disciples as He prepared for His crucifixion. They were meant as works of comfort and assurance that God is always with us.
We greet our fellow parishioners on Sunday morning with the words, “The peace of the Lord be with you,” “God’s peace,” or simply “peace.” What do we mean? Are we simply repeating the words that our liturgy suggests? Are we offering words of calm and strength? Can our neighbor see in our face the serenity of knowing God is with us and our hearts and not troubled?
Or are we just following a ritual, hurrying to get on with the service, anxious about the rest of the day’s activities, worried about work or family issues?
When you reach for your neighbor’s hand during the next service, think about it. Are you offering him or her peace from within your own serenity? Are you sincere in friendship? What does your fellow parishioner see in you? God’s peace or ???
Lorraine Taylor
Thursday, April 14, 2011
Lenten Reflection - April 14, 2011
Then Jesus told them a parable about their need to pray always and not to lose heart.
Luke 18:1–8
There are a couple of things going on in this parable. The widow who demands justice from the unjust judge finally gets what she has sought—even though the judge responds only for his own benefit (he does not want to suffer physically or socially). The widow demands justice—not money, not publicity, but justice. She is ultimately rewarded for wanting/seeking/demanding the right thing. And if the widow can get justice from such a selfish judge, shouldn’t the righteous, whose demands take the form of prayer, expect the same from a just God? Yes, we will be heard and yes, we will be given the justice we demand—as long as we continue to pray and believe. And even when this is revealed, Jesus wonders if the Son of Man will find evidence of that faith when he comes. The absolute necessity of belief, as manifested through prayer, is Jesus’ concern in this parable; but endurance is also required of the faithful, just as it was of the widow.
That emphasis, not just as belief, but on action (belief made manifest) is the basis for life in our community. We must believe in justice and we must act for justice, whether or not it is immediately forthcoming. We must endure in our belief and our desire for justice. Just as the widow was rewarded for her perseverance, those who believe and, by prayer, make their beliefs manifest will also be rewarded.
Janice Buchan
Luke 18:1–8
There are a couple of things going on in this parable. The widow who demands justice from the unjust judge finally gets what she has sought—even though the judge responds only for his own benefit (he does not want to suffer physically or socially). The widow demands justice—not money, not publicity, but justice. She is ultimately rewarded for wanting/seeking/demanding the right thing. And if the widow can get justice from such a selfish judge, shouldn’t the righteous, whose demands take the form of prayer, expect the same from a just God? Yes, we will be heard and yes, we will be given the justice we demand—as long as we continue to pray and believe. And even when this is revealed, Jesus wonders if the Son of Man will find evidence of that faith when he comes. The absolute necessity of belief, as manifested through prayer, is Jesus’ concern in this parable; but endurance is also required of the faithful, just as it was of the widow.
That emphasis, not just as belief, but on action (belief made manifest) is the basis for life in our community. We must believe in justice and we must act for justice, whether or not it is immediately forthcoming. We must endure in our belief and our desire for justice. Just as the widow was rewarded for her perseverance, those who believe and, by prayer, make their beliefs manifest will also be rewarded.
Janice Buchan
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
Lenten Reflection - April 13, 2011
When Jesus realized that they were about to come and take him by force to make him king, he withdrew again to the mountain by himself.
John 6:1–21
Do you want to be a king (or queen)? If they use force to make you king, can they use force to “remove” you as that? Would they let you be the king you’d want to be?
So much swirls around in this. Jesus is already a king; but not the kind they’re looking for. Satan has already tempted Him with worldly power, but Jesus has rejected that. And besides, do those who would force Him really have the power, to overthrow Roman rule, set Jesus up, and hold onto a nation? Most rational folks would think it unlikely, if not wild fantasy. No, they’re not being realistic. And Jesus knows the realities.
And could they, would they, stay governed? Internal disputes were not unheard of. In their own trapped frustration, the Jewish sects of the time will turn on each other in violence and death. Really, that’s not any kind of a secure throne. Who wants to rule such an unruly crowd? Won’t they turn, viciously, on those who won’t give them what they want? And do the same to the next one?
No.
Not that kind of kingship, not that king at all. Better to get out of Dodge now, pull back, let them spend their hysteria until they’re calmed down, more able to listen, and perhaps actually hear.
What are you hearing? Who are you listening to? The roar of the crowd, the life around you? Or the quiet of the mountainside in God’s kingdom?
What do you want to listen to? How will you do that? What will you do?
Greg Davis
John 6:1–21
Do you want to be a king (or queen)? If they use force to make you king, can they use force to “remove” you as that? Would they let you be the king you’d want to be?
So much swirls around in this. Jesus is already a king; but not the kind they’re looking for. Satan has already tempted Him with worldly power, but Jesus has rejected that. And besides, do those who would force Him really have the power, to overthrow Roman rule, set Jesus up, and hold onto a nation? Most rational folks would think it unlikely, if not wild fantasy. No, they’re not being realistic. And Jesus knows the realities.
And could they, would they, stay governed? Internal disputes were not unheard of. In their own trapped frustration, the Jewish sects of the time will turn on each other in violence and death. Really, that’s not any kind of a secure throne. Who wants to rule such an unruly crowd? Won’t they turn, viciously, on those who won’t give them what they want? And do the same to the next one?
No.
Not that kind of kingship, not that king at all. Better to get out of Dodge now, pull back, let them spend their hysteria until they’re calmed down, more able to listen, and perhaps actually hear.
What are you hearing? Who are you listening to? The roar of the crowd, the life around you? Or the quiet of the mountainside in God’s kingdom?
What do you want to listen to? How will you do that? What will you do?
Greg Davis
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
Lenten Reflection - April 12, 2011
The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures; he leads me beside still waters; he restores my soul.
Psalm 23
This psalm most certainly was inspired by King David’s youth when, as the youngest son, he was assigned the chore of caring for his father’s flocks. Alone in the fields, with only the sheep for company, David had ample opportunity to develop a personal relationship with his god. God is his shepherd. God provided for David’s true needs. That provision went beyond the material. David makes it perfectly clear in this passage that it is God who is being the shepherd; it is God providing for his needs and keeping him safe.
Sheep are fairly weak and helpless animals, totally dependent upon humans for the provision of their food and water. Sheep lie down only when fully satiated. They will drink only from still waters, since they are frightened by moving waters, which may weigh down their coats and cause them to drown. As it is with sheep, mankind requires a good shepherd to provide food and drink for the most basic physical survival. However, this passage foretells of an even greater gift from our shepherd God. Like the shepherd to the sheep, God provides for us when he feeds us with holy bread and wine, symbols of His love for us through the body and blood of His son, our savior, Jesus Christ. This is not just nourishment for our bodies, but for our souls. And this passage makes it clear that our souls are broken and need restored. Throughout history, mankind has attempted to restore its relationship with God, and yet it is not for us to restore that relationship through our human attempts. Only God can restore us and He does it through the Eucharist. That is how and when our brokenness is healed. He restores our souls.
Susan Whitehead
Psalm 23
This psalm most certainly was inspired by King David’s youth when, as the youngest son, he was assigned the chore of caring for his father’s flocks. Alone in the fields, with only the sheep for company, David had ample opportunity to develop a personal relationship with his god. God is his shepherd. God provided for David’s true needs. That provision went beyond the material. David makes it perfectly clear in this passage that it is God who is being the shepherd; it is God providing for his needs and keeping him safe.
Sheep are fairly weak and helpless animals, totally dependent upon humans for the provision of their food and water. Sheep lie down only when fully satiated. They will drink only from still waters, since they are frightened by moving waters, which may weigh down their coats and cause them to drown. As it is with sheep, mankind requires a good shepherd to provide food and drink for the most basic physical survival. However, this passage foretells of an even greater gift from our shepherd God. Like the shepherd to the sheep, God provides for us when he feeds us with holy bread and wine, symbols of His love for us through the body and blood of His son, our savior, Jesus Christ. This is not just nourishment for our bodies, but for our souls. And this passage makes it clear that our souls are broken and need restored. Throughout history, mankind has attempted to restore its relationship with God, and yet it is not for us to restore that relationship through our human attempts. Only God can restore us and He does it through the Eucharist. That is how and when our brokenness is healed. He restores our souls.
Susan Whitehead
Monday, April 11, 2011
Lenten Reflection - April 11, 2011
And when you come before God, don’t turn that into a theatrical production either. All these people making a regular show out of their prayers, hoping for stardom! Do you think God sits in a box seat? Here's what I want you to do: find a quiet, secluded place so you won’t be tempted to role-play before God. Just be there as simply and honestly as you can manage. The focus will shift from you to God, and you will begin to sense his grace. (The Message)
Matthew 6:5–15
Katharine, Caroline and I sat down to read this passage and we reflected on its importance and its meaning. We believe that this passage states that you have to be modest when you pray—don’t try to make yourself boastful. Praying is a discussion between you and God, not between you and everyone else.
Some of the places where you can pray are silently in church, in your house and in the outdoors. In particular situations and in certain times, it may be inappropriate to pray publicly in the middle of 5th Avenue in New York City, or in the middle of school, work, or any other social events.
Praying to God makes you a star in his eyes and that is all you should need. You don’t need to be recognized by everyone to feel the need to pray. Praying should be simple and honest. Don’t be tempted by others around you to make praying a big deal because it is not. It is just a talk with God, something personal that you should do daily. It should be something you look forward to and do because you want to, not for the attention.
Katharine Milbradt, Karen Furr, and Caroline Pickart
Matthew 6:5–15
Katharine, Caroline and I sat down to read this passage and we reflected on its importance and its meaning. We believe that this passage states that you have to be modest when you pray—don’t try to make yourself boastful. Praying is a discussion between you and God, not between you and everyone else.
