Stephen Ministers are trained, caring lay people who walk with you, listen, and pray with you in times of need. In grief, illness, divorce, spiritual crisis, unemployment, or any other life crisis, we are here for you. All is confidential. Do you need a Stephen Minister? Are you interested in serving as a Stephen Minister? Contact Bill Roth at 704-295-4835 or broth@mpumc.org.
Lent 2024 The United Methodist Church describes Lent this way: Lent is a time of preparation. It is a period of 40 days leading up to Easter (Sundays don't count). It is a time of focus, reminiscent of Jesus’ time in the wilderness before he started his public ministry. Jesus went to the wilderness to set aside the distractions of normal, “worldly” life and focus on God and God’s will for him. So, it is; Lent is when we, like Jesus, attempt to set aside all that interrupts our focus on God and God’s will for us. Simple enough, but how might we focus more on God during Lent 2024? One way is to read these devotions each day and spend time in prayer. As a man much wiser than I once said, praying may not always get you what you want, but you will get a relationship with God. Not a bad return on investment there. So why not set aside time this Lent season and pray, especially the quiet prayer that listens? Then, once you have prayed, go about sowing seeds of goodness. Pope Francis says it like this: You pray for the hungry. Then you feed them. That's how prayer works. So, it is prayer that is always well paired with holy action. In closing, thank you to our Stephen Ministers for authoring this booklet. Also, thank you, Bonnie Gunter, Julie Williams, and Katharine Willis, for their efforts in compiling, printing, and distributing this annual devotional. May it bring you closer to God and his children.
Bill Roth Pastor of Congregational Care 704-295-4835 broth@mpumc.org
Ash Wednesday, February 14
Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21
The Beginning of the Lenten Season Richard (Dick) Hagemeyer Ash Wednesday is such a special and important day in the Church calendar. This is the day for us all to celebrate our human mortality and the need for reconciliation. It is also a time for reflection, prayer, and repentance as we prepare for the celebration of Easter. These verses in Matthew ask us to reflect on our approach for doing good deeds for others, as Jesus asks. I thank God for the opportunity given me as I personally reflect on my time with the Stephen Ministry program here at Myers Park to help my fellow man in need. We, as Stephen Ministers, stand beside those hurting from many life crises. Some of these include grief, illness, divorce, spiritual crisis, unemployment, plus many more. We establish a very confidential relationship with those we call our care receivers. We offer spiritual support and Christian love as our care receivers work through their personal situations. I believe this program offers us, as Stephen Ministers, what Jesus is asking all of us to do as disciples. Jesus says in John 13:34-35, “So now I am giving you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other. Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples.” In Matthew, verse 9, we find the Lord’s Prayer. Please use it after this reading.
Thursday, February 15
1 John 1:3-10 A Sacred Place
Mary Katherine Vass I was stuck! And in harm’s way if the tide came in. I was unable to lift one leg without the other going deeper into the black mud. I was in the salt marsh of Mulatta Creek at Murrells Inlet, SC, a creek known for abundant blue crabs. My wire bushel basket was full of crabs. I was enclosed as if in the bottom of a ditch. The water was very shallow as the tide was out. Up on either side was the mud bank, then the tall marsh grass and the beautiful blue sky. I wondered how long it would be before high tide, and my head covered with salt water! The mud was above my knees. Again, I tried to free one leg, but the weighted leg went deeper. Then I thought to place the wooden handle of my dip net across the top of the basket, which was placed on the mud in front of me. By pushing down hard on the handle with my arms and unweighting alternate legs, I was able to free myself. I was free, no longer stuck. This experience, for me, is a mystery beyond reality. The place is sacred in my mind. It is a nursery of God’s created sea creatures, spartina grass surviving the stresses of salt water, the faithful tide, salt environment, and nutritious detritus mud. I experienced a gift of awe, wonder, joy, and love. Ilia Delio writes, “Christ is the communion of divine personal love expressed in every created form of reality—every star, leaf, bird, fish, tree, rabbit, and human person.” Passages for meditation: Genesis 1:1-2, 1:20-21 John 1:1-4 1 John 1:1-10
Friday, February 16
2 Timothy 4:1-5 Were you there? Kay Rice
What would it have been like to have been in Jerusalem at the time of the crucifixion or after? One of my favorite books over the years has been Og (Augustine) Mandino’s book, The Christ Commission. The story is told in the first person: an author announces that he is writing a book to prove that the resurrection of Jesus was a hoax. He is subsequently assaulted, badly injured, and wakes up in Jerusalem five years after the crucifixion. Miraculously, he is allowed a journey to discover his “truth.” His guide is Joseph of Arimathea. He is given the persona of Matthias, a historian. Because of Joseph’s standing in the community, he is able to give “Matthias” access to every person he wishes to interview. Mandino follows the scripture closely. His colorful descriptions of the Jerusalem of that period - the smells, the markets, the daily life of the people - are stunning. “Matthias” is allowed to speak with several of the disciples: Mary and Martha, Caiaphas, Pilate, and many others. His goal is to try to find out who moved the body of Jesus. Each conversation leads him forward to an amazing conclusion. “Matthias” becomes convinced that there was no hoax because of the unequivocal steadfastness of the faithful in the belief of the resurrection because many of them had seen Jesus! This book has been meaningful to me, especially during this period of Lent, because I can put myself in this period of time and fully understand the angst that turns to joy when the resurrected Jesus appears to many of the faithful. Prayer: “Were you there when they crucified my Lord?” Lord, we were not there, but we feel the enormity of the time. We give thanks for the sacrifice of your son, Jesus Christ. We pray that we can see Him more clearly, follow Him more nearly, and love Him more dearly. Amen.
Saturday, February 17
Matthew 9:2-13 Faith & Belief Ken Rice
Jim Valvano, the former head basketball coach of North Carolina State University, once said, “My father gave me the greatest gift anyone could give another person: he believed in me.” I can understand why Jim Valvano felt the way he did about his father’s belief in him. As I entered high school, my interests were in sports and not in academics. I gave no thought to what I might do after high school. My mother, a schoolteacher, met with the guidance teacher to review my academic records and knew that I would need to go to a preparatory school for two years to prepare myself for college. My mother never reminded me of the cost of prep school nor the expectations she had of her academic goals for me in prep school. I did very well academically, and in applying to colleges, I chose William & Mary, Duke, and Wake Forest as colleges to possibly attend. I chose William & Mary as the school to attend. My mother made no mention of the high standards of those three colleges nor of my intention to play varsity golf for four years. My mother had every opportunity to remind me of the wasted academic years of high school, the expense of prep school, and the cost of leaving New England to go to Virginia to college, with outstanding college schools in New England. However, like Jim Valvano’s father, she gave me the greatest gift anyone could give another person: she believed in me. Prayer: When you have faith and belief in another person, you give them a gift they will never forget. Amen.
Sunday, February 18
Mark 1:9-15
Finding the Sacred in Strangers Martha Allen My husband and I have traveled by RV throughout the US and Canada for the past ten years. We planned our trips to see the national parks and other famous sights, but, interestingly, some of our favorite memories are of people we slowed down to talk to. Spiritual Literacy by Frederic and Mary Ann Brussat explains that some religions see a divine spark in all people. Therefore, when we have meaningful encounters with someone it could be seen as holy. (p. 419) One day Butch and I were walking around a lake in our park when we spotted an older woman in a wheelchair gazing at the lake. We altered our course slightly to speak to her. After we chatted about the park, she shared that she lived with her daughter and son-inlaw, who had brought her along on this trip. About that time, the daughter and her husband walked around the RV and joined us just in time to hear the lady say how much she was enjoying the trip and how much it meant to just get outside. Her family beamed at these words. We felt that we were witnessing a touching moment for this threesome. We don’t need to travel to have meaningful encounters with others. All that is needed is the willingness to slow down and reach out. Often, you need to speak up first. Lawrence Kushner in Honey from the Rock “Everyone carries with them at least one and probably Many pieces to someone else’s puzzle. When you present your piece Which is worthless to you, To another, whether you know it or not, Whether they know it or not, You are a messenger from the Most High.”
