Lent Devotional 2020

Weddington United Methodist Church Lenten Devotional 2020

The Lenten season is a time of preparation leading up to Easter. Historically, it traces back to the third century, when Christians observed a 40-day period of fasting to commemorate the 40 days Jesus spent in the wilderness. Since then, it has evolved and been influenced by various Christian traditions.

Within United Methodist circles, Lent is typically understood to be a time of repentance, self-examination, and reflection. It is a season that invites us to (re)focus on our relationship with God…somewhat like an annual “spiritual review.”

It is a time for us to ask, “How is it with my soul?”

A time to celebrate the things that are going well and be honest about the things that aren’t.

A time to repent and make adjustments.

And, from a discipleship perspective, Lent is a time for a fresh start.

We hope this resource, written by members and friends of Weddington United Methodist Church will be an encouragement to you on your spiritual journey this Lenten season. Each day (Monday through Saturday) there is a scripture verse, brief message, a prayer, and a daily reflection to take with you into your day. We hope that you are blessed, challenged, and encouraged as you read and reflect on God’s Word in the weeks ahead, as we journey towards the cross and remember God’s amazing gift to us through Jesus Christ.

Patsy Sorrell Director of Adult Discipleship 2

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 26 Ash Wednesday Scripture: “Don’t be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in Me.” John 14:1 Given the extreme polarization we experience in our society, do you find yourself asking, “What’s happened to our world?” Or worse yet, does it make you angry? We’ve just come through an impeachment trial of our president, our corporate church (UMC) is embroiled in controversy, there is vitriol all around us! But hear some good news: we are at the start of Lent.

Lent is a 40-day period (not counting Sundays) of preparing for Easter through prayer and reflection. The 40 days symbolize the time Jesus spent fasting and communing with God in the wilderness before He began His earthly ministry. Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of Lent. If you attend an Ash Wednesday service you will have ashes placed on your forehead in the shape of a cross. The ashes are to remind us that we are dust, and to dust we shall return (Genesis 3:19).

Now, especially, is the time to focus our minds on the One who came to offer us peace – the Prince of Peace: “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you.” (John 14:27) Be assured, you can trust God. He is true to his word. He will do what he says he will do. In contemplating the beginning of Lent, I go back to the beginning of my deep dive into Bible study.

And strange as it may seem, I fell in love with the Old Testament and in particular with the prophets. One prophet who touched me was Jeremiah. Consider Jeremiah 31:33 – “The time is coming,’ declares the Lord, ‘when I will make a new covenant. This is the covenant I will make with the house of Israel after that time,’ declares the LORD. ‘I will put my law in their minds and write it on their hearts. I will be their God and they will be my people.”

Jeremiah received this message from God 600 years before the Messiah appeared in human form.

If you have ever studied the prophets, you were likely amazed at the many messianic prophecies.

Jesus, the Christ, is the fulfillment of prophecy. We can trust God to keep His promises.

Prayer: Father, search my heart and mind. Fill me with your Spirit and help me remain focused on your love and remove the distractions of the secular world. In the name of Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, Amen.

Action/Reflection: As we embark on this period of Lent, I encourage you to focus on the sovereignty of God and his promises - and accept the peace that only God can give you.

Contributor: Dick Davidson

3

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 27 Busy, Busy, Busy Scripture: “Be still, and know that I am God.” Psalm 46:10 We are a busy people in a very busy world. When I was growing up, New York City was referred to as “the city that never sleeps.” I think that moniker can apply to almost every city these days!

We have created a climate where constant input seems necessary. In a world of 24-hour news, cable television, internet, sound machines, hand-held devices…(the list goes on and on), quiet has almost become an enemy. Do we ever make it a point to sit with God and listen to what he has to say to us?

I am my busiest when I am dreading something. I think if I can keep my mind distracted or my hands busy, things will be ok. I couldn’t be more incorrect in my thinking! I take great comfort in Psalm 46:10. It is in almost every room in my house as a constant reminder of what I need to be doing and who I need to be listening to. Our lives are full (as I am sure yours are) of busy schedules and plenty of electronic distractions.

On the surface, this verse is a call to action (or non-action) for us. Be still. A simple action that many find next to impossible to accomplish. Many feel that being still will cause them to miss out or be left behind. Unless we are still in the presence of God, how can we expect to hear what he has to say to us? We are limited in the amount of “input” we can process in a single moment.

Is it not worth it to make sure we are blocking out all the other noise in an effort to hear the special message God has for us? After all, he takes the time to listen intently to us.

To “Be still and know that I am God” is actually a wake-up call. The Psalm was written during war time, when I am sure fear and anxiety were running rampant. It is a call to essentially “snap out of it” – to stop fearing and put our trust in the One who loves us most. To sit and spend time in our stillness is something we should look forward to. After all, it is a “privilege to carry everything to God in prayer.”

Prayer: Father God, help me to always remember to put my trust in you and to view stillness as a privilege because it draws me closer to you.

Action/Reflection: Make some time to find a special place where you can be still. It doesn’t have to be fancy, God will meet you where you are! He is waiting to share the special message he has just for you!

Contributor: Angie Vollenweider

4

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 28 I No Longer Live Scripture: I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.

Galatians 2:20 It has been 15 years since my father passed away. Growing up, he was never one to show emotions of any kind; a man of few words. However, you always knew that he loved you and loved his Heavenly Father. There were moments when I questioned his love, but deep down inside…I always knew he loved me; however, the one thing I never questioned was his love for God. As we made the funeral arrangements, the question arose about which piece of scripture we wanted to use during the service. We knew that it needed to be a special one; one that would have resonated with dad. The first verse that came to mind was Galatians 2:20.

This verse came out of the many Bible studies I participated in over the past 14 years. It sums up who I am, whose I am, and I have no doubt it would have been one of my dad’s favorite verses. This verse is a personal testimony of how Christ transforms us, when we accept Him as our Lord and Savior.

As we begin this Lenten season, remember who we are and whose we are. Even though we should never forget the sacrifice Jesus endured on the cross; we can’t stop at the cross. We must always remember the Resurrection Day, when He conquered the grave.

We are God’s little lambs and the Good Shepherd has found us straying away from the flock and in danger. He puts us on his shoulders and calms our spirit and takes us home. I know on that day, fifteen years ago, Jesus walked my dad through the gates of heaven and one day He’ll do the same for me.

During this season of Lent, be encouraged that Jesus has paved the road to heaven, we have the Bible as our road map, and we must share that with everyone around us – and if necessary do it with words.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, we remember the sacrifice of Jesus and the triumph of the Resurrection.

We want to share the Good News but sometimes the words don’t come out. Give us the courage and strength to follow The Way and sow the seeds of salvation, only you can give. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Action/Reflection: Let Christ’s light shine in and through you, so others see Christ living in and through you.

Contributor: Barry Partee

5

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 29 Will You Accept The Offer of Guidance and Protection?

Scripture: The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake. Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever. Psalm 23:1-6 Although it is one of the most well known and memorized Psalms, how many of us have really spent time hearing the words and promises spoken to us in this chapter? I recently had the opportunity to do an in-depth study on Psalm 23 and I discovered that I had only scratched the surface of understanding what these words mean.

We often crave and seek out ways to be in control and don’t utilize our greatest tool. Psalm 23 reminds us that the Lord offers himself to be our shepherd, our guide. He promises to provide us comfort, shelter, a fulfilling relationship, and eternal life in Heaven. Shepherds provide food, water, and protection to their herd. Their only job is to provide for and protect the entire herd.

They don’t just look out for the needs of the majority of the group. They are charged with keeping each and every sheep safe and not leaving one behind.

Our Father is Heaven is in control and knows our each and every need. What a resource and gift we have to be able to lean on him and allow him to be in control and guide us. We are taught in so many places in the bible that it brings him joy for us to lean on him, allow him to guide us, and provide for us. I know I often just think, if I only knew XYZ, I could make the perfect decision. Well, God does know XYZ and if we just allow him to guide us and open our hearts to hear him, we will have the best information to make the best decision. How better to honor God than by allowing him to do what he desires to do for us?

Feeling the need to be a leader, make decisions, keep others safe is exhausting. We often do this daily in our careers or for our family. God promises that by allowing him to shepherd, guide, and care for us that we will want for nothing. He will refresh our soul, guide us on the right paths, and provide rest.

The Lenten season is a time for us to reflect on the life and teachings of Jesus and the sacrifice made for all of us. God SO loved the world, he sent his Son to save us and for us to know that he can prepare and pave a way for us even in our most joyful or darkest times.

Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for your unconditional love you and your constant desire to want to support and provide for us. Thank you for leading me to nourishment, seeking me out when I am lost, and never leaving me behind. Help me to keep my heart open to your word and guidance and remember the promises you made.

Action/Reflection: Find something simple you can do daily during the Lenten season to find rest in the Lord. The song “Wreckless Love” by Cory Asbury often grounds me and helps me remember all God goes through to love and support me.

Contributor: Jessica Diller

6

MONDAY, MARCH 2 Receiving Grace Scripture: For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus. Romans 3:23-24 Many of us have an internal struggle or dialogue telling us we’ve fallen short, yet again. Telling us we’re not good enough, or worthy enough. Perhaps you are a busy mom or dad feeling inadequate juggling your many roles – spouse, parent, employee, employer, provider, caretaker, friend. Maybe you are struggling with decisions you’ve made or things of your past that you can’t let go or forgive yourself for. Addiction clenches so many of us - lust, pride, adultery, comparing ourselves to others, etc. The list goes on.

The constructed world around us, especially through social media and surface level friendships or relationships that lack true authenticity and transparency, can make us feel as if everyone around us has it together and that they are doing life flawlessly. This only fuels the image of our imperfected self in our minds, which leads us deeper down a dark path and farther away from our loving God. The enemy whispers thoughts and will attack you from every angle. Sometimes we let these whispers have authority in our minds and decision-making, which can leave us feeling alone, desperate, guilty, and unworthy.

Guilt is not from our God! Hear me when I say, our God never intends to make us feel guilty. He will convict us for our good, but not condemn us. Our Father is a loving God, who holds us and weeps with us when we are overcome with guilt and feelings of inadequacy. He will stop at nothing to help us overcome the clenches of guilt, but first we must truly open our heart to him.

We must acknowledge and know that he is a good, good Father who wants to help take this pain and suffering away. We must repent of our sins, thoughts, decisions, and anything that has gotten us to where we are. Only then can we really open our hearts and minds to God and begin to see the grace that he gives and offers.

If you are struggling with something today – open your heart to God. Thank him for being a Father that isn’t there to shake his finger at you and condemn you, but rather a Father who opens his arms and says, “Come, crawl in my arms. Let us do this together.” Be real with him. He already knows the inner dialogue of everything going on in your mind. If you fall off course, or “slip” or mess up – don’t give up. Don’t let that be a deterrent from coming to church or digging deeper in Bible study. Come more, and dig deeper! The more we are around followers of Christ and in his Word the more likely we are to understand and receive the grace that he abundantly gives and that we can receive!

Prayer: Lord, you know my shortcomings, my struggles, and the things that weigh me down and keep me from fully engaging with you. Open my heart and eyes to fully understand you. In times where I fail or feel guilty, let me draw closer to you instead of trying to run and hide. Help me see that I am worthy of your grace, despite my actions and choices, and help me to receive it. Amen.

Action/Reflection: Be encouraged! Our God is a grace-giver, not a guilt-giver! Make a conscientious effort to draw closer to God in prayer, in scripture, in church and small group attendance when you are feeling guilty and unworthy.

Contributor: Amy King

7

TUESDAY, MARCH 3 Never Underestimate the Power of Prayer Scripture: Is anyone among you in trouble? Let them pray. Is anyone happy? Let them sing songs of praise. Is anyone among you sick? Let them call the elders of the church to pray over them and anoint them with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise them up. If they have sinned, they will be forgiven. Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.