Some of the places where you can pray are silently in church, in your house and in the outdoors. In particular situations and in certain times, it may be inappropriate to pray publicly in the middle of 5th Avenue in New York City, or in the middle of school, work, or any other social events.
Praying to God makes you a star in his eyes and that is all you should need. You don’t need to be recognized by everyone to feel the need to pray. Praying should be simple and honest. Don’t be tempted by others around you to make praying a big deal because it is not. It is just a talk with God, something personal that you should do daily. It should be something you look forward to and do because you want to, not for the attention.
Katharine Milbradt, Karen Furr, and Caroline Pickart
Sunday, April 10, 2011
Lenten Reflection - April 10, 2011 The Fifth Sunday of Lent
Even before a word is on my tongue, O LORD, you know it completely.
Psalm 139:1–12
“Is God bigger then Santa Clause?” “They are about the same.” “I mean which one could beat the other one up?” “Why would either one want to do that?” “Oh mom, you don’t understand.” “Why don’t you try to help me understand?” “Well, you know before Christmas I tried really hard to be good and it wasn’t all that easy either. I kept hearing that song “He sees you when you’re sleeping, he knows when you’ve been bad or good.” I made it until Christmas and it really paid off. I was relieved that I didn’t have to be as good after that. Then in church I heard the reader say “God sees us ALL THE TIME!” He sees us going out the door and coming back in again. Even if it’s dark outside. He sees me even if I’m playing hide and seek. He knows what I’m going to say even before I say it, like right now! And I thought, here we go again. Why can’t I be my own natural self? Wouldn’t he still love me?”
“Well your own natural self is pretty nice, most of the time. And God loves you at all times. Santa Clause seeing you at all times is just a song to get you thinking about being good. God sees each one of us all the time and he loves us all the time, too. Because God made us, He knows what each one is capable of and He helps us strive to become that person. Sometimes it’s harder than at other times. Just remember that God is always, always with you every step of the way. Whether it’s hard or easy.”
Caroline Chisum
Psalm 139:1–12
“Is God bigger then Santa Clause?” “They are about the same.” “I mean which one could beat the other one up?” “Why would either one want to do that?” “Oh mom, you don’t understand.” “Why don’t you try to help me understand?” “Well, you know before Christmas I tried really hard to be good and it wasn’t all that easy either. I kept hearing that song “He sees you when you’re sleeping, he knows when you’ve been bad or good.” I made it until Christmas and it really paid off. I was relieved that I didn’t have to be as good after that. Then in church I heard the reader say “God sees us ALL THE TIME!” He sees us going out the door and coming back in again. Even if it’s dark outside. He sees me even if I’m playing hide and seek. He knows what I’m going to say even before I say it, like right now! And I thought, here we go again. Why can’t I be my own natural self? Wouldn’t he still love me?”
“Well your own natural self is pretty nice, most of the time. And God loves you at all times. Santa Clause seeing you at all times is just a song to get you thinking about being good. God sees each one of us all the time and he loves us all the time, too. Because God made us, He knows what each one is capable of and He helps us strive to become that person. Sometimes it’s harder than at other times. Just remember that God is always, always with you every step of the way. Whether it’s hard or easy.”
Caroline Chisum
Saturday, April 9, 2011
Lenten Reflection - April 9, 2011
Protect me, O God, for in you I take refuge. I say to the LORD, “You are my Lord; I have no good apart from you.” … Therefore my heart is glad, and my soul rejoices; my body also rests secure. Protect me, O God, for in you I take refuge. I say to the LORD, “You are my Lord; I have no good apart from you.” … Therefore my heart is glad, and my soul rejoices; my body also rests secure.
Psalm 16
Praise, contentment, faith and trust abound in this entire psalm. It ends with these words, ‘You show me the path of life. In your presence there is fullness of joy; in your right hand are pleasures for evermore.’ What an uplifting song! Regardless of where we find ourselves today, the truth remains that God has chosen us. God wants us to be happy and whole. He wants our souls to rejoice. And not just for today – but for evermore.
As a husband and father, I want the best for my family. But I can’t be there for them all the time. So I want them to know that I love them and that I would do anything for them. God is trying to get that same message across to us. God wants to be in relationship with us. God wants us as a member of the family.
Let us lay whatever burdens we are carrying at the feet His son, our Savior, Jesus. Let us be truly thankful for being shown the path of life. Let our hearts be glad and our souls rejoice. For in God’s presence there is fullness of joy – not momentary, but forevermore.
Earl Buffaloe
Psalm 16
Praise, contentment, faith and trust abound in this entire psalm. It ends with these words, ‘You show me the path of life. In your presence there is fullness of joy; in your right hand are pleasures for evermore.’ What an uplifting song! Regardless of where we find ourselves today, the truth remains that God has chosen us. God wants us to be happy and whole. He wants our souls to rejoice. And not just for today – but for evermore.
As a husband and father, I want the best for my family. But I can’t be there for them all the time. So I want them to know that I love them and that I would do anything for them. God is trying to get that same message across to us. God wants to be in relationship with us. God wants us as a member of the family.
Let us lay whatever burdens we are carrying at the feet His son, our Savior, Jesus. Let us be truly thankful for being shown the path of life. Let our hearts be glad and our souls rejoice. For in God’s presence there is fullness of joy – not momentary, but forevermore.
Earl Buffaloe
Friday, April 8, 2011
Lenten Reflection - April 8, 2011
“…yet he has not left himself without a witness in doing good—giving you rains from heaven and fruitful seasons, and filling you with food and your hearts with joy.”
Acts 14:8–17
At first glance, in reading the earlier chapters, it is hard to imagine the hardship of traveling in those days, 20 to 50 or more miles between towns. This was during Paul’s first work in inner Asia-Minor accompanied by Barnabas. They were visiting the Iconium region, now Konya in Turkey, where legend said Hermes and Zeus had visited in human form. Despite earlier threats of stoning, the Apostles, to their dismay, were then greeted as those returning gods. They rushed out into the crowd, shouting, “Friends, why are you doing this? We are mortals just like you, and we bring you good news, that you should turn from these worthless things to the living God …” “Because,” Paul said, God has left a witness “in doing good,” pointing to nature’s bounty and the spiritual food of joy. He seemed to respond to the polytheists, saying God has revealed himself through nature, yet the crowds still wanted to offer sacrifices to them. Then they turned on Paul, stoned him and dragged him out of the city, thinking he was dead. What did he do? “He got up … the next day he went on with Barnabas to Derbe” more than 70 miles away, according to one commentary. These men believed so strongly that God was with them, they could handle any of man’s foibles, anger and violence and still go on to tell others about his goodness and love and the joy that can come with knowing Him. Why can't we do the same?
Val Hymes
Acts 14:8–17
At first glance, in reading the earlier chapters, it is hard to imagine the hardship of traveling in those days, 20 to 50 or more miles between towns. This was during Paul’s first work in inner Asia-Minor accompanied by Barnabas. They were visiting the Iconium region, now Konya in Turkey, where legend said Hermes and Zeus had visited in human form. Despite earlier threats of stoning, the Apostles, to their dismay, were then greeted as those returning gods. They rushed out into the crowd, shouting, “Friends, why are you doing this? We are mortals just like you, and we bring you good news, that you should turn from these worthless things to the living God …” “Because,” Paul said, God has left a witness “in doing good,” pointing to nature’s bounty and the spiritual food of joy. He seemed to respond to the polytheists, saying God has revealed himself through nature, yet the crowds still wanted to offer sacrifices to them. Then they turned on Paul, stoned him and dragged him out of the city, thinking he was dead. What did he do? “He got up … the next day he went on with Barnabas to Derbe” more than 70 miles away, according to one commentary. These men believed so strongly that God was with them, they could handle any of man’s foibles, anger and violence and still go on to tell others about his goodness and love and the joy that can come with knowing Him. Why can't we do the same?
Val Hymes
Thursday, April 7, 2011
Lenten Reflection - April 7, 2011
You visit the earth and water it, you greatly enrich it; the river of God is full of water; you provide the people with grain, for so you have prepared it. You water its furrows abundantly, settling its ridges, softening it with showers, and blessing its growth.
Psalm 65
The palmist is acknowledging God’s grace. This passage reminds me that God is in control, not I. That God is in control does not absolve me of the need to try as hard as possible in my daily efforts, but the passage reminds me that if I succeed, I do so because of God’s grace. There are too many uncontrollable variables that condition the outcome of my efforts to ever ascribe success to myself. God ultimately determines the course of my life. I must seek through the Spirit to find and do God’s will. If I do that, the passage says God will provide a helping hand.
Mitchell Owens
Psalm 65
The palmist is acknowledging God’s grace. This passage reminds me that God is in control, not I. That God is in control does not absolve me of the need to try as hard as possible in my daily efforts, but the passage reminds me that if I succeed, I do so because of God’s grace. There are too many uncontrollable variables that condition the outcome of my efforts to ever ascribe success to myself. God ultimately determines the course of my life. I must seek through the Spirit to find and do God’s will. If I do that, the passage says God will provide a helping hand.
Mitchell Owens
Lenten Reflection - April 7, 2011
You visit the earth and water it, you greatly enrich it; the river of God is full of water; you provide the people with grain, for so you have prepared it. You water its furrows abundantly, settling its ridges, softening it with showers, and blessing its growth.
Psalm 65
We think this Psalm is saying that God provides as with everything we need to flourish physically and spiritually. Like a gardener, He gives us things we need to grow such as: family, friends, and our faith. Just like a gardener though, He can’t force us to grow. Not every plant will grow and bear good fruit. That part is our responsibility.
