St. James' Parish Lenten Reflections

Lenten Reflection - April 24, 2011 Easter

2011-04-24T04:05:00.001-04:00

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

Lenten Reflection - April 23, 2011 Holy Saturday

2011-04-23T07:05:00.000-04:00

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

Lenten Reflection - April 22, 2011 Good Friday

2011-04-22T07:05:00.000-04:00

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

Lenten Reflection - April 21, 2011 Maundy Thursday

2011-04-21T07:05:00.000-04:00

…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

Lenten Reflection - April 20, 2011 Wednesday, Holy Week

2011-04-20T07:05:00.000-04:00

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

Lenten Reflection - April 19, 2011 Tuesday, Holy Week

2011-04-19T07:05:00.000-04:00

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

Lenten Reflection - April 18, 2011 Monday, Holy Week

2011-04-18T07:05:00.000-04:00

“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

Lenten Reflection - April 17, 2011 Palm Sunday

2011-04-17T07:05:00.000-04:00

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

Lenten Reflection - April 16, 2011

2011-04-16T07:05:00.001-04:00

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

Lenten Reflection - April 15, 2011

2011-04-15T07:05:00.001-04:00

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

Lenten Reflection - April 14, 2011

2011-04-14T07:05:00.000-04:00

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

Lenten Reflection - April 13, 2011

2011-04-13T07:05:00.000-04:00

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

Lenten Reflection - April 12, 2011

2011-04-12T07:05:00.002-04:00

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

Lenten Reflection - April 11, 2011

2011-04-11T07:05:00.001-04:00

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

Lenten Reflection - April 10, 2011 The Fifth Sunday of Lent

2011-04-10T07:05:00.001-04:00

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

Lenten Reflection - April 9, 2011

2011-04-09T07:05:00.000-04:00

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

Lenten Reflection - April 8, 2011

2011-04-08T07:05:00.001-04:00

“…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

Lenten Reflection - April 7, 2011

2011-04-07T15:35:00.001-04:00

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

Lenten Reflection - April 7, 2011

2011-04-07T07:05:00.002-04:00

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

Lenten Reflection - April 6, 2011

2011-04-06T07:05:00.001-04:00

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

Lenten Reflection - April 5, 2011

2011-04-05T07:05:00.001-04:00

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

Lenten Reflection - April 4, 2011

2011-04-04T07:05:00.000-04:00

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

Lenten Reflection - April 3, 2011 The Fourth Sunday of Lent

2011-04-03T07:05:00.000-04:00

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

Lenten Reflection - April 2, 2011

2011-04-02T07:05:00.001-04:00

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)

Lenten Reflection - April 1, 2011

2011-04-01T07:05:00.001-04:00

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

Lenten Reflection - March 31, 2011

2011-03-31T07:05:00.001-04:00

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

Lenten Reflection - March 30, 2011

2011-03-30T07:05:00.000-04:00

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

Lenten Reflection - March 29, 2011

2011-03-29T07:05:00.001-04:00

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

Lenten Reflection - March 28, 2011

2011-03-28T07:05:00.002-04:00

"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

Lenten Reflection - March 27, 2011 The Third Sunday of Lent

2011-03-27T07:05:00.000-04:00

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

Lenten Reflection - March 26, 2011

2011-03-26T07:05:00.000-04:00

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

Lenten Reflection - March 25, 2011

2011-03-25T07:05:00.001-04:00

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+

Lenten Reflection - March 24, 2011

2011-03-24T07:05:00.001-04:00

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

Lenten Reflection - March 23, 2011

2011-03-23T07:05:00.001-04:00

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):

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.

When I was a sophomore in college I read the Book of Job in a literature class and in my critical essay I, like Elihu, was inclined to explicate God's actions in terms of man's understanding of justice and motivation. Now, like Job, "I know that therefore have I uttered that I understood not; things too wonderful for me, which I knew not," and I hope, like Job,to be able to say "I have heard of thee by the hearing of the ear: but now mine eye seeth thee."

Judy Huntington

Lenten Reflection - March 22, 2011

2011-03-22T07:05:00.001-04:00

"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

Lenten Reflection - March 21, 2011

2011-03-21T07:05:00.001-04:00

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 +

Lenten Reflection - March 20, 2011 The Second Sunday of Lent

2011-03-20T07:05:00.000-04:00

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+

Lenten Reflection - March 19, 2011

2011-03-19T07:05:00.000-04:00

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

Lenten Reflection - March 18, 2011

2011-03-18T07:05:00.001-04:00

"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.

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.

Lenten Reflection - March 17, 2011

2011-03-17T07:05:00.001-04:00

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)

Lenten Reflection - March 16, 2011

2011-03-16T07:05:00.002-04:00

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

Lenten Reflection - March 15, 2011

2011-03-15T07:05:00.000-04:00

"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

Lenten Reflection - March 14, 2011

2011-03-14T07:05:00.001-04:00

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

Lenten Reflection - March 13, 2011 The First Sunday of Lent

2011-03-13T07:05:00.001-04:00

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

Lenten Reflection - March 12, 2011

2011-03-12T07:05:00.002-05:00

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

Lenten Reflection - March 11, 2011

2011-03-11T07:05:00.000-05:00

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

Lenten Reflection - March 10, 2011

2011-03-10T07:05:00.001-05:00

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:

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.

Run the race with Jesus leading us and we will always win!

From the students of Atrium III (grades 4-6)

Lenten Reflection - March 9, 2011 Ash Wednesday

2011-03-09T00:05:00.000-05:00

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+

Lenten Reflection - April 4, 2010 Easter Day

2010-04-04T02:05:00.000-04:00

Jesus said to her, "...go to my brothers and say to them, 'I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and to your God.'" Mary Magdalene went and announced to the disciples, "I have seen the Lord."
John 20:17-18

As I am writing this reflection, the ground is frozen and covered with ice and snow and my mind keeps holding on to the words of the song, The Rose: "When the night has been too lonely, And the road has been too long, And you think that love is only, For the lucky and the strong, Just remember in the winter, Far beneath the bitter snows, Lies the seed that with the sun's love, In the spring becomes the rose." For me it is "with the" Son's love, that we, like Jesus, are enabled to rise up like the rose.

To Mary Magdalene belongs the glory of being the first person to see the Risen Christ. What joy must have filled her heart – the man whom she loved and worshiped had died, and now has been raised. The Son's Love filled her heart and she announced, "I have seen the Lord." For us Christianity does not mean knowing about Jesus; it means knowing Jesus. It does not mean talking about Jesus; it means encountering Jesus. With the certainty of the experience that Jesus is alive, you and I are called also to proclaim: "I have seen the Lord." Jesus has been raised from the dead! Alleluia! Alleluia!

William H. C. Ticknor+

Lenten Reflection - April 3, 2010 Holy Saturday

2010-04-03T02:05:00.001-04:00

Indeed, God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world might be saved through him.
John 3:17

The verse of the day, John 3:17 is the lesser known of that portion of John Chapter 3. The verse prior to John 3:17 is the well known and beloved verse also known as “the Bible in a nutshell”:

“For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life.”

In my study Bible, it says that “John 3:17 continues the message of John 3:16 which “links Jesus’ death with God’s love for the world. God gives Jesus in love to all people and whoever believes in this gift will receive eternal life. Verses 17 and 18 reinforce that the incarnation is about the possibility of new life, not judgment.” (The New Interpreter’s Study Bible New Revised Standard Version).

The Easter message of God’s own Son’s suffering and death on the cross and then His resurrection is explained in full in these verses and the reassurance we have in God’s perfect love for us is made evident.

John U. Leventry, Jr.

Lenten Reflection - April 2, 2010 Good Friday

2010-04-02T02:05:00.000-04:00

Joseph of Arimathea, who was a disciple of Jesus, though a secret one because of his fear of the Jews, asked Pilate to let him take away the body of Jesus. Pilate gave him permission; so he came and removed his body.
John 19:38

When reading the above passage I am struck with complete awe at the courage and love that Joseph of Arimathea had for his Lord and Savior. Not much is known about this character Joseph, other than he was known as an honorable counselor, who waited for the kingdom of God. We know that fear captivated him as he watched his Lord being arrested, beaten, and murdered. Honestly, I think we all would be scared at such a sight. However, what amazes me about this passage is Joseph’s desire to give his Lord a proper burial, no matter how difficult it may be.

