Hiland Presbyterian Church 2021 Lenten Devotional
Written by Hiland Friends and Family
HILAND PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 845 Perry Highway, Pittsburgh PA 15229 412-364-9000 / [email protected] hilandchurch.org Geralt from Pixabay — Ash Wednesday, February 17, 2021 —
Thus says the Lord God to these bones: I will cause breath to enter you, and you shall live. I will lay sinews on you, and will cause flesh to come upon you, and cover you with skin, and put breath in you, and you shall live; and you shall know that I am the Lord.” Ezekiel 37:5-6 (NRSV)
The Sweet Smell of Baby Oil I remember the year I thought it would be a good idea to mix the ashes with baby oil before imposing them on congregants’ foreheads during an Ash Wednesday worship service. I’d only very recently become a pastor, and I was feeling anxious about making sure the ashes were administered correctly. I wanted to ensure I’d actually be able to make the shape of the cross without leaving some poor soul with an undefined ashen blot on their forehead. And, I wanted to prevent the ashes from dissolving into a crumbled mess on the tip of someone’s nose. I’d heard that mixing ashes with oil could keep either one of these unfortunate scenarios from occurring and, seeing as how baby oil was readily available and smelled oh so lovely, I went ahead and mixed the ashes with a rather sizeable dollop of baby oil.
I wouldn’t exactly say it turned out badly, but I wouldn’t say it turned out well either. I will commit to saying I’ll never mix ashes with baby oil again. Because at the end of that Ash Wednesday worship service the entire sanctuary reeked of baby oil. The scent of baby oil wafted through the air with great abandon, seeping into every crevice it could find. It wasn’t a bad smell, but it’s definitely not the first scent I’d choose to incorporate into an Ash Wednesday service.
It seems far more appropriate to associate Ash Wednesday with the smells conjured up by the likes of Ezekiel’s vision of the valley of dry bones. Ash Wednesday smells like dry bones, it smells like dust, it smells like dirt, it smells like death and decay. Ash Wednesday smells like the bleak, dark starting point of the road to Easter.
Yet, it’s in recognizing our finitude that we take the first steps toward eternity. It’s in bending low to the earth that we lift our gaze up to the heaven. It’s through the grave that the passageway to resurrection is revealed. When I think of it this way, I start to realize that Ash Wednesday smells a whole lot more like life and hope than I ever imagined possible.
Prayer: God of Earth and Heaven, it’s true... we’re dust and it’s to dust that we shall return. Yet, it’s also true that faith in you gives way to life abundant and life eternal. As we take our first steps toward Easter’s dawn, show us the way of life. Amen.
Elisabeth Hartwell — Thursday, February 18, 2021 —
For he knows our frame, he remembers that we are dust. Psalm 103:14 (NKJV)
The words of Ash Wednesday are “Dust thou art; to dust thou shalt return.” The imposition of ashes was an attempt in medieval times to reach the minds of a people largely illiterate.
Though it may be assumed that Presbyterians are not illiterate, the symbolism of ashes is rich in meaning. It reminds us, for example, that our physical lives are far, infinitely far, from permanent. And so are our possessions. What we may boast of now is forgotten. Such an awareness discourages pride. We are glad for the gifts of life, but we cannot believe they will carry us beyond the point of our returning to dust.
Apart from godly dimensions, life would be ultimately hopeless and really quite useless—useless in relation to the everlasting. The Scriptures admonish us to live apart from, or beyond or above the useless.Look carefully how you walk, redeeming the time. Ephesians 5:16 (ESV/KJV) The word “redeem” is a translation of a form of the Greek word “exagorazo” literally “out of the market place” or “out of the forum.” “Market place” suggests the commonplace, the everyday, the “world” to use a New Testament word. We are not to be conformed to the world (Romans 12:2). To redeem time is to use time in elevated and sacred ways. Certainly acquiescence to sin is utterly commonplace.
In Christ we are inheritors of that which transcends the useless dust of the common forum.
Prayer: Our Father, by the power of Christ, brought to us in your Holy Spirit, invite us, persuade us, lift us, force us out of the dust. Amen.
John Mark Scott (Reprinted from 1997) — Friday, February 19, 2021 —
We have been made holy through the sacrifice of the body of Jesus Christ once for all. Therefore, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way opened for us through the curtain, that is, his body, and since we have a great priest over the house of God, let us draw near to God with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water. Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. Hebrews 10:10, 19-23 (NIV)
Good News! I’m a Miserable Wretch My goodness – it’s Lent already! It’s the season when God’s people like to think a lot about how sinful they are – they rejoice in being dirt and completely unable to ever be sinless and deserving of God’s love. Woe is me…I am a miserable wretch!
At first, it may sound like fake humility (and ’I m sure there’s probably a lot of that going on too) but really, the best thing we can do as human beings is to fully realize just how hopeless we are. Even the most righteous human being is nowhere close to being pure enough to be in the presence of our Holy God. Honesty demands that we admit it’s useless, and even pathetic, for us to try to live up to God’s standards of acceptance. And that, my friends, makes the Good News even better!
Hebrews 10 tells us that because of Jesus, we’re in! We’re good with God for all time. Jesus took all of the world’s sinfulness, your sins, my sins, everyone’s sins, upon himself and all our sins died with him on that cross. All of our hatred and greed, willfulness and pride and everything else separating us from God atoned for and removed from us as far as the east is from the west (Psalm 103:12) in that one amazing act of redemption that only Jesus, in the giving of his own life, could offer. On Easter, he rose victorious over death and we with him.
