JESUS COMES TO: CHALLENGE US CONFRONT US DIE FOR US

MIDVALE COMMUNITY LUTHERAN CHURCH LENT DEVOTIONAL 2018 2018 Lent Schedule

Wednesdays During Lent February 14 - March 21

10:15am -- 11:15am Adult Lenten Experience (Fellowship Hall) 11:30am -- 12:00pm Worship - Service of the Word (Worship Space) 12:00pm -- 12:45pm Meal

4:45pm -- 5:00pm All-Ages Opening & Music (Worship Space) 5:00pm -- 5:30pm All-Ages Lenten Experience (Worship Space)

5:15pm -- 6:15pm Meal (Fellowship Hall)

6:30pm -- 7:00pm Worship - Holden Evening Prayer (Worship Space) 7:00pm -- 8:00pm Adult Lenten Experience

SHARE highs and lows. READ the daily devotion. TALK about how the reading might relate to your highs and lows or your life today. PRAY for one another, giving thanks for the highs, and asking for help with the lows. BLESS one another, using this blessing or one of your own: As you trace the sign of the cross on each other’s forehead, say, “(Name), may you follow the path of Jesus.” Midvale Community Lutheran Church Lent Devotional 2018

JESUS COMES TO: CHALLENGE US CONFRONT US DIE FOR US

Our 2018 Lenten theme explores how Jesus challenges us to put God first in our lives, confronts us with the power of Jesus’ grace and mercy, and shows us how Jesus died for us and how Jesus’ death gives us power and purpose in our lives.

This devotional is the fruit of the faith of our community. Over the next seven weeks you will read the reflections of over forty of our members. They share, through lifting up a Bible verse, song, or experience, the ways in which Jesus comes to us. Sometimes it is challenging, sometimes encouraging, but at all times, it is a reflection of God’s love for us and of God’s hope to shape us into the people God desires us to be.

There are many ways to use this devotional. This year we particularly encourage you to use a tool called the “Faith 5.” This five-step method is also being used in our Wednesday Lent experiences. You are encouraged to do this with others in your home, or if you live alone, you can adapt it for your own use – or perhaps invite a prayer partner to join you in this by phone each day. It can last a little as 5 minutes (another meaning of the “5”) or as long as you want. In whatever way you use it, we hope you find this devotional and the Faith 5 tool a way to deepen your connection to Jesus and to others in our congregation.

In Christ,

Pastor Blake Rohrer and Pastor Katie Baardseth Ash Wednesday, February 14, 2018 I grew up in a large family. There was mom, dad, 3 sisters, a brother, a grandmother and great-grandma. Every Sunday all 9 of us piled into 2 cars and off we’d go to worship and Sunday School. Even on the Sundays when my orthopedic surgeon father spent the night on call, he would drive up the drive and a few of us would wait to hop in and get to church a few minutes behind mom and the rest. Our favorite hymn as a family was “Beautiful Savior.” I still remember my older sister at age 13 singing the last verse with tears in her eyes: “Beautiful Savior, Lord of the nations, Son of God and Son of Man! Glory and honor, praise, adoration, now and forevermore be thine!” Seventeen years later, my eyes well-up with those same tears as we sang; “Fair are the meadows, fair are the woodlands, robed in flow’rs of blooming spring; Jesus is fairer, Jesus is purer, he makes our sorroing spirits sing.” The church was full to over-flowing as our family walked in behind my sister’s and her two son’s caskets. My spirit was weary with grief and sorrow. How would my spirit ever sing again? How? By the voices and words and prayers and embraces of so many - not just on that week before Christmas but in the weeks and months that followed. Years later I was asked to preach at Springfield Lutheran’s 150th Anniversary. I began my sermon by stating that it was their love and prayers that kept me in the faith during the years following my sister and her family’s deaths. As we walk through these Lenten days, we realize that for many in our society the observance of these holy events does not make sense. We also know that belief in Christ as “Beautiful Savior” - Redeemer of the world - requires a high level of faith and trust. How is it possible to have such a faith, such a trust to sing with our whole being: Fair is the sunshine, fair is the moonlight, bright the sparkling stars on high; Jesus shines brighter, Jesus shines purer, than all the angels in the sky!”? How? By the voices and words and prayers and love of a community of faith called Midvale Community Lutheran. That’s how!

May this prayer be yours and mine this Lent: Beautiful Savior, Lord of the nations, you are the only source of life and health and healing. You alone can bring peace and calm to me. Grant me an awareness of your presence and a strong confidence and faith in you. In my pain, weariness and anxiety, surround me with your care. Protect me by your loving might and grant me once again the gifts of your grace, love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness and compassion, this day, and forever. AMEN. George H. Bauman February 15, 2018 “The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light. For those who lived in a land of deep shadows— light! sunbursts of light!” - Isaiah 9:2-3 (The Message) It is no accident, no co-incidence that Lent falls during the darkest time of the year. Lent mirrors our world and often our own lives. We often feel like we are walking in darkness, we feel like our world is stuck in a dark place. But as people of hope we anticipate the Light coming. We read Scripture, we meditate on the writings of old and of contemporary thinkers and we summon up the hope - Light is coming, the resurrection is about to burst into our world, into our lives. We are People of Light, we have been redeemed by the One who is the Great Light and we are becoming a reflection of that Light - we become People of Light. And as we reflect that Light, we become light ourselves. Lights of truth, lights of hope, lights of joy in a dark world, and in the darkness that threatens those around us. Furthermore, as we come together, and our small, individual lights join with others, we become a reflection of that Great Light, piercing the darkness, “sunbursts (and Sonbursts) of Light!” We are Easter People, we are People of Light, we anticipate with growing joy, the coming of The Light, into our lives, into our homes and families, into the world around us!

As you walk in darkness these days and weeks of winter, may you anticipate with joy, the coming of the Light! May you recognize the Light that is already within you and may it shine in you and through you, may we individually, and as a body of believers, light up the world around us with hope, with peace, with joy! Dotti Weiss February 16, 2018 Role Models Several decades ago someone asked me who my role models were in life. I was caught off guard by the question, and spent a number of days pondering my response. Then, one day, I was watching television, and…. He was a minister, a Presbyterian minister in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He was a television minister. His name was Fred Rogers. In researching his career, I learned that he had only ever pastored a single congregation, but in time that congregation had grown to hundreds, then thousands, then tens of thousands of members. His congregation was known simply as Mister Rogers Neighborhood. My role model taught me to treat others the way Jesus treated others. His benediction was ever “You are my friend; you are special.” A recent study of the Gospel of Luke afforded me the opportunity to watch Jesus in action, with the impoverished, the ill and infirmed, and the outcast. As I read Jesus’ words to these people, I could hear him say, “You are my friend; you are special.” In the decades that have followed my identification of Mr. Rogers as a role model, I have met many fellow Christians who, consciously or unconsciously, go through life letting other people know that “You are my friend; you are special.” Later in Luke’s gospel, a persistent group of children surrounded Jesus (Luke 18:15-17). The disciples apparently did not see these children as sufficiently important to command Jesus’ attention. But Jesus rebuked his disciples: “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.” As a relatively new member of Midvale Community Lutheran Church, I observe the inclusiveness of a variety of people groups, particularly children and young people. In our actions toward them, they may well sense that we are saying to them, “You are our friends, you are special.” In God’s plan, these special children and young people will never forget this. Before I finished my study of Luke, I encountered the account of Jesus’ crucifixion (Luke 23:32-43). Mostly, I noticed the words of the criminal hanging on the cross adjacent to God, teach Jesus: “Jesus, remember me when you come me to affirm into your kingdom” to which Jesus replied, all who are “Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in special in your paradise.” In these words spoken by Jesus on kingdom. the most difficult day of his life, I couldn’t help Amen. but hear Jesus say to this criminal, “You are my Bill Weiss friend; you are special.” February 17, 2018

What Midvale Means to Me I look in my heart And begin to see, Over the years, What Midvale has meant to me. From a child, To a man, Helping me be, The best that I can. The interactions, With others I know, Helping me, To live and grow. A church so good, In this Lenten season, Gives me hope, And a reason. Making me humble, Making me good, Becoming the person, That I should. So over the years, Midvale’s been there, Helping me to love, And to care.

Dylan Abraham February 18, 2018 My 4th grade teacher said to our class one day, “Raise your hand if you are going to heaven.” My parents were Christians and our family was active in the church. I was the 4th of 5 children spaced over 16 years. We all attended Trinity Lutheran School (K-8) in Bloomington, Illinois. When Mrs. Read told our class to raise our hand if we were going to heaven, not one of her 30 students raised our hand. Wow, did she ever get upset with us! Twenty minutes later when she asked us again, we all raised our hand. Mrs. Read reminded us how we are all sinners. But she also reminded us of the great love God has for each of us and how he gave his son, Jesus, to pay for every sin we had done or every will do. All we need to do is believe that Jesus died for our sins and we will be in heaven with God when we die. There is nothing we can do to earn our entrance to heaven. Jesus has done everything for us. I was 9 years old at that time. I had attended weekly church services, Sunday school, and five years at Trinity but I did not realize until that day in 4th grade that I will be in heaven. I thank God for the great love he has for me. I also know that my family, house, job, food, and everything are gifts from God that I need to use responsibly. If I would die today I know that I will be in heaven because of what God has done. Paul in his letter to the Romans says, “This righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference, for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.” Romans 3:22-24. “Jesus was delivered over to death for our sins and was raised to life for our justification.” Romans 4:25 Jesus said, “For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life.” John 3:16

Almighty God, thank you for giving us your Son. We pray that we continue to reach out to others that do not know you. We pray through Jesus Christ. Amen. Dale Miller My wife Sue and I joined Midvale Community Lutheran Church in October 2017. Favorite quote: “You can’t out give God.” February 19, 2018 My song is love unknown, My Savior’s love to me; Love to the loveless shown, That they might lovely be. O who am I, That for my sake My Lord should take Frail flesh, and die?