And so, he approaches Pontius Pilate and asks for Jesus’ body. Upon permission from Pilate, Joseph finds himself at the foot of the cross where his Lord and Savior hang lifeless. What a powerful moment for Joseph. If there is one person in the world that truly understood the reality of Jesus’ death I think it is Joseph as he carries the dead weight of Christ to the tomb. Every step that Joseph took must have been encompassed with guilt, fear, and a feeling of loss. Yet, with every step Joseph finds his heart being transformed from disbelief to belief. As Christians we know that in three days Jesus will be raised from the dead and that death will no longer have the final word. Yet, for now we, like Joseph, wait.

The Rev. Amanda Knouse

Lenten Reflection - April 1, 2010 Maundy Thursday

2010-04-01T02:05:00.000-04:00

I give you a new commandment, to love one another.
John 13:34

At the dinner table, Satan had entered into the body of Judas Iscariot. Jesus asks Satan what he is doing at their feast, and as soon as Judas takes the bread, he is gone.

Jesus then said to his disciples, “I give you a new command, to love one another.” He tells them that if they do this, He will know that they are His disciples.

This commandment not only applied to Jesus’ disciples. It now applies to us Christians. Jesus will know that we are His followers if we love one another. Some of us, however, are unable to love one another, due to conflict, racism, etc. However, if we take time to realize that all Jesus wants is for us to love one another, then we can make simple changes to our lives and be one with Christ.

After Jesus has spoken to his disciples, he informs them that he will be leaving, and they cannot follow. Peter asks, “Master, why can I not follow you now? I will lay down my life for you.”

We all know that next, Jesus tells Peter that before the rooster crows three times, he will deny Jesus. We all wonder, how could someone who loved Jesus so much, deny him? But, this passage made us think, are we any different than Peter? Haven’t we all been in a situation where our faith has been brought into question? Are we willing to lay down our lives for Jesus?

Will and Caroline Pickart

Lenten Reflection - March 31, 2010 Wednesday, Holy Week

2010-03-31T02:05:00.000-04:00

So, after receiving the piece of bread, [Judas] immediately went out. And it was night.
John 13:30

We all know that what happens all around this verse, before and after, inevitably leads to the capture, crucifixion, and death of our lord, Jesus Christ. Knowing this, it is easy to see in the scripture before this verse Jesus is predicting his own fate to his disciples, and singles out his betrayer. What we don’t know is how, after being singled out as the one to be responsible for such betrayal, Judas Iscariot must have felt when he was handed a piece of bread by the man he was about to sell-out, and sent on his way.

Judas was a follower, a believer, and a friend of Jesus for some time, so to jump to conclusions that he was such a deceitful person that this was and easy decision for him to make would be strongly opposed by many. So the question rises up before us, what was Judas thinking? Was his conscience going from side to side, was he constantly questioning what he wanted to do, or did he just go on with it with no remorse?

In life we are constantly faced with choices, no matter how big or small. Should I do this even though my parents would strongly disagree, or even, do I want to eat the cake or the ice cream? Nonetheless Judas was faced with a decision that was inevitable, and sometimes so are we. We just need to take our time, slow down and ask the question, what is at stake?

Journey to Adulthood (J2A, grades 8-9)

Lenten Reflection - March 30, 2010 Tuesday, Holy Week

2010-03-30T02:05:00.000-04:00

Now among those who went up to worship at the festival were some Greeks. They came to Philip... and said to him, “Sir, we wish to see Jesus.”
John 12:20-21

The Greeks were not the only people who needed to see Jesus, there were many others. Believing for most of us would be so much easier if we could witness the presence of Jesus as those who saw Him that day at the festival. The need to have real evidence in the here and now is part of our twenty-first century culture, maybe even more than in Jesus' life time.

When my children started learning about Jesus in Sunday school and the books read to them at home, I worried that they were not as interested in those stories as they were in the Winnie the Pooh books. My concern continued through college and into their married lives. As it turned out, I was the one of little faith like those in Jesus' time who insisted upon seeing and hearing Jesus in order to believe.

It was the community of St. James' and our family that taught them about God's love. Now both daughters are teaching others what they learned and believe.

Nancy McClunin

Lenten Reflection - March 29, 2010 Monday, Holy Week

2010-03-29T02:05:00.000-04:00

Jesus said, “Leave her alone. She bought it so that she might keep it for the day of my burial.”
John 12:7

Before the triumphant entry that led to Jesus’ crucifixion, Jesus dined in Bethany, with Lazarus, Martha, and Mary. After dinner, Mary poured expensive perfume on Jesus’ feet and wiped it with her hair, which filled the house with the perfumed scent.

Judas (many of us can relate to him in this passage, his practicality and also selfishness ring out) argued that the expensive perfume was worth a year’s wages—it should have been sold and the money should have gone to the poor.

Then, in 12:7, Jesus defends Mary. He responded to Judas by telling him to leave Mary alone; she brought the perfume for the day of his burial.

When our class read the passage, the following themes occurred in our discussion:

• Mary had complete faith in Jesus, the Christ. She had reverence, respect, and honored him.
• Following Jesus has nothing to do with your level of society; people in different economic situations can still be faithful followers.
• Mary using her hair to wipe Jesus’ feet is a humbling gesture.
• People showed their love to Christ in different ways- this was Mary’s gift to Jesus.
• Mary made Jesus a priority,
• Are we too practical for faith?
• Do we understand what extensive sacrifice is?

At a time before Jesus’ death and resurrection, Mary proved her love and devotion to Jesus, despite criticism. What a role model she is to us!

Young Adults in Church (YAC, grades 10-12)

Lenten Reflection - March 28, 2010 Palm Sunday

2010-03-28T02:05:00.000-04:00

He saved others; he cannot save himself. Let the Messiah, the King of Israel, come down from the cross now, so that we may see and believe.
Mark 15:31-32

This Sunday we enter Holy Week which could easily be described as the most disorienting time of the year. Scripture tells us that in one week’s time, Jesus’ followers go from welcoming and worshipping Jesus as he enters Jerusalem, to mocking and torturing him as he hangs on the cross. What began as a grand triumphant entry into Jerusalem, with the waving of palms and the throwing down of coats on the street of Jesus’ path, quickly turned into a time of ridicule and doubt. In less than seven days, the crowd does a complete 180 in regards to how they treat their Lord and Savior. Mark 15:31-32 shows just how fickle we as human beings can be.

The crowd, consisting of high priests, scholars, and townspeople, insisted that Jesus save himself in order for them to believe. Forget the fact that Jesus spent his entire life healing the sick, feeding the hungry, casting out demons, and loving the unlovable! They still wanted more! Today’s scripture can be very difficult to swallow, yet despite our fickleness, our desire for more, and our crises of faith, Jesus still loves us and believes in us. The true joy of Palm Sunday lies in the fact that Jesus never turns his back on us. As we begin Holy Week this year, I pray that we all remember and accept the love and the sacrifice that Christ has made for each one of us.

The Rev. Amanda Knouse

Lenten Reflection - March 27, 2010

2010-03-27T02:05:00.000-04:00

I will put my law within them, and I will write it on their hearts; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. No longer shall they teach one another, or say to each other, “Know the Lord,” for they shall all know me, from the least of them to the greatest, says the Lord; for I will forgive their iniquity, and remember their sin no more.
Jeremiah 31:33-34

He is our God and we are his people. The new covenant is written in our hearts and minds; while the old covenant was written on stone tablets. Everyone is his and knows him. Our sins are forgiven. The Holy Spirit lives in every Christian to teach, guide and unite us. Hebrews 8:6-13 teaches that Christians are under this new covenant. Live as children of the new covenant, members of Christ's body, united by one Holy Spirit, guided by the law of God that is written on your hearts and minds.

Ron Zseltvay

Lenten Reflection - March 26, 2010

2010-03-26T02:05:00.000-04:00

Though Jesus loved Martha and her sister and Lazarus, after having heard that Lazarus was ill, he stayed two days longer in the place where he was.
John 11:5-6

The passage is taken from the story about the death and resurrection of Lazarus. When Jesus heard of Lazarus's sickness he waited two days before going to Bethany. He already knew Lazarus would be dead and he would perform a miracle there for the glory of God.