Elijah was a human being, even as we are. He prayed earnestly that it would not rain, and it did not rain on the land for three and a half years. Again he prayed, and the heavens gave rain, and the earth produced its crops.

My brothers and sisters, if one of you should wander from the truth and someone should bring that person back, remember this: Whoever turns a sinner from the error of their way will save them from death and cover over a multitude of sins. James 5:13-20

I believe that prayer is one of the most underutilized tools we have as Christians. The reason for this is that we don’t fully understand it.

On one hand it seems simplistic and on the other very complicated. The mysteries do trouble some of us. How can prayer “change” the mind of God? Does it modify events? If we didn’t pray, would things still work out the same? How does prayer relate to God’s sovereignty and foreknowledge?

When we look to scripture we see it hardly notices such issues. Rather the bible emphasizes the simplicity of prayer. Simple but powerful. Martin Luther stated, “None can believe how powerful prayer is, and what it is able to effect, but those who have learned it by experience.”

One of my favorite examples of the power of prayer comes out of the book of Isaiah. Chapter 38 describes how King Hezekiah was stricken with a terminal illness so God sent the prophet Isaiah to tell the king to get his affairs in order because he would not recover. After hearing the news Hezekiah fell to his knees, prayed and wept bitterly. God, after hearing his prayer sent Isaiah back to the king to tell him “I have heard your prayer and I have seen your tears, I will add fifteen years to your life.” Did Hezekiah’s prayer change God’s mind? I believe it did!!

While we all know God loves everyone and wants a relationship with each one of us, there are situations that will prevent God from hearing and answering our prayers. The bible says that disobedience (Duet. 1:43-45, Isa. 1:15-17), lovelessness (Isa. 58:3-10), injustice (Mic. 3:1-4) and unforgiveness does exactly that. If you feel your prayers are going unheard, encourage you to self-examine these aspects in your life so you can address them if needed.

Prayer: Lord, please reveal in me anything that hinders my prayer’s from reaching you. Amen.

Action/Reflection: God wants nothing more than an intimate relationship with you and prayer is the interaction that makes it possible. Take time to pray today (and every day).

Contributor: Dean McFadden

8

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 4 It’s All About Love Scripture: And behold, a lawyer stood up to put him to the test, saying, “Teacher, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?” He said to him, “What is written in the Law? How do you read it?” And he answered, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind, and your neighbor as yourself.” And he said to him, “You have answered correctly; do this, and you will live.”Luke 10:25-28

I have learned some critical life lessons about love and religion from my mom’s two sisters.

My mom’s oldest sister was my Aunt Lil, who was Catholic and a devout follower of Jesus. She was my godmother and gave me several bibles, rosary beads, and blessed me with holy water throughout my lifetime. My mom’s youngest sister is my Aunt Joyce, who is a Born Again Christian and a devout follower of Jesus. She is my sister’s godmother and over the years shared several scripture verses, bible stories, and bibles. They are both amazing women who love the Lord and loved one another deeply.

Unfortunately, these two Godly women spent most of their adult lives disagreeing with one another over religious semantics and trying to change each other’s minds (even though they were both following the same God and truly loved him with all their heart, mind, soul and strength). I remember watching them get in heated discussions over biblical “rules” and which ones you should follow in order to get to heaven. They always thought they were right, and the other person was wrong and would not really listen to one another. As a child it confused me, and I sometimes took sides with the aunt who made the better argument and had an “easier to follow” solution. My mom also got stuck in the middle of these arguments for much of her adult life. And just like polarizing politics, the religious discussions caused bitterness, gossip, bad attitudes, pride, selfishness, and anger towards one another (the opposite of what Godly women strive for and what I believe God wanted for their relationship). Eventually, they stopped trusting one another and it put a wedge between them and their families.

After many years of disagreeing over religious practices, God intervened into their lives to make amends with one another six months prior to my Aunt Lil’s death. At the end of my Aunt Lil’s life, she became very sick with cancer and had suffered many strokes and had to go into a nursing home. She was in need of a lot of care and attention and my giving, serving, and loving Aunt Joyce was the one who came to her rescue. She took care of her for many minutes, hours, days, and nights until my Aunt Lil passed away. I know that God worked all of their differences out for His glory in the end. They both realized that none of the semantics of religion mattered to God as long as they both continued to love God, fear the same Lord, and love one another. They put the “rights and wrongs” on how to practice religion behind them and enjoyed worshiping and loving Jesus together. It was a happy ending to a long, arduous relationship.

And, of course, this story is reflected in our society today. Many of us want to control what our loved ones believe. We want to have power over their religious, political, and daily decisions.

And many times, we feel the need to share our opinions (not always in love) in the hope that it will change people for the best. We do this knowing that only God has the power to change hearts, minds, and souls, not us. We spend so much time fighting with one another instead of loving and caring, and by doing this showing God’s glory. And deep down we know that we need to stop trying to control other people’s thoughts and beliefs, and trust that God will work it out for his good. I often think about my two wonderful aunts and what they could have done for the Lord together instead of spending so much time fighting over nuances in their religions.

9

Contined to next page.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 4 It’s All About Love (Continued) Just like the story about my aunts trying to control each other’s beliefs, I am also guilty of trying to control other’s beliefs as well, in the small details of my life, to my detriment. Tonight, I had given myself approximately 60 minutes to write this devotion because with three small children in the house and a husband traveling, if I don’t control my schedule, things do not get done. And as soon as I sat down to write the devotion, I heard hysterical crying from my sweet three-year old boy who was sick upstairs and had been in bed for a couple of hours. He had an ear infection, conjunctivitis, a bad cough, and even complained about foot and leg pain. This entire “calming a three-year old down” process took me over an hour, leaving little time to write this devotion (or I will be tired in the morning). And during the process of calming my boy down, I was extremely frustrated and bitter. In fact, I kept thinking if I can solve this and calm him down quickly, I can get what I need to get done. Here were some of my thoughts: • • • • •

“Maybe if I rock him and sing one more song, he will sleep!”

“I will repeat the bedtime routine, books, songs, and then he will sleep!”

“Tylenol is the answer! For sure it will put him to sleep.”

“Wet wash cloth on his eyes! That will help. Then he will sleep.”

“I will tickle his back and sing some more. He has to sleep!”

After all of those tactics failed and my frustration was high, I realized God had a different plan for me. He wanted me to “BE STILL” with him and to spend quality time with my three-year old in the quiet of the night. God wanted me to come to him in prayer first and pray over my son who was crying and feeling lots of pain. He wanted me to stop trying to control the situation and just love on my boy the way he needed to be loved. Surrender myself!

I finally listened to the Lord. I enjoyed my sweet boy’s cuddles and his light cry. I rocked him and sat with him by his bed until he slept. I enjoyed his warm body near me. And I spent time with God. And God blessed ME! He first blessed me to be a mom and continues to bless me in motherhood with these sweet embraces of a child. God also blessed me by showing me that I am more at peace and have more joy, when I give up my “control” and follow God first. When I follow God, I don’t try to control anything (me or others). I leave it to God to change people to be more like him and I pray daily that he continues to work on me and others. That doesn’t mean I don’t pray and ask for change or that all of my opinions have been removed. It just softens my heart towards others and makes me want to be more like Jesus every day by following the two most important commandments…Love God with all my heart, soul, strength and mind and love my neighbor.

Prayer: Lord, help me to be patient with the people and circumstances around me. Enable me to be still, and look to you for guidance in how to respond to the needs that are most important so that I am able to reflect your love and grace to others. And help me to love you with all of my heart, soul, strength and mind.

Action/Reflection: Ask God to order your thoughts, your schedule and your response to the things that need your attention today.

Contributor: Deb Abernathy

10

THURSDAY, MARCH 5 Praying and Small Groups Scripture: And rising very early in the morning, while it was still dark, he departed and went out to a desolate place, and there he prayed. Mark 1:35 Most mornings you will find me in a chair in my home where Christ waits for me each morning.

It is where the day starts. Sometimes reading a devotion, sometimes preparing a lesson for the small group we attend – all the time reading the bible. It is where Christ speaks to me and gives me perspective. Sometimes he corrects me and sometimes even gives a revelation through his Word. It is the time when I am reminded that Kingdom work is what our lives should be about.

We belong to a big family, and bigger still is our small group at Weddington Church. Each week we are blessed to spend a very quick hour together. We carry each other through the week with our prayers. We celebrate our victories and mourn our disappointments together. We love on each other when we are sick and laugh with each other when we are well. We go into the community and serve. We pray for each other’s families and we sometimes even lay hands on each other in prayer to encourage our members though an extremely difficult time.

So why are the mornings so important? It’s when I know my class members are up spending their time with the Lord praying for each other. Sometimes I will get a text or an email of encouragement. I know that this group is before the Lord petitioning for each other spiritually and physically. I know that they are praying for me and my family. I know they are praying for our church and our country. I know this is the group I will spend eternity with.

In Mark 1:35 Jesus was up early having a conversation with his Father. He knew the day would bring challenges. We, too, know that each day brings challenges, and nothing is more important than having a conversation with Creator of all, the source of infinite wisdom, and a Jesus that loves us so much that He offered us salvation and eternity together.

Pray to start your day. Find a place to retreat that offers solitude. Christ awaits your conversation. He loves you and wants to know how you are doing.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, you know we live in a world that offers conflict and untruth. I pray that we all can find a time each day when we can study your word and find strength, wisdom, and love for those that you place in our path.

Action/Reflection: If you’re not already connected, find a small group, a Sunday School class, a bible study that lifts each other up in prayer. It will change your life and fill each day with hope.

Contributor: Gregg Wyant

11

FRIDAY, MARCH 6 A Turning Point Scripture: When Jesus came to the region of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, “Who do

people say the Son of Man is?”

They replied, “Some say John the Baptist; others say Elijah; and still others, Jeremiah or one of the prophets.”

“But what about you?” he asked. “Who do you say I am?”

Simon Peter answered, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.” Jesus replied, “Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah, for this was not revealed to you by flesh and blood, but by my Father in heaven. And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it. I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven; whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.” Then he ordered his disciples not to tell anyone that he was the Messiah. Matthew 16:13-20 All four gospels contain an account of Peter’s confession of Jesus as the Messiah. Each presents it a little differently and in a different chronological order of events.

Many scholars believe this incident occurred about two years into Jesus’s ministry, or about twothirds of the way through. Many scholars believe that Caesarea Philippi was the farthest north Jesus traveled in his three-year ministry.

This incident marks a turning point in Jesus’s relationship with his disciples. With Peter’s confession and Jesus’s affirmation that he is the Messiah, Jesus will begin the transformation of this group from disciples (followers and students) to apostles (emissaries) who can carry on after he is gone. The disciples do not understand what lies ahead, but when the time comes they will have been taught, strengthened by the Holy Spirit, and made ready to carry the message of Jesus to the world.

This incident marks a turning point geographically, also. From now on, Jesus and his twelve will be on a journey south to Jerusalem and the events of Holy Week. This journey will take months.

There will be side trips and there will be many encounters and incidents, but the direction will always be toward Jerusalem and the events that will offer salvation to the world.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, I pray that you teach and strengthen me so that I can be your disciple and servant and be a contributing part of your presence in the world. Amen.

Action/Reflection: Continue to study and learn in order to be strengthened in faith and knowledge and to serve God more confidently and effectively.

Contributor: David Myers

12

SATURDAY, MARCH 7 The Legacy of Righteousness Scripture: Those who are wise will shine like the brightness of the heavens, and those who lead many to righteousness, like the stars for ever and ever. Daniel 12:3.

On the night of March 24, 2004, my dad went to his heavenly home to be with Jesus. He had been in declining health and we all knew the end was near. Hospice was assisting us. I had taken time off from work to be with my parents. A hospital bed was in the living room for him. He wanted to be there instead of in the bedroom, perhaps so it would be easier to see friends and family that stopped by to visit. He really did love to have visitors. On that day, he asked several times “What time is it?” and my mom would ask him if he had to be somewhere at a certain time.