Who am I? I’m a person who has been granted blessings too many to count. A person that is grateful for all these gifts, yet at times I seem to forget the fortunes that have been given to me. I have received kindness from family, friends, and strangers, but don’t always seek out opportunities to bestow kindness to others. Although I have provided generosity to my neighbors, there are a hundred-fold opportunities that I have declined. My wants and immediate needs get in the way. Impatience and moods take precedence over concern and empathy. I know I can do better, but sometimes I just don’t even care to try.

Who am I? I’m the person for whose sake God gave up his only Son to die. The same person that is undeserving, unappreciative, and imperfect. God recognizes my flaws and accepts me as I am. I can’t begin to understand God’s Grace, but I feel better knowing that in spite of me, God loves me and forgives my iniquities.

Who are you?

Mike Opacich February 20, 2018 He said, “Go out and stand on the mountain before the Lord, for the Lord is about to pass by.” Now there was a great wind, so strong that it was splitting mountains and breaking rocks in pieces before the Lord, but the Lord was not in the wind; and after the wind an earthquake, but the Lord was not in the earthquake; and after the earthquake a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire; and after the fire a sound of sheer silence. When Elijah heard it, he wrapped his face in his mantle and went out and stood at the entrance of the cave. Then there came a voice to him that said, “What are you doing here, Elijah?” - 1 Kings 19:11-13 I love these verses with the message that sometimes God is in the silence. There are many places in the Bible where God guides His people with something more tangible, like a pillar of fire or a star, or perhaps He speaks from a burning bush or sets a rainbow in the sky. But here God was in the silence. In August 1998 I went on a hiking trip with a small group in the Canadian Rockies. One of the most memorable days was our hike in the Bald Hills in Jasper National Park. We had a beautiful view of Maligne Lake as we hiked uphill, especially when we got above the tree line. When we reached the third (and final) summit, our leader suggested that we all sit down, close our eyes and just listen. It was a beautiful late summer day and after we all got comfortable, I could hear the wind moving through the long grass. There were no traffic noises or other distractions, just the sounds of God’s creation. In the distance I heard the cry of a hawk as it swooped down on its prey. And I heard the whistling sounds made by the hoary marmots in the valley below us. When we opened our eyes we were all smiling. Listening to the silence was an amazing experience. Sometimes God is in the silence. God has given me many gifts but unlike Elijah, I do not have the gift of discernment. Certainly it would be much easier for me if God were in the great wind, or the earthquake or the fire, or a text message or an email or even a post on Facebook. But sometimes God is in the silence, and I know that I must listen carefully for Him.

Dear Lord, thank you for being there to guide us. Help us to listen carefully, especially in the silence, to discern Your will. Amen. Joe Johnson I’m a software engineer, and when I’m not working (or playing) on a computer I’m probably running, biking, swimming, reading or singing in a German men’s choir. In my spare time I’m learning Japanese. February 21, 2018 Lent is all about suffering and prayer. In a weird way that’s super refreshing. It’s a great reminder that Jesus was like us. He suffered. I’m wonderful at creating lots of my own needless suffering. My own daily desert. I worry about my family’s health. I worry what people will think of me. I always worry about money. And it seems like I’m always a bit tense some place in my body. I have to remember to take deep relaxing breaths. Jesus suffered too. How did he handle it? He prayed, a lot. I need to do more of that. Whenever I pray, breathe, be aware of my Spirit, God helps me deal with the suffering. We’re not alone here. God is a powerful, always-on presence within us. Midvale Lutheran is also a powerful presence. We’re so lucky to have a community that cares. In just two years I’ve met many amazing, giving people. That love feeds my soul even when I’m in my own personal desert.

I’m not sure what I’m doing with this passage or often in life, let us enjoy life, let us wake up with love, walk with love, eat with love, worry with love and hug with love. Amen. Dave Kruse Loves finding his way through life with family, friends and Midvale, sometimes walking, often tripping and falling, then walking some more. February 22, 2018 “When a foreigner resides among you in your land, do not mistreat them. The foreigner residing among you must be treated as your native-born. Love them as yourself, for you were foreigners in Egypt. I am the LORD your God.” - Leviticus 19:33- 34 “I was a stranger and you welcomed me” - Matthew 25: 35 As we enjoy the relative tranquility of our lives, human tragedies, large and small, unfold in the world around us. Lutherans have long stood up for the powerless – the displaced and disenfranchised – often when it was not popular to do so. Since its founding in 1939, the Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service (LIRS) has helped resettle more than a half-million immigrants and refugees. In Wisconsin, Lutheran ministries for the needy have been active at least since 1882, with the opening of an orphanage in Wittenberg, Wisconsin. Our work is not done. We can do more, not necessarily by increasing our offerings, but in ways that cost nothing but can mean so much – to treat our neighbors with compassion and respect, to say hello or offer a smile, to speak truth to power, to not remain silent in the face of hate and anger – in short, to live as Jesus has taught us. Many of our immigrant brothers and sisters face lives we may find hard to imagine. They live in the shadows, fearful that a knock on their door may split up their families and change their lives forever. Some are cheated by their employers who know they cannot report them for fear of being “outed.” Many of their children have done well in school, but cannot continue their education because student loans are not available to them. Many work on dairy farms, milking twice a day, every day, for wages most would not accept, and drive with the fear of knowing they cannot obtain a driver’s license because they lack documentation but have no other way to get to work. Whatever their backgrounds, whatever their stories, they are our neighbors, our brothers and sisters, they are us. Think of our own families, if not today, perhaps one or two generations in the past, when our parents and grandparents – as immigrants – faced many of the same uncertainties and fears that today’s immigrants face. Many of us have in our own collection of family stories warm memories of acts of kindness or empathy that helped our loved ones assimilate and adjust. Let us do for others what many have already done for us. Gracious Lord, there are many in Your world today who have been forced from their homes by persecution and violence or who have made our communities their home but are faced with removal to places they have never known. Keep them in your constant care, and bring them to a place of safety. Be the Deliverer to them so they may find a place of peace and safety for themselves and their love ones. Help those who fear and demonize our immigrant brothers and sisters to see opportunity rather than risk and understand our common humanity which makes us stronger and not weaker. Give each of us the strength and wisdom to reach out to these neighbors, to welcome and comfort them. Be the Lord of lords to all the earth, that those who rule would do so in justice and righteousness so that no one would have to become an immigrant or refugee ever again. We ask these things in the name of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. Ben Kempinen Social Ministry Committee Chairperson February 23, 2018 “Be still, and know that I am God! I am exalted among the nations, I am exalted in the earth.” The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge. - Psalm 46 Steam rises from my coffee cup, but my eyes focus on the phrase embedded near the top, “Be still and know I am God” Psalm 46:10. When wrestling with issues, I am not a big fan of clichés as I question the sincerity that can sound shrill. But, “be still and know I am God” is a phrase that rocks my world. Just before Christmas. I was informed that my job will be terminated. Be still and know that I am God looks back at me as I reflect on my future. Be still and know that I am God mocks my desire to pound on my chest and be filled with “righteous” indignation. It asks me who are you boasting your recognized skills, honors and reputation. It silences my screams of anguish when I hear about someone doing that thing to those over there. It chastises me. It reminds me I do not have the right to judge. Lastly, it is a quiet, yet firm reminder I am not alone. Be still and know I am God, is quiet reassurance I am not alone as I go about helping myself. It gives perspective as I plan for my future and promises that God will be with me as I work to support my family. It assures me that God, in all aspects of the Trinity, will be with me as I look for funding or go out and try to find a job. I know I need to address those issues that are of concern. But, be still and know I am God puts things into perspective. It offers hope that things do work, not according to my will and how I envision the world, but according to God’s. It reminds me I cannot claim any good, for God has done it all, I am but the vehicle. This is a hard saying. I freely admit there are times when it is a moment-by-moment struggle to lightly hold onto those things that are part of my life so I do not crush them, or separate them from others or my God. Then I read Psalm 46:11. I feel the relief, the joy and tears of shame for doubting, as I realize that God is not done with me and I am in process.

May your “Be still and know that I am God” moments be ones that give you peace and help deepen your relationships. A. Nelse Grundvig February 24, 2018 At that time Jesus said, “I praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little children. Yes, Father, for this is what you were pleased to do. - Matthew 11:25-26 I have recently been considering what it means to be a part of an intergenerational community like the church and all the blessings that it provides. So many aspects of our lives are isolated from people in other stages of life. Our children spend their days in school or daycare. Adults are working. But the church is that rare place where people in all stages of life come together. As my own children grow, I am trying to learn how to live my faith and to teach them. But I don’t always know how. There is great value for me and my children in meeting, getting to know, and learning from others in the church, both older and younger. And maybe others can learn from my children too. In our turbulent times, it becomes even more important to commit to teaching our children, living love, and walking with each other. I give thanks for every member of our community and the gifts they bring and share with each other. We have so much to learn from one another.