Often times in life, we wonder why God does not act more rapidly in helping us. We often ask "Why me?" or "Where are you when I need you?" or "Why didn't you help?" Sometimes it seems that we go from bad to worse before something more powerful or wonderful happens. It is through the bearing of these burdens that we grow and become more fully aware of life, reality, and life's abundance.

When we truly have faith and trust in Christ, we know all is possible. To this end, He has a purpose to bring greater glory to God.

Jim and Linda Brown

Lenten Reflection - March 25, 2010

2010-03-25T02:05:00.002-04:00

It may be that they will listen, all of them, and will turn from their evil way, that I may change my mind about the disaster that I intend to bring on them because of their evil doings.
Jeremiah 26:3

This passage is part of Jeremiah’s temple sermon - instructions by God to Jeremiah just before he is given a dire warning to the people of Jerusalem about their impending destruction, unless they change their ways. Judah is under the control of Babylon, with a puppet king in place, though the people continue to believe that YHWH will always protect Jerusalem since His temple is in the city. They believe the temple is their trump card, never mind how they are living their lives.

For me, this passage reinforces the absolute importance of grace. I look at this passage, and, while it appears God is being an optimist and giving the people another chance, an image that comes to mind is Mike Myers’ character in Wayne’s World sarcastically saying “yeah… it could happen.” God already knows that the people will not change – that they could not change even if they wanted to. 600+ years after Jeremiah, Paul would sum this up in Romans 7, stating that “I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out. For what I do is not the good I want to do; no, the evil I do not want to do—this I keep on doing... Who will rescue me from this body of death? Thanks be to God—through Jesus Christ our Lord!”

With all the human experience since then how different are we from the people of Jerusalem? We still face the same problems, but we know we have options the people of Jerusalem could not have known or understood then: we can decide whether or not to use our freewill to surrender our freewill to God and whether or not to accept the grace necessary to carry out His will that God so freely offers us.

Richard Downs

Lenten Reflection - March 24, 2010

2010-03-24T02:05:00.000-04:00

I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly.
John 10:10

Jesus came so that we can have life abundantly....

At the beginning of this verse it says, "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy:" Thieves come creeping in trying to take what is not theirs, just as Satan tries to creep into our hearts and take what is not his.

Jesus is the security we have to keep what is ours, the abundant life that was promised to us.

Life abundantly sounds so far out of reach. However, Romans 5:17 says, "For if, by the trespass of the one man, death reigned through that one man, how much more will those who receive God's abundant provision of grace and the gift of righteousness reign in life through the one man, Jesus Christ." So our abundant life is within our reach, as long as we remember that Christ came that we may have life, and have it abundantly.

Jeanie Zseltvay

Lenten Reflection - March 23, 2010

2010-03-23T02:05:00.000-04:00

If you confess with your lips that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.
Romans 10:9

When I read this verse, a strange thing happened. I could only think of when the clergy presents the Gospel and I make the sign of the cross on my forehead, on my lips and over my heart. I wasn’t getting anything else from the verse other than that image. The verse is to the point, re-reading only served to frustrate me.

Then I took out the Bible that Eileen (House) gave us during Confirmation class years ago. It is a contemporary English version and things finally started to click. It says," So you will be saved, if you honestly say, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and if you believe with all your heart that God raised him from death.’” Not so very different in wording, but it started to untangle for me.

Maybe, just maybe, my first image wasn’t so far off. We are to take the Word placed in our minds, to speak them with our lips, and believe them in our hearts. We are called to share the words that Jesus is Lord, who was raised from the dead to save us with full belief and conviction. We are commissioned to do so with everyone, not just the folks at church or in our social circle. That means often times going outside our comfort zone to proclaim the Lord’s word.

As a child I openly spoke of Jesus, but as I grew older, was afraid of offending others. Now I am back to being childlike in proclaiming Jesus. Thanks be to God!

Sharon McGlaughlin

Lenten Reflection - March 22, 2010

2010-03-22T02:05:00.000-04:00

I will give them a heart to know that I am the Lord; and they shall be my people, and I will be their God for they shall return to me with their whole heart.
Jeremiah 24:7

Poor Jeremiah had soul-destroying news for the people – the judgment of the nations and Judah, AND the foretelling of the Babylonian captivity. But, his actual mission was to get them to turn back to their all-sufficient God who desired relationship, who loved them, and wanted their love for him to be real, tenacious – nothing half hearted!

This hope is developed (spiritually and physically) in Ezekiel 36 vs 26 (NIV):
“I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you. I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh. And I will put my spirit in you and move you to follow my decrees.”

This is beautifully referenced in Hebrews 10 in THE MESSAGE:
“The new plan I’m making with Israel isn’t going to be written on paper, isn’t going to be chiseled in stone; this time I’m writing out the plan in them, carving it on the lining of their hearts. I’ll forever wipe the slate clean of their sins.”

Thankfully we, now through Jesus Christ, have the promise of a new spirit-filled heart to truly know, love and find the forgiveness of God.

May we, this Lenten season, find that heart-felt HOPE in the redeeming love and grace of God through Jesus Christ our Lord.

Nan Lewis

Lenten Reflection - March 21, 2010 The Fifth Sunday in Lent

2010-03-21T02:05:00.000-04:00

Those who love their life lose it, and those who hate their life in this world will keep it for eternal life.
John 12:25

Question: Is Jesus really telling us to hate this wonderful life that God, who created all that is, seen and unseen, has given to us?
Answer: No.

In our day-to-day lives, we experience many holy, beautiful things that help us to understand the sanctity of our earthly, human lives and draw us closer to God. Think of the love of a child. The re-emerging beauty that greets us every spring. Think of Mother Teresa and her life of service to the unfortunate souls in Calcutta.

The danger that Jesus is warning us about is loving our own, individual lives to the extent that we lose sight of our ultimate goal: eternal life in heaven. As we travel through our earthly lives, we frequently find ourselves overly occupied by a number of things, including:
· The need for comfort, safety and security
· Selfishness

With these things in mind, doesn’t it make sense that if we give in to the perceived “needs” of our earthly lives, that we will put our eternal lives in jeopardy?

So, we must do our best to keep the things of the world in their proper perspective. Hate the pressures of our daily lives that put too much emphasis on temporal things so we can properly prepare ourselves for the unimaginable glory that awaits us in the life to come.

The Rev. Bob McCoy

Lenten Reflection - March 20, 2010

2010-03-20T02:05:00.001-04:00

So Jesus asked the twelve, “Do you also wish to go away?” Simon Peter answered him, “Lord, to whom can we go? You have the words of eternal life.”
John 6:67-68

In the verses that precede these lines, Jesus has been preaching to his disciples and to the crowds that have come to hear him. Some in the crowd do not understand what Jesus is saying, and they turn their backs and “walked no more with him.” Jesus asks the disciples who remain, “Will you leave me also?” But Peter, the Rock upon whom Jesus will build his church, the apostle to whom He will hand the Keys to the Kingdom, understands directly, immediately, and answers with great simplicity: “Lord to whom can we go?” Peter knows that Jesus is the Way, the Truth and the Life (John 14:6).

This is the same Peter who will walk upon the waves to Jesus -- but, when his fears overwhelm him, he loses his faith and begins to sink into the stormy sea. It is Peter who will deny Jesus three times during Jesus’ last hours on earth. Peter is far from perfect; he is like us: he has moments when he ceases to believe and there are times when he abandons Jesus. But in these verses he sees to the heart of the matter, and so we can, like him, do the same: we can answer Jesus when he asks us, “Lord to whom can we go? You have the words of eternal life.”

Diana Doswell

Lenten Reflection - March 19, 2010

2010-03-19T02:05:00.000-04:00

No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor rulers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Romans 8:37-39

As I began to read this passage by Paul to the Romans, I realized how this passage relates to me, and not just me, but everyone—”..nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Those few words mean so much. In everything we all do, from day to day, we need to remember how our Lord is there to lead us in the correct direction. Many people might say how they need something or want something, but in reality, they don’t need anything but the love from their God. He will always be there for you. Separating us from God’s love is impossible, for He will always love everyone of us equally. The poor, the wealthy, the things we have, the things we may not have, how high in power we are, whether we are living or deceased—does not mean anything in the eyes of our Lord. Keep in mind that we all are God’s children, and no matter what, the love he has for us will always be there.