That night, some family and friends had stopped by and we were all sitting in the room with him, carrying on normal conversations when he quietly and peacefully left us. We called the pastor and he was with us within a few minutes. He was on the way to church for their Wednesday night prayer meeting, was already nearby and came to be with us instead of to the church. He had capable leaders to take over for him. Then after the prayer meeting, other family and friends came over. When one lady came in, she remarked about seeing an extraordinarily bright star in the sky. I went outside. It was a beautiful, clear starry night and one heavenly body was particularly bright. I stood there for several minutes, taking it all in. As it turned out, this was a noteworthy event. On Mar 18, 2004, a Sky & Telescope magazine article said “For the next couple weeks, all five planets that are ever visible to the unaided eye shine at once during dusk. Moreover, the moon and a prominent star cluster join the show as well, forming striking combinations in the earlyevening sky. “This is a special time for anyone who notices the sky,” says Alan MacRobert, a senior editor of Sky & Telescope magazine. “You don’t have to be any kind of great astronomer to enjoy this.” For March 24, they said this “The Moon and Venus are closely paired in the western sky this evening, a strikingly beautiful sight. “This is going to be a real head-turner,” says MacRobert.” A NASA.gov site said this “Venus is, in fact, absurdly bright. It will be the first thing you notice when you go outside. Many people mistake glaring Venus for a UFO or a landing airplane, but if you watch for a few moments, you’ll see it doesn’t move or blink like a UFO or airplane. It really is a planet.” It wasn’t just us. It was a well-documented event.

A few days after the funeral, I received a sympathy card with the Daniel 12:3 verse, a very real reminder for me of the night my dad went to heaven and the type of person he was. He was always a faithful believer, preferring to serve quietly behind the scenes … on the custodial committee, the cemetery committee, visiting the sick with my mom, and faithfully serving as a deacon for many years. He and my mom always had the family at church on Sunday, no easy task with five children; but never any excuses. He would be honored to look back now and see so many of his family continuing to serve the Lord in their own churches, in their own way. In his own quiet way, he has led many to righteousness, and we pray that the legacy will continue. My dad was curious about the time all day, and then passed when this extraordinary astronomical event was visible; an event that was brought to my attention by one of our visitors so I could observe it; a sympathy card with the Daniel 12:3 verse – coincidences, or an example of how God orchestrates everything according to his plan?

Prayer: Heavenly Father, I thank you that I had Christian parents that were always faithful in raising their family to know you and love you. Thank you for a dad that I can look back on with love and respect and can see that by his faithfulness and service to you, he has led many to righteousness, a righteousness which we receive through faith in Jesus. (Romans 3:22) Action/Reflection: Live your life in such a manner that others receive the Gospel just by observing you.

Contributor: Carolyn Canzonieri

13

MONDAY, MARCH 9 Let’s Do Lunch (or Breakfast or Dinner!)

Scripture: So then, those that had received his word were baptized; and that day there were added about three thousand souls. They were continually devoting themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. Act 2:41-42.

I firmly believe that where two more Christians are gathered together, God and food will be among us. I come by this belief honestly because my earliest memories of attending our Methodist church included Wednesday night “covered-dish” dinners where most of our church would come together and enjoy some of the best Southern dishes and desserts, followed by a pastoral message with singing from the Old Cokesbury hymnal. This was a time before grocery stores had prepared dishes or you could pick something up quickly from the local restaurants. These meals were prepared from scratch and with each bite you could taste the love that went into each dish or dessert.

I also remember Sunday dinners at home where we almost certainly had guests who were invited to our home to share our meal. My mother, a true Yankee herself, prepared a Yankee Pot Roast which was the envy of all (or at least me). She passed away over two decades ago; but, I still remember her Sunday dinners and the good times we had in fellowship with our guests whenever I have pot roast.

There was always love shared in those meals, too. What I didn’t realize until I was much older, was that these traditions of having meals with others was an example of what we as Christians should be doing as often as possible. These were opportunities for us to re-enact what the early Christians did when they “continually devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.” It is through these simple meals that we learn how to know more about Christ, how to build relationships with other Christians, how to pray for the needs of each other, and to remember that these meals demonstrate the body of Christ.

Today it is very difficult to find the time to come to together for fellowship meals at church like we did in the “good ole’ days.” However, it is not impossible to find opportunities. We need to experience the love and learning that comes from enjoying meals with our fellow Christians, and to get to know others in our Weddington Church community. Nowadays, you could come to Wednesdays at Weddington to enjoy the best $5 meal ever, and then conclude the evening in Bible study. You could also start/join a Life Group, attend an adult Sunday School class, participate in the Men’s Connection or any of the Women’s Ministry groups to build your own community of believers with whom you can “do life together,” as my wife is fond of saying. Here is a really radical idea – invite one or more of the people you don’t really know who sit near you to lunch after service so you can get to know them. I’ve been doing this for about two years now and have been truly blessed when someone actually says “yes.” I promise that “Passing-of-the-Peace” on Sunday mornings will take on a whole new meaning for you and your pew neighbors once you have shared a meal (whether they are regular attendees or first-time visitors).

Prayer: Lord, you are the Master of our lives and the example we should follow for using mealtimes to grow in our relationship with you and others. Whether it was how you would have meals with your inner circle of disciples or when you were feeding thousands, your message was clear. We are to take our meals with fellow travelers on our journey to become more like you. Help us to come together often to devote ourselves to your teaching, fellowship, breaking bread with, and praying for, our community of believers. Amen.

Action/Reflection: Go “do lunch” (or breakfast or dinner) this week with a fellow believer or group of believers and be fed, not just by the meal, but through the bonds of fellowship you experience.

Contributor: Andrew Vollenweider

14

TUESDAY, MARCH 10 In His Time Scripture: He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the human heart; yet no one can fathom what God has done from beginning to end. Ecclesiastes 3:11 Little did I know the influence one unassuming but consistently spoken word, from my mother, would have on my adult life! Mom was known for her gracious dinner parties, but whenever anyone would ask, “What can I get for you, Jane?” her definitive response was, “Time!” As a young person, I thought, “What does she mean by that? Time to eat? Time to clean up? Time to rest, after working hard to make the party special for everyone involved?” I never asked because I thought it to be somewhat impertinent, since the adults would chuckle with their own understanding of what she had said. Maybe it was a joke to which my immature mind rendered me clueless. However, as “time” would have it, that word stuck in my head and grew with me.

Initially, I looked at “time” as my much-anticipated future. I knew I had a lot in life to look forward to! However, as a “teen,” I thought “time” did not move fast enough! Then, as I matured and “time” moved on, much of my greatly anticipated joy met up with unwanted sadness, great losses and even some poor choices, as well as the accountability and consequences that came with that. Soon, I discerned that I was not having my anticipated good time during those difficult and hurt-filled moments! Sadness seemed to be taking over. Where had all my hope and joy gone?

Even though “periodic” prayer was always a part of my life, I had to wonder if God was ever going to answer my prayers, consisting mostly of self-centered requests. I had such idyllic expectations of him. After all, I had learned to sing “Jesus Loves Me” as a child and never forgot it! But, it was through my emotional, rollercoaster living, involving authentic Christian friends, a newly reformed prayer life, and consistent genuine bible study, that I finally realized God’s timing is not on my timetable. In about 30 years “time” (the same amount of “time” for Jesus to grow into his ministry), I realized that turbulent times are actually a part of God’s grace-filled learning processes, hopefully resulting in an authentic relationship with him! With “time,” I needed to open my heart and willingly receive all that came with it! The good, the bad and yes, the ugly! God’s timing had real purpose in my life!

Fast forward 20 more years of “time” with my continued growth in a true relationship with Jesus.

It has become awesomely clear to me that God’s timing always has purpose. For many, learning to wait patiently, trusting in God’s timing, and being thankful in all things, can be a long “time” coming. It was for me! However, in looking back and remembering the good and especially those difficult times, I am able to see and understand God’s unforeseen blessings consistently sprinkled throughout. I am so thankful that I know God truly does make all things beautiful in his time. Now, with much of my living behind me I, like my mother, respond and ask prayerfully for more of God’s gracious timing and “time” in order that I might continue to look back, recognize his grace, feel his love, and celebrate his beautiful blessings randomly missed along the way!

Prayer: Lord, help me to trust and wait patiently for your timing so I can look back in remembrance and be grateful for all your blessings! Amen.

Action/Reflection: Pause and reflect. God’s gracious timing is always at work!

Contributor: Elizabeth Scholl

15

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 11 Boast In Our Sufferings?

Scripture: Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance. Romans 5:3 Has Paul lost his mind? We should actually boast, be happy, be excited about suffering?

Doesn’t he know that trauma marks someone for life and that they will never be the same?

If he knew what we have been through surely he would agree how much happier we would be if only that tragedy had never happened.

But let’s look at what Paul says. He begins the chapter by saying because of God’s grace we are accepted by God and we can rejoice or boast in the hope of sharing God’s glory. That is why we can rejoice in our sufferings. They are indeed real. We may well have been marked for life, but we can remind ourselves that God is with us in our sufferings and is in our lives to bring healing and to make things new.

I think of the Japanese art of kintsugi, where broken pottery is fixed with lacquer containing gold dust, so the pottery now appears whole with golden seams where the breaks were. I’ve read several devotionals mentioning this and wonder if it’s becoming a contemporary cliché.

Whatever the case may be, I personally find the image to be a good one. An image of mending a break, with something of greater value. God comes to us in our brokenness and heals us through his grace.

Prayer: Lord, thank you for coming to me in my brokenness. Thank you for healing me with your transforming power. Help me see my sufferings as a chance to experience your encouragement and to grow in character and perseverance. Amen.

Action/Reflection: Don’t think of yourself as broken, but as mended by the grace of God. Contributor: Steve White

16

THURSDAY, MARCH 12 Control In the Uncontrollable Scripture: Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.

Proverbs 3:5 We live in an uncontrollable world. The temperature rises in the summer and drops in the winter. Tides roll in and out along the ocean shoreline. Tornados, hurricanes and fires cause massive destruction and death. We grocery shop and come home with bread, milk, laundry detergent, and the flu. Oh, how we desire to have more control in our lives and surroundings.

My 7-year-old great niece, Riley, was recently diagnosed with Arteriovenous Malformation (AVM) of the Maxillomandibular Region (jaw and mouth). Because her AVM is arterial fed, and in the bone, there is no treatment, only surgery. This life-threatening AVM could cause Riley to bleed-out. As she grows and experiences hormonal changes such as growth spurts, puberty, pregnancy, menopause, etc., these vascular issues will worsen. It is a genetic, uncontrollable issue – in an uncontrollable world.

The heavens are yours, and yours also the earth; you founded the world and all that is in it.

Psalm 89:11 (NIV) Psalms 89 reminds us that our God, in all of his knowledge, wisdom, power and love, created our world and heavens and all that it contains. God created this pre-designed, attention to detail, uncontrollable world. God, and God alone, can control our world and life situations.

Don’t fret or worry. Instead of worrying, pray. Let petitions and praises shape your worries into prayers, letting God know your concerns. Before you know it, a sense of God’s wholeness, everything coming together for good, will come and settle you down. It’s wonderful what happens when Christ displaces worry at the center of your life. Philippians 4:6-7 (MSG) Trust God from the bottom of your heart, don’t try to figure out everything on your own.

Proverbs 3:5 (MSG) We can not control the leaves from falling from the trees in the fall or a loved one being born blind or with AVM’s, but we can trust in the Lord and know that he alone can control our world and life situations. He can help us through those things we cannot control. We do not always understand how or why, but we can only trust and pray for God’s peace in an uncontrollable world.

Prayer: Lord, help me to trust you today in all things, especially those things I have no control over. Amen.

Action/Reflection: Give God control and pray that God will comfort your worries.

Contributor: Kami Merritt

17

FRIDAY, MARCH 13 Do You Chew?