Monday, February 19
Ephesians 2:1-10 Listen-Pray-Act Bonnie Gunter
I suspect that many of you, like me, have always been healthy, and now you’re not. Prepare to have people come into your life that God has sent. Look for the blessings. During one hospital stay, many came into my room. One nurse would always come visit late in the night. She would talk, I would listen. Just ordinary things, nothing major. She looked at me and said, “I believe God sent you to me. You have no idea how much I needed you.” One doctor (I have many!) said, “Tell me about you.” I told him I have deep faith. I try to be positive, and I’m blessed with a wonderful family and friends. He said, “I’m going to be honest with you.” and told me I could not have the open-heart surgery I needed as the last surgery. I stopped breathing. Then he asked if he could pray. Once home, I was resting on the couch. My good friend came to visit. She said, “This won’t do! I have a recliner that would be more comfortable.” And she brought it to me. It’s perfect! I never knew I needed it. She saw a need and took action. As I go through this journey, our Stephen Ministry is always there for me. Members of my care team take me to doctors and errands. These ministries have been a wonderful blessing to me. All the cards, flowers, calls, meals, and visits bring me joy. So, you see, God prepares people with different gifts to bless you when you need them at just the right time. Prayer: May I look for the Blessings God has sent me each day. In Jesus name I pray, Amen.
Tuesday, February 20
1 Peter 3:8-18a Suffering for Jesus George Scott
Today’s passage talks about suffering for what is right and the good that comes from it, with a parallel to Jesus’ own suffering and death on the cross. After reading the passage, I tried to recall times when I have suffered in my quest for a relationship with Jesus. And to be honest, I struggled to think of anything significant. That’s probably not the case for everyone, and it makes me question if I am trying hard enough. But one area of my faith that comes to mind is mission work. When I served the sixth graders at Myers Park with a former youth minister, we used to refer to our end-of-the-year mission trip as “suffering for Jesus.” Now, to be fair, we did meaningful mission work at a women’s shelter in Savannah, but then we ended the trip with a few days of “suffering” at either Disney World or Universal Studios. So, that probably isn’t my best example to share! But I do recall a trip to Haiti, where I traveled pretty far into the country to serve an impoverished community. The travel was long and difficult, the accommodations were, at best, sparse, and personal safety was a constant concern. Our group hadn’t even gotten out of the airport in Port au Prince before our personal possessions were held hostage by their “TSA” agents, who required a cash payment for release. That was an extremely stressful encounter, but we went on to forge meaningful relationships with the Haitian people as we completed our work and the rest of our visit. This trip pushed me outside my comfort zone, but I grew closer to Christ as I followed his example of challenging service. As you continue your journey through Lent, reflect on how you have “suffered for Jesus.” Was the difficulty you encountered overshadowed by the good from the experience?
Wednesday, February 21
Matthew 4:1-12 Liz Wicker
Today’s Scripture describes the temptation of Jesus, recorded in Matthew’s gospel. Matthew has become one of the most interesting, intriguing New Testament authors for me. I really hadn’t thought much about Matthew as a real person – I knew he was a tax collector before he became one of the disciples. I knew he was disliked by the Jews because he collaborated with the Romans. I knew he recorded lots of parables! I envisioned him writing his gospel as an old man with a white beard. But – being a visual learner – I didn’t really “see” Matthew. He was a shadowy figure who knew Jesus and wrote down his recollections. My perception of Matthew changed after I began watching “The Chosen” series. Matthew is a young man when the series begins. He is enjoying the perks of his profession, although he must deal with the disgrace of his career. Matthew becomes a real person with a face, mannerisms, eccentricities, weaknesses, and doubts. He is so weird – so unusual and interesting. I was astonished that Jesus really saw beyond his position as a detested tax collector. Although he was powerful, he was also vulnerable. This series immersed me into the harsh, oppressive world that Jesus and his disciples navigated. I finally understood why Matthew was so despised by his own people. I also began to realize that each disciple most likely had his own back story. Watching “The Chosen” has made the disciples, especially Matthew, into real relatable people. If Jesus sees a man like Matthew – so flawed, perhaps corrupt, probably greedy, shunned and despised, definitely one who enjoyed the finer things in life – if Jesus can see Matthew and use him in such a remarkable way, Jesus can certainly use each one of us in a remarkable way.
Thursday, February 22
Romans 3:21-31 The Weaver Vickie Payne
Three very powerful words in these verses. Righteousness Through Faith. Faith is mentioned eight times. Faith is not just knowing God; it is living the phrase, “God’s Got This.” I loved this classic Christian poem from the first time I heard it. Faith is never mentioned, but without faith, it would not have been written. Several authors have been credited over the years. I hope you love it as much as I do, and I hope the poem plays a role in your faith today. The Weaver My life is but a weaving Between my God and me. I cannot choose the colors He weaveth steadily. Oft’ times He weaveth sorrow; And I in foolish pride Forget He sees the upper And I the underside. Not ’til the loom is silent And the shuttles cease to fly, Will God unroll the canvas And reveal the reason why. The dark threads are as needful In the weaver’s skillful hand, As the threads of gold and silver In the pattern He has planned. He knows, He loves, He cares; Nothing this truth can dim. He gives the very best to those Who leave the choice to Him.” Where can you look back at your life and remember the times you had faith that the Master Weaver always had a plan? God, we rest knowing You will weave all the threads of our lives together to become a masterpiece. We take comfort and have faith that you are still working at the heavenly loom and are not yet finished with our tapestry. Amen.
Friday, February 23
Romans 4:1-12 Elizabeth Edwards
Loving God and following God is not easy. Acting on his teachings in our daily lives is not easy. It is a struggle to forgive someone who we feel has wronged us, a struggle to exercise patience and compassion in a fast-paced world where everyone wants to push forward, and a struggle to love others even if our initial reaction to them is negative. Though we are taught that these, among others, are things God wishes for us to do, it is not the doing of them that leads to righteousness. Today’s scripture tells us that doing things in God’s name based on his laws does not earn us his love and grace. We should not expect grace as a “payment” or “gift” for living as he has asked of us. God gives us his grace and sees us as righteous because we believe in Him and because we trust in Him. We are not perfect in our faith, but God can see in our hearts and knows our faith. It is this faith in God and his teachings that leads us to do good works in his name. We may not always be successful in the deeds we attempt in his name, but God gives us his grace because we have faith. Prayer: Father, we love and trust you. We try to do good works according to your laws. We know, however, that it is not based on these works that you grant us your grace but on our faith in You. Please help us keep that faith that makes us strong - a faith that enables us to love and live and that allows us to walk with You. Amen.