Julie Crawford

Lenten Reflection - March 18, 2010

2010-03-18T02:05:00.000-04:00

If children, then heirs, heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ – if, in fact, we suffer with him.
Jeremiah 18:6

This scripture comes to us from St. Paul’s Epistle to the Romans. It is believed that he wrote this letter prior to his visit to the Church of Rome, to the people of this church. The Church of Rome consisted primarily of Gentiles, but there was also a minority of Jews. The primary theme in this book, or the message that is believed that Paul was trying to convey, is God’s plan of salvation and righteousness for all humankind. Jesus taught us that each of us is a child of God. This means that we are brothers and sisters. Through our faith we are taught that we are the children of the one true God. Also, this means that the Lord Jesus is our brother.

If we are brothers and sisters to our Savior, then we are to also suffer with him. Both Lent and Easter provide us with the opportunity to suffer with our Lord and then to be risen with him on Easter. We suffer with him when we are baptized into his death. We suffer with him through his Crucifixion. We must always be ready to bear the cross. If we do all of these things then we also shall be glorified together with him. What an awesome concept. As children of God we are also his heirs. Through this inheritance we inherit all of God’s grace, his love and all that he offers to us.

Joe Carta

Lenten Reflection - March 17, 2010

2010-03-17T02:05:00.000-04:00

Just like the clay in the potter’s hand, so are you in my hand.
Jeremiah 18:6

Just as the potter can make something new out of marred clay, so does God have the power to recreate us. I think this passage talks to us about submitting to God and trusting in God's plan. It gives us the confidence that when we follow God that he will shape us and lead us in the way that we should go. It also gives me a sense of hope. No matter what out attitude is about ourselves, we can be encouraged that God can still use us. We may be marred but God can turn us into a new creation.

Curtis Miller

Lenten Reflection - March 16, 2010

2010-03-16T02:05:00.000-04:00

Do not work for the food that perishes, but for the food that endures for eternal life, which the Son of Man will give you.
John 6:27a

Well, this a pretty straightforward metaphor concerning our relationship with our own future. Nothing we haven’t heard before— don’t get so caught up in the now that you forget the really longrange planning that needs to be done to make sure we have earned our way to be with Christ forever. This is great advice, and like most great advice, hard to take on board.

John, Chapter 6, is one of the chapters in the Bible you can read over and over again and see something illuminating and new each time. It is chock full of mystery (can two measly fish and five loaves of barley bread really feed the gathered crowd?) and adventure (Jesus walks on the water!) and answers many questions the Jews have been struggling with (Who are you EXACTLY?) It is also filled with beautiful language — “Then Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except ye eat the flesh of the Son of man, and drink his blood, ye have no life in you. Whoso eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, hath eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day. (KJV)” The language Jesus uses in this chapter of John is compelling and, if you are ever in the throes of doubt, I would recommend that you read John 6 in the King James Version.

In the end, this straightforward metaphor challenges us to keep moving forward through our lives always aware that the greatest sustenance we can take is available for each and every one of us right now—the knowledge that Christ loves us, sacrificed his body for us, and waits for us.

JoEllen Kelly

Lenten Reflection - March 15, 2010

2010-03-15T02:05:00.000-04:00

Jesus said to Philip, “Where are we to buy bread for these people to eat?” He said this to test him, for he himself knew what he was going to do.
John 6:5-6

What catches my attention most about this passage is that among the many miracles Jesus displayed to crowds of people and his disciples, there might not be one that matches the multitude of this story. This verse stands at the heart of what Jesus’ time as a man on earth stood for, and how he fed those who were hungry for something more than just physical food. In those times, much like ours, people were starving, but this isn’t your typical hunger. Unlike most starvation, this particular type of hunger needed something special not just the loaves of barley bread and fish that this scripture mentions.

As Christians we hunger for more, whether it is to be more accepting of others, or just to be accepted, to be more helpful, or even if we are hungering for the help of others. This verse opens itself up and allows us to see clearly that God not only sent his Son for our salvation, but to feed us, both spiritually and emotionally. There is a bit of irony in my reflection as when we kneel at the altar every Sunday morning, which is in fact the sacrament of the body and blood of our Lord Christ that we feed upon. Lent is indeed a time of reflection, and as you reflect this Lenten season, whatever it is you hunger for, the Lord our God shall provide.

John Knouse

Lenten Reflection - March 14, 2010 The Fourth Sunday in Lent

2010-03-14T08:05:00.000-04:00

But those who do what is true come to the light, so that it may be clearly seen that their deeds are done in God.
John 3:21

I love the light! I feel uplifted on a sunny day. I always have more energy and more optimism, and I get more done. I gravitate toward the light, just as my plants do. I love to sit by a window when I have a choice of seats. As I get older, I find that I even see better when I am in the light. Light makes it easier to see everything on the surface of things— both good and bad. Flaws show up even more when something is exposed to the light. But how easy is it to see what is inside of us? How could I get that light to shine inside to see my strengths and my flaws? Do I even want to? When Jesus said the words in our passage for today, he was teaching a Pharisee named Nicodemus. Jesus was trying to get Nicodemus, a teacher himself, to go deeper than the surface so he could understand how important it was not just to follow the letter of the law, but to believe in Jesus and have God’s Spirit in his heart.

From other passages in John, we know Jesus said, “I am the way and the truth, and the life” (John 14:6) and “I am the Light of the World. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” (John 8:12) When we follow Jesus, we are in the truth and the light. We are in God’s will. As Jesus moves, we need to make sure we follow him in order to stay in the light.

Marjie Mack

Lenten Reflection - March 13, 2010

2010-03-13T05:05:00.000-05:00

Your ancestor Abraham rejoiced that he would see my day; he saw it and was glad... before Abraham was, I am.
John 8:56-59

In the context of John’s Gospel, chapters 7-10 describe the encounters Jesus has with the religious leaders and the conflicts that arose because of His teaching and His claims. Jesus’ authority as God is recorded by eye-witness accounts in this Gospel as forgiving sins (the adulterous woman), His equality with God, His being sent by God, and here, in this passage, His pre-existence and His use of God’s Holy Name “I AM” from Exodus 3:14. For the sake of clarity, Jesus made sure His claims were understood by the Jewish leaders in His audience.

And so it is for us. When I first heard these claims clearly I was left in no doubt that, as C.S. Lewis would write, “I had three choices as to how I should regard Jesus, either as liar, a lunatic or Lord.” The notion that Jesus was just a “good man” is not an option because His claims do not allow for that. So we are forced to make the biggest decision of our lives—to decide for ourselves who Jesus is. If He is Lord of All, then we must surrender our independence completely and follow Him. And our freedom comes from our surrender.

Dean Lewis

Lenten Reflection - March 12, 2010

2010-03-12T05:05:00.000-05:00

He was oppressed and afflicted, yet he did not open his mouth; he was led like a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before her shearers is silent, so he did not open his mouth.
Isaiah 53.7

This passage is uncomfortable to read because of the imagery of an innocent lamb suffering a brutal death. Slaughter is the ugly word that sets the tone in this verse, but it is essential to understand this image in the context of Israel’s history.

Exodus 12 details the instructions from the Lord to Moses on how the Israelites will slaughter their unblemished lambs in order to use the blood to mark themselves as protected from God’s Angel of Death at the first Passover and eat of the lamb to give them strength for their coming journey.

After that, it was required to regularly sacrifice an animal for man’s sins. Blood gives life to the animal, and it was that “life” that would protect man from a death in sin. Leviticus 1 details graphically how the lamb is to be slaughtered as a burnt offering for the sins of man. These sacrifices had to continue, because none was perfect enough to redeem all of our sins.

But the sacrificed lamb in Isaiah 53:7 is indeed the perfect analogy for our Lord Jesus Christ. Obeying his Father’s will, Christ, the unblemished lamb, took our sins upon himself and was silently led to the slaughter- oppressed and afflicted in a brutal and painful crucifixion. But through his perfect sacrifice he accomplished what no animal sacrifice could. By our faith in Christ and through his blood, he has redeemed our sins, delivering us from death and giving us life with Christ forever.