Scripture: Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers, but whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night. That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither—whatever they do prospers. Not so the wicked! They are like chaff that the wind blows away. Therefore the wicked will not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the assembly of the righteous. For the Lord watches over the way of the righteous, but the way of the wicked leads to destruction. Psalm 1 I recently read Psalm 1 and was reflecting on some of God’s promises in it. In the New International Version (NIV) the psalmist says we are “blessed by delighting in God’s Word.” Next, I read The Message (MSG). There the psalmist writes “Instead you thrill to God’s Word, you chew on Scripture day and night.” I don’t know about you, but I don’t chew enough!! The image of chewing creates a picture for me of taking your time – preparing what you are chewing to be ingested.

This is important for me, because I have a swallowing problem and if I don’t take my time before I swallow, I choke!

When I look up God’s blessings and promises, they are too numerous to even count! I’ll just mention a few… God gave us his Word to bless us, strengthen us, encourage us, heal us and above all to save us! Although I know I don’t use all the power that is in his Word, isn’t it an awesome thought that we have the same power that raised Jesus from the grave! Whew! (Romans 8:11…”the Spirit of God, who raised Jesus from the dead…lives in you.”)

I think our intentions are good, although we just don’t always follow through. Even Paul said in Romans 7:21-23 (MSG) “I truly delight in God’s commands, but it’s pretty obvious that not all of me joins in that delight. Parts of me covertly rebels and just when I least expect it, they take charge.”

Solution…go back and dwell (chew) on the promises God gives us in his Word! God blesses us with creation, with covenant, and with salvation through Jesus Christ leading to eternal life.

God blesses us by sending his Helper, the Holy Spirit to be with us (John 16:13…”But when he, the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all truth”). He strengthens us with the armor of God he offers us. (Ephesians 6:11…”Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.)

God encourages us through his Word and his promises, and through our relationships with our Christian brothers and sisters. (Galatians 6:2…”Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.”) Everyone needs to be encouraged at times, and God does this so beautifully! He loves his children and wants them to love and encourage each other. (John 15:12…”My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you.) And you notice that’s a commandment, not a suggestion!! This is like a parent that wants their children to love, appreciate, and respect one another. It isn’t that you want to make them care for each other, but that you want the love you have with each one to be spread between them.

18

Contined to next page.

FRIDAY, MARCH 13 Do You Chew? (Continued) God heals us in so many ways. Sometimes it’s physical, sometimes it’s emotional, and sometimes it’s spiritual. Sometimes, as in my case, it is all three!! (Psalm 30:2-3…”Lord my God, I called to you for help, and you healed me. You, Lord, brought me up from the realm of the dead; you spared me from going down to the pit.”)

We tend to pray for a certain healing, and when that particular healing doesn’t come, we feel God hasn’t heard us. But God sees the overall picture; and you can count on one thing – he will heal you, according to his plan! And it will be the best plan! His timing is always perfect!! (Galatians 4:4…says “But when the set time had fully come, God sent his Son…”) If God can time that one perfectly, I think he can take on our situations!

Above all else, he saves us from a life apart from him. (John 3:16…”For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”) He fills us with a life full of the joys of his glory! Isn’t it a good thing that the joy in our life – the joy found as we are in relationship with our Lord, doesn’t depend on the specific life experiences we are going through!! Sometimes we need to go with what we know from God’s Word, not necessarily go with how we feel, or feel life should go. Our hearts don’t always lead us in God’s ways.

All of this to say, it is essential to our faith-walk to be constantly chewing and ingesting God’s Word. I know that I don’t chew on his words enough! I think I am going to reach out and see if I can get a “chew partner” to be accountable to and help me be accountable to myself.

Prayer: Gracious God, Thank you for the incredible gift of your Son, Jesus. And thank you for your promises and for the way you bless me, strengthen me, encourage me and bring healing.

Help me, God, to be faithful in my commitment to you by continually “chewing” on your Word.

Amen.

Action/Reflection: Spend time “chewing” on God’s Word today. Consider inviting someone to be your “chew partner.”

Contributor: Betsy Wollner

19

SATURDAY, MARCH 14 Preparedness Scripture: But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.

1 Peter 3:15 When Bobbie and I transferred to Weddington United Methodist Church, one of the challenges I faced came early on with the promise to support the church with “prayers, presence, gifts, service, and witness.” Not all Methodist churches include the witness component. Even being a member of the Methodist church for over fifty years, the added “witness” component gave me reason for discomfort and yet confidence knowing we are all expected to witness our faith. In all those years, I had always felt inadequate in my understanding of the gospel to the point of being comfortable sharing my faith through testimony or witnessing.

The scripture in 1 Peter tells us to “… revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.” When Terry asked the Disciple I class why we were attending, my answer was 1 Peter 3:15. I wanted to be better prepared. If Weddington United Methodist Church were not as focused on Adult Education, classes like the Disciple Bible Study series, This We Believe, and comparative gospel studies would not be available. I have been in a Bible study every year since joining.

Being prepared allows us to step out of our comfort zone. Sharing my testimony with the Men’s Connection, being part of the teaching team for Agape Sunday School, being involved with foreign and domestic missions, and attending the Friday morning men’s Life Group would not have occurred without the comfort I got from being better prepared. The more I share my faith, the easier it has become.

Prayer: Lord God, may you guide us in our journey to gain knowledge and understanding, knowing the ultimate gift of wisdom comes from you. May we take that wisdom and use it as you best see fit. Amen.

Action/Reflection: Check into the Bible studies, Adult Education classes, and Life Groups Weddington Church offers, and then sign up for one to better prepare yourself.

Contributor: Keith Long

20

MONDAY, MARCH 16 The Path to Joyful Living Scripture: This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it. Psalm 118:24 There is great anxiety and division in our world today. There always has been. But with the rise of instant communications and social media, news and opinions are transmitted throughout the globe. Very often these transmissions focus on negative forecasts and views. This constant drumbeat can drive up the level of our anxiety and fear.

How is a Christian to face this swirl of information and disinformation and live the life that God has called us to live in the midst of such a world? How are we to live in hope and joy?

God has first loved us greatly and sacrificially in that he gave us his Son to atone for our sins. He provides a path for us out of the anxiety and divisions around us. “For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.”

John 3:16 In this Lenten season, I encourage you to reflect on God’s sacrifice of his Son for us. And as Christians, may we exercise our gratitude for this path to truth and freedom that has been promised to us, if we believe in our Lord Jesus Christ. From this gratitude, joy can spring full blown in our everyday living, as we nurture it through prayer and Bible study.

May we grow closer to the example of Paul and Silas singing and praying while imprisoned. (Acts 16:16-40) Though their circumstances were dire, Paul and Silas were grateful for their salvation and were joyful despite their imprisonment.

Prayer: Dear Lord, may we be ever aware of our salvation and be thankful for it. And may our gratitude develop into the joyful life that you desire for us. Amen.

Action/Reflection: Every morning count your blessings, beginning with your Salvation, and move toward a more joyful life.

Contributor: Gracey Hayes

21

TUESDAY, MARCH 17 The Circle of Salvation Scripture: For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith — and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God — not by works, so that no one can boast. Ephesians 2: 8-9 Because, if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart one believes and is justified, and with the mouth one confesses and is saved. Romans 10:9-10 Salvation. A relationship and permanent home with the Lord. Isn’t that what we truly hope for?

We move through life and as time goes on, we ask if we’ve done enough to earn our place with him. Have we checked off enough of the boxes to reserve our place in heaven? Have we been saved?

In today’s scripture, Paul addresses the misunderstanding of salvation. In his letters to the Ephesians and to the Romans, Paul writes to explain that justification – grace through faith – comes through a person’s faith in Jesus Christ and not by their works under the law. We are saved by the grace of God. For many of us, this is a mind-bending concept and something we wrestle with theologically. In my own wrestling, a picture has formed in my mind that I call the “circle of salvation.” It looks something like this… Salvation, I think, begins with an intentional relationship with our Triune God. As I declare my faith and belief in God, I am reaching out to take the Father’s hand - and receive his gift of grace. And then, as I declare my faith in Jesus, as my Lord and Savior, I reach out to take his hand – and receive his gift of eternal life. The Holy Spirit, then, comes to dwell in my heart – and the circle is complete.

Prayer: Father, thank you for your gift of grace and the assurance of my eternal place with you.

Thank you for sending your Holy Spirit to be with me and guide me. Help me to continue to wrestle with your Word and embrace your Truth. I pray in the strong name of Jesus, Amen.

Action/Reflection: Say the words! Declare your faith, and receive the gifts of grace and salvation that are yours through our gracious and loving God. Contributor: John Estes

22

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 18 Letting Your Faith Be Bigger Than Your Fear Scripture: And Peter answered him, “Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water.” He said, “Come.” So Peter got out of the boat and walked on the water and came to Jesus.

But when he saw the wind, he was afraid, and beginning to sink he cried out, “Lord, save me.” Jesus immediately reached out his hand and took hold of him, saying to him, “O you of little faith, why did you doubt?” And when they got into the boat, the wind ceased. And those in the boat worshiped him, saying, “Truly you are the Son of God.” Matthew 14:28-33 Many times, when reading the story of Peter, we only focus on the fact that Peter’s faith faltered. But what if you also look at the fact that Peter stepped out with faith in the first place. I’ve had to step out with faith several times in my life, but my faith has also faltered many times. Here’s a little back-story about a time when I stepped out with faith and a time when I faltered. It may help to understand my perspective on the story of Peter and hopefully it’ll help you too...

I was fortunate enough to grow up in a Christian home with my parents and my brother. I had a normal southern upbringing. So ,when asked to give my testimony in 2013, I remember thinking about how boring my life is. I didn’t have anything great to tell – no Damascus road experience here. But be careful what you wish for, right?!? I was diagnosed with cancer the following week. Because I was surrounded by love, prayer, and support, my faith actually grew stronger than it had ever been before.

I felt God’s presence through the entire three years of my recovery from cancer...my “storm.” I knew God would guide me, my family, and my friends through and he did. We were Peter stepping out in faith. Fast forward four years. I received a phone call that my 42-year old brother was suddenly very sick with a blood clot. I flew to him and made it just in time to be with him and hold him as he died.

My faith faltered. I couldn’t see God in that loss...my “wind.” I was Peter sinking. But God heard me in my lack of faith. I know that God held out His hand to me when I called His name and saved me from my doubt. We can hope to always have the faith that Peter had when he first stepped out of the boat but many of us can easily become Peter sinking. And it’s okay as long as we’re looking to God as we step out of the boat or we’re calling to God when we’re sinking.

Prayer: Lord, thank you for giving me another day to wake up and step into life with faith in you. Help me to keep my eyes constantly on you throughout this day. But, if I falter, remind me that you are there with an outstretched hand, ready to help me up again. Amen.

Action/Reflection: Some extra things to think about...

• • •

• •

Although a storm surrounded him, Peter looked to Jesus. The only problem was that he stopped looking at Jesus. When life gets tough and a storm surrounds us, the most important thing we can do is to keep looking at Jesus. What does looking to Jesus look like for you? Is it through prayer? Worship? Devotionals?

Jesus commanded Peter to come to him. Even though it wasn’t logical, Peter did just that. This was obedience through faith – doing what Jesus said to do. Is there any area of your life that you aren’t doing what Jesus asks us to do? What do you think would happen if you were obedient Faith is simply taking one step after another and trusting that God will be at the next step. Peter took one step to get out of the boat and onto the water. He got into trouble when he lost sight of his next step and became filled with doubt. What next step has Jesus asked you to take? Can you take that next step with faith? Ask Jesus to hide the “wind” and help keep your eyes on that next step.

Fear will sink us. When Peter had faith, he actually walked on water! Whoa! When he had fear, he sank in the water. The same is true for us...fear will sink us. Are there any fears that are controlling your decision making? Ask God to help you get rid of these fears and walk on the water with Jesus.

We can choose to worry or worship. In an instant, the men in the boat went from worrying about their circumstances to worshipping their Christ. Faith through the good times but especially the bad leads to some of the most beautiful worship.