We need to use the tools given to us to grow in ourselves. Because God gives us all this, we need to thank Him through prayer and song and worship. Within ourselves, God will give us his strength to grow. By his gifted tools, our spirit will grow abundantly and will flourish. As Christians, it is our responsibility to use the resources we’ve been given by God.
Shane and Justin Kelly
Psalm 65
We think this Psalm is saying that God provides as with everything we need to flourish physically and spiritually. Like a gardener, He gives us things we need to grow such as: family, friends, and our faith. Just like a gardener though, He can’t force us to grow. Not every plant will grow and bear good fruit. That part is our responsibility.
We need to use the tools given to us to grow in ourselves. Because God gives us all this, we need to thank Him through prayer and song and worship. Within ourselves, God will give us his strength to grow. By his gifted tools, our spirit will grow abundantly and will flourish. As Christians, it is our responsibility to use the resources we’ve been given by God.
Shane and Justin Kelly
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
Lenten Reflection - April 6, 2011
Quiet down, far-flung ocean islands. Listen! Sit down and rest, everyone. Recover your strength. Gather around me. Say what's on your heart. Together let’s decide what’s right. (The Message)
Isaiah 41:1–4
In this passage, Isaiah speaks to generations to come, throughout the lands surrounding Israel, preparing them for the emergence of a king who will come to conquer all but God's chosen people. Isaiah 41 is a complicated chapter in a complicated book. It is quite challenging to read and comprehend the full meaning.
Stepping away from the context, however, we think today's passage offers important guidance on how we should conduct ourselves in the face of everyday life. Life today moves quickly, is fraught with challenges and confrontation, and often seems to require us to stand up and be heard. How often do we react to these challenges without thinking? How often do we lash out at others, without taking the time to consult our friends or to reflect upon what's truly in our own heart? Upon what we think is God's will?
The next time we feel compelled to make a strong statement, let's make sure we're really listening, let's take the time to rest and reflect, and then let's act from the heart.
George and Claire Pickart
Isaiah 41:1–4
In this passage, Isaiah speaks to generations to come, throughout the lands surrounding Israel, preparing them for the emergence of a king who will come to conquer all but God's chosen people. Isaiah 41 is a complicated chapter in a complicated book. It is quite challenging to read and comprehend the full meaning.
Stepping away from the context, however, we think today's passage offers important guidance on how we should conduct ourselves in the face of everyday life. Life today moves quickly, is fraught with challenges and confrontation, and often seems to require us to stand up and be heard. How often do we react to these challenges without thinking? How often do we lash out at others, without taking the time to consult our friends or to reflect upon what's truly in our own heart? Upon what we think is God's will?
The next time we feel compelled to make a strong statement, let's make sure we're really listening, let's take the time to rest and reflect, and then let's act from the heart.
George and Claire Pickart
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
Lenten Reflection - April 5, 2011
I am content and at peace as a child lies quietly in its mother’s arms, so my heart is quiet within me. (GNB)
Psalm 131
To really understand this passage, we must further reflect on it. In Psalms chapter 131:1-3, it states, “God proclaims that he wants us to worship, but not worship things “too marvelous and too great.” He wants us to have calm and quieted souls. And if we are too attached to worshiping things too powerful, he wants us to be slowly weaned, like a child from their mother. God only wants us to hope in Him.
It's not always easy to hope in God all the time. We all lose faith, and are tempted from time to time. There are countless things that try to grasp our attention and turn it away from God. However, if we pray and study God's Word, we can overcome that temptation and return to God before we stray too far. For it is only God who can bring true peace.
Kyle Carrier and Will Pickart
Psalm 131
To really understand this passage, we must further reflect on it. In Psalms chapter 131:1-3, it states, “God proclaims that he wants us to worship, but not worship things “too marvelous and too great.” He wants us to have calm and quieted souls. And if we are too attached to worshiping things too powerful, he wants us to be slowly weaned, like a child from their mother. God only wants us to hope in Him.
It's not always easy to hope in God all the time. We all lose faith, and are tempted from time to time. There are countless things that try to grasp our attention and turn it away from God. However, if we pray and study God's Word, we can overcome that temptation and return to God before we stray too far. For it is only God who can bring true peace.
Kyle Carrier and Will Pickart
Monday, April 4, 2011
Lenten Reflection - April 4, 2011
God is educating you, that’s why you must never drop out. He’s treating you as dear children. (The Message)
Hebrews 12:5–15
While this quote may be inspiring, we have no idea what it means without reflecting upon a passage in Hebrews. In chapter 12: 5-15, we are told not to “make light of the Lord’s discipline”, not to “lose heart when He rebukes us,” because “The Lord disciplines those he loves and he punishes everyone he accepts as a son.” In other words, we’re being advised not to make light of God’s discipline, because it’s a serious matter. We’re also advised not to be disappointed by it, for He loves us, and views us as His own children. God is educating us in His ways. He doesn’t want us to leave Him when we feel overwhelmed. He wants us to endure His hardships, yet continue to respect Him so that we may share His holiness.
Will Pickart
Hebrews 12:5–15
While this quote may be inspiring, we have no idea what it means without reflecting upon a passage in Hebrews. In chapter 12: 5-15, we are told not to “make light of the Lord’s discipline”, not to “lose heart when He rebukes us,” because “The Lord disciplines those he loves and he punishes everyone he accepts as a son.” In other words, we’re being advised not to make light of God’s discipline, because it’s a serious matter. We’re also advised not to be disappointed by it, for He loves us, and views us as His own children. God is educating us in His ways. He doesn’t want us to leave Him when we feel overwhelmed. He wants us to endure His hardships, yet continue to respect Him so that we may share His holiness.
Will Pickart
Sunday, April 3, 2011
Lenten Reflection - April 3, 2011 The Fourth Sunday of Lent
Blessed is [the one] who refuses to work during my Sabbath days of rest, but honors them. (TLB)
Isaiah 56:1–8
The Sabbath is a weekly day of rest, and for many Christians, that day is Sunday. God plainly instructs us to take a break from the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, because this special day is that important- for our relationship with God, and for our relationships with our family and friends. It is crucial to take a day to separate ourselves from the stress we endure during the week, and to take one day to stop and rest, and be thankful and mindful of the abundance of good things that God has provided for us.
The concept of honoring the Sabbath day is referenced many times in the Bible. It clearly is of utmost importance to our Lord. Families can work together to honor the Sabbath by: attending church, reading the Scriptures, writing in journals, visiting relatives and the sick, enjoying uplifting music, worshipping, serving others and participating in restful, family-centered activities. These are just some ideas to work toward showing our love for our Heavenly Father, certainly, every week, on the Sabbath.
In this Lenten season, when we are so mindful of the sacrifices that our Lord made for us, striving to honor His command that we keep the Sabbath holy would certainly honor His name.
Susan Dowling
Isaiah 56:1–8
The Sabbath is a weekly day of rest, and for many Christians, that day is Sunday. God plainly instructs us to take a break from the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, because this special day is that important- for our relationship with God, and for our relationships with our family and friends. It is crucial to take a day to separate ourselves from the stress we endure during the week, and to take one day to stop and rest, and be thankful and mindful of the abundance of good things that God has provided for us.
The concept of honoring the Sabbath day is referenced many times in the Bible. It clearly is of utmost importance to our Lord. Families can work together to honor the Sabbath by: attending church, reading the Scriptures, writing in journals, visiting relatives and the sick, enjoying uplifting music, worshipping, serving others and participating in restful, family-centered activities. These are just some ideas to work toward showing our love for our Heavenly Father, certainly, every week, on the Sabbath.
In this Lenten season, when we are so mindful of the sacrifices that our Lord made for us, striving to honor His command that we keep the Sabbath holy would certainly honor His name.
Susan Dowling
Saturday, April 2, 2011
Lenten Reflection - April 2, 2011
And now bless the God of all, who everywhere works great wonders, who fosters our growth from birth, and deals with us according to his mercy. May he give us gladness of heart, and may there be peace in our days…
Sirach 50:22–24
We believe as a class that this verse, as much as many in the bible, reflects God’s love, nurture and mercy for us all. Because of this unconditional love, we are the beneficiaries of the peace and happiness it brings. Think about it, as the scripture states, He who fosters our growth from birth, shows God truly loves us for who we are. As the intended purpose of the scripture we also thank God for his mercy and for the joy and salvation He brings. Joy and salvation are definitely two key words in our Christian lives, and inevitably salvation is about love. Without God's mercy, we are nothing. May He give us gladness of heart and peace in our days, and without gifts like these, we wouldn’t have a whole lot.
J2A Class (grades 9-11)
Sirach 50:22–24
We believe as a class that this verse, as much as many in the bible, reflects God’s love, nurture and mercy for us all. Because of this unconditional love, we are the beneficiaries of the peace and happiness it brings. Think about it, as the scripture states, He who fosters our growth from birth, shows God truly loves us for who we are. As the intended purpose of the scripture we also thank God for his mercy and for the joy and salvation He brings. Joy and salvation are definitely two key words in our Christian lives, and inevitably salvation is about love. Without God's mercy, we are nothing. May He give us gladness of heart and peace in our days, and without gifts like these, we wouldn’t have a whole lot.
J2A Class (grades 9-11)
Friday, April 1, 2011
Lenten Reflection - April 1, 2011
The Apostles gathered around Jesus, and told him all that they had done and taught. He said to them, "Come away to a deserted place all by yourselves and rest a while." For many were coming and going, and they had no leisure even to eat.