Yet, even having said all this, I still come to you a sinner. I can’t stop sinning. Oh, I try. I want to live a life pleasing to God, but I don’t always. Does that mean that something didn’t take? Maybe I’m not sincere enough in my devotion to God. Maybe ’I m the exception to the rule. I mean, if ’I ve been made holy in Jesus’ sacrifice, how can I still be sinning? How can I enter the Most Holy Place with confidence when I know’ I m not perfect? Scripture says my heart has been sprinkled to cleanse me and my body has been washed with pure water, but maybe God missed a spot or two. If I’m made perfect in Christ’s sacrifice, why am I not perfect?
The answer can be found in Hebrews 10:14 —By one sacrifice he has made perfect forever those who are being made holy. (NIV) It’s like when a child begins to take dance lessons. Perhaps she even has a natural grace and ability. From that first lesson, she is a dancer, even if she can’t keep her legs under her yet. She has to learn and grow into the dancer she is. Because of his grace and mercy, God sees us as the children of God he created us to be, even if we haven’t quite completely figured out how to be that person yet. It’s a growth process. His love and grace has redeemed us and his love and grace sustain and refine us as we learn to be the children of God he has made us to be in Jesus.
Maureen Profeta — Saturday, February 20, 2021 —
When I retired in 2005 I was excited that now I could sleep in—no more alarm clocks. I’d get up when I woke up. It did not last very long. For 30 years I had arisen at least an hour before the rest of the family for prayer and Bible Study. It was my special quiet time. When I awoke on my own that special time was gone and somehow I could never find it again during the busy days. I missed that time so much I went back to setting the alarm. I’ve written about this before. My being needs to be grounded in scripture and prayer to get through the days. Even more so in this strange and chaotic 2020. I begin with Bible Study—using aids like Upper Room, Jesus Calling and a study I have used for years called Scripture Union. It takes me through the Bible every three years. I’m not good at memorizing so the repetition is good for me. The Bible is alive. It’s amazing to me how a few verses will jump out at me right where I am that day. Doesn’t happen every day but enough to keep me plugging on. I underline and date special verses. Recently the verses that speak of trusting God for his peace and guidance speak most to me.
The second part of my meditation is spent in prayer. The time in scripture often gives me a focus for my prayer. I have a prayer notebook listing the names of people who have requested prayer. I make a new list each month. Many of you have been on my list. Hiland and it’s staff, the president and country are on that list. Family and close friends are not listed—they are always in my heart. I especially pray for the unborn babies in tummies of people I know. I feel close to those babies when they are born! Lately I have also been praying for a different country each day listed in theOpen Doors list of top 50 countries where Christians are persecuted. FYI—the most persecution occurs in North Korea. It’s a time that cannot be rushed. I pray that those of you reading this may have a more intimate relationship with the Lord this Lenten season.
Prayer: Dear God, thank you for the Bible to guide us closer to you and thank you that we can come directly to you in prayer, that you always hear us and never leave us. Amen.
Sue Keim — Sunday, February 21, 2021 —
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. Indeed, God did not send the Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him. John 3:16-17 (NRSV) — Monday, February 22, 2021 —
“I was hungry and you fed me, thirsty and you gave me a drink; I was a stranger and you received me in your homes, naked and you clothed me; I was sick and you took care of me, in prison and you visited me. The righteous will then answer him 'When, Lord, did we ever see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you a drink? When did we ever see you a stranger and welcome you in our homes, or naked and clothe you? When did we ever see you sick or in prison, and visit you?' The King will reply, ‘I tell you, whenever you did this for one of the least important of these followers of mine, you did it for me!’” Matthew 25:35-40 (GNT)
These Bible verses have been on my mind throughout the pandemic! Before Covid, our church provided food and clothing for many through the Pleasant Valley Shelter, World Mission Initiative, Backpack Initiative, Annual Summer Work Camp, North Hills Food Bank, Blessing Box, provided financial support to many organizations and special offerings plus more that I haven't mentioned as examples of sharing our blessings. When Covid arrived, many people were in long lines to receive food to feed their families. Many resources were needed to feed, clothe and shelter many who lost their jobs, consequently making it impossible to care for their families as they once had. One large problem to solve was the breakfast and lunch that school age children were used to receiving when they could attend school in person. Hiland members joined thousands of others to fulfill the charge Jesus gave those so long ago. It's amazing that the same problems that existed in Jesus' day are relevant now.
We, as a church, have participated in the above, however, some are having to be put on the back burner while we sequester at home and not get together. What can we do by ourselves during the restrictions of the pandemic to fulfill Jesus' directive? I think of a favorite anthem in which the first line “is Let there be peace on earth and let it begin with me.” We can pick up our phones and social media devices and reach out to those who are very lonely during this time. Receiving a note or card is so appreciated because it says someone is thinking of you. Perhaps a drive by to leave some goodies such as soup on someone's front porch would be such a welcome surprise. If you know of any families struggling financially, gift cards from grocery stores, gas stations, Target, Wal-Mart sent anonymously would knock their socks off. Call a hungry family and tell them you are having pizza delivered to their house on you. That would be a huge hit, especially with the children in the family. I'm sure you can think of many creative ways to help our brothers and sisters.
I was blessed by many of these precious acts of kindness in the last few months and I will be forever grateful to those doing Jesus' work with love.
Lois Cooper — Tuesday, February 23, 2021 —
Be strong and courageous. The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. Deuteronomy 31:6, 8 (NIV)
Moses spoke these words of encouragement to the Israelites who were about to venture into the Promised Land after their 40-year journey through the wilderness. They are on the verge of entering a new territory. They've waited for this moment for more than a generation. They’ve crossed the Red Sea, lived on quail and manna from heaven and have been given the Ten Commandments. Now is the moment they've been waiting for.