Saturday, February 24
Mark 8:27-30
Who is Jesus to You? Marilyn Michue In this passage, Jesus asks his disciples on the way to Caesarea Philippi, “Who do the people say I am?” They answer with John the Baptist, Elijah, or possibly one of the other prophets. Then he asks them, “Who do YOU say I am?” Peter replied, “You are the Messiah.” Jesus warned the disciples not to tell anyone about him at that time. Why did he make this request? Throughout the book of Mark, we read about miracle after miracle that Jesus performed, but he knew that the disciples were not yet qualified to proclaim the whole truth concerning him as the Messiah. They knew Jesus, but they didn’t know yet how Jesus would fulfill his mission as the Messiah. Today, we know the whole story. His message as Messiah could not be understood without the cross and the resurrection. Jesus died on the cross and was resurrected from the dead three days later. He ascended to the Father, and his holy spirit has come to everyone who believes. Now, every believer has the freedom to tell others about Jesus, the Messiah, the Christ, the Son of God, who offers salvation to whoever believes in him. We know now that how we answer the question, “Who do you say Jesus is?” determines our identity, our purpose in life, and our eternity. Whether we are the only believer at work or at school, are married to a nonbeliever, or are in a family of those who do not follow Him, we are following the one and only Messiah, God incarnate, the Son of God, Jesus Christ, the son of the living God.
Sunday, February 25
Mark 8:31-38
Death & Life Predicted by the Son of Man Danny Watts In the scripture before today’s reading, Jesus asks his disciples, “Who do you say I am?” Peter answered, “You are the Christ,” to which Jesus said, “Do not tell anyone.” Then, the son of man tells his disciples of his pending death and resurrection, to which Peter says, “No!!!” Please read the passage and the footnotes (Mark 8:31-38) in your bible to find Jesus’ response. Does “Get Behind Me, Satan” ring a bell? Jesus and his disciples continued preaching and teaching in the Caesarea Philippi region when he called a crowd together. He tells them they must put Him and the gospel first in order to save their souls. Further, Jesus states that if you are ashamed of Him and His words in this adulterous and sinful generation, He, the son of man, will be ashamed of you when He comes in His Father’s glory with the holy angels. Prayer Focus: If you are in a stressful situation, it might be helpful to stop, pray, and think…What would Jesus do? Thank be to God.
Monday, February 26
Hebrews 1:8-12 Never Changing Susan Hemphill
Hebrews 1:8-12 12 You will roll them up like a robe; like a garment, they will be changed. But you remain the same, and your years will never end.” In these verses, God makes it clear that Jesus is far superior to angels and is given the ultimate authority. In verse 12, God says that Jesus is unchanging and eternal. When my Dad passed away last summer, it was rather fast, and I wasn’t prepared for his passing as I thought my Mom would leave us before him. As I look back on the months leading up to his death, I know that He was listening to my prayers and walking with me through my valley of pain. I called on Him often during those months of uncertainty, but I knew He was there, helping me put one foot in front of the other to make it through the day. He was my compass and my guide. It wasn’t clear until after my Dad passed away how He was working in my life and never changing. Dear Heavenly Father, maker of every good and perfect gift, thank you for your Son, who is never changing and eternal. Help us to know that You are our guiding compass, never changing and that we can always depend on You to be with us through all our difficulties in life. Amen.
Tuesday, February 27
Hebrews 11:1-3, 13-19 Eric Hillestad
As the words of this passage unfold: seeking a homeland...perhaps something that has not yet been revealed and cannot be seen, this passage offers us so much to reflect upon depending upon where we are in our lives. Internationally, for some, it means seeking a new earthly home, as many seek a new community safer and more secure than the one they are fleeing. For others, the new home may mean embracing the next chapter in life: perhaps a new job in a new city or maybe sharing a new home for two who have just committed their lives to one another. For some, it might mean learning to live without someone who was a loving and integral part of their lives. As this very early New Year started, we had to say goodbye to a best friend with whom we had spent so many decades laughing, talking, joking, and enjoying all aspects of life. Our friend was a very gifted musician and music director of his church. As we all waited for hopeful news of a better prognosis, we watched him constantly relying upon “The assurance of things hoped for and the conviction of things not seen.” On Christmas night, we all enjoyed one last dinner with him. We laughed and cut up just like we had countless times before. On New Year’s Day, one of his youngest piano students at the age of six played “We Wish You a Merry Christmas” for him on the piano, a gift shared and handed over from one generation to another. Whenever we are in life, much more remains a mystery than what is easily seen. Because we worship a God who lovingly made each of us and who is always generous and merciful, we can rest assured that with whatever challenges we face, God is with us always. Thanks be to God.
Wednesday, February 28
John 12:36-43
Sharing God’s Word Glenda Wooten My nightly devotional time has always been a special time for me. I read the Upper Room and a daily devotional from Jesus Calling and end with my prayers. One of the things I have come to enjoy is introducing and sharing this devotion time with my niece’s children. Lawson reads the scripture from the Bible app on my iPad, and I read the Upper Room and Jesus Calling readings. During a recent trip to Florida, his older sister, Makayla, joined us during our devotion time and did the readings while Lawson read the scripture. I love seeing these children experience the word of God and being able to ask questions about what we have read. We talk about what we have read, trusting God and knowing God is watching over them. Jesus said, “Let the children come to me,” I think it is important to share scripture and devotional readings with the young people we know. I wasn’t sure about starting this devotional time with my niece’s children, but I knew she and her husband have a good Christian home and have made religion an important part of their family life. Being able to share my faith and love for God with them is special to me. I love seeing these children ask about our devotion time and knowing this is a time we can share together. We never know what impact we can make on young people, but hopefully, with our time together, these children are coming closer to God and stronger in their faith. Prayer: Dear Lord, let us never miss an opportunity to share our faith, especially with the children who are a part of our life. Continue to watch over all those we know and love as they move through their faith journey. Amen.
Thursday, February 29
Peter 2:4-10
The Chosen Cornerstone Saundra Magee I have always appreciated music. It is what I call a “Spirit Lifter.” Sometimes, when life’s demands are too much, I turn on Spotify or play a CD, which helps me relax and see my problems differently. I find music can be a wonderful therapy session. A great gift from our church is our talented choir and musicians, who dedicate many hours to preparing gorgeous music for our congregation. If you are looking for encouragement, peace, and some joy, visit the sanctuary on any given Sunday morning. The music is always outstanding. It is an opportunity, too, to be still with God. It can be a time to claim or reclaim Christ as the cornerstone of your faith, always here for us: guiding, loving, and giving us hope in life. It is important we constantly “check-in” with Christ so we do not drift away. Henri Nouwen, a renowned Catholic priest, states in his writings, “Our spiritual life is a gift from God requiring human effort.” I see God in music and in the church, but God has blessed us with many other “Spirit Lifters.” Nature, God’s Word, a Bible study, or lunch with a close friend can allow us to feel close to God and help us grow in our faith. Make the effort now to connect and commit to Jesus. Acknowledge He is the foundation of our faith from which we choose to live like He did, a life filled with love, forgiveness, wisdom, and humility. Prayer: Dear Jesus, help us to find gifts in our lives to encourage and bring us closer to you. Amen “I am placing a stone in Jerusalem, a chosen cornerstone, and who believes in Him will never be disappointed.” (1 Peter 2:6)
Friday, March 1
Acts 7:30-40 Hope in God Lennie Washington
I have a collection of photos of crosses on my computer. They are natural shapes that I have seen randomly on the ground. They quietly appeared in my backyard, on a neighborhood walk, and a trail through the woods. I simply looked down and there they were. The comforting part is that I always spotted them when I felt hopeless. I have come to see them as God’s way of reminding me that regardless of how I feel, He is with me. I know He will keep sending them. These sightings wouldn’t mean much to most people. They would easily be overlooked or only be sticks randomly on top of each other or a rock randomly shaped by nature. But in them, I see God, and when I do, I hear his gentle reminder that he is with me at my lowest point. In the sweeping recounting in Acts of the heritage of his people, Stephen is trying to remind the faithless that God is with them. Stephen’s address presents the full gamut of the faithful, from Abraham to Moses, and reminds the people that God is always with them if they will but look and listen. In the end, no matter how many signs God sent, they weren’t listening and looking, so they couldn’t see them. I pray that as we move into the season of remembering Christ’s crucifixion and resurrection, we will also look for the signs that he is with us always in the good and the bad of our normal lives.