Contributor: Lindsey Anderson

23

THURSDAY, MARCH 19 Changing Lenses Scripture: But the Lord said to Samuel, “Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” 1 Samuel 16:7 Remember that children’s song containing the line: “They are all precious in His sight?” It works for adults, too! As children of God, created in his image, we are all precious in his sight.

Beginning in Genesis 1, we are first introduced to God’s perspective on his creation. After creating light, in verse 4 “God saw that the light was good.” As he continued creating, God would take the time to evaluate what he had done and “He saw that it was good.” Until, in verse 31, after creating man “in his own image” (Gen 1:27), God “saw all that He had made, and it was very good.”

As we age, many of us have to start using “readers.” Our overall eyesight is still good, but fonts “become” smaller and our arms only reach so far. Maybe we begin with 1.25’s, then after a few years we migrate to 1.50’s, then 1.75’s and so on. The whole point is to continue to see words on a page clearly. We don’t want to have to bump up to the next magnification, but we eventually do so that we are able to “see clearly.” Intermittently, we need to change lenses!

Do we take time to see the world as God sees it? Do we take time to see other people the way God sees them, as precious? Have we developed the habit of changing lenses when a situation requires a new set? The foundational piece to the above-referenced scripture is where the Lord says to Samuel, “The Lord does not look at the things man looks at.” Then he explains that man looks at outward appearances, while God looks inwardly, specifically at the heart.

In the Merriam-Webster’s dictionary, the word empathy is defined as follows: “the action of understanding, being aware of, being sensitive to, and vicariously experiencing the feelings, thoughts, and experience of another of either the past or present…” Empathizing with others is one form of seeing the world as others see it, and not only how we see it…but changing our lenses to see more clearly.

Prayer: Lord, help me to see your world, and the people in it, through your eyes. And, when confronted with challenging situations, help me to put on different “lenses” so I am able to empathize with others. Amen.

Action/Reflection: Take time to look around and see what God sees: in creation, in other people, in yourself, in circumstances, etc.

Contributor: Greg Smith

24

FRIDAY, MARCH 20 Rely On God To Strengthen You Scripture: I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Philippians 4:13 Life has a way of presenting challenges on a daily/hourly basis and we can either accept the challenges, pray about them, ask for guidance, and then move forward, or become overwhelmed and shutdown.

I have adopted this scripture as my “go to” verse. I even have it stenciled on my wall at home – right on top of the stencil it says “One day at a time.”

The last couple of years have been a challenge with work and a husband who suffered a stroke.

Each day would bring about an onset of panic if I thought too far into the future (typically past that day). I found that I had to ground myself and repeat this Philippians verse over and over as I started down paths that were unfamiliar to me and downright scary.

I have started to be intentional in my prayers, asking God to give me the strength that I need to get through the day or those tricky situations that present themselves. I pray for God to show me the path forward, and that the Holy Spirit speak to me and through me. I have been told that I am a very positive person with a great deal of patience. I try to take those opportunities to point out that Christ is the reason for the joy and positive outlook.

Prayer: Gracious and Heavenly Father, please grant me the strength and wisdom to carry out today’s tasks and to keep the focus on today and not the future. Help me to see the joy and blessings that you have provided for me and to sing your praises.

Action/Reflection: Don’t look beyond today. Know that if you have a daunting task that lies ahead, ask God to give you the strength to get through it.

Contributor: Sandy Stamler

25

SATURDAY, MARCH 21 No Greater Love Scripture: This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this, to lay down one’s life for his friends. John 15:12-13 During the 40 days of Lent, we focus intently on Jesus, the sacrificial Lamb who gave his life for each of us. During this time, he prepared himself for the trials he would face by talking to God, his Father.

What kind of love is this...to lay down your life for another.

Jesus’s purpose on earth was to seek and to save those lost in their sin. His death, burial, and resurrection seals every believers’ future in eternity. He truly is the sacrificial Lamb who takes away the sins of the world. By his example and the Word of God, we learn how to love others.

I grew up in a loving family. Even though life was not perfect, love abounded there and was demonstrated daily. Going to worship at the local Methodist church each Sunday was a family affair. When I was young, I don’t remember saying “I love you” to my family very much, however, I knew I was loved. We showed love by treating others as we wanted to be treated – the Golden Rule – and being there for each other in times of trouble.

Since many of my family members have passed on, I think back on where and how I learned to love. I was given a bracelet at Christmas by my stepdaughter that reminds me about love. It reads: “Family...where life begins and love never ends.” I was blessed to be born into my loving family. You may have had a different experience growing up. If you feel lonely, unwanted, or unloved, you can always turn to Jesus who offers you a great family of brothers and sisters in Christ Jesus.

As I approach my senior years and my immediate family gets smaller, I realize that my church family continues to grow as I get more involved with others. You see, I have many family groups in my life now. The Bible bunch at Waltonwood Retirement Community is part of my family, just as the Foundations group on Sunday mornings, the members of Lucy Price Circle, my Art Life Group, my prayer sisters, and my fellow volunteers. We are family because we share the love of Christ. It is Christ who shows us how to live and love and sacrifice for one another.

Prayer: Dear God, thank you for Jesus and my family groups. As each day dawns, help me to love others with the love you’ve shown me by your sacrifice. In Jesus name, Amen.

Action/Reflection: During this Lent season, prepare and eat a family meal together at least once a week (with no interference from electronic devices). Personally, do something loving for each family member daily. You may find that it becomes contagious and a good habit to keep all year long.

Contributor: Barbara Bennett

26

MONDAY, MARCH 23 Balance and Focus Scripture: Therefore, be sound minded and self-controlled for the purpose of prayer [staying balanced and focused on the things of God so that your communication will be clear, reasonable, specific and pleasing to him]. Above all, have fervent and unfailing love for one another, because love covers a multitude of sins. 1 Peter 4:7b-8 As we enter each new year or each new season, our culture begs to steal our focus and point that focus inwardly. I love a good victory story just as much as anyone; however, I cannot help but think about how many days, weeks, and years I have wasted trying to become a better version of myself. So much striving, effort, and time has been spent trying to present my best to others. Yet what does the Creator say?

In a study of 1 Peter the verses above quite literally jumped off the page as I read them again on January 2 this year. God has called each of us to a sound mind and self-controlled life, not one that teeters back and forth with each new idea or trend. The Amplified Bible adds a layer of understanding as we stay balanced and focused on God. In the age of self-help and constant access it is easy to be led down twisting paths in our minds by the next best thing. He calls us to live a full life, but one that is focused on Christ and love for one another (vs 8).

Is caring for yourself bad? No. His Word makes it clear that we are to be good stewards of all creation and that includes ourselves (Gen 2:15, 1 Cor 6:19). His Word is constant and true. Let us always remember the guidepost by which our lives are to be measured is Christ Jesus. Let it be in the service of Jesus and others that we take each next step forward.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank you for each New Year that you have given. Forgive me for the wasted years of inward focus. Thank you for the love and life given through your Word. I lift each of your beloved children to your care. Guide each one to a full acceptance of you. Rescue each one from the grip of this world. Fill our hearts and minds with the truth of your love through the power of the Holy Spirit. In Jesus Name, Amen.

Action/Reflection: Take some time to seek his truth the next time you feel yourself being pulled to the “more� of this world.

Contributor: Joanna McCall

27

TUESDAY, MARCH 24 Denial of Ego Scripture: God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him. 1 John 4:16b Lent is a season to renew and refresh our relationship with God. One of the traditions of Lent is “denial of ego” which is associated with suspending indulgences (like sweets) representing the sacrifice of Jesus on his journey into the desert for 40 days. Another way to think about denial of ego is to “suspend” our ego, to the degree that it exceeds a healthy self-confidence and becomes an unhealthy self-importance.

We are charged with loving God and loving our neighbors as ourselves. If you’re like me, I find that when I think of the neighbors on my block, in my subdivision, or those at church, (especially if they agree with me), it seems an easy task. However, I am challenged when the definition of neighbor expands to include those who are “different” – where differences can be related to anything from nationality, economics, race, religion, SEC vs Big Ten, politics, immigration status, gender, or lifestyle. Loving our neighbors includes “neighbors” who can range from somewhat challenging, all the way to openly hostile. Yet, we are asked to recognize every neighbor as an example of God’s perfection, connected to us by our common creator, and to love them without conditions.

What makes this challenging is our ego. It is ego that wrongly wants to define me as what I have, what I do, or my accomplishments. It is ego that makes it important for me to be right and, consequently, see others as wrong. At that time, I don’t see my neighbor – I see his “wrongness.” When my ego looks for reasons to be offended, it finds an endless supply of offenses and offending “neighbors.” And when my overdeveloped ego convinces me that I’m superior, I find inferiority wherever I go. When my ego makes me judgmental, I find multiple opportunities to judge. But my “better” self really thinks I should leave all that, especially the judgment, to God. So, my suggestion and my personal resolve is to “deny my ego” by giving it a little vacation for Lent.

Ralph Waldo Emerson said that “Love is our highest word and the synonym for God.” And kindness is the outward expression of love. During this Lent season, I’ll do my best to lead with kindness in my encounters with all neighbors. I want to be better at “being kind, rather than being right.”

Research has shown that a simple act of kindness directed toward another human being improves the functioning of the immune system and stimulates the production of serotonin in both the recipient of the kindness and the person extending the kindness. Even more amazing is that persons observing the act of kindness have similar beneficial results. Imagine this...kindness extended, received, or observed beneficially impacts the physical health and feelings of everyone involved. We’ve all experienced this. An example is when we see strangers helping each other after a tragedy or natural disaster. We say it brings out the best in us and we feel good just hearing about it on a news report.

I like Mother Teresa’s answer when asked what she did at her mission all day in Calcutta. She said “Each day I encounter Jesus in all his distressing disguises.” While my ego is on vacation, I suspect that if I just focus on the love and kindness with my neighbors, seeing Jesus in them, like Mother Teresa, I may be tempted to make ego’s vacation a permanent one.

Prayer: God, let my love for neighbors today (and every day) reflect the love and grace you have shown me, and thereby see a reflection of who you are. Amen.

Action/Reflection: Ask God to give you the ability to see others through his eyes and then be a reflection of God’s love and grace to others, in all Contributor: Bob Sorrell

28

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 25 Put On Love Scripture: So, as those who have been chosen of God, holy and beloved, put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience; bearing with one another, and forgiving each other, whoever has a complaint against anyone; just as the Lord forgave you, so also should you.

Beyond all these things put on love, which is the perfect bond of unity. Colossians 3:12-14 Recently, a little girl in my son’s 1st grade class said to me, “It’s all about love, Ms. Jen. If we don’t have love, then we have nothing. We can have faith and hope, but if it’s without love, then it doesn’t matter.” How wise for a 7-year-old! Clearly, she had recently read 1 Corinthians 13:13 and was reciting it in her own words. Boy, did she nail it.

So now faith, hope, and love abide, these three; but the greatest of these is love. 1 Corinthians 13:13 She is right. Love is the greatest of these. What does it look like to love one another? People often talk about the “Golden Rule:” treat others the way you want to be treated. That’s a great rule and one we should take seriously since Jesus said it was the second greatest commandment, next to loving the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength – love your neighbor as yourself. But then Jesus ups the ante...

“This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.” John 15:12 Jesus is taking this to another level and saying it’s not just about loving as you love yourself, but love others like Jesus does. This is an entirely different kind of love – it is sacrificial and completely selfless. How are we loving others like Jesus? Are we thinking of others before ourselves? Are we putting others’ needs first and thinking the best of them? What are we giving up in our own lives to make others more comfortable?

In preparing this devotional I intended to write about love being patient and kind, but I want to share a personal story of how God showed me how I can love better.

My husband and I have talked about moving to a bigger house with more land and hopefully a screened in porch (that’s for me) for a year or so. We’ve looked at houses, but not too seriously.