Woody Wooddell

Lenten Reflection - March 11, 2010

2010-03-11T05:05:00.000-05:00

You will know the truth, and the truth will make you free.
John 8:32

When I think of this verse I always think of confession. Often times we get so wrapped up into our day to day tasks we often forget about the life we are leading. There are times when we do not even realize we have sinned because our minds rationalize what we are doing is for the best. When we sit down and really contemplate over our actions we see things differently. It may have been something we have said to someone else, something we did to someone, or an action that has changed our path. Whatever the case may be we truly have to have an open heart and look deep inside. If we see something we could have done differently we should speak up to anyone affected by it. This is freedom. It feels so good when you do this. The other form of freedom I see with this is confessing to God in what we have done. Having the conversation that we messed up are truly sorry and we will try better next time gives your heart a dose of love – God’s love. With God’s love in our hearts it is hard to turn away from truth. He wants us all to love one another and come to him when we have sinned. It sounds easy, but not always. It is so worth it though.

Nola M. Meyers

Lenten Reflection - March 10, 2010

2010-03-10T05:05:00.000-05:00

Suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not disappoint us, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit that has been given to us.
Romans 5:2b-5

As we read this passage, we realized that God has never promised any of us a perfect life. The difficulties we encounter in life "produces character," just like our grandparents said. Our character makes it possible to deal with life's many difficulties, mainly because we know that God is with us always. Through resilience and endurance through the difficult situations, our faith is continuously strengthened and we can take on larger issues and challenges.

There are times though we are challenged to a point in which we are close to losing any and all hope. We must realize in these moments, that if we give up on hope, we are turning our back to the love God pours into us. And at the moment we realize our weakness, we are given the gift of God's love and shown His grace.

Douglas and Leah Ellmore

Lenten Reflection - March 9, 2010

2010-03-09T05:05:00.000-05:00

I did not... command them concerning burnt offerings and sacrifices. But this command I gave them, “Obey my voice, and I will be your God, and you shall be my people; and walk only in the way that I command you, so that it may be well with you.”
Jeremiah 7:22-23

Reading this passage, I felt that each verse had a message. Although I do not think of “burnt offerings and sacrifices” from the first verse as terms in my daily life, upon further reflection, I believe this applies to the acts I perform routinely, and without thought or consideration, simply because they are symbols of my commitment to God. How often when we are reciting the Lord’s Prayer, do we simply state the words, without the recommitment that each new recitation should bring? As a teacher of young children, I often have to stop them from considering these prayers a race to finish. In our fast-paced world, we often look for the “magic pill” that will make us richer, thinner, smarter, or a better Christian. Moving forward I hope to consider more seriously the sacrifices necessary to become a better leader and Christian, as well making the rituals more meaningful and less routine.

The second verse is much simpler in meaning, but often the most difficult for us to follow. “Obey my voice, and I will be your God…” This statement is very clear, and offers very little in the way of personal interpretation – listen to God, and follow his commands. If each of us listens to God and follows His commands, everything else will fall into place, but for many of us, myself included, the feeling that we know best for ourselves can be difficult to put aside. I must remind myself that if I obey God’s voice, all will be well for me.

Cheryl Dorr

Lenten Reflection - March 8, 2010

2010-03-08T05:05:00.000-05:00

Abraham believed God, and it was reckoned to him as righteousness...
Romans 4:3

Paul is the author of the Epistle to the Romans. He definitely feels that there is great decadence and corruption in the people of Rome at that time. He is teaching the Roman people in this part of his letter about righteousness. He means a right relationship with God, and how their lives will show it.

The Jews regarded Abraham as the great founder of the race, and the pattern of all that a man should be. He was the man to whom God had first spoken, and Abraham heard and obeyed God. God had come to Abraham and asked him to leave home and friends and relatives and his livelihood, and had said to him, “If you make this great venture of faith, you will become the father of a great nation.” Abraham took God at his word and abandoned his life to him. Paul says that was faith, and it was Abraham’s faith which made God regard him as a good man.

We do not need to torture ourselves with a losing battle to earn God’s love. We need to accept in perfect trust the love which God offers to us. After that, any person of honor is under the life-long obligation to show himself worthy of that love.

Priscilla W. Hardesty

Lenten Reflection - March 7, 2010 The Third Sunday in Lent

2010-03-07T05:05:00.000-05:00

After he was raised from the dead, his disciples remembered... and they believed the scriptures and the word that Jesus had spoken.
John 2:22

This scripture speaks to the heart of man. It is difficult to believe what you cannot see or touch. Not even the disciples that followed Him fully understood Jesus and His words. It took seeing the fulfillment of Jesus’ words, the PROOF, for them to truly understand Jesus and the scriptures.

In today’s world it is “Seeing is believing,” “Proof is in the pudding.” In this country there is even a state slogan “The show me state.” We as a society must learn to open our hearts and really listen to hear the word of the Lord.

For me, it is believing and trust in the intangibility of Jesus that brings me—peace of mind, joy for all things, grace of spirit, and hope for all.

Linda Dinges

Lenten Reflection - March 6, 2010

2010-03-06T05:05:00.000-05:00

...since all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God; they are now justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus.
Romans 3:23-24

When I read this passage written by Saint Paul, “all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,” my first thought was, okay, but really now, don’t some people fall just a bit shorter? You can’t help but look at the headlines in the newspapers, or search the internet, or look on someone’s Facebook page, without reading about someone who has “fallen short”! When I look inside my heart and see my own shortcomings, okay sins, they certainly don’t seem quite as bad as other people’s. How can my sins be anywhere near as bad as the person who sinned by cheating on their spouse, or the person who murdered someone? Don’t we all tell “little white lies” when we don’t want to hurt someone’s feelings, or use God’s name in vain, especially when someone cuts in front of us in traffic, making us late?

But, Saint Paul reminds us that we are all sinners, not just some, but all. It seems we just can’t help it. We have a long history as sinners, and have proven that we are not capable of living the wonderful lives God wills for us. Just look in the Bible and you find plenty of stories of people who have “fallen short.”

Well, the Good News is that God loved us so much he gave us the gift of His son, Christ Jesus. A gift, pure and simple! With this gift God bestowed his Grace upon us, given freely, without any merits of our own. We did nothing to deserve it. And, what’s more, not only for us, but for everyone who believes in him! God set things right for us. We have been justified, pardoned and accepted, just as we are. We have been redeemed through Christ Jesus by the sacrifice that he made for all of us. What a Gift!

Linda M. Stewart

Lenten Reflection - March 5, 2010

2010-03-05T05:05:00.000-05:00

...Although everyone is a liar, let God be proved true...
Romans 3:4

In this passage, Paul is telling the Romans that God is always true. This passage is preceded by a discussion as to whether you had to be a Jew in order to be a Christian. Paul’s answer was “no.” Recognition comes from God, not legalistic critics.

This passage is particularly timely for me. In the recent weeks, it has become apparent that my life priorities are not in line with my core beliefs. I had an opportunity to reconnect with some old friends, whom, I believe God used to show me that it was time to re-evaluate my priorities. The tremendous flow of emotions that came over me on my ride home was impossible to ignore. The message that I kept getting from God was “when is enough, enough”? I then attended the Women’s retreat and the theme centered around emptying our life vessel of all of the unnecessary things, filling it with God’s love, and then sharing God’s love in our daily lives.

I allowed the friends that I chose to be with influence my priorities. I felt like I could never live up to their expectations, so my life centered on activities to win their approval, instead of making God’s love my priority. I got caught up in worldly priorities that mean absolutely nothing and benefit no one, and truth be told, made me constantly feel like I wasn’t good enough.

God is the one true and constant in our life. It is only his approval that we should seek. Worldly proprieties will only cause frustration and send us into an endless cycle of thinking we are in “need.” This “need” is never satisfied if we choose to listen to legalistic critics and not stay centered in God’s love.

Molly Nussear

Lenten Reflection - March 4, 2010

2010-03-04T05:05:00.000-05:00

For it is not the hearers of the law who are righteous in God’s sight, but the doers of the law who will be justified.
Romans 2:13

For me, the best version of this scripture is in The Message version of the Bible. If you are not familiar with The Message, its goal is to engage people in the reading process and help them understand what they read. It is not a study Bible, but rather "a reading Bible." The original books of the Bible were not written in formal language. The Message tries to recapture the Word in the words we use today.