Saturday, March 2
Mark 9:2-8
“This is my Son, the Beloved, Listen to Him!” Rose Spinks Peter is unable to understand what is happening; a transformed Jesus is talking with the great prophets Elijah and Moses. Peter offers hospitality, a dwelling place that he, James, and John can build, something tangible. Instead, a cloud covers them, and the very voice of God tenderly calls Jesus, “My Son, the Beloved,” and commands, “Listen to him!” These spectacular opening verses of chapter 9 leave me numb with awe. I could stop my devotional here, but almost 2,000 years later, followers of Jesus are still listening, lifting up the poor, the damaged, the unwanted, and the unloved. Several months ago, I responded to what I call “The God nudge” and added another day at Hidden Valley Elementary as a reading buddy in the “For the Love of Reading” program. One of the kids I read with is learning English as a second language. It’s so gratifying to watch her confidence grow from reluctant whispers to big smiles and “look at me” confidence. One day, we were reading a book about farm animals; it was slow going. She looked up at me and, in halting English, began to tell me about her family’s farm in Honduras. Her voice grew stronger; she was not concerned about how the words tumbled out. She was telling me about her life before, a life no longer possible but still remembered with love. These kids we read with are treasures that God loans out. I’m glad I listened to that God-nudge. Prayer: God, let us love and support kids whose lives may be fragile. In Jesus’s precious name, Amen.
Sunday, March 3
John 2:13-22 Amanda Williams
We are blessed with a beautiful church in a tree-lined neighborhood. Our building is important because it’s where we come together to celebrate God and grow in love, faith, and service. When I look at the stained-glass windows, listen to the booming pipe organ, and explore the gathering spaces, I know the faith of our church founders must have been exponential to have created such a stunning space. I also love the rituals of our church services, the constants of faith that anchor my daily life. From Sunday mornings to weddings, funerals, and baptisms, I am grateful for the traditions of worship. But I know that our church is more than a building or ritual. Some of my favorite church experiences have been when we have stripped all those things away: A Sunday when the organ was on the fritz. A wedding performed by candlelight when the power was out. Informal worship while on church retreats. Even without robes or vestments, pomp, and circumstance, we are still a body of people who love God and each other. In today’s passage from John, Jesus exhibits righteous anger as he tears apart the temple. He is angry at the religious games taking place there, the replacement of reality with ritual, and using religion as a front for greed. This is just one of many glimpses in the Bible of how Jesus reserved some of his harshest criticism for overly religious people who let ritual get in the way of a true relationship with God. This isn’t just a story about some hypocritical religious leaders long ago - it has meaning for us today. Jesus understood that we wouldn’t always get it right. But in recognizing when ritual gets in the way of reality, we’re one step closer to him.
Monday, March 4
Corinthians 3:10-23 Foundation Annie Albini
After reading the above scripture, a wonderful memory came to mind. My son played Pop Warner football as soon as he was old enough until he aged out. I will always remember the loyalty and camaraderie these young boys had for each other. The team practiced and played hard and were very successful. One of my fondest memories was of an enthusiastic boy with a spiritfilled soul. James reminded his teammates there were no superstars on the field, only team members who each had a job to make the team perform at their highest level. He eagerly asked to pray before and after each game. The parents and his teammates happily huddled around to hear James pray. In every prayer, James gave God the glory for the team, the day (rain or shine), the parents, the coaches, and even the siblings! His teammates loved his prayers and readily encouraged him to speak and pray. James ended each prayer with, “In his mighty name, we pray,” and we all loudly and enthusiastically shouted, “AMEN!” The above scripture speaks about building on a foundation that God had put into place. In his wisdom and beyond his years, James encouraged us all to build on the foundation of love and trust and leave the rest to God. Out of the mouth of babes! Dear Lord, thank you for the children, their blind faith, and their simple understanding of the world we live in. In His mighty name, we pray. AMEN!
Tuesday, March 5
Hebrews 9:23-28 Faithful Waiting Jim Laseter
“So Christ, having been offered once to bear the sins of many, will appear a second time, not to deal with sin but to save those who are eagerly waiting for him.” Hebrews 9:28 One of my favorite plays is Waiting for Godot by Samuel Beckett. In it, Vladimir and Estragon meet under a tree to wait for Godot. Time after time, they are told by others that Godot is not coming, but they continue to wait. Meanwhile, they talk about many things, some with Freudian, existential, ethical, and even Christian overtones. In the end, however, they decide Godot is not coming and decide to leave. But then they don’t. They continue to wait. And the play ends. “Waiting” is one of those unique times when we give up all control in the future, supported only by a faith that what we want to happen will happen. For some, it could be waiting in line at a movie, waiting to feel better when you are sick, or maybe just waiting for the Panthers to finally win a game. There are many people, myself included, who sometimes feel there is no evidence that Christ will return to save us. Nevertheless, we wait. And like the characters in Waiting for Godot, we wait because we have faith. Faith that Christ will return. And in returning, He will save us, most likely from ourselves. So, the next time you are waiting, relish the experience. Perhaps soon you won’t be waiting any longer. Amen.
Wednesday, March 6
Mark 11:15-19
House of Peace and Prayer Suzy Ohl Mark 11:15-19 is one account of Jesus driving corrupt merchants out of the temple grounds. Jesus warns us that we must be careful to never remove God from the center of our worship and never put ourselves or our personal gain at the center of worship. Our world today is filled with so much corruption, war, anti-this or that, exclusion, and personal gain. My church home has always been my place of personal peace where I can worship God and escape the external outside chaos. During the pandemic, when our church facilities were closed, I didn’t have that beautiful place where I could go and find that sense of calm while worshipping God. I know many people felt that same sadness. Mark tells us that Jesus said, “My temple will be called a house of prayer.” Prayer is at the core of worshipping God, and our church is where we can come in fellowship to talk to God and be reminded of just how great our Father’s power, presence, and glory are. This says it all and is a constant reminder of why I love my church home.
Thursday, March 7
Ephesians 1:3-6 Sandy Bright
Paul’s letter to the Ephesians differs from his many other New Testament letters. It was written not to address problems in a particular church but to explain some of the great themes and doctrines of Christianity. This is typical of Paul. He knew the place of peace and grace in the life of the believer. He knew that God’s GRACE comes before a walk in peace with him. In talking about the work of God the Father of Jesus our Lord, he talks about how God’s resources are always there for us with an attitude of assurance. Paul says these spiritual blessings are far better than natural ones because they are in Christ, a heavenly place. He uses examples such as being an heir of God is better than being the son of a nobleman, having more acres of land, etc. Having predestined us as “adopted sons,” which includes salvation and a warm relationship with God, we are placed in the position of “sons!”
Friday, March 8
Ephesians 1:7-14 True Self Janie Reynolds
We were asked a lot of questions growing up, like “What do you want to be when you grow up?” “Where did you get your blue eyes?” or “Do twins run in your family?” These questions and others are common as we begin to learn of our own identity, our “True Self.” My children surprised me last year with a subscription to 23 and Me. I was excited to discover relatives near and far, what my DNA was made up of, and to fill in the gaps in my family tree. My efforts weren’t as easy or as fulfilling as I thought they would be. So many unknowns and missing data. The task of spitting into a test tube was difficult enough! We all own unique DNA, but does it show us our “True Self?” Paul’s letter to the Ephesians teaches us about all the blessings God has given us. He has chosen us “in Christ” and adopted us as children “through Christ.” “In Christ,” we receive redemption, and “in Christ,” we have forgiveness. God has put His seal upon us by putting His Spirit in our hearts. Richard Rohr says, “Because we have the Holy Spirit inside us, which is the presence of God in our lives, we are transformed into the new life which involves dying to an old identity and birth into a new way of being.” This is our “True Self.” “Let us deeply recognize and rejoice that we are chosen and beloved. We are part of God’s plan for the peace and fulfillment of all.” Prayer: Jesus, help us to see the ways you are calling us to be a community of love. Help us to be faithful to give love and humble enough in spirit to receive. Thank you for the abundant sense of love that you surround us with and call us into. Amen.