Well, I found an amazing house this week. It has the huge backyard, more space, and screened in porch. It even has a finished basement with more space than we’d ever need and it’s on a cul-desac. Talk about hitting the jackpot! It’s definitely out of our price range, but not too far and it’s a great price for this house. I have been focused on it and thinking about how great it would be to have this house. I was supposed to see it yesterday, but then a storm hit and I went to pick up my kids instead because they had early dismissal.

A few hours later, I heard terrible news about a friend’s house getting hit by a tornado. Four trees fell on top of it and it sounds like restoration may take months or even be impossible given the damage. I went down all kinds of paths mentally and emotionally; I am heart-broken for this family.

What if this were me? I called my friend and offered for them to come live with us. I said I would do anything for them. I want to give them all the money I would put towards a down payment so that they could have a place to live. It hit me that love overpowers everything and that is not something that can ever be taken from us.

Contined to next page.

29

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 25 Put On Love (Continued) We’re called to have a loose grip on the things of this world and store up treasures in heaven.

The things of this world are temporary and all that matters are the relationships and love we have for Jesus and one another – and how we show that love. This didn’t make me feel guilty; it made me feel excited by how God could use the things he’s given me to make others more comfortable, better off, and safe in a tragedy.

I don’t want that house the way I did a couple of days ago. I’m not saying that God doesn’t want us to have nice things, but I want to be thoughtful about making sure that there is margin in my financial situation to give to those in need and to sacrifice things so that I can serve others well.

That same little girl who told me that if we do not have love, we have nothing is the same little girl who lost her house yesterday. God gave her that wisdom in preparation for the trials she is having to face and used her to show me the kind of love that Jesus is talking about when he said: Love as I have loved you.

Prayer: Lord, we love you and thank you for the ultimate sacrifice that you made for us on the cross. You died for us while we were still sinners. We did nothing to deserve it, but you love us so much that you gave up your life so that we could have life with you forever. I pray for the family who lost their house and all who were affected by the storm yesterday – bless them immeasurably as they piece their lives back together. May we come around them and others in need with the resources you’ve given us to serve and love your sons and daughters. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.

Action/Reflection: Please pray for this family and others who have experienced a recent tragedy and ask the Lord how you can love like Jesus this week, this month and in the days ahead.

Contributor: Jennifer Potter

30

THURSDAY, MARCH 26 Life With Christ Is Now Scripture: Indeed, God did not send the Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him. Those who believe in him are not condemned. John 3:17-18 Jesus ate a lot of meals with his disciples. It was the Last Supper he had with them that has a special place in the imagination of the church. He was on his way to his death, yet he spent that Last Supper with his friends*, including those who would betray him. (*Friends, plural. It wasn’t just Judas who betrayed Jesus, look at all those who ran from the Garden when the Roman soldiers and Jewish leaders arrived with torches and swords.) He serves them as host, washing their feet. He, who could have reacted to their betrayal with revenge, acts with compassion. But he also redefines our notions of compassion by telling them the truth.

Do we really want to hear the truth when we pray to Jesus? Or do we want the truth when we ask our friends for advice? Do we just want our friends to agree with the conclusion we have already drawn – and for Jesus to give us what we have already decided we deserve?

Compare and contrast that with your own situation. Do you have (or had) someone you really love and trust? Maybe it was your parents when you were young, or your grandparents later in life, or even a trusted friend now. IF you really love them – and know that they love you - then you will LISTEN to them when they tell you that you have fallen short.

Who did you love enough to believe when they corrected you? Do you see how that applies to us and Jesus? Jesus tells us the truth, each and every day.

Indeed, God did not send the Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him. Those who believe in him are not condemned. John 3:17-19 We don’t have to wait anxiously each day in expectation of some better, future life in which we will eventually be closer to Christ than we are now. Whenever in the church we manage – in spite of all obstacles – to love one another, we experience eternal life. Today!

Prayer: Lord, we know you have already saved us. Let us live our life today not to satisfy ourselves, but to be a reflection of you. Let others see Jesus in what we do and what we say.

Action/Reflection: Life with Christ is now. Let’s go out this week and live it!

Contributor: Ron Horton

31

FRIDAY, MARCH 27 Encourage and Love One Another Scripture: Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.

Ephesians 4:2 In a world of hustle and bustle, where we always seem to be on-the-go it is hard to lift one another up in love. For example, it can be difficult to have patience for the person who took your parking spot, or with your children who did not say “thank you” or “I love you” before they left for school.

Lifting one another up in love can be a hard task! However, as Christians, we are called to love and accept each other – faults and all.

In order to put action behind these verses, we need to pray – and pray for one another, as well as spend time together in fellowship. Even a smile to a stranger can lift someone’s spirit. So, I encourage you to find that person in your life that needs to be lifted up in prayer and do just that.

Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. Ephesians 4:3 Prayer: Loving God, help me to be patient with others, and accept them just as they are. Today, help me to be humble and gentle, and to see others through your eyes, and to love them unconditionally. Fill me with your Spirit, and give me the strength, insight, and grace to love others like you love them. Amen.

Action/Reflection: Be an encourager to all who cross your path today. Smile, and pray for God to show you how you can be a blessing.

Contributor: Gabrielle Andrews

32

SATURDAY, MARCH 28 My Highest Ambition Scripture: I want to know Christ and experience the mighty power that raised him from the dead.

I want to suffer with him, sharing in his death, so that one way or another I will experience the resurrection from the dead! Philippians 3:10 The Lenten season is a time when the church is focused on rekindling its passion. It’s a time when we can ask ourselves what barriers are blocking our personal relationship with Jesus Christ. What robs us of passion?

The list of potential distractions is long. Unresolved areas of disobedience grieve the heart of God. Spiritual complacency may lead to neglect of daily prayer and Bible reading. Various pleasure-focused activities can overtake our time, otherwise available for prayer and reflection.

The apostle Paul clearly states in this passage about his highest ambition to know Christ and to experience his mighty power. That was clearly his passion. His boldness for Christ meant sharing it when he knew it meant a path of suffering. Around the world today we are seeing this kind of boldness and people also suffering willingly.

The Lord Jesus said “You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind.” Matthew 22:37 Spending time with the Lord is what is necessary to gain a heart of love. Follow the example of Jesus who went away by himself to spend time with the Father.

I will exalt you, my God the King; I will praise your name for ever and ever. Psalm 145:1 Prayer: O Lord, grant us a thirst to seek you and grow in new ways that will draw us closer to you. We praise you, O God. Help us to know you and love you with all our hearts, soul, and mind.

Action/Reflection: Will you allow God to possess you in such a way that his Holy Spirit will be free to reorient your heart, values, and behaviors? Ask yourself, do I really want to know the Lord deeply? God knows our hearts. If we sincerely desire to grow deeply, He will show us the way.

Contributor: Bill Mayes

33

MONDAY, MARCH 30 Whom Do You Worship Scripture: O, come, let us worship and bow down; let us kneel before the Lord, our Maker!

Psalm 95:6 Splendor and majesty are before him; strength and beauty are in his sanctuary. Psalm 96:6 The scriptures tell us to worship God in the splendor of his holiness. Modern Christians tend to approach God casually. For our worship to be pleasing to God, we must know to whom our worship is directed.

In today’s culture we are being taken captive by hollow philosophies of God: Who he is; what he has done; and who, then, we are. Our collective view of God has changed so much in recent decades, as the culture shifts away from him. Make no mistake, our culture rejects God and for too long now the church has accepted the cultures’ norms, trying to stay relevant. Dear ones, we cannot take our guidance from an entity at enmity with God. It is a rudderless ship being steered by the waves of humanism, paganism, and every whim that itches the ear. (2 Timothy 4:3-4) If a GPS told you to drive into a lake, would you follow it? We have guidance that will never fail.

(Isaiah 30:21) Our view of God is so very important to our lives as Christians. God is a friend. Yes, but more.

God is a Father. Yes, but more. God is our God. Yes, but more. In today’s culture there are many gods being worshipped. Dear one, you may not believe what the culture does about God – but it pervades all of us all the time. What sets our God apart? Why is he different? Why is he more?

We need to know - absolutely know, the answers to these questions.

We are told to “bow down, kneel, in the worship of our Maker.” We do not see God today, but the scriptures tell us that what was written is for our benefit – to know God and to see what he has done in times past. The Hebrew people saw with their own eyes why and how our God is different than other gods. He didn’t just move the waters of the Red Sea; he called that water to part and it obeyed. He didn’t just create the flies, the frogs, the locusts; he called them to Egypt and they obeyed. He didn’t just design the concept of lightening – he controls the storehouses and sends it at his command, and it obeys. (Job 38:22-38) He didn’t just create the darkness – he set its boundaries, its times. He calls it and it obeys. No other has done, can do, or will do any of this. Yet we often come to him casually. We come because it’s what we do?! Tradition?!

This Lenten season I want to encourage you to ponder – whom/what do you worship? Do you come to church to have an encounter with the Thrice Holy God? You should. The God of the Bible is our Living God. It is he who made us (Psalm 100:3); knit us together; knows each hair of our heads; knows everything about us; is everywhere and cannot be evaded (Psalm 139). He is not limited, but limitless in every way. He is the eternal, Self-Existent One. He needs nothing.

He lacks nothing. He fails, never. Is good, fully. Is great, immensely. Is awesome, always. And He invited us to know Him, not the other way around. The psalmist wrote, “Who is man that you are mindful of him?” (Psalm 8:4)

34

Contined to next page.

MONDAY, MARCH 30 Whom Do You Worship (Continued) Do you open your Bible expecting to hear from our Mighty God? You should. “The Word of God is living and active, sharper than a double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and motives of the heart.” (Hebrews 4:12) From his eternal Word the world was created and “the Word became flesh and dwelt among us.” (John 1:14) We hear from God through his Word. Are you expecting to encounter God’s holiness and tremble before him (Isaiah 6:5)? You should. The Majesty of all of creation spoke to us, speaks to us still, and his Word is fully truth.

If you don’t expect to encounter God through worship and the Word, I encourage you to examine your heart to see what you believe about Him. Let’s have a heavenly perspective of the only One worthy of all praise and honor and glory and power! Let’s know him as Father, as Friend, but not forget that he is God: unsearchable; too high and lofty for our understanding; too glorious for our eyes; too loving for our hearts; and, too holy for us altogether. There is no such thing as a casual encounter with God. Worship him for who he is and what he has done!

Prayer: Heavenly Father, we pray you will help us to know you more each day. We ask that you reveal yourself to us as we seek you. We pray that our worship pleases you and that we are open to hearing you through your Word. Bless us as we study who you are and encourage us through the scriptures as we walk day by day. In the glorious name of Jesus we pray, Amen.

Action/Reflection: The foundation of our faith is our belief in God. Take time today to consider these questions: Who is God? What has God done? And who, then, is man?

Contributor: Susanna Denninger

35

TUESDAY, MARCH 31 Unanswered Prayers Scripture: But truly God has listened, he has attended to the voice of my prayer. Psalm 66:19 Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 There are many times in my life where I asked God for a blessing to be bestowed on me or my family and have been abundantly blessed. He has answered my prayers with his power and his directives. However, there are times where I have prayed, and my prayers were unanswered. I have learned to not ask why, but instead have a joyful heart of thankfulness.

A few years ago, I asked God to sell my home so we could move. Now, here is the problem with my prayer. I asked for something out of selfish ambition and not waiting on his timing. He made it clear when the offers fell through and reminded me that he goes before me, is with me, and knows his timing is always best.

We are to pray without hesitation; however, be willing to listen to his voice of guidance and direction before an action is taken. When we have those moments of “hitting a brick wall” and God says no, we are called to trust that God’s plan is so much greater. It is times like these where we are to meditate on when prayers were answered and his plans came to fruition. I will never forget the answered prayer of guidance and direction regarding taking my son to Kenya. I wanted to be sure it was God’s plan and not my own. He provided in such a big and mighty way, through a bonus at work. My son, Austin, and I were able to serve God and bless the children with a library at Home of the Good Shepherd. Austin was able to meet his brother, Daniel, serve God, and build relationships with the children. God showed us through this answered prayer how he was working in Austin’s life.