Lord God, help all of us, from every generation, remember to come together in your name to teach and learn from one another. Amen. Marita Herkert-Oakland Marita and her husband Eric have been members of Midvale for five years. They have two children, Miles and Afton, who keep them on their toes. Marita is a co-chair of the Child and Youth Education Committee and she enjoys getting to know so many of the wonderful Midvale families. February 25, 2018 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 I have this silly memory from when I was in my college years. I was at a party and a friend of mine said something random that made everyone in the room start cracking up. My friend didn’t even realize he had said something funny. He sat there a second, smiled a big smile and said “I guess that was pretty good of me that I said that.” That made me laugh even more! I like the idea that we can offer something good to the world without thinking too much about it and without keeping tabs on it. Yes, God wants us to do good deeds and love our neighbor and help others. He wants us to fill the world with love and kindness and acceptance. But we are also reminded that this isn’t our ticket for receiving his love and acceptance. Doing good works is not meant to pump us up and make us feel more worthy. God’s grace already handles that for us. When I start getting in my head about all of this, I like to remind myself that God does it all. I can just continue to do my best to be his arms and voice in the world. I can move myself out of the way and just keep spreading his love as often as I’m able (and Lord knows we aren’t always able). Then maybe at the very end, we can take a look at all of God’s love that we helped to spread around the world, and without thinking too hard about it, say “I guess that was pretty good of me that I did that.” I think God will be okay with that. :)

Dear Lord, just as an instrument feels no pride in the music that the musician is creating, help me remember every day that you are the artist and that I can be a powerful instrument of your love. Marie Nordeng I’m currently working part time as a “Play and Learn” assistant with toddlers. I’ve been in child care for as long as I can remember and have three lovely school-aged kids of my own. I’m also currently running a program on kindness and acceptance for middle schoolers. This is my favorite thing to do on the planet. February 26, 2018 In their hands they shall bear you up, lest you dash your foot against a stone. And Jesus answered and said to him,’It has been said, you shall not tempt the Lord your God.’ - Luke 4:11-12 In the early parts of Chapter 4 of Luke we learn of the three temptations Satan presents to Jesus. Verses 1-13 describe the final steps in Jesus’ preparation for public ministry just before he returns to Galilee to begin preaching. During study for this devotion I reflected on the intense focus and clarity of purpose Jesus must have possessed after spending 40 days alone and fasting in the desert. At my previous workplace (Intervarsity Christian Fellowship) I had several co-workers who fasted on a regular basis, albeit of much shorter duration. They reported not only a cleansing of the body from fasting, but also a purity of the mind. I remember a seminar speaker who shared some profound spiritual insights gained while he was on a long-term fast in a desert of the Southwest. I was reminded of the blessed gifts of calm and centering that can come from retreat and solitude – and in Jesus’ case, fasting. In Luke 4:11-13, the third temptation Satan puts before Jesus is even cloaked in Hebrew scripture (Psalm 91:111-12). But Jesus resists and replies with, “The Scriptures also say, ‘Do not put the Lord your God to a foolish test.’” (The Living Bible) Sheldon Tostengard, in Exploring the Yearly Lectionary (Series C), says, “Jesus’ answer makes it clear that we cannot expect to have God on our own terms”. Tostengard further says, we are not to “take for granted some divine blessing on whatever we do and say”: These passages in the 4th chapter of Luke show that Jesus was strongly tempted – just as we are today. In my The Word in Life Study Bible reference I read that, “temptation is not sin, but giving in is.” Jesus resisted and did not sin. Because Jesus did have very real temptations, he is able to understand our feelings – and how to do what is right in spite of them. Because He was able to resist, He is able to help us do the same.

Lord, help me to resist the sometimes blatant, sometimes subtle temptation tugs that come my way daily. As you resisted, so supply me with the desire to resist. How perfect was God’s plan to have you, his Son, be tempted so that you can help me be strong. Not only can you help me resist, but you know the conflicting feelings that can snare me into giving in to temptation. How comforting to be assured that you understand, Lord. Amen. Jo Anderson February 27, 2018 Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. - John 14:27 In these troubling and confusing times, it’s easy to have a mindset of negativity. I watch the nightly news and think to myself, “How can this be happening?!” It’s easy to feel like I don’t understand people and things are out of control. When I find myself focusing on negative thoughts, I try to take a deep breath, think of something good, and thank God for that good thing. It could be as simple as a sunny morning, a slice of buttered toast, a warm soft blanket, the smell of fresh laundry, or a favorite song on the radio. I then challenge myself to think of as many good things as I can, all day long. And then I’m thanking God all day long for those small gifts. Thinking of and seeing good cultivates gratitude and helps me feel God’s constant love and care for me. At the grocery store recently, I asked the check out clerk how he was doing and he said was having a bad day. I empathized and then asked if he could think of one good thing - just one tiny good thing. I knew he was having a really bad day, because it took him a while to come up with something. He finally replied “knowing that we exist in a world where there are puppies.” I agreed wholeheartedly, and we talked about how awesome puppies are. (We decided everyone should have free and easy access to puppies at all times.) I walked away thanking God for that young man (and puppies!) and praying for him. I’m not sure if our conversation helped him, but I hope it was a little bright spot in his day.

Dear Lord, I give you my troubles and ask for peace. Thank you for allowing me to experience the good around me. Help me to see your work in the world and appreciate the small mercies you show me every day. Thank you for loving and caring for me! Amy Ochsner February 28, 2018 For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our LORD. - Romans 8:38-39 I picked this verse when I was getting confirmed with the church I grew up in and since then it has stuck with me. I had friends that were leaving the church and questioning their faith after confirmation as they did not feel as though they fit the mold that was pressed upon us and I kept sharing this verse. I had the privilege to have a conversation and based it off of this verse specifically to let those around me know that nothing will ever separate you from the love of God. There is forgiveness through Jesus as we are reminded during Lent that he died to pay for our sins. God does things with our lives so that we may learn more what being a Christian is about as well as help those around us see what God is doing. I came to Midvale a year ago after some church hopping and found myself being greeted with open arms and it was a “come as you are” congregation. They embraced those who were new as if they have been around for a long time. It’s been a place where I felt the power of God’s love through the people and the meaning of what it’s like to be a child of God. One of the first sermons I remember talked about how God wants us to come to Him and no matter what His love would know no end.

Heavenly Father, thank you for sending your Son to pay the price for my sins so that I may know Your love. Remind me that no matter what happens in this world that nothing will ever keep me from receiving Your love that is in Christ Jesus. May this season of Lent be a time of reflection and self discovery of how I can continue to do Your work with my hands and the hands of those around me. In Jesus name I pray, Amen. Kendrick Conklin March 1, 2018 Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you. - Luke 6:38 Generosity comes in many forms. Many of us think of being generous in terms of money. However there is something more valuable than money that we can give to others – our time and our love. Time spent with others is more precious than gold. When we think of our family or loved ones, even those who have gone before, our memories are full of time spent together – talking, working, sharing, laughing, and just “being” together. I recall with fondness the time spent with my family members on the farm at family meals, helping weed the garden, pulling wild mustard from a field or our Sunday afternoon hikes in the hills after morning church. My husband shared with me after church recently that one of our members had invited a couple who were looking for a church home to visit Midvale. He was introduced to them along with some other members. One of the current members shared that her Circle was meeting soon and invited the lady to join them. The visitor replied that she would love to do that. This was an example of someone offering to share not only their home but their time with the visitor. I remember when my husband and I first visited Midvale, Pastor Katie sent us a welcoming note the following week and then she offered to spend some time with us to answer questions and share information which made a lasting impression on us. Having served on the Care Team at Midvale and my former church, I can attest to the fact that sharing time with those who may be either shut-ins or who do not get out much is a blessing – not only for those being visited but for those who visit them. So – if you know there is someone who is hurting, grieving, in pain or seeming a little lost – call them, visit them, send them an e-mail or hug them. GIVE OF YOUR TIME to others. It will come back to you in more ways than you can imagine.

Dear God, Help me to remember and be thankful for time spent with others. Show me the way to joyfully share my time and love with those who are in need. I have been so blessed by others, help me to be a blessing to them. Amen Georgia Manning 38 years of service with the State of Wisconsin, 6 years of various part-time jobs after retirement. I enjoy baking, reading, singing and spending time with family and friends. March 2, 2018 Your love has given me great joy and encouragement. - Philemon 1:7 Every Sunday as I sit in church and focus on the cross outside the window on Midvale Blvd., I feel thankful for Jesus’ love, forgiveness and mercy. This love and mercy is also manifested in the love shown to me and others by the people at Midvale Community Lutheran Church. It is shown not only by the pastors and other leaders at the church but by congregation members. This love and kindness is shown by the following: · The time and talents of our youth as they assist and participate in the worship service · Members who share their love of Christ through dance · The choir who sings songs to the glory of God · Ushers and Greeters who assist us and make people feel welcome · Our Lenten services where we have learning and worship time. · Baptism of not only babies but adults into the Kingdom of God · Bible studies that stretch our minds and our souls · Our church Council and other committees who work diligently behind the scenes to make sure Midvale is able to continue functioning and make a difference in so many lives. · Outreach to people outside our church community who are in need of love, shelter, food and much more · MCLC staff – all of whom work long and diligently so that we may all experience the love that is manifested in its’ members showing that love to the world. · Adult Forums I would be remiss if I did not mention my Grandma Manning who made a lasting impact on my life and showed me love and kindness by living that love for others. My life has been blessed beyond expectation by the love given to me by my wife and our blended families. It is important to me that I live that love and kindness by loving and serving others.