Mark 6:30–32
Do you spend enough time resting? Do you give yourself enough quiet time to pray with our Lord? In our fast-paced world of long hours and not enough time to accomplish the things that we think are important, weariness has become a way of life for many. It seems as though many of us have failed to understand or have forgotten the purpose and source of rest in our lives.
The Apostles were preoccupied with "all they had done and taught," but the Lord called them to come away to a quiet place. He sought to teach them that in order to be effective in ministering, they must learn how to take time from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and spend time alone with Him in prayer.
The message is not to be lazy or "take it easy" on a continual basis, nor is the message to relax whenever we might feel like it. Missing the point of the message will lead us to become ineffective in our ministries and weaken our relationship with God. Taking time for rest refreshes our body, mind and soul, gives the opportunity for more time spent in prayer, and deepens our relationship with God. The passage is a reminder that rest is a gift from God provided for our benefit. Whether your weariness is physical, emotional or spiritual, the same Jesus who offered his apostles rest then offers us rest now.
Cindy Carrier
Mark 6:30–32
Do you spend enough time resting? Do you give yourself enough quiet time to pray with our Lord? In our fast-paced world of long hours and not enough time to accomplish the things that we think are important, weariness has become a way of life for many. It seems as though many of us have failed to understand or have forgotten the purpose and source of rest in our lives.
The Apostles were preoccupied with "all they had done and taught," but the Lord called them to come away to a quiet place. He sought to teach them that in order to be effective in ministering, they must learn how to take time from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and spend time alone with Him in prayer.
The message is not to be lazy or "take it easy" on a continual basis, nor is the message to relax whenever we might feel like it. Missing the point of the message will lead us to become ineffective in our ministries and weaken our relationship with God. Taking time for rest refreshes our body, mind and soul, gives the opportunity for more time spent in prayer, and deepens our relationship with God. The passage is a reminder that rest is a gift from God provided for our benefit. Whether your weariness is physical, emotional or spiritual, the same Jesus who offered his apostles rest then offers us rest now.
Cindy Carrier
Thursday, March 31, 2011
Lenten Reflection - March 31, 2011
As he walked by the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea—for they were fishermen. And he said to them, "Follow me, and I will make you fish for people." Immediately they left their nets and followed him.
Matthew 4:18–22
The calling of the first Disciples marks the beginning of Jesus’ ministry, following his baptism by John the Baptist, and the time of testing by Satan in the desert.
It is interesting to contemplate how we might have reacted had we lived during that time and been asked to leave everything and follow Jesus. But this was a time chosen by God, and people chosen by God for a specific purpose. Even though the Disciples got to walk and talk with Jesus directly, ask him questions and learn from him, it does not appear that they had an easy time understanding. In fact, it seems like it wasn’t until all the facts were in, the life and teaching of Jesus, His death, and witness of His resurrection and ascension that they truly understood. Their willingness to move from denial to a belief so strong that they were themselves crucified, offers compelling proof that all these events occurred.
Sometimes we are so busy looking for proof that we don’t see it all around us. Most often it is only by the grace of God that we can a see the truth. Even though we did not live during the time of Jesus, it is true that we are being, called just as the Disciples were called, to follow Jesus. Are we listening? Are we responding?
Warren Harper
Matthew 4:18–22
The calling of the first Disciples marks the beginning of Jesus’ ministry, following his baptism by John the Baptist, and the time of testing by Satan in the desert.
It is interesting to contemplate how we might have reacted had we lived during that time and been asked to leave everything and follow Jesus. But this was a time chosen by God, and people chosen by God for a specific purpose. Even though the Disciples got to walk and talk with Jesus directly, ask him questions and learn from him, it does not appear that they had an easy time understanding. In fact, it seems like it wasn’t until all the facts were in, the life and teaching of Jesus, His death, and witness of His resurrection and ascension that they truly understood. Their willingness to move from denial to a belief so strong that they were themselves crucified, offers compelling proof that all these events occurred.
Sometimes we are so busy looking for proof that we don’t see it all around us. Most often it is only by the grace of God that we can a see the truth. Even though we did not live during the time of Jesus, it is true that we are being, called just as the Disciples were called, to follow Jesus. Are we listening? Are we responding?
Warren Harper
Wednesday, March 30, 2011
Lenten Reflection - March 30, 2011
Thus says the LORD: Stand at the crossroads, and look, and ask for the ancient paths, where the good way lies; and walk in it, and find rest for your souls.
Jeremiah 6:9-16a
I must say I read this passage several times and pondered on what might the tribe of Benjamin thought as they where fleeing Jerusalem. Why had they strayed from God’s law? How could they think that the life they where living was pleasing to him? It is hard for me to imagine that back then they faced what we do today. The secular world as we know it. Yes, it was different then as it is now. But reading through Jeremiah, God was not pleased with their disobedience and lack of respect for the defenseless. All God wanted from them was to follow his command. To obey His word and to be messengers. To live a disciplined life. We as Christians face those same challenges each and every day. We can easily be led astray from God and the church. Sin is never removed by denying we can’t fall into it. We must ask for forgiveness. We must be strong in our faith, and pray that when we come to the crossroads and have to choose, it’s God’s path we take. For his is the only way to find true peace and rest for our souls.
Rona Fox
Jeremiah 6:9-16a
I must say I read this passage several times and pondered on what might the tribe of Benjamin thought as they where fleeing Jerusalem. Why had they strayed from God’s law? How could they think that the life they where living was pleasing to him? It is hard for me to imagine that back then they faced what we do today. The secular world as we know it. Yes, it was different then as it is now. But reading through Jeremiah, God was not pleased with their disobedience and lack of respect for the defenseless. All God wanted from them was to follow his command. To obey His word and to be messengers. To live a disciplined life. We as Christians face those same challenges each and every day. We can easily be led astray from God and the church. Sin is never removed by denying we can’t fall into it. We must ask for forgiveness. We must be strong in our faith, and pray that when we come to the crossroads and have to choose, it’s God’s path we take. For his is the only way to find true peace and rest for our souls.
Rona Fox
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
Lenten Reflection - March 29, 2011
But Martha was distracted by her many tasks; so she came to him and asked, "Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to do all the work by myself? Tell her then to help me." But the Lord answered her, "Martha, Martha, you are worried and distracted by many things; there is need of only one thing. Mary has chosen the better part, which will not be taken away from her."
Luke 10:38–42
This scripture came at the perfect time for me. There are certain times of the year when I must let Martha out and other times I keep her locked away. I read the passage this morning and realized she is overdue to be put away. It is so easy to not see what is right in front of you because you are too busy looking at tasks to be done. We want to have all of our ducks in a row because this is what is expected of us. In the moment of completing our tasks it becomes easy to judge and resent those who are simply "living" (like Mary was). Instead I think this is a perfect lesson for us to look inside ourselves to find what is most important. We should be focusing on the blessings we have received. Living the life God wants for us. Turning away from the daily grind and to focus on the here and now. This is what living is. Sometimes it is easier said than done - especially on Sunday mornings when we have so much to do. When we attend church we are getting what Mary sought after that afternoon - spiritual guidance. We all need to live in the moment like Mary was able to do. Let Martha come out only out of necessity.
Nola Meyers
Luke 10:38–42
This scripture came at the perfect time for me. There are certain times of the year when I must let Martha out and other times I keep her locked away. I read the passage this morning and realized she is overdue to be put away. It is so easy to not see what is right in front of you because you are too busy looking at tasks to be done. We want to have all of our ducks in a row because this is what is expected of us. In the moment of completing our tasks it becomes easy to judge and resent those who are simply "living" (like Mary was). Instead I think this is a perfect lesson for us to look inside ourselves to find what is most important. We should be focusing on the blessings we have received. Living the life God wants for us. Turning away from the daily grind and to focus on the here and now. This is what living is. Sometimes it is easier said than done - especially on Sunday mornings when we have so much to do. When we attend church we are getting what Mary sought after that afternoon - spiritual guidance. We all need to live in the moment like Mary was able to do. Let Martha come out only out of necessity.
Nola Meyers
Monday, March 28, 2011
Lenten Reflection - March 28, 2011
"With what shall I come before the LORD, and bow myself before God on high? Shall I come before him with burnt offerings, with calves a year old? Will the LORD be pleased with thousands of rams, with ten thousands of rivers of oil? Shall I give my firstborn for my transgression, the fruit of my body for the sin of my soul?" He has told you, O mortal, what is good; and what does the LORD require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?
Micah 6:3–8
Micah was a prophet in the 8th century B.C. He, as well as other prophets, was charged with keeping God before the people and listening for the voice of God.
The Lord says, He has a case against the people of Israel. He wants to know what He has done that causes them to act the way they do. In this passage God is speaking to the people of Israel, reminding them of some of the things that He has done for them. These include bringing the people up from Egypt, sending Moses and Aaron and Miriam to lead them, etc.
Man wants to know what should be done to make up for all the misdeeds. Should he come before the Lord with burnt offerings, ten thousand rivers of oil, thousands of rams, offer his firstborn for his transgressions, etc.
The Lord replies that man should "act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with your God." These three things cover the Ten Commandments, the Golden Rule, and the Sermon on the Mount.
Priscilla Hardesty
Micah 6:3–8
Micah was a prophet in the 8th century B.C. He, as well as other prophets, was charged with keeping God before the people and listening for the voice of God.
The Lord says, He has a case against the people of Israel. He wants to know what He has done that causes them to act the way they do. In this passage God is speaking to the people of Israel, reminding them of some of the things that He has done for them. These include bringing the people up from Egypt, sending Moses and Aaron and Miriam to lead them, etc.
Man wants to know what should be done to make up for all the misdeeds. Should he come before the Lord with burnt offerings, ten thousand rivers of oil, thousands of rams, offer his firstborn for his transgressions, etc.