Saturday, March 9
John 3:1-13 Fred Bright
While very meaningful, verses 1-13 are not nearly as well known as the often-quoted John 3:16, which immediately follows today’s reading. Jesus tells Nicodemus, “Very truly I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless they are born again. How can someone be born when they are old?” Nicodemus asked. “Surely, they cannot enter a second time into their mother’s womb to be born!” The impact of today’s verses is that we are reminded that although we cannot be born again in the flesh, we can take comfort as we have the option of being reborn in the spirit. As we see the quote, “Flesh gives birth to flesh, and spirit gives birth to spirit,” Jesus tells us that our spirits can be born again through the spirit, and therein we receive the joy of eternal life.
Sunday, March 10
John 3:14-21 God’s Love Lynn Polk
These verses from John hold one of the most familiar verses known. John 3:16 – “For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” This came out of the King James version of the Bible that was my grandmother’s, but even with different versions, they all come back to the same thing. God loves us, and not only does he love us, but he “so” loves us. What an amazing feeling that we are loved so much by such a wonderful God. I have a friend who has had her share of medical problems in the recent few years. I thought of her when I read these verses. Whenever you talk to her, she doesn’t dwell on her many medical issues but instead asks each person she talks to how they are doing and is so genuine in her caring. There have been those times when I would call to see how she was doing, only to have her lovingly lift me up. She is always positive and always shares how much she loves God and Jesus. She follows these verses with utmost faith and inspires me, as well as I know many, many others, to do so also. My prayer is that each of us will use these verses as a reminder of just how much we are loved by God, even when things are not easy, and that He is always there to care for us. After all, he sent the greatest gift we could receive in Jesus.
Monday, March 11
Hebrews 3:1-6
Don’t Judge a Book by its Cover Linda Myers I’ve been pondering our charge to view others as multifaceted. Not doing so leads to an inherent “failure to communicate” that plagues our world now. We don’t have to look far to see how this prejudgment based on one aspect of a person’s belief system can cause us to overlook a myriad of good in another person. If we shut off from them based on one aspect of their being, we’ll never find that good, and we will miss out on having any hope of really knowing that person. On pondering that point on a personal level, I have had many encounters where political positions are at odds with my own. Because of that one aspect of the other person, I sought to avoid conversation. Then, a circumstance occurred where I needed an abundance of TLC. Guess who was right in line to provide that TLC in the most genuine, heartfelt manner? I cannot overemphasize how grateful I was to accept what was offered, and I now see her as a person of great compassion who is guided in her one-on-one treatment of others by a core of good. As a non-personal example, there is a book out, Opposable Thumbs, about Siskel and Ebert, movie critics for rival Chicago newspapers. A description I read of their relationship was, “To say they despised each other was an understatement.” They were somehow convinced to collaborate on a movie review show on PBS, and even though opinions often did not match, they grew into genuine friends. If a show got “two thumbs up,” that was a surefire movie to go see. Lord, help us look for and recognize your light in others. Amen.
Tuesday, March 12
Corinthians 10:6-13 Mary Ware
In this passage, the apostle Paul urges us to learn from the examples of those who have come before us. Despite how different we may feel like 2024 is from the days in which the Bible was written, we still struggle with the same sins…Idolatry, lust, greed, envy…they’re all still here. A 2016 Christian Today article mentions modern idols such as work, success, phones, image, materialism, sex, money, and entertainment. Patrick Mabilog, the article’s author, said, “Idols are anything that takes God’s place in giving us fulfillment, satisfaction, security, or significance. Many things that people have idolized -- both past and present -- are not necessarily bad things, but good things that take bad positions on our priority tree.” Ouch! The same sins and mistakes can, do, and will happen to us. The good news is that Jesus loves us too much to leave us there. Paul assures us that no test or temptation will come our way that is different than what others faced. Paul reminds us that we’re not alone in our battle. Just like characters of the Bible, Paul encourages us today to remember that God will never let us down. We won’t be pushed past our limits. We will face trials and struggles that rock us to our core, but God promises to not leave us alone in it, to not push us past our limits, and to provide an escape or safe place to land. Lord, thank you for the examples and stories you provide us to learn from. Forgive us, Lord, for not putting you in the place that is rightfully yours. Help us to flee and remove the things that distract us from our relationship with you and who you made us to be. Thank you for the gift of your Son and your Holy Spirit, who are with us in our times of trial. Thank you for your promise to never leave us or forsake us. Thank you for providing an escape and a safe place to land. Help us to trust in you. Amen!
Wednesday, March 13
John 8:12-20
Change Begins When Something Ends Chris Jones This past year has been all about change. I purged, packed up, sold, and moved from my beloved neighborhood where I had lived for 50 years! My boys were raised and became men in that house, and I also had to say goodbye to neighbors that felt like family. The experience was so traumatic that I went searching for a book I had read many years ago titled Transitions, Making Sense of Life’s Changes: strategies for coping with difficult, painful, and confusing times in your life. I remember finding the concepts helpful, particularly when I went through any kind of emotional change, whether it be happy or sad. I had never thought about change beginning with something ENDING and how important it is to grieve that ending: Leaving the house and neighborhood or my boys going to college, for example. The second phase, called THE NEUTRAL ZONE, is a time of reorientation and a temporary state of loss to be endured. The final phase is called MAKING A BEGINNING. I am happy to report I am now in the final phase and very content in my relatively new home! I find myself thinking about the transitions Jesus experienced quite often: dying on the cross, ascending into heaven, and then returning to life on earth to begin again.
Thursday, March 14
Hebrews 4:1-13
Gratitude for a Day of Rest Susan zumBrunnen It seems we are surrounded by negative news and situations. We have access to local, national, and world news in the palm of our hands 24/7. It’s easy to fall into the habit of looking at our phone right before going to bed, first thing in the morning, or even in the middle of the night just to be sure we haven’t missed the latest update on the multitude of wars, shootings, natural disasters, and political dramas. What if we made a habit of living in gratitude? If we take the time to look with fresh eyes, we will surely see the kindness that abounds in our world. Think about the smile from a passing stranger or the person who let you go ahead of them in traffic. Today’s scripture, Hebrew 4: 1-13, reminds us that: There remains…a Sabbath-rest for the people of God; 10 for anyone who enters God’s rest also rests from their works,[e] just as God did from his. I challenge you to take one day each week as a Day of Rest. Try setting down your phone and turning off the TV. Go for a walk around your neighborhood or seek out a beautiful park. Have coffee with a friend. Call that person you’ve been meaning to catch up with. Write a letter of gratitude to someone who made a difference in your life. I make a practice each evening of writing down gratitude for my day. Some days are easy, others more difficult, but I focus on living in gratitude even in the midst of these challenging times. I pray that 2024 will bring you a day of rest each week and a life overflowing with gratitude!