Lord Jesus I thank you for all the blessings recognized and those I failed to recognize. Amen Michael Manning Retired from a 47 year career in Wisconsin Public Schools. I enjoy golf, walking, reading, spending time with family and friends. March 3, 2018 I was there to hear your borning cry, In the middle ages of your life, I’ll be there when you are old. not too old, no longer young, I rejoiced the day you were baptized, I’ll be there to guide you through the night, to see your life unfold. complete what I’ve begun. I was there when you were but a child, When the evening gently closes in, with a faith to suit you well; and you shut your weary eyes, In a blaze of light you wandered off I’ll be there as I have always been to find where demons dwell. with just one more surprise. When you heard the wonder of the Word I was there to hear your borning cry, I was there to cheer you on; I’ll be there when you are old. You were raised to praise the living Lord, I rejoiced the day you were baptized, to whom you now belong. to see your life unfold. If you find someone to share your time and you join your hearts as one, I’ll be there to make your verses rhyme from dusk ‘till rising sun. “I Was There to Hear Your Borning Cry” is a hymn that takes on special significance in our family. Our close friend Donna Thompson sang this at my baptism, and 20 years later she sang it at the baptisms of my wife Maimouna and daughter Francoise. It’s a hymn that travels through some of the happiest and most beautiful moments of life, such as birth and marriage, and also some of the most difficult, when “the evening gently closes in.” In a similar way, the season of Lent is like this; a journey that culminates in the central promise of our faith, Christ’s resurrection, but also includes Christ’s arrest and crucifixion. During this season of reflection, meditation, and anticipation, the stories of our lives will add a few more pages. Some will be happy, some will be sad, some and perhaps many will not be especially memorable. Regardless, this hymn is a reminder that God is with us and loves us during every chapter of our life.

God, thank you for your infinite presence in my life. Thank you for rejoicing, for cheering me on, for guiding me, and for always having one more surprise. John Ziegler John, his wife Maimouna, and their daughter Francoise became members at Midvale in 2016. John is a student at UW and enjoys reading, writing, and spending time with his family. March 4, 2018 And God said, “This is the sign of the covenant that I make between me and you and every living creature that is with you, for all future generations: I have set my bow in the cloud, and it shall be a sign of the covenant between me and the earth. - Genesis 9:12-13 Getting up this morning to shovel the first real snow fall of 2018, I didn’t expect to see any rainbows in the sky reminding me of God’s promise to Noah and all living creatures. So are there other places that God manifests this promise and commitment to love and be with his people? Sometimes it becomes increasingly difficult for me to find glimpses of God in the day to day. By turning on the radio to catch the morning news, by picking up the newspaper to read the headlines, by watching TV coverage of the day’s events - it can all be so disheartening. But that doesn’t mean that God isn’t present and working through us - I’m just looking in the wrong places for the rainbow. At school the other day a young lady in my study hall lent her iPhone charger to a young man of a different race. She then went across the hall to the culinary class. When she got back at the end of the period to gather her belongings, she encountered the young man waiting for her. He wanted to make sure that she received her charger back and personally thank her for letting him borrow it. He could have simply set it down by her things and left with his friends but he chose to wait and return it personally. I saw a rainbow that day in that encounter between the boy and the girl and it uplifted me for the remainder of the day. Whenever I see kind words and acts of kindness between strangers, I see rainbows. It is so easy to be friendly and helpful to our own friends and family members, but what about those among us whose story we don’t know - could God be asking us to work on his behalf by providing a kind word or gesture? The next time you are looking for God up in the sky in the form of a rainbow, create your own rainbow interaction down here on earth.

Karen Diemer-Toney March 5, 2018 I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me. - Galatians 2:20 For a long time I was alone and everyday instead of questioning God I prayed that I would wait for what’s best for me in a friend, partner and maybe as a husband. Time passed and my prayer changed to God asking for him to fill my soul, my emptiness and to help me be patient. Time passed and my circumstances changed. My day- to-day time commitments as a single mother changed as my daughter went off to college and I spent more time helping others and finding time to listen for God. Time passed and instead of demanding an answer from God I opened my heart and made more room for God and others. Time passed. God guided me to someone wonderful. Time passed. Everyday my prayer to God was to ensure my insecurities, worries and love wouldn’t be hurt, even though I know God loves me and would help me through the journey of this relationship. I kindly reminded God several times that it would be okay if I were to be alone if this person wasn’t for me. I know how to be alone. Time passed. The prayer was said for over a year. I shared my insecurities and worries with God because he lives in me and understands my history, my school girl shy and over analytic ways. I share my life with God as he gave himself for me. I share this story to never stop believing, God is listening and knows when you’re ready, even though you’re over-anxious and wanting answers. Midvale Community Lutheran Church made this story possible. Even though it’s a personal journey in prayer, the church is our weekly check-in with God, family and ourselves and where our relationship is going. People at Midvale continue to embrace us, love us and take where we were when the journey started and are in the moment accepting us as individuals and as a couple. God put people in our path and gave us the ability to grow in Christ, within ourselves and as a couple about to be married.

Aimee Pflughoeft March 6, 2018 At that very time there were some present who told Jesus about the Galileans whose blood Pilate had mingled with their sacrifices. He asked them, “Do you think that because these Galileans suffered in this way they were worse sinners than all other Galileans? No, I tell you; but unless you repent, you will all perish as they did. Or those eighteen who were killed when the tower of Siloam fell on them—do you think that they were worse offenders than all the others living in Jerusalem? No, I tell you; but unless you repent you will all perish as they did.” - Luke 13 We often encounter the human tendency to blame the victim. We see this happen when people discuss someone with illness, or hear about someone who has suffered sexual harassment. We see this when the immigrants gets blamed for problems they did not create, or when people lose their job, or suffer a disability. Some religious leaders even blame a region or whole country when natural disasters like hurricanes strike. Perhaps the blame game is a way to reassure ourselves that we will not suffer the same, or that some divine justice has been served. We distance ourselves by thinking that the suffering of others is somehow a consequence of past mistakes, rather than events that show us that we do not control all the circumstances of our lives. We may want to think that the misfortune of others is deserved, particularly when it affects those whom we don’t truly value, or those whom we perceive as enemies. The blame game occurs not only in our own communities, but also during Jesus’ time. However, Jesus goes out of his way to assure us (twice!) that misfortune and suffering is not deserved, nor is it a retribution for sins. Those with leprosy were blamed for their illness and their disease was thought to reflect their sinfulness. The healing that Jesus showed proved that he did not view them as ones to be blamed, but rather as ones to be healed and saved. Even from the cross, Jesus asks, “Father forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” During the Lenten season, we can work on seeing through God’s eyes and not blame the victim, but instead view those who suffer as truly God beloved. Let us try as our Lenten discipline to hear the stories of others and resist blaming victims, particularly for those that we are naturally inclined not to value.

Dear God, When we hear voices who blame the victim in ways both subtle and obvious, we ask you to empower us to intercede in action and prayer on their behalf. Amen John Svaren March 7, 2018 Then Jesus told the disciples, “If any want to become my Followers, let them deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.” - Matthew 16:24 These words of Jesus don’t sound like a very good recruitment message if Jesus is encouraging us to follow him. The Cross, in this Lenten season, leads us to Calvary and a very gruesome death. Follow Jesus in cross bearing? But consider that Jesus refers here to our “cross” before there was his own cross of death. Could it be that Jesus is bidding us to take upon ourselves all the crosses that humanity bears, — all the injustice, powerlessness, poverty, wars, homelessness, refugees, disabilities, crime—you name it, all the sorrow, loneliness, grief, guilt, sin—all that is destructive of human life;—to take all of that and follow in the way of Jesus in order that it may all be transformed by the love of God? We all know full well the powers at work in our world that kill and destroy. They create fear and anxiety and heartache. They are our crosses to bear in this world and in this life. But Jesus offers us a different life, a different world, a different kingdom not ruled by such powers. It can be our life by following Jesus. It is a path that encompasses the world’s needs, but transforms them, changing fear to hope, death to life, sorrow to joy. If we pick up those crosses on behalf of a world in need; and carry them in the path, the way, of Jesus that leads to the love of God, then true change can take root in our world and in our lives. This cross then represents all that is evil in the world, and at the same time represents the transformation that God enacts in the world through the Cross of Jesus. We are called to encompass it just as Jesus did. Then from the blood of the loving heart of God we receive a transfusion of new life. For only such love has the power to truly change our world and our lives.

We offer our lives to you, O Lord, that you may use us to transform and change the world to the creation God desires. Amen Larry Pinnow March 8, 2018 Roses, Orchids and Sunflowers As I am writing my Lenten devotion, I am looking out on a beautiful white blanket of snow and thinking of spring. Also looking at the snow and am thinking how bright it is out and not gloomy and dull it has been. So, what does this have to do with the title of the devotion? Well, roses, orchids and sunflowers are my favorite flowers and they are not gloomy and dull but bright and beautiful. Roses remind me of love and beginnings. God gave us a new beginning by giving us Jesus who was born out of God’s love for us on that beautiful Christmas morning. One of my favorite hymns to sing during Advent is #272 in the Evangelical Lutheran Worship (ELW) called “Lo How a Rose E’er Blooming.” Two verses I love are: verse 1 “Lo, how a rose e’er blooming from tender stem hath sprung! Of Jesse’s lineage coming as seers of old have sung, it came, a flow’r so bright, amid the cold of winter, when half-spent was the night.” and verse 3 “This flow’r, whose fragrance tender with sweetness fills the air, dispels with glorious splendor the darkness everywhere. True man, yet very God, from sin and death he saves us and lightens every load.” Orchids are delicate and they for some time in the winter lie dormant (in a deep sleep) until they regrow their leaves and begin to flower in the spring. During Lent it is like we are in a deep sleep of waiting till that moment at Easter dawns and we bloom in Jesus’ resurrection. I am reminded of the last verse of hymn “O Lord, throughout These Forty Days” (ELW #319). “Be with us through this season, Lord, and all our earthly days, that when the final Easter dawns, we join in heaven’ praise.” Sunflowers are bright and sunny, and they remind me of the “SON.” Jesus shines brightly on Easter morning when he was risen from the dead to join His Father in heaven. “I Know That My Redeemer Lives!” is a favorite of mine to sing at Easter, especially verses 1 and 2 (ELW #619). Verse 1 is “I know that my Redeemer lives? What comfort this sweet sentence gives! He lives, he lives, who once was dead; he lives, my ever-living head!” and verse 2 is “He lives triumphant from the grave; he lives eternally to save; he lives exalted, throned above; he lives to rule his church in love.”