The Lord replies that man should "act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with your God." These three things cover the Ten Commandments, the Golden Rule, and the Sermon on the Mount.
Priscilla Hardesty
Sunday, March 27, 2011
Lenten Reflection - March 27, 2011 The Third Sunday of Lent
Let mutual love continue. Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by doing that some have entertained angels without knowing it.
Hebrews 13:1,2
Oh, God, for this day, just this one day, Let me live generously, kindly, in a state of grace and goodness that denies my many imperfections, And makes me more like you.
The above is the final paragraph to a prayer I keep in front of me at my desk. I try to read it daily, because if we truly work each and every day to be more like Christ, showing grace and love to those we meet, think of how different the world would be.
Molly Nussear
Hebrews 13:1,2
Oh, God, for this day, just this one day, Let me live generously, kindly, in a state of grace and goodness that denies my many imperfections, And makes me more like you.
The above is the final paragraph to a prayer I keep in front of me at my desk. I try to read it daily, because if we truly work each and every day to be more like Christ, showing grace and love to those we meet, think of how different the world would be.
Molly Nussear
Saturday, March 26, 2011
Lenten Reflection - March 26, 2011
For thus said the Lord GOD, the Holy One of Israel: in returning and rest you shall be saved; in quietness and in trust shall be your strength.
Isaiah 30:15–18
In this first verse we thought of Ash Wednesday and the service at St. James, when we reflect on our sins and ask the Lord for forgiveness. We return to Him all year long, but especially on that night when the church is so somber and we are in deep repentance.
In verses 16 and 17, the people of Israel are fleeing, running from the enemy, and not waiting on the Lord. How easy it is to run from the things that bother us most? We all run from something! In verse 18 the Lord asks us to wait for Him. We still run though, running is easier than waiting. We need to learn to wait for the Lord just as He waits for us.
God is unselfish, not only waiting for us to call on Him, but listening when we do. He loves our praises, thanksgivings, and especially our cries for help, but a relationship with God is not one sided. Just as we converse with our friends, it wouldn’t be a conversation if one person spoke. In waiting we can listen and by listening our relationship with God is made stronger. This Lenten season I will wait and listen for the Lord. And I will be ready when the Lord calls on me…. Will you?
Jen and Sted Wolf
Isaiah 30:15–18
In this first verse we thought of Ash Wednesday and the service at St. James, when we reflect on our sins and ask the Lord for forgiveness. We return to Him all year long, but especially on that night when the church is so somber and we are in deep repentance.
In verses 16 and 17, the people of Israel are fleeing, running from the enemy, and not waiting on the Lord. How easy it is to run from the things that bother us most? We all run from something! In verse 18 the Lord asks us to wait for Him. We still run though, running is easier than waiting. We need to learn to wait for the Lord just as He waits for us.
God is unselfish, not only waiting for us to call on Him, but listening when we do. He loves our praises, thanksgivings, and especially our cries for help, but a relationship with God is not one sided. Just as we converse with our friends, it wouldn’t be a conversation if one person spoke. In waiting we can listen and by listening our relationship with God is made stronger. This Lenten season I will wait and listen for the Lord. And I will be ready when the Lord calls on me…. Will you?
Jen and Sted Wolf
Friday, March 25, 2011
Lenten Reflection - March 25, 2011
To whom then will you compare me, or who is my equal? says the Holy One. Lift up your eyes on high and see: Who created these? He who brings out their host and numbers them, calling them all by name; because he is great in strength, mighty in power, not one is missing. Why do you say, O Jacob, and speak, O Israel, 'My way is hidden from the Lord, and my right is disregarded by my God'? Have you not known? Have you not heard? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He does not faint or grow weary; his understanding is unsearchable. He gives power to the faint, and strengthens the powerless. Even youths will faint and be weary, and the young will fall exhausted; but those who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength, they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint.
Isaiah 40:25–31
Who is at the center of all but you, my God? Help me to recall your will for me. Help me to live for others as you would have me do. Help me to cherish my own household and my community. I walk before you with gratitude and humility. Lord, give me the strength to live rightly! Amen.
John Huntington+
Isaiah 40:25–31
Who is at the center of all but you, my God? Help me to recall your will for me. Help me to live for others as you would have me do. Help me to cherish my own household and my community. I walk before you with gratitude and humility. Lord, give me the strength to live rightly! Amen.
John Huntington+
Thursday, March 24, 2011
Lenten Reflection - March 24, 2011
And on the seventh day God finished the work that he had done, and he rested on the seventh day from all the work that he had done. So God blessed the seventh day and hallowed it, because on it God rested from all the work that he had done in creation.
Genesis 2:1–3
Several years ago when I attended the Adult Journey class, the topic of discussion was, “What do you do on Sunday?” I responded that I tried not to do anything work-related so that I could honor the Sabbath. A classmate threw out that perhaps I was just lazy. As this was someone that I admired, it stung.
The conversation went on with my sharing that growing up my mother insisted that we only do what was necessary, such as, preparing meals and cleaning up afterwards. Mom explained to me very early on that God created the whole world in six days and that we should be able to do what was needed in six days as well. Sunday was the day for church, visiting my grandmother, quiet family activities at home, or visiting a museum to see wondrous things. I followed that well into my early 20’s.
At that point I became a working mom that worked all the overtime I could get. Sundays then became the day to catch up on what I didn’t get done or hadn’t finished. It always felt wrong, but what was I to do?
It was when I had our three younger children that I realized that I needed to get back to what God wanted us to do. He blessed the seventh day and hallowed it. The fourth of the Ten Commandments calls for us to "Remember the Sabbath Day by keeping it Holy". Sounds good to me, how about you?
Sharon L. B. McGlaughlin
Genesis 2:1–3
Several years ago when I attended the Adult Journey class, the topic of discussion was, “What do you do on Sunday?” I responded that I tried not to do anything work-related so that I could honor the Sabbath. A classmate threw out that perhaps I was just lazy. As this was someone that I admired, it stung.
The conversation went on with my sharing that growing up my mother insisted that we only do what was necessary, such as, preparing meals and cleaning up afterwards. Mom explained to me very early on that God created the whole world in six days and that we should be able to do what was needed in six days as well. Sunday was the day for church, visiting my grandmother, quiet family activities at home, or visiting a museum to see wondrous things. I followed that well into my early 20’s.
At that point I became a working mom that worked all the overtime I could get. Sundays then became the day to catch up on what I didn’t get done or hadn’t finished. It always felt wrong, but what was I to do?
It was when I had our three younger children that I realized that I needed to get back to what God wanted us to do. He blessed the seventh day and hallowed it. The fourth of the Ten Commandments calls for us to "Remember the Sabbath Day by keeping it Holy". Sounds good to me, how about you?
Sharon L. B. McGlaughlin
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
Lenten Reflection - March 23, 2011
Hearken unto this, O Job: stand still and consider the wondrous works of God. (KJV)
Job 37:1–18
These are the angry words of young Elihu, son of Barachel the Buzite, of the family of Ram, dismissing the argument of Job’s other friends (that Job’s miseries were a result of sinning against God), as well as that of Job himself (that he was righteous, and not deserving of his punishment). With some pomposity Elihu justifies a powerful God who punishes the wicked and ‘opens the ear” of the righteous by adversity. His rather lengthy argument is immediately followed by the Lord answering Job out of the whirlwind (Job 38:1-3):
Judy Huntington
Job 37:1–18
These are the angry words of young Elihu, son of Barachel the Buzite, of the family of Ram, dismissing the argument of Job’s other friends (that Job’s miseries were a result of sinning against God), as well as that of Job himself (that he was righteous, and not deserving of his punishment). With some pomposity Elihu justifies a powerful God who punishes the wicked and ‘opens the ear” of the righteous by adversity. His rather lengthy argument is immediately followed by the Lord answering Job out of the whirlwind (Job 38:1-3):
- Then the LORD answered Job out of the whirlwind, and said,
- Who is this that darkeneth counsel by words without knowledge?
- Gird up now thy loins like a man; for I will demand of thee, and answer thou me.
- Where wast thou when I laid the foundations of the earth? declare, if thou hast understanding.
Judy Huntington
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
Lenten Reflection - March 22, 2011
"So I say to you, ask, and it will be given you; search, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened for you. For everyone who asks receives, and everyone who searches finds, and for everyone who knocks, the door will be opened."
Luke 11:9–13
Luke 11:9-13 is a passage everyone can relate to, not only on one occasion, but several times a week if not every day. I think of all the times I have needed help in my life and was not bold enough to ask for it. And all of the times I have forgone asking the question in fear of being rejected or a bother. I am also one who sometimes keeps his eyes down, therefore not searching to find the answers to the tough questions. I’m not saying this is a bad thing, for it could be abrasive if everyone were to have their boldness trait turned on at all times—but to have the courage or the confidence to knock, ask or to search when something important is needed, would be something, I would think, everyone would want.
"So I say to you, ask, and it will be given you; search, and you will find; knock, and the door will be open for you. For everyone who asks receives, and everyone who searches finds, and for everyone who knocks, the door will be opened."
Trevor Perkins
Luke 11:9–13
Luke 11:9-13 is a passage everyone can relate to, not only on one occasion, but several times a week if not every day. I think of all the times I have needed help in my life and was not bold enough to ask for it. And all of the times I have forgone asking the question in fear of being rejected or a bother. I am also one who sometimes keeps his eyes down, therefore not searching to find the answers to the tough questions. I’m not saying this is a bad thing, for it could be abrasive if everyone were to have their boldness trait turned on at all times—but to have the courage or the confidence to knock, ask or to search when something important is needed, would be something, I would think, everyone would want.