This year as we embark on our Lenten journey, the same God of Moses who spoke to the Israelites is speaking to us today. The same message of encouragement resonates with faith and hope during these difficult times. We are wandering in our own kind of wilderness uncertain of what lies ahead. We feel isolated and disconnected from what was once familiar territory. What was true for the Israelites in the wilderness and Jesus fasting in the desert, is true for us today. God's message is the same for those who put their faith and hope in Him; it is a message of his complete and total willingness to be involved in your life.
BE STRONG AND COURAGEOUS. THE LORD GOES BEFORE YOU. God will lead us if we will follow. The way forward may not be easy, but God promises to take the lead. As we enter uncharted territory, God already knows what lies ahead and how, when and where the journey ends. God is always guiding us.
God will be with you. To his people, God promises his steadfast security at all times. God will never abandon you.
He will never leave you nor forsake you. As long as we remain faithful to God, we have God's unfailing promise to always be with us no matter what the circumstances. God always fulfills his promises.
Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. Have faith in God's promises to see you through the tough times. God is in control.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank you for granting us more grace and mercy than we deserve. Keep us mindful to extend the same grace and mercy to others so that they too may know your unconditional love. Create in us the heart to see others as you see them and to hear the cries of the lonely, hurting and frightened. When we become stressed, fearful and exhausted give us the faith, courage and strength to know you are in control. Forgive us when we are tempted and stray from your will and guide our steps to more closely follow your path. Remind us that you often answer prayers with“ I will guide you” rather than yes or no. May we mature in faith as we trust your word and obey your commands. Continue to fill us with your peace and loving spirit, now and always. Amen.
Judy Gaus — Wednesday, February 24, 2021 —
When they had gone ashore, they saw a charcoal fire there, with fish on it, and bread. Jesus said to them, “Bring some of the fish that you have just caught.” So Simon Peter went aboard and hauled the net ashore, full of large fish, a hundred fifty-three of them; and though there were so many, the net was not torn. Jesus said to them, “Come and have breakfast.” John 21:9-12a (NRSV)
What is spirituality to you? Does engaging your spirituality mean taking a long walk, praying early in the morning, worshiping, meditating on a Bible verse, singing praise to God? These are some of my favorite ways to renew my spirit and my relationship with God.
But how about eating a bleary-eyed breakfast with your child before she heads off to school? Or driving around on busy rush-hour roads? Or doing the grocery shopping? Could these things be spiritual too?
This scripture passage describes an event which takes place after Jesus’ resurrection. It is striking to me that this passage is in the Gospel of John. John’s Gospel often uses a lofty spiritual language, making it hard for me to grasp because it is not down-to-earth. And yet, here is this description of the disciples, out doing their regular job of fishing, trying to have a regular day. The passage has earthly specifics in it: charcoal, bread, exactly 153 fish, breakfast; it also has miracles: the risen Jesus, a full yet intact fishing net.
To me this passage says that Jesus meets us right here and now, where we are in our everyday lives, as well as in those special moments we set aside for meditation, prayer, and worship. We don’t have to manufacture the perfect contemplative setting to encounter Jesus, because Jesus is Emmanuel, -God with-us.
Prayer: Gracious God, I ask for your presence in my quiet times of meditation and prayer, and also in the everyday moments of my life.
Carolyn Gibbs (Reprinted from 2006) — Thursday, February 25, 2021 —
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. Philippians 4:4-7 (NRSV)
I am a worrier. I’m constantly worrying about things that are out of my control, as well as if I’ve remembered to do something or if I offended someone with my words. A few years ago, I wrote a devotional for a class I took at Waynesburg University during my senior year and I’m extremely lucky that I decided to write down my words. It was written right before Spring Break and apparently, I was feeling the stress of being a college senior. The anxiety I had to finish the semester, as well as to ensure that I passed all my classes I needed in order to graduate was evident and, clearly, verses 6-7 stood out to me during this time.
Even today, I am struck by the words of this text. As someone who is always worried, I find it so hard not to worry. As a Christian, it is so reassuring knowing that a relationship with God can bring calm into our crazy lives. During this weird season in our world, it is so hard to not worry about our own and our families health, as well as the state of division, and continuing issues of racism, within our country. When we begin to focus on growing our relationship with God, we can start to gain peace. Jesus allows us to refocus on what truly matters and not worry about the things that don’t matter. With our attention on living prayerful lives, we are able to begin to feel God’s presence and receive the much-needed calm that most of us need within our lives.
Elizabeth Nicodemus — Friday, February 26, 2021 —
The Priceless Ingredients of the Bible I remember back in my old school days, my professor saying, “This statement wouldn’t be complete without stirring in this‘ Priceless Ingredient.’” Then he would go through the motions of pouring something into a large container and stirring vigorously.
“Priceless Ingredient” reminds me of our weekly Bible class where we open and close our meeting by singing a beautiful little prayer. These are the words:
Have Thine own way Lord, have Thine own way, Thou are the potter, I am the clay. Fill with thy spirit ’til all shall see, Christ only, always. living in me.
(Excerpt from Have Thine Own Way, Lord! by Adelaide A. Pollard)
What “Priceless Ingredients” these words can add to our Christian Living!
Now suppose you had a large mixing bowl with your life in it and had a desire to add the “Priceless Ingredients” from this prayer song to your life. First you must tell God that you want your own free will to cooperate with His will. That will enable you to add the prayer song’s “Priceless Ingredient — Have Thine own way Lord” to your Christian Life in the mixing bowl.