This excerpt from Romans 2 in The Message made this teaching clear to me.

God Is Kind, but Not Soft

You didn't think, did you, that just by pointing your finger at others you would distract God from seeing all your misdoings and from coming down on you hard? Or did you think that because He's such a nice God, He'd let you off the hook? Better think this one through from the beginning. God is kind, but he's not soft. In kindness He takes us firmly by the hand and leads us into a radical life-change.

If you go against the grain, you get splinters, regardless of which neighborhood you're from, what your parents taught you, what schools you attended. But if you embrace the way God does things, there are wonderful payoffs. God pays no attention to what others say (or what you think) about you. He makes up his own mind.

If you sin without knowing what you're doing, God takes that into account. But if you sin knowing full well what you're doing, that's a different story entirely. Merely hearing God's law is a waste of your time if you don't do what He commands. Doing, not hearing, is what makes the difference with God.

Linda Rines

Lenten Reflection - March 3, 2010

2010-03-03T05:05:00.000-05:00

Or do you despise the riches of his kindness and forbearance and patience?
Romans 2:4

As I read this passage from Paul’s letter to the Romans that was written in approximately 57AD, I can’t help but think of how in today’s society we are sometimes so super focused on who is right and who is wrong, who is the best at something and who is the worst, and “oh yeah” who are the sincere Christians, and who are not. We are told over and over we are not to judge but yet we do anyhow. We teach our children to treat each other as they would want to be treated, but yet we don’t. Paul reminds us earlier in this chapter that we have “no excuse” for judging others as we are guilty of the same things we are judging others of. I believe we are being reminded that we should rejoice with fellow Christians and not be bothered whether or not they are doing something the way we feel it should be done, but excited in what they are doing if it is for the glory of our Lord.

To sum up my thought on this passage, maybe if we can be quicker to listen and slower to speak, then just maybe the KINDNESS, TOLERANCE, and PAITENCE of Christ can shine through us, both in our actions and words.

Steven E. Dorsey

Lenten Reflection - March 2, 2010

2010-03-02T02:05:00.000-05:00

Jesus said to him, “Go; your son will live.” The man believed the word that Jesus spoke to him and started on his way.
John 4:50

I found that the surrounding text provides interesting details about this situation. This story takes place in Cana of Galilee where earlier Jesus had turned water into wine. A nobleman's son was sick to the point of death at Capernaum. The nobleman heard that Jesus was there and asked him to go and heal his son. Jesus states that people won't believe unless they see signs and wonders. Jesus tells the man to return home, that his son is alive and he believed. When the nobleman returned home, his son was indeed well and he asked the servants at what hour the son's fever had left. He confirmed that it was the same time that Jesus had spoken to him. This led the whole household to believe.

When I first read this verse I thought it was ironic that I should receive it because I had a son that did die. However, I realize he received a healing also; not a physical healing like the boy in the story but a restoration of a different type. The first Easter after Benjamin's death, I found myself at one point in tears. They were both for sadness and joy at the same time. The deep sorrow over seeing what should have been my child's first Easter celebration was mingled with the fact that he had received the full "healing" of God because he is alive indeed as Christ is alive.

Jesus provided many signs to his Biblical followers and to us. Through the ultimate miracle of his own resurrection, he provides us with the encouragement we need to put our full trust in Him, whether we receive physical healing in this world like the nobleman's son, or spiritual healing in the world to come.

Laura Miller

Lenten Reflection - March 1, 2010

2010-03-01T02:05:00.001-05:00

... Jesus Christ our Lord, through whom we have received grace and apostleship to bring about the obedience of faith among the Gentiles for the sake of his name, including yourselves who are called to belong to Jesus Christ...
Romans 1:5-6

Not exactly something you’d put on a bumper sticker is it? Taken from Paul’s introduction, this sets the stage for the delivery of his gospel to the churches in Rome. Tension is evident between the Jews and the Gentiles, so Paul sought to unify the church by proclaiming the glory of Jesus Christ, the Son of God.

The obedience of faith that Paul calls for is not simply performing a good deed, or a kind gesture, an initial faith offering, but obedience built on an on-going faith. This is a faith manifested in honoring the name of Jesus, by being living examples called to belong to Jesus Christ. By associating ourselves with His name, we provide others the opportunity to judge us based on how we live out our faith. We can honor the name and live out our transformed lives or we can take the other path. It’s our choice. Every moment of every day. It’s our choice.

For the sake of His name, may we choose to live today and every day as an Alleluia to our King.

Earl Buffaloe

Lenten Reflection - February 28, 2010 The Second Sunday in Lent

2010-02-28T14:05:00.000-05:00

If any want to become my followers, let them deny themselves, and take up their cross and follow me.
Mark 8:34

In this passage, Jesus outlines a seemingly direct path to Salvation. By denying one's self "suppressing physical needs, material desires, ego, and pride" and accepting life's burdens, it is possible to achieve true discipleship.

Upon reflection, though, this seemingly straightforward plan may not be so simple. This passage has historically been interpreted as a glorification of suffering: to deny one's self, sacrifice one's self, wipe out any sense of self, and to embrace the cross, is to elevate oneself. Discipleship, to some, is imagined as suffering in this life, presumably in return for rewards to come. If Christ is indeed elevating suffering as a virtue, then martyrdom is the route to eternal life.

However, we must question the extent to which we are to deny ourselves. Why would each of us, as children of God, be blessed with talents and abilities that could improve life for others, only to be asked to suppress those gifts? Perhaps instead, it is by suppressing only our human weaknesses that we can truly let the light of Christ into our lives, and permit us to do God's work in the world.

Tricia Hurlbutt

Lenten Reflection - February 28, 2010 The Second Sunday in Lent

2010-02-28T05:05:00.000-05:00

If any want to become my followers, let them deny themselves, and take up their cross and follow me.
Mark 8:34

It seems I always have a song in my heart, and as I reflected on this verse, I was reminded of a song made popular by Mary Travers in the 1970’s called Follow Me. These particular words from the song kept running through my mind—

Follow me up and down all the way and all around
Take my hand and say you’ll follow me

I can relate these lyrics to my Christian walk and to Mark 8:34. Isn’t that what it means to deny ourselves and take up our cross—to follow Jesus “all the way and all around”? Many of us practice self-denial during Lent by “giving up” certain foods, like chocolate or bad habits. While that is difficult to do and serves a purpose, denying ourselves in order to follow Jesus seems to be more than that. It means to deny our SELVES— to stop listening to our own voice, stop leaning on our own power, and stop trying to fulfill our own will and wishes. We take up our cross when we choose to follow the way Jesus taught us to live our lives, regardless of the cost. In today’s competitive society, we are rewarded for being leaders, not followers. But Jesus asks us to follow Him against the flow of worldly trends. Instead of relying on popular culture for how to succeed in life, let’s remind ourselves that Jesus gave us this ultimate formula for success. Won’t you take His hand and say you’ll follow, too?

Nancy Horkan

Lenten Reflection - February 27, 2010

2010-02-27T05:05:00.000-05:00

Recite [these words] to your children and talk about them when you are at home and when you are away, when you lie down and when you rise.
Deuteronomy 6:7

That old line about “How do you get to Carnegie Hall?” “Practice, practice, practice” came to mind when I read this verse. Now, I know I can’t ‘practice’ my way into God’s heart – I am a child of God purely by his loving grace – but I can practice being a better Christian. (Unfortunately, it doesn’t seem to come naturally to me). I can return God’s love by honoring, practicing, his commandments.

In Chapter 5, God gives the 10 commandments to Moses. In Chapter 6, Moses gives them to the people. Chapter 6:6: “These commandments that I give to you today are to be upon your hearts.” If I practice acting on what is in my heart, that thing becomes easier, more natural to do “when you are at home and when you are away, when you lie down and when you rise.” And the children, who seem to learn by absorption, by watching and listening, will profit.