"So I say to you, ask, and it will be given you; search, and you will find; knock, and the door will be open for you. For everyone who asks receives, and everyone who searches finds, and for everyone who knocks, the door will be opened."
Trevor Perkins
Monday, March 21, 2011
Lenten Reflection - March 21, 2011
Incline your ear, and come to me; listen, so that you may live. I will make with you an everlasting covenant, my steadfast, sure love…
Isaiah 55
This particular verse in Isaiah speaks incredible words of hope to a hurt and frightened people. The people of Judah and Jerusalem have been in exile for 40 years. The Babylonians had been violently removed from their homeland, leaving them wandering in the wilderness. In this verse the prophet brings a word of hope of return. Earlier the prophet tried to convince the people that God was powerful enough to save, and had the will to do it. At the end of his message he again returns to the themes of human frailty and the utter reliability of God’s word.
We've all experienced times in the wilderness where our humanness shines through. I've learned something about human frailty this past year. After experiencing a heart attack a year ago today, I have gained a deeper appreciation for the message behind the verse, "listen, so that you may live." Life wasn't easy for the Israelites thousands of years ago and truth is life isn't getting any easier for many folks today. Yet, the truth remains that God has made an everlasting covenant with us. His love endures forever and His Word gives true life. My prayer for each one of us is that we can all find hope in the promises made by our loving and gracious God. That we would be reminded that Christ shared our humanity with us so that we wouldn't have to walk this journey alone. And that our spirits would be overflowing from the life that springs forth from his word. Just listen….
Amanda Knouse +
Isaiah 55
This particular verse in Isaiah speaks incredible words of hope to a hurt and frightened people. The people of Judah and Jerusalem have been in exile for 40 years. The Babylonians had been violently removed from their homeland, leaving them wandering in the wilderness. In this verse the prophet brings a word of hope of return. Earlier the prophet tried to convince the people that God was powerful enough to save, and had the will to do it. At the end of his message he again returns to the themes of human frailty and the utter reliability of God’s word.
We've all experienced times in the wilderness where our humanness shines through. I've learned something about human frailty this past year. After experiencing a heart attack a year ago today, I have gained a deeper appreciation for the message behind the verse, "listen, so that you may live." Life wasn't easy for the Israelites thousands of years ago and truth is life isn't getting any easier for many folks today. Yet, the truth remains that God has made an everlasting covenant with us. His love endures forever and His Word gives true life. My prayer for each one of us is that we can all find hope in the promises made by our loving and gracious God. That we would be reminded that Christ shared our humanity with us so that we wouldn't have to walk this journey alone. And that our spirits would be overflowing from the life that springs forth from his word. Just listen….
Amanda Knouse +
Sunday, March 20, 2011
Lenten Reflection - March 20, 2011 The Second Sunday of Lent
God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. (KJV)
Psalm 46:1
"God is our refuge and strength." Notice that the Psalm doesn't mention soldiers, fortresses, or guns. God is the strength that gives us courage of character and courage of heart that enables us to overcome the forces of evil, temptation, and sin that attack us from every side. God keeps us in better shape that an enormous army ever could. With God beside us in moral battle, we don’t need tanks, bombs, and bazookas. We need only our Lord standing there with us.
The refuge that God gives to us is protection for our immortal souls. We are sheltered in God's warm, loving embrace that shields from the best efforts of Satan and his minions. We receive the grace to understand how to repel the arguments of our tempters. We have the strength and knowledge to see through empty promises and meaningless, transitory pleasures.
Remember how God stood by his humans in Biblical times. God was with the Israelites as they escaped from Egypt and set out on their trek to the promised land. God was with Noah and his family as they endured innumerable hardships while riding the waters of the flood.
Remember that God is with us in the twenty-first century just as God was with those who went before us.
Keep in mind the words of Paul in his letter to the Romans: "If God is for us, who is against us?" The answer can only be, "No one!"
Bob McCoy+
Psalm 46:1
"God is our refuge and strength." Notice that the Psalm doesn't mention soldiers, fortresses, or guns. God is the strength that gives us courage of character and courage of heart that enables us to overcome the forces of evil, temptation, and sin that attack us from every side. God keeps us in better shape that an enormous army ever could. With God beside us in moral battle, we don’t need tanks, bombs, and bazookas. We need only our Lord standing there with us.
The refuge that God gives to us is protection for our immortal souls. We are sheltered in God's warm, loving embrace that shields from the best efforts of Satan and his minions. We receive the grace to understand how to repel the arguments of our tempters. We have the strength and knowledge to see through empty promises and meaningless, transitory pleasures.
Remember how God stood by his humans in Biblical times. God was with the Israelites as they escaped from Egypt and set out on their trek to the promised land. God was with Noah and his family as they endured innumerable hardships while riding the waters of the flood.
Remember that God is with us in the twenty-first century just as God was with those who went before us.
Keep in mind the words of Paul in his letter to the Romans: "If God is for us, who is against us?" The answer can only be, "No one!"
Bob McCoy+
Saturday, March 19, 2011
Lenten Reflection - March 19, 2011
Again I saw that under the sun the race is not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong, nor bread to the wise, nor riches to the intelligent, nor favor to the skillful; but time and chance happen to them all.
Ecclesiastes 9:7–18
In today’s society, at first glance, this particular piece of scripture would seem wrong to most. So often the race is in fact won by the swift, and we see time and time again the battles around the world won by the strongest nations, and so forth. So, if this verse were talking literally about our society, there’s no doubt it would be hard to believe, if not almost impossible, because that’s not typically how things work. On the other hand, if you look Biblically into this verse you can become engulfed in the fact that when we’re on God’s playing, or even battle field, it’s an entirely different set of rules. That may be hard to believe, but true, and those who are at the top, those who constantly win don’t trump anymore, because in the sight of the Lord, we are all equals. This verse states countless ways we are placed on a level playing field, and verifies this sense of equality in us all, which as a Christian is an important reminder, and we must not forget this. In closing it is important to remember even though we might not be the best at something, especially in our secular society, it is important to try, because time and chance do happen to us all.
John Knouse
Ecclesiastes 9:7–18
In today’s society, at first glance, this particular piece of scripture would seem wrong to most. So often the race is in fact won by the swift, and we see time and time again the battles around the world won by the strongest nations, and so forth. So, if this verse were talking literally about our society, there’s no doubt it would be hard to believe, if not almost impossible, because that’s not typically how things work. On the other hand, if you look Biblically into this verse you can become engulfed in the fact that when we’re on God’s playing, or even battle field, it’s an entirely different set of rules. That may be hard to believe, but true, and those who are at the top, those who constantly win don’t trump anymore, because in the sight of the Lord, we are all equals. This verse states countless ways we are placed on a level playing field, and verifies this sense of equality in us all, which as a Christian is an important reminder, and we must not forget this. In closing it is important to remember even though we might not be the best at something, especially in our secular society, it is important to try, because time and chance do happen to us all.
John Knouse
Friday, March 18, 2011
Lenten Reflection - March 18, 2011
"For my sighing comes like my bread, and my groanings are poured out like water. Truly the thing that I fear comes upon me, and what I dread befalls me. I am not at ease, nor am I quiet; I have no rest; but trouble comes."
Job 3:20–4:6
The key question to the entire book of Job is why do good men suffer bad things or why is there suffering in the world. In this particular passage Job is lamenting his condition.
But throughout all his suffering, Job never questions God's existence.
How many times when we are suffering have we asked: Is God punishing me? Is God mad at me? Why doesn't he explain what He is doing? How many times do we hear of terrible natural disasters: earthquakes, floods, tornadoes or great suffering at the hands of others - mass shootings, war, terrorism? Do we ask why God lets these events happen? There is no short simple answer to these questions. They can only be answered through reasoning contemplation and prayer. And just like Job, we never question God's existence.
Also, when we reflect on our pain we can go one of two ways. We can keep distressing over and over again, or we can reflect on our pain, our loss and reorient our thinking and pose new questions to ourselves, others and God.
When we suffer, our situation may seem similar to Job's. We may not see the Light at the end of the tunnel. But there is always hope with God.
Job 3:20–4:6
The key question to the entire book of Job is why do good men suffer bad things or why is there suffering in the world. In this particular passage Job is lamenting his condition.
- Job hasn’t the strength to eat. It is a monumental effort to get bread, eat, chew and swallow.
- Job’s groans come out easily and he does not try to suppress them.
- Job fears that his current condition will never end.
- Job can only see trouble, he cannot see the light.
But throughout all his suffering, Job never questions God's existence.
How many times when we are suffering have we asked: Is God punishing me? Is God mad at me? Why doesn't he explain what He is doing? How many times do we hear of terrible natural disasters: earthquakes, floods, tornadoes or great suffering at the hands of others - mass shootings, war, terrorism? Do we ask why God lets these events happen? There is no short simple answer to these questions. They can only be answered through reasoning contemplation and prayer. And just like Job, we never question God's existence.
Also, when we reflect on our pain we can go one of two ways. We can keep distressing over and over again, or we can reflect on our pain, our loss and reorient our thinking and pose new questions to ourselves, others and God.
When we suffer, our situation may seem similar to Job's. We may not see the Light at the end of the tunnel. But there is always hope with God.
Thursday, March 17, 2011
Lenten Reflection - March 17, 2011
Then Jesus, filled with the power of the Spirit, returned to Galilee, and a report about him spread through all the surrounding country. He began to teach in their synagogues and was praised by everyone.
Luke 4:1–15
When we read about Jesus being tempted in the desert, we realize how very weak we are. Each day we are faced with simple tests of our faith and we continually fail them. Jesus has no problems standing firm in His convictions; He resists Satan and uses the Scripture to back up His resistance. Jesus is the perfect role model for us when it comes to testing our faith.