Friday, March 15
Hebrews 4:14-5:4 Sacrifices Susan Lynch
The introduction to Hebrews in the New International Version (NIV) of the Bible states that the author is unknown, and he wrote this letter to the Jewish Christians in Rome or Palestine in the late AD 60. The author wanted to inform God’s people on how to hold on to their faith, even amid widespread persecution. In Verse 4 of our reading, the author instructs the readers that God chose Jesus to be the ultimate high priest. In Jesus, God became flesh and came to earth. Through Jesus, God empathized with all of humanity because Jesus endured temptations but did not sin. By Jesus, we can approach the throne of God to receive mercy and grace in our time of need. God called Jesus to be the high priest, “You are a priest forever in the order of Melchizedek” (Hebrews 5:6). Hebrews Chapter 5:1-4 speaks to how the high priests are chosen from the people to represent God in various matters. Unlike Jesus, the earthly high priest is sinful just like the rest of God’s people and, therefore, must offer sacrifices for people’s sins. Nevertheless, the high priest must be merciful to those who approach the throne of grace through him. The high priest does not choose his job but is chosen by God, just as Aaron was chosen. Because Jesus represents the high priesthood, having gone up to heaven, God’s people can stand firm in their faith, trusting that they, too, can go to heaven. After Christ’s death, the Old Testament sacrifices were no longer needed because Christ made the final sacrifice by dying on the cross for us all. Prayer: Dear Lord, thank you for sending your Son, Jesus, to be born as a baby so that he could experience living in this world, but without sin. Thank you for Jesus dying on the cross to make the ultimate sacrifice for our sins. Amen.
Saturday, March 16
John 12:1-11 Linda Borders
“Fear casts a very dark shadow over the future, but when you find refuge in the living Christ, you realize that regardless of how ominous things might appear, everything is still under God’s control. The Lord God Almighty still reigns and has not abandoned His Creation. To believe that God is working out His divine plan, in spite of man’s sinfulness, enables you to maintain a well-balanced and calm attitude. So, you can either look to the future without God and feel depressed and fearful, or you can believe in God’s plan of redemption for mankind and approach the future with trust and confidence.” This devotion comes from a little book I own called Grace for Today, which is fitting for anyone who is going through life changes, whether it be illness, the loss of a loved one, a job change, or any other situation that causes fear and loneliness. This prayer also accompanies this devotion: “Eternal God, you are in control of this world. Therefore, I can face the future with confidence and hope in your salvation.” Amen.
Sunday, March 17
John 12:20-33 Thanks Be to God Bob Truscello
Holidays are made more special when they involve getting together with loved ones, building memories, and recognizing our many blessings. When our three children - now grown with families of their own were at home, we would travel every Thanksgiving to Hilton Head to be with aunts and uncles and our extended families and friends always gobs and gobs of relatives. It was something to look forward to. My folks and Sue’s folks came each year. When our grandchildren were born, they came. These were massive gettogethers. Sweet times. I recently tried to find an old church newsletter article that featured our Hilton Head reunions but had no luck. Katharine Willis at the Church finally found it and was kind to send it: Cornerstone, December 16, 2009: You think you had a den-full, Bob and Sue Truscello shared their Thanksgiving: They attended the Murdock family reunion on Sue’s side at Hilton Head Island, a tradition dating back 40 years. The gathering included 87 relatives spanning four generations. Bob shares: “The place oozes faith, food, and fun—led by our gracious hosts, Uncle Bill and Aunt Mary. Theirs is a gift of shared memories, fellowship, and hugs all around.” For those counting, there were 24 dozen eggs for breakfast, seven gallons of Aunt Nancy’s chili for lunch, and four turkeys, three hams, and three beef tenderloins for the main meal. Adds Bob: “Nothing was left of the 16 pies and 11 cakes either.” We no longer get together for these larger reunions. Things change. Many of these beautiful people have since passed, so we have settled for smaller get-togethers that have been just as loving and appreciative but different. We do help each other remember these treasured times though, thanks be to God.
Monday, March 18
Corinthians 3:4-11 Soul Friends Sandy Sanders
“We all need friends who bring us back to who we are in Christ, challenging and cheering us on throughout our spiritual journeys, speaking God’s truth when we lose our way.” The Gift of Soul Friends by Jodi Harris
Thirty years ago, a group of women were part of a new Sunday school class at Peachtree Presbyterian Church in Atlanta, Georgia. We quickly bonded and shared how God was working in our lives, and we championed each other and prayed for one another. We had a lot of fun together, too! When we began to go in different directions to marry or follow a job opportunity, we decided we did not want to lose the bond that we shared in our faith and each other and made a pact that we would meet to celebrate Christmas and each other the first Monday in December each year. This past December, I attended our 20th year of meeting and celebrating our spiritual connection. A lot has happened to each of us in those 20+ years, and we feel blessed to have each other as soulmates and God and Christ as our foundation. Now, we find ourselves in the 40 days of preparation and an opportunity to go deeper with God in the season of Lent. We focus on prayer, fasting, and thinking about the journey of Christ on earth. Jesus sacrificed Himself on Good Friday to bear the punishment of our wrongdoings and offer us forgiveness. He was raised from the dead on Easter Sunday to give us an opportunity to have a relationship with God for eternity. May our hearts and minds be open to God’s love for us and help us flourish into who God created us to be. Thanks be to God!
Tuesday, March 19
Acts 2:14-24 Scott Starling
“There is a hole in that theory,” my wife said. “I am still following my Lenten sacrifice,” I defended myself while eating a breakfast donut. I have infrequently participated in the Christian practice of giving something up or creating a new spiritual practice for Lent. While I admire my family’s faithful, annual commitment, I rarely joined them. It was not for me. But this particular year, after their strong encouragement, or chiding, depending on your interpretation, I chose to give up “dessert.” This was a sacrifice because I have a sizeable sweet tooth, and there is a plethora of desserts in my house since my children think dessert is an inalienable right. So, I was not pleased when my wife questioned my choice of a donut for breakfast. I attested, “Dessert is a sweet eaten after a meal such as lunch or dinner. While a donut is sweet, it is a universally accepted breakfast food.” My family laughed and presented their case as to why I had violated my Lenten covenant. After our playful banter, I enjoyed my last bite of donut and decided the discussion was ridiculous. I had just eaten breakfast. No violation was committed. I started a Lenten practice to explore a deeper relationship with God before celebrating the resurrection on Easter morning. Do I do that by giving up sweets or dessert? Is a donut a valid breakfast food or a hole in my Lenten practice? It is up to interpretation. But Lent is really about my focus. Do I use my Lenten practice to remind me of God’s goodness and bring me closer to Him? Does my Lenten practice carry with me outside of Lent? In this case, the judgment is “Yes.” Now, when I see a donut, I remember my family’s unfounded argument and think about God’s grace, which is the point of a Lenten practice. Case closed.
Wednesday, March 20
John 12:34-50
Walking in the Light Martha Lambie “I have come into the world as a light so that no one who believes in me should stay in darkness.” Have you ever had a friend or family member in such a dark place that they have lost the will to live? This is a heart-wrenching experience; you struggle to know how you can help or whether you are in part responsible. You try to help and, yes, worry, hoping to make it better and stop the downward spiral. I have experienced just this situation, felt the anguish, and tried as best I could to “fix it.” Prayer was a part of it, but anxiety and worry accompanied by sleepless nights were as well. I wasn’t in a good place in MY quest to “fix things.” It was in this dark moment I realized I had not been relying on God. I knew I needed to let the light of Christ guide me through this darkness. In today’s reading, Christ tells us that no one who believes in me should stay in darkness. He is with us, and the light of His presence will outshine the darkness. Shouldn’t that be reassuring to me? Why did I think I could control the outcome? How foolish! One morning, during my time of devotion and prayer, I felt a change within me. It was a feeling of God’s peace and love. I consciously began letting go of my anxiety, allowing the light of Christ to supplant the darkness and fears that had been weighing on my heart. This Lenten season, may we all be continually reminded of God’s love for us through prayer, meditation, and the Word. This love and light transcend all things, even in times of darkness. Thanks be to God.