Patti Sachs

Lenten Reflection - February 26, 2010

2010-02-26T05:05:00.000-05:00

What does the Lord require of you? Only to fear the Lord your God, to walk in all his ways, to love him, to serve the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul, and to keep the commandments of the Lord your God and his decrees that I am commanding you today, for your own well-being.
Deuteronomy 10:12-13

This passage says it all, doesn’t it? We are here to serve the Lord and do what He has told us to do. The stories in the Bible, Moses, Job, Jonah, Jacob… they are just window dressing. Those along with Jesus’ parables are tales to help us discern the meaning of serving the Lord, loving the Lord and keeping His commandments. It is pretty clear when you look at it; if you get this then the rest is easy, or is it? It is pretty easy to “love the Lord” every day, we can pray and let Him know we are thinking about Him, we can tell Him how wonderful He is, we can ask for His guidance, help, whatever but then comes the “serving” part. How can I serve the Lord each day? Abraham, Moses, Peter, and all the saints set examples of how to serve the Lord. Some of those saints have done pretty marvelous things, maybe more than I can ever do. As I write this, the “new” year has just started and I am thinking of resolutions as many of us do at this time. How can I serve the Lord each day? How can we serve the Lord, for isn’t that how we truly ‘love’ the Lord? (see also Matthew 22:37)

Taylor F. Milbradt

Lenten Reflection - February 25, 2010

2010-02-25T05:05:00.000-05:00

Jesus answered, "You say that I am a king. For this I was born, and for this I came into the world, to testify to the truth. Everyone who belongs to the truth listens to my voice."
John 18:37

The setting is the Palace of the Roman governor, Pilate, after Jesus’ arrest. Jesus (is bound) before Pilate. Pilate would have given anything if he could convince the chief priests and the Jewish population that he could not condemn Jesus to death on what little evidence they presented. He found no fault in Jesus saying, “My kingdom is not of this world.” The Jews hoped Pilate would find Jesus guilty of blasphemy because he had been called “King of the Jews.” That, they felt, put him on a par with God. Jesus was the only one who knew what was going on. He really was about his father’s business, fulfilling his father’s plan. The Jews could not put him to death, by their law. So, they claimed he was a threat to Caesar so that the Roman Authority would do their dirty work. Pilate knew he was being used by the Jews. He also heard Jesus say, “For this I was born and for this I came into the world, TO TESTIFY TO THE TRUTH. Everyone who belongs to the truth listens to my voice.” In despair, Pilate gave the crowd a choice: Barabbas or Jesus. They cried for Jesus’ crucifixion. Pilate feared the crowd.

Have you ever made a decision based on the weight of the crowd when your heart and mind told you otherwise?

Caroline Chisum

Lenten Reflection - February 24, 2010

2010-02-24T05:05:00.000-05:00

As Moses lifted up the serpent...so must the Son of Man be lifted up, that whoever believes in him may have eternal life.
John 3:15

Jesus was talking to Nicodemus when he made this statement. Nicodemus belonged to the party of the Pharisees, but he believed that Jesus was sent by God, because of the miracles he performed.

Jesus told him he must be born again. Nicodemus could not understand this symbolism. Jesus said, "You must be born of the spirit.” In the book of Numbers 21:4, the Lord had sent poisonous snakes among his sinful, complaining people. When they asked for forgiveness, the Lord had Moses make a metal snake. Moses made a bronze snake on a pole. Anyone who had been bitten could look at it and be healed.

So Jesus must be lifted up, spiritually. We, believing, will be saved.

Beverly Fahlstrom

Lenten Reflection - February 23, 2010

2010-02-23T05:05:00.000-05:00

It is not because of your righteousness...that you are going in...
Deuteronomy 9:5

This passage is about provocation, corruptions, faith and promises. It is also about the Promised Land and a 400 hundred year old promise.

In spite of the Israelites’ stiff necks (an apparent reference to God’s people’s unwillingness to accept the yoke of God), in spite of the myriad provocations Moses attributes to his people, and in spite of their corruption, Moses tells his people that they will soon possess nations greater than they can possibly imagine. They will reach the Promised Land, “Not for thy righteousness, or for the uprightness of thine heart…,” nor even because of the wickedness of the Hittites, the Amorites, Canaanites, the Perizzites, the Hivites, and the Jebusites; they will reach the Promised Land because of the promise God made to Abraham 400 years before.

Moses and his people are the Hittites, the Amorites, the Canaanites, the Perizzites, the Hivites, and the Jebusites except for one thing: their faith in God. They are not rewarded for anything about themselves, and Moses makes abundantly clear to his people that they could not possibly do anything to deserve the Promised Land.

This passage is about giving of ourselves; it’s about the differences between what we deserve and what we are given; it’s about the power of faith and the power of promises.

James Buchan

Lenten Reflection - February 22, 2010

2010-02-22T02:05:00.000-05:00

...to humble you and to test you and in the end to do you good.
Deuteronomy 8:16

Deuteronomy -- the “second law,” – is a reaffirmation of the covenant between God and the people of Israel -- the words of Moses in more “contemporary” words. He does not mince them. He reminds the people, "Remember the long way that the Lord your God has led you these 40 years in the wilderness … If you do forget the Lord your God and follow other gods to serve and worship them, I solemnly warn you today that you shall surely perish." Among “other gods” we follow are things. We love our things, our gadgets and gizmos. We tend to believe if we work hard enough, we have earned them and we deserve them. The prophet warns, “… do not exalt yourself, forgetting the Lord your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of slavery… Do not say to yourself, ‘My power and the might of my own hand have gotten me this wealth.’ But remember the Lord your God, for it is he who gives you power to get wealth…” He brought us through the “great and terrible wilderness” and made miracles of manna and water from a rock to humble and test us so that we would know Him.

And all that he asks is that we love Him with all our hearts, all our souls and all our minds, and that we love our neighbors as ourselves. Is that too much to ask?

Val Hymes

Lenten Reflection - February 21, 2010 The First Sunday in Lent

2010-02-21T05:05:00.000-05:00

The Spirit immediately drove him out into the wilderness.
Mark 1:12

Upon first reading this passage, I was struck by its brevity and power. The Gospel of Mark relates the Temptation of Christ in the first chapter, using only two sentences. Unlike the Gospel of Matthew, where the story is related in 11 verses in the fourth chapter, or Luke, who uses 13 verses in the fourth chapter, Mark notes the event and moves quickly on. Why this difference, I wondered? This passage is harsh. The use of the words “immediately,” and “drove,” are not at all as gentle as those used in Matthew or Luke’s versions. In Matthew, Jesus is led by the Spirit into the wilderness. In Luke, Jesus wanders in the wilderness, led by the Spirit. The Gospel According to Mark, is widely considered to be the oldest of the gospels. Did Matthew and Luke, who must have been familiar with Mark’s work, decide he left too much to the imagination? Did they think Mark moved too quickly past this important event which introduces the conflict between Jesus and Satan? Or, were they trying to make a readable version of Jesus’ life and death? The remainder of Mark’s Gospel clearly reveals that Mark is greatly concerned about this conflict between Jesus and Satan. Life in Jesus’s time was much different than our present world. It is difficult for us to relate to that world. In his brevity, Mark coveys the stark reality of the powers of evil that so often make an appearance when we least expect them.

Mary Hoffman

Lenten Reflection - February 20, 2010

2010-02-20T05:05:00.000-05:00

. . . to be gentle and to show every courtesy to everyone.
Titus 3:2b

Titus was one of Paul’s most trusted traveling companions and devoted friend. Paul slowly developed Titus into a mature Christian leader, who eventually became the overseer of the churches in Crete. The book of Titus is a letter from Paul, emphasizing the importance of good works in the life of a Christian. The responsibilities of Christians in society is outlined in the book of Titus.

This Bible passage explains how Christians should treat all humans with kindness and respect. The passage follows descriptions of the trials and misfortunes of former unbelievers, and how Godly living is now only appropriate since God has given us the gift of eternal life. Showing courtesy to all is a quality that describes a good Christian citizen. Being gentle and courteous are distinct Christian kindnesses. Society should be able to recognize Christians as loving people of truth, as being considerate and peaceful persons, ready to do whatever is good for others. Our Godly living and kind deeds to all, including non-Christians, will exemplify the teachings we have received and hopefully bring others to faith in God.

By making all newcomers to St. James’ feel warmly welcomed, we can all practice this teaching from God.

Susan Dowling

Lenten Reflection - February 19, 2010

2010-02-19T05:05:00.000-05:00

If you heed these ordinances, the Lord your God... will love you, bless you, and multiply you.
Deuteronomy 7:12-13a

This passage is a straightforward reminder that we have a contract with God. God loves and watches over us at all times, but He is at once powerful, loving, jealous and vengeful. He expects something in return. In order to abide in His love, we must observe His commandments.