Then you add another “Priceless Ingredient” from the song — “fill with thy spirit” — so that your life, in itself, might be a “Priceless Ingredient” for someone else; A beacon for someone looking for “the way” because now, while you were stirring in that last“ Priceless Ingredient” — “Christ only, always, living in me” was automatically added!
It is a heavy bowl-of-your-life that you are stirring; but you will get stronger as you keep adding “Priceless Ingredients” from the Bible to your Life.
Clarence (Beepa) Carlson (Reprinted from 2006) — Saturday, February 27, 2021 —
So the crowd that had been with him when he called Lazarus out of the tomb and raised him from the dead continued to testify. It was also because they heard that he had performed this sign that the crowd went to meet him. The Pharisees then said to one another, “You see, you can do nothing. Look, the world has gone after him!” John 12:17-19 (NRSV)
Devotion? What’s That Got To Do With Anything? A few years ago, I read a death notice of someone I thought I knew from a long time ago. The obituary confirmed it. The wife of my favorite minister during my adolescent years had passed away. The good Reverend was mentioned as the survivor. Since the funeral home was close by, I decided to go more out of curiosity than anything else, I thought. How could that be after all these years? The visit was a good one for me. I reintroduced myself to him, specifying the church, the era, and what the two of them meant to me as role models and spiritual inspirations. While I doubt his actual connection and recollection, the trickle of a tear left no doubt that he identified the depth of my feelings for him. He and his wife were childless but poured out their boundless energy upon the youth of their church. They made us feel God’s love through youth club, athletic contests, and church camp. On the way home, I processed this rich history into a relationship of devotion the likes of which I had not experienced before.
On Palm Sunday, the crowds welcomed Jesus into Jerusalem, remembering his miracle raising Lazarus from the dead. They showed their devotion undoubtedly driven by the frenzy of the crowd. Their devotion was short-lived and weak, for only a few days afterwards they did nothing to stop his execution.
What is the devotion required of us? Likely, to care for others in a loving way demonstrated by Christ. As the Psalmist says: I delight to do your will, O my God: your law is within my heart. Psalm 40:8 (NRSV) The visit with my teenage hero was for more than mere curiosity, it was an act of gratitude for the profound devotion he and his wife showed toward their youthful charges many years before. They knew, before we did certainly, what God required to be a faithful and devoted servant.
Don Hartswick (Reprinted from past Lenten Devotional)
— Sunday, February 28, 2021 —
Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not let them be afraid. John 14:27 (NRSV) — Monday, March 1, 2021 —
If a snake bites before it is charmed, If you find honey, eat just enough— the charmer receives no fee. Too much of it, and you will vomit. Ecclesiastes 10:11 (NIV) Proverbs 25:16 (NIV)
Better to live on a corner of the roof
Than share a house with a quarrelsome wife.
Proverbs 25:24 (NIV)
Have you ever found yourself, or someone you know, upon hearing or reading a small snippet of something, a soundbite or a quote perhaps, using that information to support or rebuke a certain point of view? While I like to think that I put more thought into my beliefs and arguments, I am certain that I have been guilty of this. And it is difficult not to. Information is coming at us from so many directions and all of the providers of that information are competing for eyes and ears and trying to keep them by not boring us with long drawn-out explanations or detailed looks into the history and circumstances behind the little blurbs they give us. They just move on to the next soundbite.
Like a picture of a single point in time, with no context, it can lead to very wrong conclusions about what has happened, or what a person meant, or believes, or supports. If we take the time to dig deeper, we may find that the singular quote or brief explanation, was in no way representative of the larger picture or message or person that it was taken from.
What if the only passage you ever heard from the Bible were the three listed above. Now, I am sure that a good preacher could turn any of those into a great sermon. But, if you knew nothing else of God and Christ, what would these verses tell you about them? What might it make you think about the Bible? Maybe, at best that it does not make sense? Maybe at worst that it is filled with unhelpful and possibly chauvinistic lessons?
The reality is that the Bible IS filled with many confusing things. Especially when we try to digest those on our own. It is also filled with many, many deep, insightful and very meaningful lessons and expressions of love and truth. Take the time to explore the Bible. Read books and chapters that you never have before. Choose randomly or find a reading plan that works for you to get through the entire Bible. As you do this, find others to join you, or to help you understand things that don’t make sense to you. As you read and learn more, try not to get bogged down in the many specifics. Instead, try to begin to see the messages that repeat throughout its entirety. Try to feel the overarching themes and messages are there to be discovered. See the whole picture. You don’t have to memorize it, and this will not answer all of your questions. But it will allow you to live more fully in the Word and allow the Word to live in you. And that will change your life.
Jon Crownover — Tuesday, March 2, 2021 —
But as for me, I watch in hope for the Lord. I wait for God my Savior, my God will always hear me! Micah 7:7 (NIV)
Well, as I write this, it has been a year since the first case of COVID-19. Our lives have greatly changed. I was an 80-year old new widow after 58 years of marriage. But I knew that God was always with me and I trusted him to hear me and direct my path. I’m an extravert close to being an introvert according to Myers-Briggs so I really haven’t minded the slower pace that the virus has commanded—I wear a mask, wash my hands, social distance, etc… I read, watch tv, do puzzles and Zoom! I walk outside and did a lot of gardening. My pod consists of three friends that I see when I come into my home. I’m never alone because I have a cat and a dog. I trust that God is always with me. Without that trust I’m sure I could not get through all this. My trust has always carried me before. When it took two years to sell our house, when we lost most of our money when the market fell in 2008 and Bobs pension ended, through all his many bouts with cancer and his death, God has sent family and dear friends to sustain me. And I’m well. No aches and pains typical of someone my age. How blessed I am.