Lord God, Thank you for giving us the roses, orchids and sunflowers to remind us of your love for us through Jesus who paid the ultimate price. AMEN! Cheryl Krull March 9, 2018 Since the time when the new calendar tipped us into 2018, I have felt blessed to have gained some new insight into a favorite Bible passage, the story of the Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11-32). For a long time I have loved this family tale, both for the main message and for some key details, such as how the father sees the son while he is still “far off”, as well as how the father runs to embrace the son. In her new book The Church of Small Things, the writer Melanie Shankle shares a quote from the Christian author Max Lucado about the Prodigal Son story as Lucado ponders the difference between mercy and grace . We at Midvale ask for God’s mercy in our response to prayers of intercession each week in worship. After different prayer segments, as a community we often respond saying “Have mercy, O God.” Lucado says that in the Prodigal Son story, “mercy gave the prodigal son a second chance.” But it’s where Max Lucado goes next that really caught my attention as he writes “mercy may have given the son a second chance, but grace gave the prodigal son a feast.” As I’m writing this reflection on January 15th, I’m also doing some chores around the house , still humming the tune of the hymn we sang in worship yesterday, just after Pastor Blake’s stirring sermon - the hymn that began with the words “let us go now, to the banquet, to the feast of the universe.” It is a feast that God has ready, waiting for each of us. As I repeatedly experience God’s forgiveness, it is with a deep sense of gratitude that I receive God’s embrace and feel welcomed at God’s feast .

Loving God, may we feel your support and your guidance as we go about the busy activities that often fill our daily lives. Give us clarity to see the moments of mercy and of grace that can be part of our days and help us to appreciate those moments as opportunities to draw close to you. Amen Eric James A retired after a 42 year career teaching elementary school in Missouri, Iowa, California and Wisconsin, mostly 1st & 2nd grade. Every chance he gets he jumps on a plane to Alaska to spend time with his family there - his daughter, son-in-law, granddaughter and grandson. March 10, 2018 Find the good in everyone. About ten years ago, when I was researching schools and different ways of educating my young children, I came across an article written about an amazing teacher. The interviewer had asked her about her beliefs and methods for teaching....she answered, “in all honesty it isn’t about the kind of school you are at, subjects, or teaching styles. I just simply try to teach children to find the good in everyone.” “Find the good in everyone.” This one simple, yet powerful, line is the prayer I have woven into my own parenting and my own life more than any other words or prayers since I read that article. Each day, as my children leave for school, I’ve whispered in their ear to “find the good in everyone today.” Every time I say it - the words hang in the air for me too... because I need to hear it too, and need to be reminded to find the good in everyone. It’s such a simple message. I believe it’s a message Jesus would say to us. If each of us looks for the good in others we will find more good and there will be more kindness in our day, in our world. When we find the good in others we are happier ourselves too. At the end of the day when I remember to ask my kids “what was something good you saw in someone else?” Their answers are AMAZING! And while I listen to their beautiful stories of tiny magical acts of kindness, friendship, and good deeds they see in their day...I’m overwhelmed with joy and gratitude that their eyes are open to the good in the world and that they are seeing God in others and in their life. In turn they inspire me to try to do the same.

So my prayer for all of us...is that we may find the good in others and let our own light shine a little today. Molly Krolczyk March 11, 2018 In 2012, my family and I had the amazing experience of visiting Guatemala during Lent. During our time there, we were able to experience firsthand one of the traditional religious processions that take place in the streets of the capital city throughout Lent. As we waited for the procession to start, we watched as devoted Christians were preparing their traditional alfombras or carpets. They use colored sawdust, flowers, pine needles, vegetables and other natural materials to create these very elaborate carpets on the street in front of their homes and businesses. It can take days to complete the alfombras, since they are often very intricate and imaginative. In the capital city of Guatemala, the processions during Lent consist of large parade floats with religious statues or scenes from the Bible. They are traditionally carried on the shoulders of a group of people. When one or more people can no longer carry the weight of the float, others step in to take their place. As the floats move slowly through the streets of the city, the beautiful alfombras are scattered in all directions. I remember being amazed that the people were willing to spend so much time and effort creating their alfombras, only to have them destroyed in a matter of seconds by the processions. Then I realized that they consider it an honor to play a part in preparing the path for the holy images in the procession. Perhaps the Guatemalan alfombras and Lenten processions can serve as an example for our own personal Lenten journey. Just as the Guatemalans prepare their alfombras, how can we prepare for the death and resurrection of Christ? Just as the Guatemalans work together to carry the floats, how can we work together to help others?

Dear God,Thank you for this time of Lent when we can prepare for the death and resurrection of Christ. Help us to support one another in our Lenten journeys. Amen. Kate Grovergrys Kate enjoys spending time with her husband Doug and her two daughters, Elida and Mariana. She teaches Spanish at Madison Area Technical College. March 12, 2018 When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, then he will sit on the throne of his glory. All the nations will be gather before him and he will separate people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats … Come you that are blessed by my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world; for I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you gave me clothing, I was sick and you took care of me, I was in prison and you visited me. …. Truly I tell you, just as you did it to one of the least of these who are members of my family, you did it to me. - Matthew 26: 31-40 These verses in Matthew are not unfamiliar but are often forgotten in our busy modern lives. We hear them as they rotate through the lectionary and become refamiliarized with them but then become caught up with schedules and meetings and errands and the things that make up our own lives. I’ve been blessed to have the opportunity to work with the exact population that Jesus refers to in this passage and find myself challenged daily to remember that each patient and family I work with is a member of God’s family and am challenged to remind myself of this. That just as I do to the least of these I do it to God. Working in an impoverished, poorly educated and minimally opportunistic community it is so easy to fall into the trap of what others are thinking or saying about our families and even I as a Christian reminded of these verses can fall prey to the devil’s temptations. There is something very comforting and humbling about remembering that God calls us as Christians to serve him through the disenfranchised, through the poor, the destitute, the sick, the illiterate today just as he instructed his disciples.

Dear Lord, help me to remember these verses in Matthew and that truly just as I treat the least of the world, I am treating and serving you. Help deter me from malignant thoughts and guide my ways when challenged with hard situations as I strive to serve you in all that I do. Amen. Kristin Zorn March 13, 2018 Midvale keeps me centered and properly prioritized. My love affair with Midvale started in the early 90’s when my aged mother determined it to be her later years church of choice and I sporadically escorted her out of a sense of duty - not devotion. I was busy growing a business, raising a family and having fun. Plowing through life. Spiritual needs were an occasional flicker. I mentally maintained guest status when I attended, making little effort to get involved. Then Bonnie Svarstad asked if I would help pick up leftover produce at the Farmer’s market to take to a food bank as part of Midvale’s mission. It was a game changer. That started the clicking of Midvale being a community I could embrace and that could embrace me. A few years later, Judi and I were married and from then on it has been a steady and strong path to involvement, friendship, love and spiritual belief through our wonderful community. Now, when I feel overly cynical, materialistic or egoistical, I count on Midvale to bring me back to what truly matters. It always comes through. Thank you staff and members for helping me have a life worth living.

Bill Kessler March 14, 2018 Hugs and Prayers Since Christmas I have thought about how Mary must have hugged her baby and prayed to God to keep him safe and warm and to grow into a good man. It does not say much in the Bible about Jesus’s childhood, but I think he was hugged and prayed for by his parents almost daily. I think about how Jesus grew up and in his ministry, must have given hugs to people not only in greeting but among his friends and disciples and prayed to God for his friends and disciples. He also prayed to God in thanksgiving and had requests just like us. I also think about Mary and what she thought on that day when her son was hanging on the cross. She probably cried out in despair to her God and thought about giving her son hugs to help him through the ordeal. Why hugs and prayers you may ask. They both are forms of affection, they both can lower stress, and they reduce depression. When we are sad or disappointed, a big hug can alleviate some of the pain just as praying can. When we are happy, we want to share the joy by giving others a hug so to we share our joy with God in prayer. They say there are important scientific reasons why hugs are good for parents and children. A twenty second hug can help a child grow healthier, happier, more resilient and closer to the parent. The same can be said for prayer not only for a child but as an adult. When we have prayer in our lives we are healthier, happier, more resilient and closer to God our parent. I love the saying “When my arms can’t reach people who are close to my heart, I always hug them with my prayers.” During Lent, let us give more hugs and use prayer to make us healthier, happier and closer to God.