Thursday, March 21
Philippians 2:1-11
Imitating Christ’s Humility Joan Ward Today’s reading reminds us of Christ’s humility in Paul’s counsel to the Philippians to - ‘Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit but in humility regard others as better than yourselves. Let each of you look not to your own interests but to the interests of others.’ Jesus took the form of a slave and humbled himself to the point of death on the cross. Humility is not a word we hear often these days. More often, we hear descriptors like bombastic, narcissistic, self-centered, etc. But that was not the case with Rosalynn Carter, who recently passed. She was aptly described in gracious terms and lived her life as she told others to - “Do what you can to show you care about other people, and the world will be a better place.” Mother Teresa also comes to mind as a role model in caring for others. I will never rise to these levels, but I can certainly do better. We all can. Have you heard the quote, “Pride is concerned with who is right, but humility is concerned with what is right?” As a CPA, I took my annual ethics course recently. The instructor stressed the nature of character and that we inherently know the right thing to do (it’s that nagging feeling inside) even if we don’t do it. If we inherently know what is right, why don’t we do it? Perhaps we can all give up pride this Lenten season and act more like Jesus. Our world would certainly be a better place.
Friday, March 22
Philippians 2:12-18 Shine Like Stars Paula Boyce
“Shine like stars in the universe as you hold out the word of life.” Paul, the apostle who tells us so much about God’s grace, knows that the gift of God’s grace in our lives does not exempt us from the work of living out our faith. Even among the twelve apostles, there was a tendency to look at others rather than work on ourselves. Working on ourselves means doing things that we find difficult. Loving our neighbors takes work because we all find some people not very loveable. Working for peace and justice in a violent world takes work. Being faithful or honest when we’re pressured to cheat and lie is work. Not giving in to unhealthy pressure takes work. We live in the midst of a willful and relentless generation, just as the Philippians did. The charge to us is this: To work out our salvation in the midst of this population of grumblers who complain about everything - the weather, politicians, the church, the economy, even God. Nothing is good enough for a complainer, and they always know better than those around them. They like to play the part of the martyr and feel that no one likes them, and often they’re right. The charge to the church remains the same: “Do all things without murmuring and arguing, so that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, in which you shine like stars in the world.” My hope this Lenten season is that we can all trust God to change our desire. That we can stop arguing with others or complaining about people and conditions so that we may do His will and shine like stars above, guided by His glorious love.
Saturday, March 23
Mark 10:32-34 Walking with Jesus Bonnie Gunter
In this scripture, Jesus is walking up to Jerusalem. His Disciples are following him. Jesus tells them His time has come and predicts His death and Resurrection. Are you willing to walk up the long road to Jerusalem with Jesus? Are you able to see how much Jesus gave us? Are you going to follow His call to us to love, care, pray, and listen as He taught us? Now go He awaits Prayer: Let us always be willing to follow Jesus. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
Palm Sunday, March 24
Mark 11:1-11 Palm Sunday Nancy Watson
“The beginning of the good news of Jesus Christ, Son of God…” Anyone who has ever planned an event – a birthday party, a vacation, an introduction of a new product or program – knows that the event doesn’t begin on the day and time of the actual event. Questions need answers: what, when, where, how, why, who? An awful lot of work goes into planning and preparation long before the event. In large organizations, they have people known as “advance teams.” These are the ones who go in advance – who make sure everything is in order, plans are in place for every possibility, and everything needed is on hand to ensure success. Jesus Christ, Son of God, had his own advance man: his cousin, John the Baptizer. The beginning of the good news of Jesus came with John, sent by God to prepare the way, to announce the coming of salvation, to call people to repentance, for the Kingdom of God was at hand. “Wake up!” he urged, “Pay attention – something amazing and marvelous and life-changing is coming!” The good news of Jesus was so good God wanted to be sure we didn’t miss it. So God sent someone to tell us about it, to prepare us to receive it. God is always sending someone in advance: Jesus himself was sent. He, in turn, sent the apostles, who then trained and sent even more advance teams into the world. Jesus said, “As the Father has sent me, even so, I am sending you” (John 20:21). Perhaps you are God’s own advance person, sent by God to prepare the way for someone to hear the good news. Prayer: As we look toward Christ’s suffering, death, and resurrection, Loving God, here I am. Send me with the beginning of the good news. Amen.
Monday, March 25
John 12:1-11 Lauren Smith
When I read these verses, I think about what it means to love abundantly. The kind of love that doesn’t focus on the cost or level of sacrifice but instead demonstrates compassionate care in action. In this text, Mary doesn’t pause to consider the monetary value of her perfume treasure. She prefers to give of it freely, in her own expression of abundant love, deep honor, and sacred worship. As we pause and consider our own “treasures” that we hold tightly to, we offer ourselves mindful opportunities for gratitude. These are also tender moments for self-reflection. How do I offer abundant love? How do I receive it? Am I able to give of my own “treasures” freely, or am I always weighing out the possible costs, risks, and benefits? Perhaps our expressions of abundant love don’t have to come in expensive perfumes and fancy purchases. I know that in a world that always keeps us running, time is certainly a valuable treasure for us all. Can we offer abundant love by sharing our time with someone, to offer our presence and to really listen without our “quick fixes,” to gently hold a hand or provide an embrace of steady support, to experience a moment of prayer together, to meet someone just where they are and just as they are, to engage and build in connection and community together? In the midst of our busy days, may we be attentive to opportunities for compassionate care in action. May we each find ways to freely give of our “treasures” and gifts as we share God’s abundant love and hope with our hurting world. Gracious God…thank you for loving us all so deeply. Hold us, guide us, and nurture us in Your grace. Amen.
Tuesday, March 26
John 12:20-36 Troubled Souls Amy Jo Alspaugh
On Tuesday of Holy Week, we find Jesus speaking about his impending death. In verses 27-28, he says, “Now my soul is troubled. And what should I say: ‘Father, save me from this hour’? No, it is for this reason that I have come to this hour. Father, glorify your name.” Jesus’ soul was troubled. He was not asking for a way out. He was acknowledging the humanness he felt of having to be separated from his disciples and his friends. Jesus was fully aware of his imminent death, and yet he willingly laid down his life in the events that were to come. This pains us, which may be one of the reasons we try to rush from Palm Sunday to Easter Sunday. However, we know we must walk through each day of Holy Week, spending time reading the daily scriptures and reflecting on them. It is difficult to think about Jesus’ crucifixion and to imagine his great love for us. On this Tuesday, though, we pause and reflect on his humanity and his heart being troubled. What troubles your soul this Lenten season? What darkness are you trying to overcome? Can you bring it out into the light, knowing that Jesus walks with you through any trouble you may have? It is in our times of trouble that we encounter God. In times of silence and darkness, little by little, we begin to see the light of Jesus peeking through. Embrace the hope and new life His resurrection brings.