And along comes this darn vaccine and the lack thereof that has thrown me for a loop. This past week my lifelong trust was shattered. Lord, why can’t I get the vaccine? I’m old enough. My kids are nervous I’m going to get sick. I want to fly to the west coast to see my great grandson in Seattle and my son in California. Other people are getting it. Why not me? I worked myself into a sleepless frenzy. How dumb! Almost every day in my Bible and devotional readings, God was telling me“ PATIENCE! And that was my star word that I received in church last New Years! “You will get the vaccine. Have peace. I hear you and the vaccine will come.” I finally heard Him. I trust my Lord and I have his promised peace!
Prayer: Dear Jesus in this Lenten time help us to hear you, that you are always with us and nothing can separate you from us. Send us peace. Amen.
Sue Keim — Wednesday, March 3, 2021 —
For many years now, every morning when my feet hit the floor and before I read theUpper Room, I pause and say this prayer.
“Jesus Lord, I offer you this new day because I believe in you, love you, hope all things in you, and thank you for all your blessings.
I am sorry for having offended you and forgive everyone who has offended me.
Lord, look on me and leave in me peace and courage and your humble wisdom that I may serve others with joy, and be pleasing you all day.”
I do not know who wrote this prayer. But I do know that the Holy Spirit goes with me the rest of the day and reminds me that I made a promise to God that morning—so just keep it.
Mary Jane Hugel (Reprinted from past Lenten Devotional) — Thursday, March 4, 2021 —
God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Psalm 46:1 (NRSV)
This verse was the first one I learned when I was a confirmation student back many years ago in the Lutheran Church. It has always been one that I repeat many times. These words are also the basis of a choir anthem.
Some years ago, someone sent me the following words in one of the hard times in my life. The source is unknown.
You’ve kept the faith, though times were hard, indeed, the way’s still rough. You’ve trusted God who leads your life; for you, he’s been enough. His joy still shines upon your face, though inside you are crying. Your gentle Savior sees your trust, and those tears you’re hiding. Pour out your heart! Tell all to Him! That’s what He’s waiting for. Ask those questions, state your case. He’s opened wide the door. Go boldly to the throne of grace, we’re told to in His word. Then hear Him whisper in your heart the sweetest words you’ve heard. “I’ll carry you, dear child of mine. Just trust in me and wait. Clasp tight my robe. ’I ll see you through— for you have kept the faith.”
Dear Lord: Remind us that you are there for us, even when we are uncertain and fearful. Help us to share this trust with those who need to know that a merciful God is ever present.
Sylvia Thomas (Reprinted from 2004) — Friday, March 5, 2021 —
Create in me a clean heart, O God, and put a new and right spirit within me. Do not cast me away from your presence, and do not take your holy spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and sustain in me a willing spirit. Psalm 51: 10-12 (NRSV)
The yoga instructor said, “Concentrate on the breath, and your mind will clear.” It didn’t seem possible to clear my mind of all the clutter there—the clutter of daily cares, worries, sin, guilt, illness, inadequacy, doubt, confusion, and fear. Yet obviously, God had presented me with this chance to concentrate on this task. So I lay there, during that time of God-given rest, and concentrated on breathing. With each breath I invited Jesus in, back in to the center, to take the place of the clutter. I was able to fix my inward eye on Jesus, and the redemption he offers me from all that clutter.
Can the clutter creep back in? It is likely to. But if I am able to take time to listen, breath, and invite Jesus in, then the clutter will not overwhelm me.
Prayer: Come, thou long expected Jesus Born to set thy people free. From our fears and sins release us Let us find our rest in thee.
(Excerpt from Come Thou Long Expected Jesus by Charles Wesley)
Anonymous (Reprinted from 2005) — Saturday, March 6, 2021 —
I will not leave you desolate; I will come to you. John 14:18 (NRSV)
We cannot anticipate a bright Easter morning without a dark Good Friday.
The mountain peak is only reached after climbing from the valley.
A new day never dawns till we have experienced the dark night before.
A flower never grows till it germinates in the dark soil.
A beautiful Spring is preceded by a bitter cold Winter.
How very comforting it is to know that God is always with us. Although it is difficult at times for us to understand why our life takes the bend or twist it does, God assures us that He will never leave us. This Lenten season provides us with a perfect opportunity to do some serious thinking and reading about Christ and who He is and about ourselves and who we are. How comforting it is to know that God is always with us.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank you for being always with us. When we are in the depths of the valley, you help make our climb toward the peak possible. Thank you for giving us your Son who died on the cross in order that we might have life eternal. Amen.
“An Easter dawn erases the dark Good Friday.”
Ruth and Frank Dunsmoor (Reprinted from 1997) — Sunday, March 7, 2021 —
Therefore, since we are justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have obtained access to this grace in which we stand; and we boast in our hope of sharing the glory of God. Romans 5:1-2 (NRSV) — Monday, March 8, 2021 —
At that time the disciples came to Jesus and asked,“ Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” He called a child, whom he put among them, and he said, “Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Whoever becomes humble like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. Whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me.” Matthew 18:1-5 (NRSV)
The purity of children constantly amazes me. In the current state of the world and the weird year that was 2020, I have loved being able to work with children of various different ages. These kids didn’t care about what was going on in the world outside the classroom they were in. All they wanted to do was play or dance or read a story. Those children teach me things everyday and ask questions that most adults would never think to ask.