God - Give us the courage to open our hearts to give hugs to those who need it and to pray to be closer to you in our lives. Amen. Cheryl Krull March 15, 2018 I have long been attracted to religious imagery that refers to the heart. We often speak of the heart as the center of emotions. For example, a person can be hard- hearted or tender-hearted. In 19th century books, it is common to find references to a “heart of stone.” Frederick Douglass, who had experienced the cruelty of slavery, argues that those who fail to empathize with the suffering of racial others must have hearts of stone–an argument that is still relevant today. In the Bible, the heart is the seat of spiritual awareness. My favorite passage is found in the first chapter of Ephesians, which affirms: “I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you. . .” (NIV 1:18). Even though the translation may not be as accurate, I have longed preferred the RSV version that reads “that the eyes of your heart may be opened.” This translation spoke to generations of readers. In the 17th century, the Lutheran theologian Daniel Creamer published an emblem book that contained numerous illustrations of all the stages of suffering and spiritual enlightenment that the heart might pass through. For example, in one emblem he envisions the heart being pierced; in another, the heart is subjected to the pain of fire. But the most striking illustration of all (probably influenced by the passage in Ephesians) shows a heart with an open eye in the middle. This eye stares directly at the viewer, offering the spiritual challenge that we should move toward enlightenment and not the darkness that Jesus often refers to. This combination of heart imagery with spiritual vision is continued in my favorite hymn – “Be Thou My Vision,” which begins “Be Thou my Vision, O Lord of my heart. . . .” “Thou and Thou only, first in my heart,” we later sing; and the hymn concludes: “Heart of my own heart, whatever befall,/ Still be my Vision, O Ruler of all.” In this hymn, which I think of as a love song to God, the emotional and spiritual meanings of “heart” blend together. We open our hearts to God and let illuminating grace stream in.

Jeffrey Steele March 16, 2018 Then [Elijah] was told, “Go, stand on the mountain at attention before God. God will pass by.” - 1 Kings 19:11-12 (The Message) A hurricane wind ripped through the mountains and shattered the rocks before God, but God wasn’t to be found in the wind; after the wind an earthquake, but God wasn’t in the earthquake; and after the earthquake fire, but God wasn’t in the fire; and after the fire a gentle and quiet whisper. A few weeks ago during worship, I sat behind a mom with her two young daughters. The mom was serving as lector that day. The younger daughter, just turned 3, was occupied with the toys – little pigs from a children’s cartoon – they had brought from home. She didn’t notice when her mom rose to go to the lectern to read the prayers, but her head perked up when she heard her mom’s voice over the P.A. system. She turned to look at her mom, and just as there was a moment of silence between prayer petitions, she put her little hands to her mouth and said very quietly, “I love you, mommy!” Mommy heard it and smiled. I smiled, too. This is how I imagine God is present and speaks to us every day. Our God doesn’t seem to be the flashy sort. God doesn’t often speak in the loud voice we might long to hear. Like Elijah didn’t find God in the hurricane or the earthquake, we may not find God in the loud or dramatic experiences of our lives. Maybe God is most present in the quiet moments. Only in silence can we pick up what 1 Kings describes as “a gentle and quiet whisper” or “a still small voice” (King James Version). In these moments God puts hands to mouth and says very quietly, “I love you, my child!” I don’t think God always uses words, by the way. When I’m struck by how blue the sky is on a cold winter’s day, maybe that’s God’s “I love you.” When I experience a beautiful piece of music, perhaps that’s God’s “I love you.” When I bite into an ear of the first sweet corn of the season, that is definitely God’s “I love you.” When I laugh at some silly antic of my dog, when I swell with pride at being the parent of my kids, when I awake from a good night’s rest, when someone lets me know they’re praying for me, when someone offers me forgiveness, when I feel peace come upon me after a good deal of fretting – maybe these are all God’s ways of saying, “I love you!” This Lent I hope to be a better listener for God’s whisper. And thank you, my little friend from worship, for reminding me…

Holy One, often I’m so distracted that I don’t hear you speaking your love to me. Help me to slow down, pay attention, and make room in my life for the silence which allows your voice to be heard. When I do experience your “I love you”, help me remember to respond, “Thank you, I love you, too!” Amen. Laura Svaren March 17, 2018 Beloved, let us love one another, because love is from God; everyone who loves is born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, for God is love… Beloved, since God loved us so much, we also ought to love one another. No one has ever seen God; if we love one another, God lives in us, and his love is perfected in us. - 1 John: 4, 7-8 and 11-12 God is love period. These verses don’t say God is love if you follow all the rules or have brown hair. It says God is love. We live in a world full of exceptions but there are no exceptions in these verses. We don’t say, “I’d love you but you’re an engineer” or “I’d love you but you live in a yellow house.” John is saying to us that plain and simple, the rule is that God is love. When we boil it down to this, and then look around at all the other rules we make, they don’t seem so important, right? Every day I witness God’s love and the power that love has. Yesterday on my way to Marshfield I pulled off the interstate for a quick lunch. As I walked across the parking lot I saw an elderly woman struggling to get out of her car. Another man seeing the same thing I did approached the woman and gave her his arm. He helped her walk through the slush into the restaurant. This is not news-worthy but I did witness a man sharing God’s love. God’s love lives in that man. Today, open your eyes to God’s love and I bet you will also be a witness to people loving people in small and wonderful ways.

Blessed Lord, Thank you for loving us so much that you sent your only son to die for us. Lord, guide us to love one another as you love us. We pray that you will teach us to love so that your love will live in us and be perfected through us. In your name we pray. Amen. Jen Davel March 18, 2018 A number of years ago I had a spiritual guide with whom I worked as I processed where I was, where I had been and where was my future. My life was full of transitions and changes and I needed to sort them out. My guide suggested that I use Philippians 4:4-7 as a mantra as I began my day and did my walking meditation. “Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice. Let your gentleness be known to everyone. The Lord is near. Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” I memorized this passage and to this day, I start my day with this along with several other mantras as I wake up, walk my dog or just “sit” to begin my day. Several parts of the verse always challenge me. I get the “Rejoice.” That is a given for me. But “Let my gentleness...” I always struggle with. Am I gentle to everyone? How do I do this “gentleness?” Sometimes I feel so hard and calloused. I know “the Lord is near.” He has carried me through my whole life and I talk to him all the time. Then comes “Do not worry about anything....” Really, how do I let go and let God? (Another one of my morning mantras.) How do I not worry when our healthcare system is a mess, education is not possible for so many, the environment is being destroyed? What are we leaving for the next generations? How do I not worry about my friends who are having surgery, struggling with memory and other health issues? How do I “make my requests be known to God?” Sometimes they seem so trivial or self-centered, not really important. The big requests like peace in the world, in Palestine, in our country, in our city, in my neighborhood... on and on and on... seem to big to even request. I even know the Lord is aware of all these issues even without my meditations. The resolution daily is that I can’t understand, but in spite of that, Jesus carries me always, guarding over me all the time. This was so evident to me over the Christmas holidays when I was on a vacation by myself with only Jesus to walk with me daily, holding my hand and carrying me in a foreign country, giving me peace and guarding me at all times. I felt so nourished and renewed as I put my whole being in God’s hands.

Dear God, Thank you for the “peace that surpasses all of my understanding” because you are near! Continue to “worry” for us, freeing us to serve you as you have called us to do. In your name, Amen. Susan Gruber I have been connected with Midvale for years: through my childhood when our youth groups shared experiences, as the wife of Stan Klyve in my older years, and with Blake and other members on the trip to Palestine in 2015. I spend as much time as possible outside working in a food pantry garden and doing restoration work in the Pheasant Branch Conservancy and other county parks all year long as well as being physically active through biking, skiing, hiking, kayaking, etc. March 19, 2018 Turn It Over - Lift It Up - Let It Go About a year has passed since we last wrote a Lenten Devotional, and what a “FAITH STRENGTHENING” year it has been. Many, many times we leaned on our dear Lord Jesus, and He was there walking every step of the way with us. There were two major events when we could have worn Him out with our constant prayers for healing, strength, guidance and peace. (We knew however, we could never wear our faithful God out when it comes to caring for His children.) The events of great concern in our lives began last April when our 54 year old nephew, Dan, was diagnosed with prostate cancer, STAGE IV, and then in November, Jo had an emergency, serious abdominal surgery. These happenings brought to the foreground in an emphatic way, the power of prayer itself, and the strength and support one feels when many people pray for the same thing. We were constantly talking to God through prayer. We turned over our needs and problems to Him; then we lifted them up to Him, being aware of any telling nudges that He might give and quietly waiting for His answers; we then needed to pray for grace to let go and be able to leave things in God’s hands to manage, and not take things back to do it our way. What wonderful peace we experienced when we could TURN IT OVER - LIFT IT UP - LET IT GO. God’s faithful presence during these difficult circumstances was evidenced by His answers to our prayers and the prayers of a loving cloud of witnesses that surrounded us and was such a blessing to us. In closing we would like to leave with you a simple way to think about praying to our Lord Jesus. TURN IT OVER - LIFT IT UP - LET IT GO