Prayer: Lord, thank you for hearing our prayers. Even if your answer is a no, help us have peace knowing you are our Father who loves us dearly and knows what is best for us. Help us have faith and peace through any trials and tribulations we may face. Lord, we love you beyond words.

Thank you for choosing us to be your disciples, your followers and your children. Amen Action/Reflection: I encourage you to be still with God each and every day and to pray without ceasing. Pray before making decisions and listen to his holy voice.

Contributor: Heather Brown

36

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 1 Understanding Your Purpose Scripture: He also said, “This is what the kingdom of God is like. A man scatters seed on the ground.

Night and day, whether he sleeps or gets up, the seed sprouts and grows, though he does not know how.

All by itself the soil produces grain—first the stalk, then the head, then the full kernel in the head. As soon as the grain is ripe, he puts the sickle to it, because the harvest has come.” Mark 4:26-29 As I pondered the task of writing this devotional, I found myself reflecting on some of the things that frustrate me because I’m impatient and like to be in control. It’s hard for me to not want to be in control. I flew fighter jets for most of my 20-year career in the Air Force. It’s easy to think I’m the one in control when I make the decisions, maneuver the jet, guide my wingman, and ultimately deliver ordnance when necessary to save the lives of others. However, I’ve had my fair share of dangerous situations and have lost more than a few friends over the years, to know that God will always be in control, not me. Since God is in control, what then is my purpose?

These past few months have been a strenuous adjustment transitioning out of the military and no longer being a fighter pilot. The struggle is that I still want to be the one making things happen and I don’t like waiting for results. The Bible passage I selected is the parable of the growing seed. I chose it because I don’t think I would make a good farmer right now. Christ is talking about what the kingdom of God is like and how the farmer isn’t in control once the seed is planted. It’s not the farmer’s job to worry about the seed and whether it will grow, or wither and die. The purpose of the farmer is simply to plant the seed and leave it up to God to do the rest.

To be honest with you, I don’t wake up everyday frustrated that the seeds of Christianity that I plant aren’t producing more followers of Christ. It should be what bothers me. Instead, I’m often frustrated about lack of progress in a new career and wanting to provide for my family yet not work so hard that I don’t spend quality time with them. I also want to be a better husband to my amazingly patient wife and some days I’m just hoping I can get my son to eat something other than PB&J sandwiches. If we’re all honest with ourselves, we all probably struggle with wanting to be in control of something and thinking we’re the ones that effect change. We’re not.

This Lent season, I’m doing my best to reflect on the fact that my purpose is to just plant seeds. I should be doing what I feel God calls me to do while also trying to be Christ-like in everything I do. It doesn’t matter what it is that I’m doing, I’ve just got to represent Christ as best I can and not worry about the outcome. This doesn’t mean I give up trying to effect change with work, family, or things that frustrate me in life; the farmer doesn’t just stop planting seed if some of the crop dies. It means I need to be patient and accept the fact that God moves at a different pace than what I want because he’s the one in control, not me. My purpose is to simply plant seeds.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, help me with my frustrations in life. I want to be in charge even when I know I shouldn’t. Remind me that my purpose is not to effect change but instead to serve you and do what you lead me to do and not worry about the outcome. Help me to have patience as I plant seeds. Your timing is always perfect and you owe no explanation for it. Just like the farmer, Lord, I am not in control. You are always in control and I ask you to help me be more accepting of that. Amen.

Action/Reflection: If you’ve been frustrated about not being able to effect change in some aspect of your life, reflect on today’s passage and remember that our job isn’t to worry about the outcome. Our purpose is to plant the seeds, do what we feel God is leading us to do, and then trust God to do the rest.

Contributor: Trevor Smith

37

THURSDAY, APRIL 2 New Creation Scripture: “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come. The old is gone, the new is here!” 2 Corinthians 5:17 For many years, I walked around believing that Jesus died on the cross for the forgiveness of all sin, except mine. I believed in my head, but not in my heart. I had so much guilt and shame that I would not accept the forgiveness freely offered to me. My hands were wrapped tightly around that guilt and shame and I wouldn’t let it go; I didn’t deserve forgiveness.

One night I was driving home from a women’s event when I heard the LORD call out to me in that still small voice. “Sharon, hold out your right hand.” I was confused and asked out loud, “What?” Again, I heard, “Sharon, hold out your right hand”. So I did. When I held out my right hand, I felt the presence of the LORD hold my hand! Again, I heard that still small voice, “I have been dying to reach you, if you would just hold out your hand to me. I have died to reach you!”

As I arrived home, I grabbed my Bible and asked of the LORD, “ What else are you trying to tell me?” As I flipped through the pages, the LORD led me to 2 Corinthians 5:17-21. As I read it, I realized I was a new creation because of Christ dying on the cross for me! That all of my guilt and shame was nailed to the cross and buried in the tomb! God had given me his Son, Jesus, years ago to forgive me and make me a new creation! I could let go of my grip on the old, and receive the new!

As we approach Easter and celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ, will you accept the gift of forgiveness and being made new? God has a great plan for each of us to be reconciled to him through Christ, that we might become his ambassadors, offering the message of reconciliation.

Prayer: Lord, thank you that You have made us new. Help me to walk in faith as a New Creation!

Amen.

Action/Reflection: Be reconciled to God! Allow the sins of the past to stay buried in the tomb, and tell someone today, “ I am a new creation.”

Contributor: Sharon McFadden

38

FRIDAY, APRIL 3 Selfless Love Scripture: Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. Romans 12:10 This small child with chubby fingers and hands had a small rock placed in the palm of one hand by her mother, who closed her fingers gently to grip the rock. Then, the mom slowly pushed her arm forward, shook the child’s hand to drop the rock into the glassy puddle of water in front of her.

Her mom then excitedly exclaimed “Look at the water! See the ripples going out in all directions.

They touch everything with gentleness, much like the gentleness with which your grandma and I love you.”

Love can be all encompassing – coming from all directions, when we welcome to our heart those who join our “family,” either by birth or marriage or friendship.

This reminds me of my mother-in-law. As I made my remarks at the funeral of my wife’s mother, Roberta, I observed friends and extended family that came into the small sanctuary. Many of those friends had known Roberta as a child, or a youth. She had touched them with a love that was all encompassing. As she aged, her reservoir of goodwill continued to fill. And never were her thoughts or ideas generated in a selfish way. Her very existence was based on projecting love and care to everyone, even friends who only had the privilege of knowing her as she aged. I, who knew her from “middle age,” and her grandchildren, who called her Great Grandma Hill, felt her love from far away. And, when the time came, I was privileged to join my wife in holding Roberta’s hand as she passed over at the age of 99.

But why, do you suppose, we have to wait until a special Christian season like Lent (a season of sacrifice) to think about and take action to extend our love? Christ didn’t tell us to love others as we love ourselves just once a year!

To that point, there is something I observed during my career. Through personal contact with people of many nationalities, humans innately know when you are sincerely interested in caring about them – and they respond in a positive manner. In my personal interactions with others, regardless of nationality (whether Asian, European or otherwise) I have witnessed the same positive reaction. It did not seem to matter that I was a Caucasian man, many times three feet taller than the people that I was interacting with - they could sense that this person who looked very different than they, cared deeply about them as humans. Yes, some of our issues were potentially troublesome. However, we could get past those issues, and the wall of prejudice, as we reached out with care and sincerity. People around the world react in the same positive way to sincerity, to honesty, and to caring for their family, and home, and country of living.

Pour out your unfailing love on those who love you; give justice to those with honest hearts.

Psalms 36:10 Prayer: Help me, God, to love others in a selfless and all-encompassing way and put aside any differences or judgment I may have in my heart. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

Action/Reflection: Consider how you might reach out today with care and sincerity to another.

Contributor: Herb Meyer

39

SATURDAY, APRIL 4 Providing For Our Needs Scripture: I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Philippians 4:13 It was a hard year following a hard year. My closest friend died of an accidental overdose. She was a victim of the opioid crisis in our country. Along with the usual grieving process of losing someone close, there was the added burden of wondering why I didn’t see the signs and act on them to get her the help she needed. This followed the year my family lost our home to fire. You grieve that also. My biggest blessing then came when Reverend Ed Briggs suggested GriefShare.

Sharing your struggles with others dealing with the same kind of struggles gives understanding, peace, and comfort. GriefShare was three months with wonderful, caring people sharing their grieving process and absorbing my grief as well.

“Truth Be Told” Art was one of the many blessings received that year with old and new friends all creating the same painting. They were all the same, yet like God created men and women in the same way, all were different. This painting used the scripture verse Philippians 4:13, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”

This verse gave me strength just a few months later when I had a procedure that required my head, arms, and legs to be strapped to a table. I did not know fifteen minutes could last an eternity until then, and an unexpected anxiety attack almost made me unable to continue the procedure. As I was lying there unable to move, I started reciting the books of the Bible, Old Testament through the New Testament. It was then that Philippians 4:13 brought the most amazing peace and strength to me. The procedure was started and completed. My need had been provided just a few months earlier, when I did not even know I had a need. God knows what our very future has in store, and he will always be there for us.

Prayer: Lord you know our daily needs and the needs of our future. Please give us the strength to lean on you. You know our weaknesses and your strength enables us to overcome all challenges. Let us remember we can do all things through Christ who gives us strength.

Action/Reflection: God is always with us. He takes care of the sparrow, and he will always supply our needs. (Matthew 10:29-31) Amen.

Contributor: Rhonda Autry

40

MONDAY, APRIL 6 Humility Scripture: So, if there is any encouragement in Christ, any comfort from love, any participation in the Spirit, any affection and sympathy, complete my joy by being of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind. Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. Philippians 2:1-11 I come from a line of fiercely independent, strong women. Following with tradition, I have tried to instill my two girls with a robust sense of self-esteem. Year after year, I have poured into them scriptural affirmations – • “You are a child of God.” Galatians 3:26 • “You have a plan and a purpose.” Jeremiah 29:11 • “You are dearly loved.” Colossians 3:12 I’ve also given them worldly affirmations – • “You is kind. You is smart. You is important.” (Kathryn Stockett, The Help) And honestly, not always in that order.

What I have failed to do (besides model this!) is instruct them in how to pour out (also poorly modeled!) so that they are not so full of themselves (Philippians 2:3); to pour out into others (Philippians 2:4); to pour out as Christ did (Philippians 2:7); to pour out in humility.

Humility, as seen in these verses, is not passive – it is an action verb. Humility is something that not only describes Christ, but is something he chose and acted on – all so that we might gain salvation.

During this Lenten season, let us praise the God who “considered it nothing to take the form of a servant” (Philippians 2:7) to dwell and die among us. I pray we zealously seek to follow Christ’s example of humility. As we ponder the culmination of these 40 days…how can we strive for anything less?

Prayer: Dear Lord, thank you for so loving us that you poured out your life that we might live with you forever. Empty me of myself, purify my heart, and fill me with your presence. Show me today how to consider others more than myself, all for your glory. In Jesus’ precious name, Amen.

Action/Reflection: Consider ways you can pour into others today, and in the days ahead.

Contributor: Kendra Wallace

41

TUESDAY, APRIL 7 His Ways Scripture: “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the Lord. As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.” Isaiah 55:8-9 There are the usual questions like, “Why do bad things happen to good people?” It is common, and we have all asked them.

Some people surf online for quick, short answers and move on. Others chew issues over and over with an analytical nature determined to get to the root cause or logical answer. We seek information on our terms.

We wonder and investigate, with questions around pre-destination like, “If God is all-knowing, does he know which people will use their free will to ultimately choose him and which people will not? And does that mean he creates some people knowing they will not choose to be saved…and will therefore perish? Why would he do that?”