This text is one that always makes me smile. Anyone who has ever listened to a child tell a story knows that there is something so special about the glow in their eyes when they are telling you about something they really love. This text makes me think of this moment. Thinking of being a child again brings me joy, as I’m sure it does for most of us. Jesus understood that children shouldn’t be looked down upon simply because of their age, but should be lifted up and loved. During this season, let’s take a minute to act like a kid again and appreciate everything for the beauty that it has. Let’s tell stories that make our eyes shine bright.
Elizabeth Nicodemus — Tuesday, March 9, 2021 —
My Beatitude Prayer
Dear God, Please teach me to be humble (poor in spirit) so that I may always know how very much I need You. As I struggle and recognize my neediness (mourn), I thank You for the comfort only You can provide. Help me to be (meek) so that I may learn Your lessons. Help me to (hunger and thirst for Your righteousness) for I long to do Your will. In my dealings with others, let me be (merciful) as You have been merciful to me. I pray also, Lord, that I might be (pure in heart) and a (peacemaker) for then I can be an instrument for You. And thank You when I am (persecuted) for Your (righteousness sake) so that I may have the reward of being with You in heaven. I pray this in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Anonymous — Wednesday, March 10, 2021 —
You were all called to travel on the same road and in the same direction, so stay together, both outwardly and inwardly. You have one Master, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all, who rules over all, works through all, and is present in all. Everything you are and think and do is permeated with Oneness. But that doesn’t mean you should all look and speak and act the same. Out of the generosity of Christ, each of us is given his own gift. Ephesians 4:4-7 (MSG)
Unity Over Conformity I have two brothers, one 4½ years older and one 5 years younger. They look like our father and I look like our mother. The three of us as children were so completely different—our parents were the only thing we has in common. My older brother was studious, logical and intelligent. My younger brother was athletic, charismatic, and full of energy. I was the shy, emotional, creative one. I used to tell people that if you put us together, you’d have one very well-rounded person. Despite our differences, we were and are family.
That’s a snapshot of unity—Because of a single shared commonality, distinct individuals choosing to come together in an effort of harmony. Too often in the world and in the church today, we make the mistake of confusing the idea of conformity with that of unity. But for us God never intended conformity which cannot exist within diversity. If he had, he wouldn’t have created us singularly unique with freewill to choose as we like. Unity is not everyone thinking, acting, and believing the same. It is the coming together of diverse individuals bound together by a single core aspect. Our shared commonality is our Creator and Lord. Everywhere I look, I see conformity—cliques or factions—being mistaken for unity. There can be no unity without diversity.
Unity is a strange mix of strength and fragility. Strength in numbers and a pool of ability from which the Lord works miracles within and among us. Fragile in that a single moment of human discord can shatter it. Jesus understood this and prayed for you and me that our unity would be stronger in the Triune God than our sinful pride would be to tear it apart.
I’m praying not only for [my disciples] but also for those who will believe in me because of them and their witness about me. The goal is for all of them to become one heart and mind—just as you, Father, are in me and I in you, so they might be one heart and mind with us. Then the world might believe that you, in fact, sent me. The same glory you gave me, I gave them, so they’ll be as unified and together as we are—I in them and you in me. Then they’ll be mature in this oneness, and give the godless world evidence that you’ve sent me and loved them in the same way you’ve loved me. John 17:20-23 (MSG)
And he is at the Father’s right hand this moment still interceding on our behalf to achieve the kind of unity he desires for us. He sent his Holy Spirit to be in and among us to achieve the unity he had in mind for us from the beginning. I don’t know how he is going to accomplish this. I do know that we are a part of the problem and the solution. It’s our narrow view, our pride, and our selfishness that contributes to the hindering or breaking of the unity we are privileged to have in the Lord Jesus Christ. And it is in every act of acceptance of others just as they are, in every act of love to those we know and those we don’t, and in every act of understanding, whether or not we agree, that God strengthens the unity among us within him.
Maureen Profeta — Thursday, March 11, 2021 —
Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts as you did in the rebellion. Hebrews 3:15 (NIV)
Calm in the Chaos In the morning, I sit to have my “quiet time” with God. As I open my Bible, the washing machine churns, the dishwasher hums, my neighbor mows his grass, the telephone rings, and I wonder why it’s a struggle to focus on Jesus. Maybe I should get an earlier start.
I understand the importance of daily spending time in prayer and reading God’s Word. It is a discipline and priority in my life, yet there are days it doesn’t happen. I find that on the days I do take time with the Lord, the course of my day is smoother, less stressful. I’m more peaceful and confident in my decisions.
How can we listen for God in the commotion and chaos of our daily routines? If we carve out corners of quiet, where not only our environment is still, but our minds are calm and free of distractions, we are better able to hear the hush of the Holy Spirit. If we put aside our mental to-do lists, the dialogues of disagreements, and the worries over loved ones, our minds are open and receptive to the nudges of our Creator. We can listen for that still, small voice in the silence. What is He saying to you today?
Prayer: Loving Father, help us to be still and listen. We want to hear your voice. Amen.
Angie Dilmore (Reprinted from past Lenten Devotional) — Friday, March 12, 2021 —
As for us, we have this large crowd of witnesses around us. So then, let us rid ourselves of everything that gets in the way, and of the sin which holds on to us so tightly, and let us run with determination the race that lies before us. Let us keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, on whom our faith depends from beginning to end. He did not give up because of the cross! On the contrary, because of the joy that was waiting for him, he thought nothing of the disgrace of dying on the cross, and he is now seated at the right side of God’s throne. Think of what he went through; how he put up with so much hatred from sinners! So do not let yourselves become discouraged and give up. Hebrews 12:1-3 (GNT)
Have you ever had one of those days when you like to just let the day go by in its own merry old way? When everything seems to go wrong, nothing that you do is right, when even a casual remark seems to be a barb? We all have such times—or so it seems. Burdens are heavier, plans are thwarted, our grief seems deeper and even our smallest fears are magnified.