Our dear Heavenly Father, What a privilege it is to carry our burdens and cares to you in prayer. Thank you for your presence and love as we turn it over, lift it up and let it go. Amen. Jan Anderzon and Jo Conger March 20, 2018 Oh Deer There are certain passages of scripture that never fail to touch my heart; passages that always leave me feeling renewed in the Lord, no matter what else is going on in my life. One of those passages is Psalm 42. I became familiar with this psalm through a song, “Satisfied in You (Psalm 42)” by The Sing Team, while I was an undergraduate at Florida State University. And this may sound silly, but the first thing I really connected with, in the song and the scripture, was the reference to deer in verse 1, “As a deer pants for flowing streams, so my soul pants for you, O God.” Growing up in rural North Dakota, deer were a part of my daily life. My grandmother often complained about them eating her garden, but more than anything, I remember looking out into my backyard at dawn – I’ve always been an early riser – and watching groups of deer wander around the yard. They seemed so at ease, so peaceful, but they were quickly alert to any sounds. When my family relocated to suburban Florida, my deer sightings decreased dramatically, and I didn’t realize until then how much I enjoyed watching the deer in the early morning light. As they drank from the pond behind our house, there was an undeniable sense of renewal that washed over me. Even now, deer hold a special place in my heart, and the imagery in that first verse, of a deer panting for water, never fails to remind me how thirsty my soul is for God. The psalmist goes on to describe how he is struggling, with his opponents asking, “Where is your God?” (verses 3 and 10). Struggle is universal. We all face challenges and trials in our lives, during which we may wonder where God is, or how on earth he could be working through this situation. We may even ask God, as the psalmist does, “Why have you forgotten me?” (verse 9). But, through his struggle, the psalmist’s refrain is this, found in verses 5 and 11, “Why are you cast down, O my soul, and why are you in turmoil within me? Hope in God; for I shall again praise him, my salvation and my God.” The author remembers the times he has seen the Lord work for his good, having faith that the Lord will do so again. It is that message that continues to bring me back to this passage time and again, when I am struggling, unsatisfied, or anxious. The reminder that God been there for me before, I have praised him with joy and thanksgiving, and though I may be struggling now, I will surely praise him again.

Lord, in all your power and love, help us to remember that though we may be struggling, you are always with us, and just as the water renews the panting deer, Your Spirit renews our souls. Amen. Mya Frieze A grad student at the University of Wisconsin pursuing dual Masters degrees in Art History and Library and Information Studies, I focus specifically on Early Medieval Art of Ireland and the British Isles. In my free time, I enjoy reading, knitting, and drinking way too much coffee. March 21, 2018 Jesus said to him ‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself. On these two commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets.’ - Matthew 22:37-40 Ms. Martell was, hands down, the perfect first grade teacher. She was loving, kind, orderly, and predictable. And she had one rule: the Golden Rule. You know the one, “Do unto others as you’d have done unto you.” From way back in the days of the Old Testament on through the Beatitudes, and all the way down through history, right into my humble little classroom at Zion Elementary School...this truth rings out. To love our neighbors as ourselves. To treat one another how we would like to be treated. Now, I have four children. I am that harried mother usually rag-tagging into the sanctuary with my little people. We (my husband and I) have not mastered (read: approached) the art of subtlety in our public appearances. We are, generally, a tumbling chaos of restlessness, snuggles, comments, and questions. The point is, you’ve seen (or at least heard) us in the pews. Maybe you’ve even experienced your own version of the sweet, exhausting chaos of children. And most of you will agree that it only intensifies when you are at home—the chaos, the comments, the questions. They look to us for guidance, for direction, for answers. And, for my part, it seems that the Golden Rule I learned from Ms. Martell—this great commandment—is the answer I give most often. When you are up against someone who disagrees with you, answer that person with love—speak how you would want to be spoken to. When you are confused by someone, don’t lash out in fear, be kind in the way that you would want kindness shown to you. When you are confronted with people who think differently than you do, what should you do? Love those people. Get in their shoes. Think in their skin. And treat them how you would want to be treated. Love your neighbor as yourself...

When you love the Lord your God with all your heart, mind, and soul, He gives you the very source of power to love others. The greatest commandment, He says...all the Law and the Prophets hang on this act: to Love. We have no greater obligation nor responsibility than to answer those we meet with Love. Even when we don’t understand. Even when it isn’t fair. Even when we are afraid. Amen. Beth Culp March 22, 2018 We sang the following hymn in church recently which was written by John Bell and Graham Maule. The words and tune have stayed with me – not only for the wonderful waltz rhythm that makes me want to dance when we sing it, but also for the questions and contemplation it causes me to have. Will you come and follow me if I but call your name? Will you go where you don’t know and never be the same? Will you let my love be shown, will you let my name be known, Will you let my life be grown in you and you in me? Lord, your summons echoes true when I but call your name! Let me turn and follow you and never be the same. In your company I’ll go where your love and footsteps show. Thus I’ll move and live and grow in you and you in me. I have chosen the first and last verse of this song as it speaks to the question of whether I will be open and strong enough to follow the path Jesus wants for me. It sounds great when I sing it – and when I am among people who look like me and believe the same things I do. However, especially in today’s world, how will I respond when faced with diversity based on ethnicity, race, socioeconomic status, gender, exceptionalities, language, religion, sexual orientation and geographical area? Will I be loving, kind and open when faced with diversity of experiences, viewpoints, background and life experiences with strangers, friends, neighbors, or relatives? How blessed to know that God sets his love, mercy, hope and forgiveness in our hearts and will be with us every step of the way so that we can actively show that love to others. We can trust God to be there with us when faced with any decision about how we respond to any or all of the above.

Dear God Give us strength to walk in the way of Jesus when confronted with any situation. Thank you for sending Jesus who brings sight, breathe and light to us when we get lost in our prejudices. Amen. Georgia Manning 38 years of service with the State of Wisconsin, 6 years of various part-time jobs after retirement. I enjoy baking, reading, singing and spending time with family and friends. March 23, 2018 As you come to “dark places” in your life, reach out for the Hand of the Shepherd. - Helen Steiner Rice This past two years have been a reflection on faith and how it can hold us up, give us hope and allow us to be present in the most difficult of times and circumstances. It all started when a dear friend of over 30 years was diagnosed with fourth stage pancreatic cancer with metastasis to the liver and a few months later another primary cancer in the lung with brain metastasis. I was there when the diagnosis was given and the feeling was one of just going numb. She was too young and had plans. She quit work and reached out to the “Hand of the Shepherd” for strength to be present with her, her family and friends, and to strengthen her relationship with the Heavenly Father. It was not an easy journey, but God’s presence was always palpable and the time together was a blessing. I had read the book, “The Shack,” several years ago and recently saw the movie. A song from that movie, “Keep Your Eyes on Me,” was an emotional depiction of how the dark times in life can be so overwhelming one may find it hard to breathe, move, lose hope. In those times, all we have to do is shout out, cry out, reach out for the Hand of the Shepherd, keeping our eyes on Him and speaking to Him...sharing our burdens and asking for strength.

Dear Heavenly Father: When I am lost in the dark and cannot see, when the light in my heart has burned out, when I feel alone and can’t find my way home, I will reach out for your Hand and keep my eyes on You and know that you will restore my soul. Amen. Jan Haedt March 24, 2018 The wind blows wherever it chooses. You hear its sound, but you cannot tell where it comes from or where it is going. So it is with everyone born of the Spirit. - John 3:8 When I first came to Midvale as a volunteer three years ago, as I walked down the steps into Fellowship Hall for the first time, I heard or sensed somehow a voice saying, This would be a good place for you. I was stunned by this voice, so gently compelling. I had largely rejected my Christian faith, avoiding Church as such while seeking community and spirituality. I tested out this possibility of Midvale as “a good place for me” on Sunday at worship, a day fervently remembered. I came early and sat on a chair in the Gathering Space feeling pretty alone and uncertain. Pastor Katie spotted me, introduced herself, and offered a warm welcome. Would I have ventured in without that spirited welcome? I went to the service and found to my surprise that the liturgy was familiar, indeed comforting. I sensed here and now a good place, a home for a wayward soul. A conference with Pastor Katie that followed later that week confirmed my yearnings. In sharing my spiritual autobiography, broken in many ways, Pastor Katie saw God at work: “The Spirit is loose in the world.” When I asked what distinguishes Lutheranism, she responded, “Radical Grace.” I took those two beliefs with me and keep trying them out and finding them whole, my timid faith growing, the wind astir. Thanks be to God for preserving me these many years of my life, for leading me through darkness toward light, for bringing me home to Midvale Community Lutheran Church and the Spirit loose within.

Anne Lundin I am a longtime teacher, poet, mother who has lived in Madison for 25 years and loves my husband Tom Lovett, who also has found his way here. March 25, 2018 Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. - Proverbs 3:5-6 Ever since I was a young child I have been characterized as a “worry wart”. In college a friend of mine reminded me that worrying all of the time is a sign of not trusting God. She often had to remind me that while God’s plan might not always be clear, I must have faith that he is in control; so worrying is just a waste of energy. Proverbs 3:5-6 is a verse that I often turn to when I need a reminder that God is in control and I must follow his path. Today I love to share this verse with my family when they have anxiety or feel overwhelmed by life’s uncertainties.

Dear Lord, Please help us to remember that we cannot control all the outcomes that we often spend time worrying about. Let us trust the plan you have set for us. Amen Bree McGrath I am a busy step mother who is always on the go! My family loves watching sports if we aren’t playing them. We are so thankful to be a part of the Midvale family! March 26, 2018 For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves, 14 in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins. - Colossians 1:13-14 Many consider the 40 days of Lent to be symbolic - representative of Jesus’ 40 days in the wilderness; a time of preparation for his public ministry. If Lent is our journey in the wilderness, our preparation for living out God’s Easter in our lives, how is our journey going? Are we traveling solo? Getting lost because we left our guidebook at home? Carrying far too much baggage? Traveling Solo? Sometimes. All too often I can act as if my life is mine alone. I’m responsible for me and so I live apart, unaware that that there is care for me in the community of faith; I need only ask. Getting Lost? Sometimes. I’ve always relied on myself, so why would I need that map that’s in a guidebook, particularly when I’m traveling familiar paths. But when I don’t regularly refer to our guidebook of faith, the Bible, I find I miss out on seeing majestic vistas and all of the “traveler’s tips” in this guidebook that want to take me to places of love and freedom. Too much baggage? Lent is a time for reflection, a time for assessing the quality of our lives, and how we are living out an Easter faith. It is not a time for picking up and carrying again the guilt and regret we have for our misdeeds. Put down your baggage and in the midst of reflecting on your life be reminded you are His beloved. May this Lent be a time for holistic penitence, doing more than reflecting on your failings and feeling sorrow for your sin. Enter into true repentance and commit to letting God’s Holy Spirit transform you - from the inside out.