Wednesday, March 27
John 13:21-32 Uiyeon Kim
Before the upcoming trial and crucifixion, Jesus spends his last moments on earth breaking bread with his beloved disciples. We don’t know how this meal started but we do know how it ends. As this meal nears its conclusion, Jesus testifies, “One of you will betray me.” Can you imagine this scene unfolding in real time?! What does it mean to hear such a statement from the one you love so much? Upon hearing such shocking news, the disciples seem rightfully confused, scared, and angry. Ironically and predictably, Peter takes the initiative to inquire about the identity of the said traitor, that person being Judas, not knowing that he too will later betray Jesus. Jesus’ revelation during this last meal frightens me, particularly as I get older. I deeply desire to please God and grow in my Christian discipleship. I know you do as well. Yet, I also know that there have been seasons and moments in my life where I “betrayed” Jesus through my disobedience, ignorance, and apathy. Upon continuous and deeper reflection of my past, I can’t help but wonder if I’ve, knowingly or unknowingly, betrayed others in my life that I love and hold dear. While I always hope for the best, I’m quite certain that I’ve harmed…I’ve hurt and wounded my family, friends, and neighbors despite my desire for the contrary. So how can I/we prevent such betrayal from happening in our lives? May we forever be on the path of humility, prayer, and repentance as we seek God’s wisdom in our lives and for our world. This means we do not solely rely on our respective experience, reflection, and intellect, as important as these things may be. Instead, we must first be firmly rooted in the Gospel of Jesus, which informs and sheds light upon everything and everyone else. We also rely on the community of faith, which is the church, to walk alongside us, especially when we fail and fall short of the glory of God. We trust in God’s mercy, through God’s church, to speak truth to us, forgive us, and form us into a more faithful disciple of Christ. Thanks be to God. Prayer: Loving and gracious God, help us to rely upon your grace always, especially when we fall short of your goodness and glory. May we lean upon your love all the more when our love fails and may we trust you all the more amid our betrayal. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
Maundy Thursday, March 28
John 13:1-17; 31b-35
Maundy Thursday Taylor Pryde Barefoot Maundy Thursday is one of the most complex days in the church calendar. In some ways, there’s a lightness to it as Jesus eats with his beloved friends and we are reminded that we too are invited to this heavenly banquet with Jesus. But there’s also immense grief and heaviness as we find out this is our Lord’s last supper and are informed that Jesus was betrayed by those he trusted most. At the end of the worship service, the pastors will strip the altar by silently removing the paraments and covering the cross as we prepare for Good Friday and ultimately, Easter Sunday. This portion of the service is often very emotional for people. It can bring up feelings of grief and sadness as we prepare for the loss of Jesus’ earthly life. I was an intern co-leading a Maundy Thursday service the first time I witnessed an altar being stripped. I remember feeling so uncomfortable as the sound of the cross being moved echoed in the sanctuary. It didn’t feel like a smooth or seamless thing to do. The silence unsettled me. I desperately wanted the moment to end. After the service, a church member came up to me and said, “I wept the whole time. It’s so powerful watching you all strip the sanctuary. It’s so eerie and meaningful.” I realized I was uncomfortable with the emptiness of Maundy Thursday. The silence felt so loud to me, and I wanted to be away from that sensation as quickly as possible. But this year, even if you’re like me and uncomfortable with this moment, I encourage you to sit in that discomfort. Sit in the sadness, the emptiness, the despair. Don’t rush to Easter. God is in the silence, too.
Good Friday, March 29
John 18:1-19; 42 Good Friday James Howell
Good Friday. It’s a day to check your watch or device. You waken at dawn. Jesus is subjected to a mock trial. By 9 a.m., he’s being nailed to the cross. High noon: the sky grows dark as night. At 3 p.m., Jesus, exhausted, speaks comfort to his mother and cries out to God – and then it’s over. Just before sunset, Joseph of Arimathea arranges for his burial. Good Friday. Or should we call it, The Worst Friday Ever? It’s a paradox, and God loves paradox. Hidden inside the horror is hope. Jesus’ whole mission was to become like us, even in the worst that could happen to a person. Good Friday. In the long but never slightly boring chapters 18 and 19 of John, so much unfolds. Jesus discourages the use of arms. Caiaphas ironically tells a truth he couldn’t comprehend: “It is expedient that one man should die for the people.” There’s petty violence: an officer slaps Jesus hard across his cheek. Jesus, I should imagine, turned his other cheek to him. He’s asked if he’s a king, replying mysteriously, hinting that yes, but not on your terms, and yet a real and present danger to the way the world is now arranged. The people stupidly shout for Barabbas; we wonder when we clamor for fake substitutes for Christ. And then so tenderly, Jesus makes provision for the care of his grieving mother, Mary. George McLeod, founder of the Iona community, reminds us that “Jesus was not crucified in a cathedral between two candles, but on a cross between two thieves, on the town garbage heap, at the kind of place where cynics talk smut, thieves curse, and soldiers gamble. Because that is where he died, and that is what he died about, then that is where the church ought to be.” Good Friday. Hope. Healing. Redemption. Huge tasks for us left behind. Maybe we should call it, The Best Friday Ever.
Holy Saturday, March 30
John 19:38-42
Jessica Dayson Holy Saturday. This is a day in which we aren’t sure what to do with ourselves. We have just walked through the hopes and horrors of Holy Week. We have shared bread and wine, we have recalled the violence of the cross, and now we are here. Jesus has died. We have the advantage of knowing the rest of the story, but today, on this Saturday, we are stuck in between death and resurrection. People will often say that this is what Jesus came for. That Jesus’ whole purpose was to die for our sins. I have always struggled with this statement because I feel as though it negates the life that Jesus lived. Not to mention it can create some problematic conclusions when it comes to addressing questions about the motives, will, and purpose of God coming in the flesh of Jesus. However, I think that it is better to think about how Jesus’ death is a consequence BECAUSE of the life that he lived. Jesus lived putting neighbor above self. He touched the untouchable, he healed the despised, and he feasted with the hungry and rejected. Jesus continually pushed boundaries and societal expectations. He challenged the authorities, the traditions, and all expectations of the anticipated actions of the Messiah. Jesus never gave up on his mission to create disciples, to share the love of God and to bring the Kingdom of Heaven here among God’s people. Jesus’ death was undeserved, it was cruel, and it was a statement. It was a statement to not challenge the status quo, to not disrupt the powers that be and the forces of empire. But, even in his last breaths, he extended grace and mercy. I can’t help but think of the words of Jesus when he says, “Those who find their life will lose it, and those who lose their life for my sake will find it” (Matthew 10:39). On the day where we recognize Jesus has died, his body prepared and placed in the tomb, these works take on a different depth of meaning. What does Jesus’ death mean for your life of following him? Take my life and let it be consecrated, Lord, to thee. Take my moments and my days; let them flow in endless praise.
Easter Sunday, March 31
John 20:1-18
Affirming the Resurrection Bill Roth The Easter story is a beautiful narrative. However, it is not simply an event for us to believe or intellectually affirm. We diminish Easter when we make it a litmus test for our faith and only about Jesus’ resurrection. The good news of Easter is that resurrection is not limited to Jesus or the end of our lives. Being raised to new life should be happening to us throughout our lifetimes. Rightly understood, Easter is not about whether we think the resurrection happened as recorded in scripture but whether we are living a resurrected life. Many Christians who adamantly affirm the bodily resurrection of Jesus Christ live lives that do nothing to declare that Jesus has raised them to the newness of life. When we fail to be resurrected from all the entombs of us, we unwittingly become deniers of Easter. So, how might we become more affirming of the resurrection of Jesus Christ? Theologian Peter Rollins reminds us that we proclaim the resurrection when we stand up for those forced to live on their knees. We affirm the resurrection when we speak for those who have no voice; we affirm the resurrection when we cry for those who have no more tears left to shed; we affirm the resurrection every time we look into each other’s eyes and see the face of Christ. Can I get an Amen? This Easter, stop debating the resurrection of Jesus and become the resurrected Christ. Whatever tombs hold you, roll the stone away and burst forth into new life. Experience resurrection here and now. Live! Live free from the fear of death and free from the fear of life, trusting that you, too, have been and will be raised with Christ. Live into the fullness of God. Christ is Risen! Christ is Risen indeed! Prayer: O Lord, may we cast off our grave clothes and embody your love for all people to become your resurrected people. Amen.