That is just the time when we should have faith to turn to God and to ask Him to walk with us and guide in the way He would have us go. It takes a great deal of courage to adopt a hands-off stance when, deep within, we are convinced that things must work out in a certain way. To say, “Thy will be done” and to add “not mine” and really mean it is difficult. This is what we must do in order to know the peace of God in our daily living and the quietness that comes when we are totally relying on God to guide our steps. By surrendering our will to God our path is made smoother and the doubts and fears disappear.
Like Jesus, we should accept God’s will for our life and show the faith Jesus had in God’s love that enabled him to endure the humiliation and agony of the cross. Then we can face the future with the sure knowledge that we are living as we are meant to live; spirit-filled and secure in His love.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, may we have the presence of the Holy Spirit in our lives so that we can discern and do according to your purpose for us.
Earl and Jean Hamburg (Reprinted from 2001) — Saturday, March 13, 2021 —
I will sing unto the Lord because he hath dealt bountifully with me. Psalm 13:6 (KJV)
Do your blessings outnumber the pains and troubles in your life? Most of us would answer “No.” But when you add up all the good things you have been experiencing you will definitely answer“ Yes.”
This past year has been a blessed year and one that revealed two miracles. The miracle was Don’s acceptance to selling our home, moving to a retirement village and switching from hating the idea, to loving every day in our new apartment. It was a long process, and I didn’t make it easier since an operation and hospital stay made it a move Don made with the help of Elaine, Fred, Jeannie, and granddaughter, Jennifer.
The second miracle was revealed just a month ago when I had a severe case of shingles. A date had been set for an injection to lessen back pain and I called to cancel, explaining that I had better not come since I had shingles. Well God does work in mysterious ways and the nurse said, “Oh we will treat the shingles first and then at a later date take care of your back.” They eliminated the pain and healed me quickly and I felt it was a miracle.
Each day we should be thankful for the love of family and friends, and so many things we just take for granted. I know that God does answer prayers and does intervene where needed. Don’t ever stop being positive and remember God only gives you as much as you are able to bear.
Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for all our blessings and give us more courage to face each day. If it be Thy will, we ask this all in Jesus name. Amen.
Ruth Eckert (Reprinted from 2006) — Sunday, March 14, 2021 —
For God has destined us not for wrath but for obtaining salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ, who died for us, so that whether we are awake or asleep we may live with him. 1 Thessalonians 5:9-10 (NRSV) — Monday, March 15, 2021 —
Be kind to one another, tenderhearted; forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you. Ephesians 4:32 (NKJV)
Kindness: It’s a gift—a spiritual gift.
In a me-focused society obsessed with “getting my way,” kindness seeks to find the good in others. It’s a harsh old world out there and, sometimes I find myself being quickly critical of someone or some group. I believe God wants me to find, and will help me to find, not just the good—but the “gold” in people. Dig deep, it’s there.
Over my lifetime, countless numbers of people have been extraordinarily kind to me in both thought and deed. And when I get to spend any amount of time with these kind people—well it’s like sitting in Sunshine! The kindness they showed me had a positive affect on my day—on my heart. Days, months, or years after someone offered the kindness, the memory of that gesture brings the same comfort and smile. The gift of Kindness is everlasting.
Dear God, guide my inner-most, private thoughts to be gentle. Help me to have eyes that see the gold in people, and to “throw kindness around like confetti!”
Jan O’Connor — Tuesday March 16, 2021 —
Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. Philippians 4:6 (NIV)
Do not be anxious about anything? Really?!? Over the last year there has certainly been much to be anxious about. There has been so much fear and anger, sickness and death, isolation and division, sorrow and grief. And while some of these emotions may come in sudden spikes or waves, feelings of anxiousness and frustration seem to just settle in, like an annoying relative who overstays their welcome. They become a constant presence in our lives.
So, what to do when the Apostle Paul says to not be anxious about anything? First, rest assured that feeling anxious and frustrated is not wrong or bad. It does not mean that you have failed. In the Garden of Gethsemane, Jesus was so anxious about what was to come that Luke stated that “his sweat was like drops of blood falling to the ground.” In Mark’s telling of the story, you can sense Jesus’ frustration with his disciples as they repeatedly drift off to sleep, when he most needs their support. It is okay to feel these things.
I think what Paul wanted for the Philippians, and for us, is to not be trapped by, and live in, anxiety. Feelings of anxiety can lead to avoidance. Avoiding what makes us uncomfortable, avoiding other people, avoiding looking deeper into ourselves. In the verse above, we are told to confront the subject of our anxiety through prayer, petition, thanksgiving and conversing with God. A few verses later, wants us to be mindful of where we place our attention,“ whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” Making sure that we feed our heart and spirit with goodness and not only taking in what feeds our anxiety.
In addition to reaching out to God and being mindful of, and grateful for, goodness in our lives, we need to follow Jesus’ example and allow others to support us. It has been hard, during this time, to make and maintain connections. But it is not impossible. There are so many ways to communicate with others now. Reach out to an old friend. Set regular times to speak with someone who can offer you grace and support. Call the church, any church, and ask to be connected with someone who can simply spend time talking with you. Or ask if you can be such a resource to others. When safe to do so, meet someone for coffee or a walk in the park. And seek out spiritual and mental health counseling if needed.
Prayer: God, let this season of Lent and the coming of spring fill us with Your Hope and Peace. As believers around the globe move through this time together, let us feel the bonds that tie to each other, to the words of the Bible and to the generations that have come before us. Help us to see the good that is in the world and in each other and to share that goodness and your Good News with every life we touch. Amen.