1779 Wesleyan Prayer: “Come thou everlasting Spirit, bring to every thankful mind, all the Saviour’s dying merit, all his sufferings for mankind. True recorder of his passion, now the living faith impart, now reveal his great salvation, preach his Gospel to our hearts” Sue Cotten March 27, 2018 Renewed Another chance (to get it right?) to look deep within my soul and wash it clean. But not alone. The Holy Spirit guided Jesus into the desert; I ask for his help, and if I am still enough, I feel his presence and I accept. The walk begins. Not a 40 day walk in a desert, a journey within. I am listening, waiting, listening some more and though no words of guidance are spoken, a grace-filled change begins. Grace, grace present long before Jesus died for us and our sins, our unclean souls, this ever present gift, Guides the cleansing sponge and I am renewed.

Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me. Amen. Nan Faith Fruit tree grower, yarn and fabric collector, and constant challenger of Newton’s law of gravity. March 28, 2018 Being a Servant to All The most important reason we are here on earth is to be a servant. Although discipleship is beyond us in time and place, helping others is something we can do every day. In Mark 9:35, Jesus said “Anyone who wants to be first must be the very last, and the servant of all.” We have many opportunities each week to be servants, in our families, in our work and in our church. Once you decide to be a servant, the opportunities suddenly seem more frequent. Yet in my case, I know how often I fall short, and it takes constant reminders of why I am here. My favorite hymns are not sung often enough at Midvale: “Will you let me be your servant” (LBW 659), and “Lord let my heart be good soil.” (LBW 512). To me, these are personal prayers, and I know God answers them. All of us know servants, and it is a blessing to be surrounded by them. They radiate concern. Many are volunteers. Many have a dedication to a specific need that helps others. This is a major reason why church is so important in their lives. They know God is looking over their shoulders, and they remember Christ’s examples and words. May God bless and enhance your service to others.

Lloyd Bostian Maundy Thursday, March 29, 2018 “Your bladder is fine, but we did find a small spot on your kidney,” said Dr. Graf. That was a conversation I had with my doctor 10 years ago and it changed my life, for the better…and the worse. Kidney cancer is sometimes considered “an old man’s disease” as it normally goes undetected until you are an old man. Typically, there are no symptoms until the tumor becomes so large that it begins to push against other organs, eventually causing problems. I have shared my story with others and state, “I was blessed.” God has blessed our family in many different ways. First, the reason I went to the doctor to begin with was not the root of the problem. Secondly, one of the urology appointments was with a P.A. who was very comprehensive, requesting more tests than normal protocol might suggest. And the Radiologist was extremely thorough. I believe this was serendipitous. Dr. Graf was very resolute when he told me it was a tumor. He did not sugar coat it. He did not put fear into me. He just assured me that it would be just fine, no matter what. This assurance, in my opinion, was his confidence in medicine advancements. And it was also the words of Jesus coming from his mouth, I believe. I put my faith in God (and the surgeon’s skills) and was one of the lucky ones to be cancer free, now 10 years. That was a tough surgery and a long four-month recovery, but our faith carried my wife, Caroline, and our family through difficult times. I thought I was invincible prior to this “small spot on your kidney” statement. I thought “others” received news of the “C” word. I thought I was perfectly healthy with my diet of Pepsi, Snickers, coffee, soda and minimal exercise. I thought wrong. During this long recovery we were blessed with so many friends bringing us regular meals, cards, prayers, support at church and homebound communion. Caroline was working long hours supporting our family and yet her spirit was shining brightly to me. Our faith ascended tremendously thanks to MCLC pastors, family and friends. We have since helped many others by “paying it forward.” “If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet” (John 13:14). We have become more appreciative of life (especially after a second occurrence with a ruptured appendicitis) and now it has become quite clear that God wants us to become true advocates of healthy living. I know I should be anyway (as my wife is a health coach), but now more than ever we both are passionate advocates for healthy living!

Lord, help us to feel empowered to take gifts given unequivocally from you and multiply these a thousand times for others, in your name. Amen. Scott Anderson Good Friday, March 30, 2018 One of the criminals who were hanged there kept deriding Jesus and saying, “Are you not the Messiah? Save yourself and us!” - Luke 23:39 No one expected the Messiah to die. Jesus was not the Messiah God’s people had expected. He was not a powerful king or a mighty warrior. He didn’t defeat the Roman occupiers. And when Jesus was arrested and put to death on a cross, most everyone was ready to abandon him. Just like the criminal on the cross next to Jesus, they thought that the Messiah would be something completely different from what Jesus was. There is a story about a wealthy Englishman who collected famous art with his son. Together they amassed a collection worth millions. At the start of World War II the son enlisted and was killed on the battlefield while saving another soldier’s life. After the war the soldier who was saved came and gave the father a sketch that he had made of the son who was killed. It was a crude sketch, but the father placed it on the mantel amongst the many masterpieces he had. After his death, his will stated that his art collection would be auctioned off, with one stipulation: the auction had to begin with the portrait of his son. None of the art aficionados wanted to bid on it, but the auctioneer pointed out that the man’s will declared that it must be sold first. But still no one bid on it. So out of loyalty and love, the family butler bid 10 Pounds for it. After the bid was accepted the auctioneer slammed his gavel down and exclaimed to the crowd that the auction was over. The expectant crowd was naturally upset and demanded an explanation. The auctioneer explained that the owner had written in his will that the one who takes the son takes it all. We who follow Jesus have an even greater inheritance! We know on this side of Easter that God has given all to us through the Son. On Good Friday we are reminded of how improbable and unexpected this act of sacrifice and love really is.

Dear God, help us to focus on the Son, and see in Jesus the one who gives us all we could ever want or need. Amen. Pastor Blake Rohrer Pastor Blake serves as co-pastor with his wife, Katie Baardseth. They have two teenage daughters, Kristina and Sigrid. March 31, 2018 God is Love God is love, and all who live in love live in God, and God lives in them... Everyone who believes that Jesus is the Christ has become a child of God. And everyone who loves the Father loves his children too. - John 4:16 and John 5:1 John tells us to speak to each other in a kind, loving and respectful way. Jesus gave us a “New Commandment: to love each other in the same way that I have loved you”. As a congregation and in our daily lives I believe that we should not judge or condemn someone who comes to us looking for help. Love doesn’t just tell them what their problems are. We can be a part of a support network to help our friends and neighbors carry their burdens. My dear departed father used to sign his cards and letters to me, “Love always and in all ways.” Excellent sentiment and words to live by.

Andi Peterson Straus I have been a member of Midvale since I was baptized there as a baby in 1962. I went through confirmation there in the 1970s, and my class photo is still hanging downstairs in the photo gallery. Easter Sunday, April 1, 2018 So if the Son makes you free, you will be free indeed. - John 8:36 Because my cousin is a pilot, getting together it has often involved flying things. eW have flown elaborate kites, remote controlled airplanes and helicopters. Last time we flew his brand new drones. When I arrived, my cousin was still learning how to fly them, but because of his life experience he was already good at it. I, on the other hand, had to learn how to fly. It was tricky and, I was not very good at it. But seeing your surroundings from a different angle is interesting and adds a cool element to the experience. Once I got the hang of it, it was SO FUN! I left exhilarated! Learning to fly is exhilarating. Maybe that is why people often compare freedom to flying. Like flying, Easter is exhilarating! For in the Risen Christ, God wants you toy. fl God wants you to fly free of yesterday’s guilt. God wants you to fly free of today’s fears. God wants you to fly free of tomorrow’s grave. In Easter- failure, fear, and death no longer have power over you. In the resurrection, these obstacles have been released for you by Jesus, so fly free!

Risen Christ, your resurrection means that I’m free! Uphold me in this freedom you have given, so that I may be free to love, serve, and forgive with all of your Holy Spirit’s power here on earth. Release me from the fear of death, knowing you have already prepared a place for me with you forever. Let my whole life be offered up in gratitude to you. Amen. Pastor Katie Baardseth Pastor Katie serves as co-pastor with her husband, Blake Rohrer. They have two teenage daughters, Kristina and Sigrid. About the Cover Artist: Dr. He Qi Currently a Minnesota resident, He Qi has Studied at Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing Art Institute in China and Hamburg Art Institute in Germany. He was the first among Mainland Chinese to earn a Ph.D. in Religious art after the Cultural Revolution(1992). He also received his Honorary Doctor Degree from Australia Catholic University in Melbourne (May, 2011). He is also a member of the China Art Association and a former council member of the Asian Christian Art Association(1998-2006). He received 20th Century Award for Achievement in recognition of outstanding achievements in the field of Religious Art Theory and Christian Art Creation of IBC in Cambridge UK. His art works have been displayed in museums, galleries, universities and churches. He was the Special Guest Artist for the World Council of Churches 10th Assembly.