God guides us through the most difficult of challenges. Just as God brought His chosen people to the promised land and helped them defeat many more powerful nations along the way, He will be with us through our own times of strife. God’s love is truly wondrous and great, but it doesn’t come without expectations of us.

As we reflect on this passage, it helps to remind us that we must do more than ask God for His blessings. We must also ask ourselves what we have done to uphold our end of our covenant with Him.

Claire and George Pickart

Lenten Reflection - February 18, 2010

2010-02-18T05:05:00.000-05:00

John saw Jesus coming toward him and declared, “Here is the lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!”
John 1:29

Jesus was a lamb of God like us - He was one of us! Like us, He was baptized by John (even though He had no sin) just as all of us were baptized. For all of us and for Jesus too, baptism reaffirms God's love for each of us and reminds us of our inherent worth. We need to remember this message every day!

During all baptisms, we, the congregation, promise to nurture and support the newly baptized. The Godparents promise to take special care of the person. As a Sunday school teacher of three, four, and five year olds, I take this promise very seriously. I want all my children to absolutely know that Jesus loves them and that they are marked as God's own forever! In a sense, I am their Godparent for awhile on Sundays.

Jesus is our shepherd, always taking care of us—never abandoning any of us. We can have total faith in his love and care. This is the kind of commitment I try to bring to my class each week. We learn about Jesus' life - His birth, His teaching (as shown in the Parables), the Eucharist, and His death and resurrection. We emphasize over and over that Jesus is the Good Shepherd and He loves us unconditionally and forever.

It is an awesome responsibility and a wonderful privilege to be entrusted with the first church teachings these children receive. I pray I always let them know with words and actions how much Jesus loves them. In truth, they show me God's love every Sunday!

Julie Cornellier

Lenten Reflection - February 17, 2010 Ash Wednesday

2010-02-17T03:05:00.000-05:00

Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
Matthew 6:21

This passage is from the Sermon on the Mount where Jesus has gone to speak to his disciples. He was teaching them about priorities; choosing the love of God and spiritual values rather than material ones.

As I read this passage, I thought about the things that I treasure and then I thought about the things that I treasure most. The things that I treasure the most are not “things” at all. We all know that material possessions are not what is most important to us, yet most of us struggle with keeping our priorities straight. Why do material possessions compete for our affections, especially when we know what damage comes when we misplace our priorities?

What is in our heart will determine how we respond to God’s calling to love one another and help those in need. When we spend money and/or our valuable time for charitable causes and people, we expand our hearts and make them rich. The heart must be set on eternal treasures, not on things of this Earth. This does not make it wrong for us to want the necessities of life and material possessions, but our heart should not be set on them. Possessions must be possessed; they must not possess us. If God is the treasure of our heart, our passions will be placed on things above. If our hearts are not set upon eternal treasures, we must reinvest in our values. What is your heart set upon?

Cindy Carrier

Lenten Reflection - April 12, 2009

2009-04-12T07:00:00.000-04:00

If we have died with Him, we shall live with Him; if we hold firm, we shall reign with Him.
2 Timothy 2:11

These two verses must be connected with the next two: “if we deny Him, he will also deny us; if we are faithless, He remains faithful – for He cannot deny Himself.” Many scholars believe that these four verses are a portion of a very early Christian hymn. Paul is sharing his belief that we must live our lives fully in Christ. This is why the forty days of Lent, culminating in the events of Holy Week – Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, Holy Saturday, and Easter Day—must be seen as a whole. Paul knew that Jesus prepared Himself spiritually in the wilderness for His ministry, experienced the Last Supper with His loved ones, was betrayed, denied, crucified, and His dead body placed in a tomb, and on Easter was raised from the dead. In this passage Paul is sharing this hymn with Timothy to remind him of our need to experience these events with our Lord. We cannot “jump” into Easter and the Resurrection without experiencing the preparation of Lent, His Last Supper, our connection with Him being betrayed, denied, and killed. We cannot share in the Crown without sharing in the Cross. On this glorious day, I am reminded of the words from the song, The Rose: “Just remember in the winter far beneath the bitter snows lies the seed that with the sun’s love in the spring becomes the rose.” We must die with Him in order that, with the “Son’s” love “in the spring,” we will be raised with Him.

Amen.

William H.C. Ticknor+

Lenten Reflection - April 11, 2009

2009-04-11T07:00:00.000-04:00

For if we have been united with him in a death like his, we will certainly be united with him in a resurrection like his.
Romans 6:5

In each of our baptisms, we are cut off from sin and united with Christ. Just as Christ was buried, that He might rise again to a new, heavenly life, we, also, at baptism, are “buried” so that we might rise from our sins to begin a new life of faith and love.

The sacrament of baptism is a real gift, signifying and sealing our relationship with Christ. As we begin to live into this baptism, we are reminded that we have a duty to fight against the body of sin that remains within each of us. More importantly, as we strive to truly know Him, we are inevitably convinced that we have an obligation to live into His command to spread His Gospel in all the areas of our lives, in order to bring as many as possible into this sacred union.

Having become one with Christ through baptism, each of us will eventually think about the Resurrection. We gradually come to the sure knowledge that, just as Christ did indeed proceed from death to be with His Father in Heaven, we, too, will follow a similar path. This obliges us to believe that we, along with many others, known and unknown, will eventually be united with Christ in that heavenly place. What a glorious reality! It is no wonder that Easter is such a joyous celebration for all those in Christ.

Thanks be to God! Alleluia! Alleluia!

Charlie Wolf

Lenten Reflection - April 10, 2009

2009-04-10T07:00:00.000-04:00

But he was wounded for our transgressions, crushed for our iniquities; upon him was the punishment that made us whole, and by his bruises we are healed.
Isaiah 53:5

The prophet Isaiah, the most poetic of prophets, says on this black day that our Lord was “wounded, crushed and bruised” by our sins. When I hear those words, I flinch. Yet I am immediately assured that Our Lord’s wounds have “healed” us and “made us whole.” It is a powerful measure of God’s greatness that we can be forgiven and comforted by one who was “despised and rejected,” who was taken away and murdered “by a perversion of justice.”

Part of the Songs of the Servant, this section has been called “the golden passional” and “the most important text in the Old Testament.” The Ethiopian eunuch ponders it with Philip in Acts 8: 26-40. The verse is in what is known as Second Isaiah, assigned to an author or authors who came after Isaiah, beginning in 539 B.C. It first appears that the “servant” symbolizes the nation of Israel, (42:1-4) then later scholars see the servant as Jesus himself. especially in Chapter 53. As we read on in Isaiah, we know the Suffering Servant “shall see light” and make “intercessions” for us, the transgressors. I marvel at the prophet’s vision and realize that he wants us to know the hope God gives us regardless of the blows life hands us – that there is a loving light beyond the darkness.

Val Hymes

Lenten Reflection - April 9, 2009

2009-04-09T07:00:00.000-04:00

For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes again.
I Corinthians 11:26

When Paul spoke these words to the people of Corinth less than twenty years after the crucifixion of Christ, he was addressing a very cosmopolitan audience. Corinth was the most prosperous city in Greece, a shipping and commerce center within the Roman Empire, and a virtual melting pot of races and religions. Through this mixing of cultures and religious traditions arose conflicting, and perhaps misguided, ways of observing religious ritual among the early Christians.

During Paul’s time in Corinth he sought to clarify the gospel for his followers and develop uniform practices within the church. Here he is specifically speaking of conduct and order within the Passover service, and in the preceding passages, Paul reiterates Jesus’ words at the last supper. He asserts that the eating and drinking of the bread and wine serve to remind us every Passover of our Savior’s death.

Clearly this is a mandate to remember not only that He died, but also how and why He suffered and died. Paul’s words still resonate with us two centuries later, for in many ways Corinth resembled our own society. It is only by tuning out distracting societal influences and re-focusing our life and worship that we are truly able to understand and appreciate the greatest sacrifice of all. Today, as we observe Maundy Thursday, we recall Christ’s words, actions, and unending love. It is through this remembrance that we are able to embrace the grief of His passion, and understand personally the depths of His sacrifice for us.

Tricia Sanborn Hurlbutt