How is it that we can seldom say no and resist the temptations of this world? Here, where overindulgences are abundant, supporting the economy is encouraged, and justification for our behavior is continual, we struggle to hear God‘s voice with our daily choices. We feel like we have to keep up with society, at whatever costs. We can‘t control society, but we can with God‘s help, control our own actions. Instead of justifying our bad choices, why can‘t we use our favorite scriptures to help us stand firm in our weakest moments, the way Jesus did.
YAC Class (12th grade)
Luke 4:1–15
When we read about Jesus being tempted in the desert, we realize how very weak we are. Each day we are faced with simple tests of our faith and we continually fail them. Jesus has no problems standing firm in His convictions; He resists Satan and uses the Scripture to back up His resistance. Jesus is the perfect role model for us when it comes to testing our faith.
How is it that we can seldom say no and resist the temptations of this world? Here, where overindulgences are abundant, supporting the economy is encouraged, and justification for our behavior is continual, we struggle to hear God‘s voice with our daily choices. We feel like we have to keep up with society, at whatever costs. We can‘t control society, but we can with God‘s help, control our own actions. Instead of justifying our bad choices, why can‘t we use our favorite scriptures to help us stand firm in our weakest moments, the way Jesus did.
YAC Class (12th grade)
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
Lenten Reflection - March 16, 2011
And the Spirit immediately drove him out into the wilderness. He was in the wilderness forty days, tempted by Satan; and he was with the wild beasts; and the angels waited on him
Mark 1:9–13
How many small Bible stories mirror life, our lives? Writ large or small, cannot we see the larger themes that affect us?
Jesus, "born again" in his baptism by John the Baptist, now truly begins his life. Our lives take us away from those who know us (John), and we move into the greater world (the wilderness). Forty days, forty years—a lifetime. While we are there, being alive, are we not tempted, are we not surrounded by wild beasts who are likely to harm us? (It's all relative, the beasts in your circles may be perhaps less ravenous than the ones in mine, but they'll eat you up all the same).
But, wait. There's hope. In our time in the wilderness, we have those who minister to us, our own angels. Perhaps they‘re in the guise of family, of friends, of total strangers who pass through our lives, seen once and never again. And we have Christ, who ministers to us; so that we might come through our time in the wilderness, and come safe from out of the wilderness.
Christ doesn't come out of the wilderness all dressed up in rich robes, leading an army to seize a kingdom, trumpets blaring. No. He comes out, probably looking a little worse for wear, but looking pretty much as he went in. As do we, who end our lives taking none of our trappings with us, but having God minister to us at the end.
Beverly Fahlstrom
Mark 1:9–13
How many small Bible stories mirror life, our lives? Writ large or small, cannot we see the larger themes that affect us?
Jesus, "born again" in his baptism by John the Baptist, now truly begins his life. Our lives take us away from those who know us (John), and we move into the greater world (the wilderness). Forty days, forty years—a lifetime. While we are there, being alive, are we not tempted, are we not surrounded by wild beasts who are likely to harm us? (It's all relative, the beasts in your circles may be perhaps less ravenous than the ones in mine, but they'll eat you up all the same).
But, wait. There's hope. In our time in the wilderness, we have those who minister to us, our own angels. Perhaps they‘re in the guise of family, of friends, of total strangers who pass through our lives, seen once and never again. And we have Christ, who ministers to us; so that we might come through our time in the wilderness, and come safe from out of the wilderness.
Christ doesn't come out of the wilderness all dressed up in rich robes, leading an army to seize a kingdom, trumpets blaring. No. He comes out, probably looking a little worse for wear, but looking pretty much as he went in. As do we, who end our lives taking none of our trappings with us, but having God minister to us at the end.
Beverly Fahlstrom
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
Lenten Reflection - March 15, 2011
"Be still, and know that I am God! I am exalted among the nations, I am exalted in the earth." The LORD of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge.
Psalm 46
One of the things I find myself saying lately is "Why am I surprised at God's providence, grace, and faithfulness"? When life deals lemons, with God‘s help they turn to lemonade. Each time this happens, I immediately thank the Lord for helping me find the light in the situation, but I remain surprised. Why do I continually think of God‘s providence as an accident or a coincidence? As my Lord and Savior, it should be no surprise that God‘s presence in my life is continual and "his mercies endure forever."
Psalm 46 is a comfort. It encourages us to have hope in the Lord. In difficult times, we can "find refuge and strength" in God. Psalm 46 proudly promises that the Lord is with us and the God of Jacob is our refuge. Similarly, in Genesis 28, God promised Jacob that he will watch over him wherever he may go, and that God will keep his promises. This same God keeps watch over us; He cares for us, protects us, and sustains us. In this Lenten season, let us not be surprised at God‘s providence, but find comfort and security in His promises.
Allison Parker
This passage says to us that God is all powerful. We can go to him for comfort and help no matter what the situation. Our God is all powerful and reigns over everything including His people. This idea helps me to feel safe and secure. To know that my God is our refuge helps calm any doubt or fear we may have.
We feel safe because we know that there is someone greater than we that is protecting us and watching over us. This is shown by everyday experiences such as when God protects us from wrong choices and instead leads us down the right path. It's also humbling to think that there is something greater than all of us.
Max Spiers and Alyssa Day
Psalm 46
One of the things I find myself saying lately is "Why am I surprised at God's providence, grace, and faithfulness"? When life deals lemons, with God‘s help they turn to lemonade. Each time this happens, I immediately thank the Lord for helping me find the light in the situation, but I remain surprised. Why do I continually think of God‘s providence as an accident or a coincidence? As my Lord and Savior, it should be no surprise that God‘s presence in my life is continual and "his mercies endure forever."
Psalm 46 is a comfort. It encourages us to have hope in the Lord. In difficult times, we can "find refuge and strength" in God. Psalm 46 proudly promises that the Lord is with us and the God of Jacob is our refuge. Similarly, in Genesis 28, God promised Jacob that he will watch over him wherever he may go, and that God will keep his promises. This same God keeps watch over us; He cares for us, protects us, and sustains us. In this Lenten season, let us not be surprised at God‘s providence, but find comfort and security in His promises.
Allison Parker
This passage says to us that God is all powerful. We can go to him for comfort and help no matter what the situation. Our God is all powerful and reigns over everything including His people. This idea helps me to feel safe and secure. To know that my God is our refuge helps calm any doubt or fear we may have.
We feel safe because we know that there is someone greater than we that is protecting us and watching over us. This is shown by everyday experiences such as when God protects us from wrong choices and instead leads us down the right path. It's also humbling to think that there is something greater than all of us.
Max Spiers and Alyssa Day
Monday, March 14, 2011
Lenten Reflection - March 14, 2011
Where could I go to escape from your Spirit or from your sight? If I were to climb up to the highest heavens, you would be there. If I were to dig down to the world of the dead you would also be there…Or suppose I said, "I'll hide in the dark until night comes to cover me over." But you see in the dark because daylight and dark are all the same to you. (CEV)
Psalm 139:1–12
It is an extreme comfort to me, as I am reminded in this passage, that regardless of what I may be going through, I am always in the grasp of our loving Lord. As a child is afraid to take that first journey across a sidewalk without the security of training wheels, they do so anyhow knowing that they have the promise of their parents that they will be there in the event they lose balance. So we should remember without a doubt that when we step out beyond our safe footing in our journey that our Father will be there to catch us.
We must remember that our Lord is not only with us in troubled times but also with us in times of victory and celebration so we should never fall short in praising our Lord both in good times and bad.
In these uncertain and worrisome times, both in our nation and around the world, we should not forget that the Lord will help us if we so desire. Knowing this, we should approach these challenges the very way the Lord would have us do with peace, love, trust, and fairness, especially to those in need.
In closing, I can’t help but to wonder, with the assurance that our Lord is always with us, why then is it sometimes so hard to reach out to those less fortunate? Remember, we are to be the tools our Lord uses in spreading His love, concern, and PROTECTION.
Steven E. Dorsey
Psalm 139:1–12
It is an extreme comfort to me, as I am reminded in this passage, that regardless of what I may be going through, I am always in the grasp of our loving Lord. As a child is afraid to take that first journey across a sidewalk without the security of training wheels, they do so anyhow knowing that they have the promise of their parents that they will be there in the event they lose balance. So we should remember without a doubt that when we step out beyond our safe footing in our journey that our Father will be there to catch us.
We must remember that our Lord is not only with us in troubled times but also with us in times of victory and celebration so we should never fall short in praising our Lord both in good times and bad.
In these uncertain and worrisome times, both in our nation and around the world, we should not forget that the Lord will help us if we so desire. Knowing this, we should approach these challenges the very way the Lord would have us do with peace, love, trust, and fairness, especially to those in need.
In closing, I can’t help but to wonder, with the assurance that our Lord is always with us, why then is it sometimes so hard to reach out to those less fortunate? Remember, we are to be the tools our Lord uses in spreading His love, concern, and PROTECTION.
Steven E. Dorsey
Sunday, March 13, 2011
Lenten Reflection - March 13, 2011 The First Sunday of Lent
Again, I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything you ask for, it will be done for you by my Father in heaven.
Matthew 18:19
Ah. The power of prayer! My first thoughts when I see this verse are of our St. James' Prayer Chain, the list of people in need on our prayer, and our own daily supplications.