We ponder questions about heaven like, “Revelation says there are no tears in heaven. But if we can recognize people there and be reunited with loved ones, what happens when we recognize that a loved one did not make it to heaven? Wouldn’t that be sad?”

We struggle to understand creation, the Trinity, the resurrection, and the rapture. The list goes on.

Remember what good teachers and good parents tell children: “When you ask questions, it means you’re engaged. It means you’re smart. There is no dumb question.” As teachers and parents welcome questions, so does God – and with supernatural patience. He loves our faith in things unseen – our curiosity and wonder. After all, God made our inquisitive minds.

Isaiah, the prince of prophets and Shakespeare of the Bible, celebrates deliverance with his writings and reminds us we are not God. Rest in the fact that God is good. He is with you and you can trust Him. Be willing to learn. Seek daily to grow closer to him, but accept what only God can understand.

Prayer: Father, forgive me for doubting. You have everything in order and under control. Thank you for making your grace sufficient and simple to receive. Amen.

Action/Reflection: Ask God your simple and complex questions. Discuss them with your friends, family, and small group. But, above all, trust the one who holds the answers, and look forward to the day you can ask him anything face to face.

Contributor: Jeff Vawter

42

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8 Festivals, Then and Now Scripture: “‘These are the Lord’s appointed festivals, the sacred assemblies you are to proclaim at their appointed times: The Lord’s Passover begins at twilight on the fourteenth day of the first month. On the fifteenth day of that month the Lord’s Festival of Unleavened Bread begins; for seven days you must eat bread made without yeast. On the first day hold a sacred assembly and do no regular work. For seven days present a food offering to the Lord. And on the seventh day hold a sacred assembly and do no regular work.’”

The Lord said to Moses, “Speak to the Israelites and say to them: ‘When you enter the land I am going to give you and you reap its harvest, bring to the priest a sheaf of the first grain you harvest. He is to wave the sheaf before the Lord so it will be accepted on your behalf; the priest is to wave it on the day after the Sabbath. On the day you wave the sheaf, you must sacrifice as a burnt offering to the Lord a lamb a year old without defect, together with its grain offering of two-tenths of an ephah of the finest flour mixed with olive oil—a food offering presented to the Lord, a pleasing aroma—and its drink offering of a quarter of a hin of wine. You must not eat any bread, or roasted or new grain, until the very day you bring this offering to your God. This is to be a lasting ordinance for the generations to come, wherever you live.

Leviticus 23:4-14 Through Moses, God commanded Israel to observe seven festivals each year. (Two more, Purim and Hanukah, were added by the people later in their history.) The Festival of Passover remembers the night God “passed over” the homes of the Israelites with the blood of the sacrificed lamb on the doorframes.

With the tenth plague, Pharaoh let the people of Israel go from Egypt. Passover commemorates God’s deliverance of the people of Israel from Egypt. It was to be observed on the fourteenth day of the first month (now 14 Nisan).

The Festival of Unleavened Bread was a separate feast to be observed for seven days beginning on the fifteenth day of the first month (15 Nisan), the day after Passover. It recalls the Lord’s order to Israel to eat only unleavened bread (made in a hurry without yeast) for seven days in order to be able to depart Egypt on short notice. The Festival of First Fruits was celebrated on the sixteenth day (16 Nisan). The first fruits would be the first ripe barley sheaf of the harvest. On Passover, a sheaf of grain was bundled and left in the field. The next day, the first day of the feast of Unleavened Bread, the sheaf was cut and prepared. On the third day, First Fruits, the priest waved the sheaf before the Lord as an offering.

Many of us never make the wonderful connection between what we celebrate as “Holy Week” and these old festivals from Leviticus. Consider this: Jesus died on Passover: lay in the tomb on the first day of Unleavened Bread; and rose on First Fruits. Not a coincidence! Jesus is the sacrificial lamb whose blood saves and delivers all of us. Jesus is the “Bread of Life,” “the bread that came down from heaven,” “the living bread.” (John 6:49-51) On the third day, Jesus rose. “But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the first fruits of those who have fallen asleep.” (1 Cor. 15:20-23) Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank you for the sacrifice of your Son, our savior, so that we may all be saved.

Help me to remember this sacrifice and live my life as one worthy of it. Amen.

Action/Reflection: Share the great news of God’s sacrificial gift of his son, Jesus, for us.

Contributor: David Myers

43

THURSDAY, APRIL 9 Watch Me Scripture: A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. John 13:34 Jesus said those words to his disciples on the Thursday before his crucifixion as they shared their final meal together. Earlier, in Mark 12, Jesus had been asked by a scribe which commandment was the most important of them all. “Jesus answered, “The most important is, ‘Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’ The second is this: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no other commandment greater than these.”

In John 13:34, Jesus is showing us what he means by “as yourself” in Mark 12:31. He is saying, “Watch me and do what I do.” Jesus had just finished washing the feet of his disciples (something that typically only servants did). It was an act of humility, service, and love. Jesus showed them in actions before he told them with words what this love should look like.

Jesus called this “a new commandment” but can you really command someone to love another person? The answer is a resounding YES! When Jesus commanded his disciples to love one another, he chose the Greek word agape which is a pure, selfless, unconditional love like God has for us. It is the highest and most powerful kind of love. This love isn’t a romantic love (eros) or familial love (storge) or even brotherly love (philia). It is less about feelings/emotions and more about love in action.

Agape is also defined as a “love-feast.” I just love that part of the definition because I immediately think of the Lord’s Supper. When Jesus instituted this celebration of communion on the same night that he washed the disciples’ feet, he gave us a very tangible symbol of the proof of his love for us on the cross. Every time we celebrate the Lord’s Supper, we remember Jesus’ agape love for us and as we remember, we call to mind his commandment to “love one another” just as he has loved us. Jesus is commanding the disciples (and he is commanding us) to care for and serve each other as he cared for and served them (and us). We are to put our love into action as we care for and serve each other.

Prayer: Father, we remember the tremendous agape love that you have shown for us by sacrificing Jesus to save us. We ask you, Lord, to remind us also of your commandment “to love one another.” Inspire us and equip us to show your agape love in tangible ways to those around us.

Amen.

Action/Reflection: Let’s put love into action today by asking ourselves these questions: A.M. – How can I go through my day with love? Who can I show love to today?

P.M. – How well did I love today? Who did I love today? How did I show love today?

Contributor: Marty Cook

44

FRIDAY, APRIL 10 Good Friday Scripture: When he reached the place, he said to them, “Pray that you may not come into the time of trial. Then he withdrew from them about a stone’s throw, knelt down, and prayed, “Father, if you are willing, remove this cup from me; yet, not my will but yours be done.” Then an angel from heaven appeared to him and gave him strength. In his anguish he prayed more earnestly, and his sweat became like great drops of blood falling down on the ground. When he got up from prayer, he came to the disciples and found them sleeping because of grief, and he said to them, “Why are you sleeping? Get up and pray that you may not come into the time of trial.” Luke 22:40-46 Thursday had ended with the Son of God praying so hard in the garden that his sweat became drops of blood. He went very quickly from being heralded by the crowds to being very alone.

Coldly alone. Often in silence, he stood before them all; Annas. Caiaphas. The Sanhedrin. Herod.

Pilate. The heralds had become mobsters. The trials were illegal by law – held under the cloak of darkness with no counsel for the defense and no legitimate witnesses. Found guilty, nonetheless.

The voices of “Hosanna” to the son of David had turned to clamors of “crucify” the imposter.

Then he was brutalized. “The governor’s soldiers took Jesus into the Praetorium and gathered the whole company of soldiers around him. They stripped him and put a scarlet robe on him, and then twisted together a crown of thorns and set it on his head. They put a staff in his right hand. Then they knelt in front of him and mocked him. ‘Hail, king of the Jews!’ they said. They spit on him, and took the staff and struck him on the head again and again. After they had mocked him, they took off the robe and put his own clothes on him. Then they led him away to crucify him.” (Matthew 27:27-32) And that they did. The scene was so unbearable that God shut his eyes causing it to become dark at midday. An earthquake assaulted the physical temple that he said would be replaced by a living one. Even while asking his dad why he was left alone, Jesus saved one more lost soul, looked to his mother with heartfelt love and cried in one last breath, “It is finished.”

I would humbly argue only partly finished. The full promise not yet realized, soon will be. We call that hope. We call that night becoming dawn. We call that Good Friday. And Sunday is coming soon.

Prayer: Lord Jesus, you carried our sins in your own body on the cross, so that we might have life. May we, and all who remember and reflect on your wondrous cross this day, find new life in your sacrificial love. Amen.

Action/Reflection: Read and reflect on John 18-19 today.

Contributor: Dwight Jacobs

45

SATURDAY, APRIL 11 In-Between Scripture: God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging. There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God, the holy place where the Most High dwells. God is within her, she will not fall; God will help her at break of day. Nations are in uproar, kingdoms fall; he lifts his voice, the earth melts. The Lord Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress. Come and see what the Lord has done, the desolations he has brought on the earth. He makes wars cease to the ends of the earth. He breaks the bow and shatters the spear; he burns the shields with fire.

He says, “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.” The Lord Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress.

Psalm 46 It’s the day after Jesus has been crucified on a cross. They thought he was the one – the King, the Messiah they had been waiting for. The one who would make right the things that were wrong.

But now he’s gone.

I often imagine what it must have been like for Jesus’s followers on that day. I imagine how they must have felt when they woke up that morning (if they slept at all), likely questioning, “Did that really happen or was it just a dream?” They were probably exhausted. And confused. And discouraged. And afraid. And so many other things…

Today, we have the benefit of knowing the rest of the story. Tomorrow is a day of celebration and joy! But today – we live “in-between.” In-between the tragedy of Good Friday and the victory of Easter. The reality of Good Friday is still echoing in our hearts and minds. And tomorrow can’t get here fast enough. But Saturday is just as important as Friday and Sunday.

Saturday helps me to remember how important it is to be still, and know that God is always at least a step ahead of me. Even when it feels like the waters around me are rising, and the mountains appear to be shaking…I need to be still and remember who God is.

On Saturday, the disciples had no idea what was about to happen. Holy Saturday is our time to be still, and remember. Living “in-between” doesn’t always feel comfortable, but we know the rest of the story – and so we wait with hope!

Prayer: Oh God, our hearts are heavy as we remember all that you have endured. Be with us as we sit quietly in the “in-between.” We wait and pray with thankful hearts. Amen.

Action/Reflection: Take time throughout the day to be still, and remember.

Contributor: Patsy Sorrell

46

47

SUNDAY WORSHIP TIMES 8:15 a.m.

Traditional (Sanctuary) 9:30 a.m.

Praise and Worship (Sanctuary) 10:10 a.m.

Acoustic Praise and Worship (Family Life Center)

Weddington Campus 13901 Providence Rd Weddington, NC 28104 Bonds Grove Campus 8215 Bonds Grove Church Rd Waxhaw, NC 28173

11:00 a.m.

Traditional (Sanctuary) 11:00 a.m.

Traditional (Bonds Grove Campus)

Monroe Campus 520 Engleside St Monroe, NC 28110 Weddington Christian Counseling Center 9914 New Town Rd, Marvin, NC 28173 tgibson.wcc@weddingtonchurch.org 704.814.4220 Weddington Christian Preschool Ages 2-5 | 704.849.7628

6:00 p.m.

Bilingual Worship (Monroe Campus) 4:00 p.m.

Waltonwood Retirement Community 704.846.1032 www.weddingtonchurch.org

Weddington Christian Academy JK-8th grade | 704.846.1039

EASTER S U N D A Y

Holy Thursday 7:00 p.m. | Sanctuary

Good Friday 7:00 p.m. | Sanctuary

Easter Sunday 7:00 a.m. Sunrise Service | Cemetery Entrance 8:00 a.m., 9:30 a.m., 11:00 a.m. | Sanctuary 10:10 a.m. | Family Life Center 11:00 a.m. Bonds Grove | 6:00 p.m. Monroe Campus