How many times has someone whose name was on the prayer list, or their friend or relative, thanked the congregation for their prayers with the acknowledgement that "your prayers worked"? My own experience with "2 or more" praying for me was 22 years ago during a serious medical experience. When a friend told me that she had put my name on her church’s prayer list, I was quite taken aback. I wasn't familiar with prayer chains, and she told me of this passage from Matthew and also the one from I John 5:14, "If we ask anything according to His will, He hears us." It gave me such a positive image, that I was certain I would be healed if it was His will.
Does it mean we can ask for absolutely anything in prayer, like winning the lottery for example, and it will be granted to us? Hardly! We can only ask for what Christ Himself would ask. Sometimes our prayers are not answered the way we would have wished. We cannot dictate to God and must be willing to accept his wisdom. Real prayer is communion with God. What we need is for Him to fill our hearts and minds with His thoughts so that His desires will become our desires and be reflected back to Him in our prayers, whether it is just you, or 2 or more.
Peggy Horn
Matthew 18:19
Ah. The power of prayer! My first thoughts when I see this verse are of our St. James' Prayer Chain, the list of people in need on our prayer, and our own daily supplications.
How many times has someone whose name was on the prayer list, or their friend or relative, thanked the congregation for their prayers with the acknowledgement that "your prayers worked"? My own experience with "2 or more" praying for me was 22 years ago during a serious medical experience. When a friend told me that she had put my name on her church’s prayer list, I was quite taken aback. I wasn't familiar with prayer chains, and she told me of this passage from Matthew and also the one from I John 5:14, "If we ask anything according to His will, He hears us." It gave me such a positive image, that I was certain I would be healed if it was His will.
Does it mean we can ask for absolutely anything in prayer, like winning the lottery for example, and it will be granted to us? Hardly! We can only ask for what Christ Himself would ask. Sometimes our prayers are not answered the way we would have wished. We cannot dictate to God and must be willing to accept his wisdom. Real prayer is communion with God. What we need is for Him to fill our hearts and minds with His thoughts so that His desires will become our desires and be reflected back to Him in our prayers, whether it is just you, or 2 or more.
Peggy Horn
Saturday, March 12, 2011
Lenten Reflection - March 12, 2011
Use your heads as you live and work among outsiders. Don't miss a trick. Make the most of every opportunity. Be gracious in your speech. The goal is to bring out the best in others in a conversation, not put them down, not cut them out. (The Message)
Colossians 4:2–6
This passage is an encouragement to pray and be ready for opportunities that arise for us to share Christ and His love with others, often found under a heading aptly referring to "Christian Graces."
It is useful to understand the context, as the preceding portion of Colossians is labeled in most Bibles as "Rules" or "Guidelines" of a Christian Home. It speaks about how we should relate to others in a variety of relationships: husbands and wives, parents and children, employees and employers.
Then this particular passage moves on to how we interact with others – in some translations it says “outsiders.” This may be a casual acquaintance or a stranger. We are to be prayerfully ready to make the most of every opportunity to serve Christ in the people we encounter on a daily basis. We need to be equipped with speech filled with grace, which is not always easy in this hectic life. How many times have we said, "I should have said this." or "I should have done that"? In other Bible translations, the passage emphasizes "continuing in prayer" in order to have the wisdom to "know how to answer each one."
Perhaps during Lent we can all take extra time to pray and be aware of the opportunities God is giving us to be like Christ to the people He puts in our path. Also remember, it’s up to us to take action and carry out what He is inspiring us to do. The ball is in our court, what will we do with it?
Laura Miller
Colossians 4:2–6
This passage is an encouragement to pray and be ready for opportunities that arise for us to share Christ and His love with others, often found under a heading aptly referring to "Christian Graces."
It is useful to understand the context, as the preceding portion of Colossians is labeled in most Bibles as "Rules" or "Guidelines" of a Christian Home. It speaks about how we should relate to others in a variety of relationships: husbands and wives, parents and children, employees and employers.
Then this particular passage moves on to how we interact with others – in some translations it says “outsiders.” This may be a casual acquaintance or a stranger. We are to be prayerfully ready to make the most of every opportunity to serve Christ in the people we encounter on a daily basis. We need to be equipped with speech filled with grace, which is not always easy in this hectic life. How many times have we said, "I should have said this." or "I should have done that"? In other Bible translations, the passage emphasizes "continuing in prayer" in order to have the wisdom to "know how to answer each one."
Perhaps during Lent we can all take extra time to pray and be aware of the opportunities God is giving us to be like Christ to the people He puts in our path. Also remember, it’s up to us to take action and carry out what He is inspiring us to do. The ball is in our court, what will we do with it?
Laura Miller
Friday, March 11, 2011
Lenten Reflection - March 11, 2011
Then he said to them all, "If any want to become my followers, let them deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me."
Luke 9:23–25
This passage occurs after Jesus has fed the multitudes with five loaves and two fishes—He is praying and tells His disciples what is to befall Him: His trial, crucifixion, and resurrection from the dead. This verse is deceptively simple: If you wish to follow me, you must let go of selfishness, pick up your cross, and come with me. He then presents the Apostles with a paradox: in order to save your life, you must lose it. Those who put worldly things in front of heavenly things will find, in the end, they have lost everything, while those who renounce the world and give their life to Christ will be rewarded with everlasting life. The message is plain, straightforward, and easily understood. We know what we are called to do and what we must do -- but so often we forget or ignore this fundamental charge of Christianity. Perhaps, in this penitential season of Lent, we can, with the aid of prayer and reflection, strive to pick up the cross that Jesus asks us to bear.
Diana Doswell
Luke 9:23–25
This passage occurs after Jesus has fed the multitudes with five loaves and two fishes—He is praying and tells His disciples what is to befall Him: His trial, crucifixion, and resurrection from the dead. This verse is deceptively simple: If you wish to follow me, you must let go of selfishness, pick up your cross, and come with me. He then presents the Apostles with a paradox: in order to save your life, you must lose it. Those who put worldly things in front of heavenly things will find, in the end, they have lost everything, while those who renounce the world and give their life to Christ will be rewarded with everlasting life. The message is plain, straightforward, and easily understood. We know what we are called to do and what we must do -- but so often we forget or ignore this fundamental charge of Christianity. Perhaps, in this penitential season of Lent, we can, with the aid of prayer and reflection, strive to pick up the cross that Jesus asks us to bear.
Diana Doswell
Thursday, March 10, 2011
Lenten Reflection - March 10, 2011
Do you see what this means - all these pioneers who blazed the way, all these veterans cheering us on? It means we’d better get on with it. Strip down…and never quit! No extra spiritual fat, no parasitic sins. Keep your eyes on Jesus, who both began and finished this race we’re in. Study how he did it. Because he never lost sight of where he was headed—that exhilarating finish in and with God—he could put up with anything along the way: cross, shame, whatever. And now he’s there, in the place of honor, right alongside God. (The Message)
Hebrews 12:1–2
After reading the assigned passage, the children of Atrium III wanted to see how it was written in the Bible that we use in class. The following was what they decided was the passage’s message:
From the students of Atrium III (grades 4-6)
Hebrews 12:1–2
After reading the assigned passage, the children of Atrium III wanted to see how it was written in the Bible that we use in class. The following was what they decided was the passage’s message:
- To follow Jesus you have to leave everything behind that gets in the way, including sin.
- If you focus on sin, your race will be long and winding. If you focus on Jesus, your race will be smooth and easy.
- Endure the race. Get rid of things that slow us down like stress, excuses, blame and addictions.
- If you hold onto sin, then you can’t race the race of life.
- Focus on the prize – being closer to Jesus and looking to Heaven.
From the students of Atrium III (grades 4-6)
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
Lenten Reflection - March 9, 2011 Ash Wednesday
Let the LORD lead you and trust the LORD to help. (CEV)
Psalm 37:3–7 (CEV)
Today, known as Ash Wednesday, begins the forty day (forty-six including Sundays) journey to the crucifixion. For the next forty days we will attempt to prepare our hearts and minds for the reality that faced our Lord and Savior two thousand years ago. For many of us the next 40 days can be painful, challenging, and at times overwhelming. And that’s ok because the next 40 days can also be life changing. The season of Lent allows us time to evaluate who we are, who God is, and who God is calling us to be in light of that relationship. Lent is an invitation to turn away from our sins, weaknesses, strengths, shortcomings towards God’s grace.
The psalm quoted above is an incredible reminder that the journey we are about to embark on has to be led by our Lord and Savior. When we trust the Lord to help, when we trust the Lord to lead us, then true repentance and true transformation can begin. Only God knows where we are heading in the next forty days. Trust in His love, His grace, and His direction. As ashes are imposed on your foreheads tonight as a sign of repentance, remember that we aren’t on this journey alone. Buckle up friends; we’re in for an incredible journey towards the cross.
Amanda Knouse+
Psalm 37:3–7 (CEV)
Today, known as Ash Wednesday, begins the forty day (forty-six including Sundays) journey to the crucifixion. For the next forty days we will attempt to prepare our hearts and minds for the reality that faced our Lord and Savior two thousand years ago. For many of us the next 40 days can be painful, challenging, and at times overwhelming. And that’s ok because the next 40 days can also be life changing. The season of Lent allows us time to evaluate who we are, who God is, and who God is calling us to be in light of that relationship. Lent is an invitation to turn away from our sins, weaknesses, strengths, shortcomings towards God’s grace.
The psalm quoted above is an incredible reminder that the journey we are about to embark on has to be led by our Lord and Savior. When we trust the Lord to help, when we trust the Lord to lead us, then true repentance and true transformation can begin. Only God knows where we are heading in the next forty days. Trust in His love, His grace, and His direction. As ashes are imposed on your foreheads tonight as a sign of repentance, remember that we aren’t on this journey alone. Buckle up friends; we’re in for an incredible journey towards the cross.
Amanda Knouse+
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