Jon Crownover — Wednesday, March 17, 2021 —
Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. Hebrews 11:1 (KJV)
The Eyes of Faith “… the evidence of things not seen.”
More years ago than I want to remember I was an animal husbandry major at what is now the State University of New York (SUNY) at Cobleskill, New York. One course that is required of all animal husbandry majors is called “Feeds and Feeding.” The objective of the course is to teach students how to make up rations to meet the needs of different kinds of livestock. As we developed various rations, I have always remembered the biblical sounding statement used by our professor to temper our enthusiasm about having developed the perfect ration.“ Never forget, it is the eye of the master that fatteneth his cattle.” Your first reaction may be “so what” or “what is the connection,” but if you look at this statement in the broader context of life and our religious heritage, the meaning goes much deeper. In the case of our livestock rations you can have“ the perfect mix” but every animal is an individual with its own inheritance, its own reaction to living conditions, and maybe even some allergies. This is where “the eye of the master” comes into play. Life and things living do not thrive on formulas. It is the knowledge and discernment that comes from the experienced eye that makes things prosper.
And so it is with faith. True faith is not developed through a formula, i.e. attended church 52 times, contributed X dollars, said 80 prayers, etc. The person who has “The Eyes of Faith” sees life through the eyes of the one real Master and leads his or her life accordingly. It is a faith that is not easily developed, but one that will see you through life in both the best of times and the worst of times.
May this Lenten journey sharpen your Eyes of Faith.
Prayer: Dear Lord please help us develop a faith that will enable us to see beyond the easy answers, to be sensitive to the many and varied circumstances that affect our fellow man, and to react in our interpersonal relationships in a way that will give the kind of results that come from seeing through the eyes of the Master. Amen.
Ed Kinne (Reprinted from 1997) — Thursday, March 18, 2021 —
I believe… I can choose my reactions to life’s events.
I can’t control the temperature or snowfall during January—but I can focus my energies on helping other people rather than dwelling on my own inertia and boredom.
I can’t control the choices my children make—I can choose to rejoice in their individualism, spunk or determination, even when their specific actions ’don t thrill me.
I can’t control my “luck” with trivial everyday events: choosing the slowest check-out line again, ruining my last pair of pantyhose, or running out of toothpaste. I can choose to view each of these as unworthy of angry energy or self-pity.
I can’t control any of what life presents to me—trivial frustrations to traumatic losses—I can only control my emotional reactions and my subsequent responses, choices or actions.
Prayer: Dear Lord, thank you for helping me learn the difference between trying to control my world and merely controlling my reactions to life as it unfolds. Please continue to give me the wisdom to appreciate this difference. I believe it is my gateway to peace. Amen.
There is magic in believing…
Sue Purviance (Reprinted from past Lenten Devotional) — Friday, March 19, 2021 —
After these things God tested Abraham. He said to him,“ Abraham!” And he said, “Here I am.” He said, “Take your son, your only son Isaac, whom you love, and go to the land of Moriah, and offer him there as a burnt offering on one of the mountains that I shall show you.” So Abraham rose early in the morning, saddled his donkey, and took two of his young men with him, and his son Isaac; he cut the wood for the burnt offering, and set out and went to the place in the distance that God had shown him. On the third day Abraham looked up and saw the place far away. Then Abraham said to his young men, “Stay here with the donkey; the boy and I will go over there; we will worship, and then we will come back to you.” Abraham took the wood of the burnt offering and laid it on his son Isaac, and he himself carried the fire and the knife. So the two of them walked on together. Isaac said to his father Abraham, “Father!” And he said, “Here I am, my son.” He said, “The fire and the wood are here, but where is the lamb for a burnt offering?” Abraham said, “God himself will provide the lamb for a burnt offering, my son.” So the two of them walked on together.
When they came to the place that God had shown him, Abraham built an altar there and laid the wood in order. He bound his son Isaac, and laid him on the altar, on top of the wood. Then Abraham reached out his hand and took the knife to kill his son. But the angel of the Lord called to him from heaven, and said, “Abraham, Abraham!” And he said, “Here I am.” He said, “Do not lay your hand on the boy or do anything to him; for now I know that you fear God, since you have not withheld your son, your only son, from me.” And Abraham looked up and saw a ram, caught in a thicket by its horns. Abraham went and took the ram and offered it up as a burnt offering instead of his son. So Abraham called that place“ The Lord will provide”; as it is said to this day, “On the mount of the Lord it shall be provided.”
The angel of the Lord called to Abraham a second time from heaven, and said,“ By myself I have sworn, says the Lord: Because you have done this, and have not withheld your son, your only son, I will indeed bless you, and I will make your offspring as numerous as the stars of heaven and as the sand that is on the seashore. And your offspring shall possess the gate of their enemies, and by your offspring shall all the nations of the earth gain blessing for themselves, because you have obeyed my voice. So Abraham returned to his young men, and they arose and went together to Beer-sheba; and Abraham lived at Beer-sheba. Genesis 22:1-19 (NRSV)
This story is one that has stood out to me ever since my first semester Old Testament class at Pittsburgh Theological Seminary with Dr. Steven Tuell. Since we studied this, I have been struck by something different every time I read the text. Abraham was willing to give his son, who he had been praying and hoping for for a long time, to God as a burnt offering. In those days, burnt offerings were usually animals, something of which Isaac picked up on while traveling with his dad. When asked about it Abraham simply tells Isaac that God will provide the sacrifice, not being 100% sure if that would happen or not. God, of course, does tell Abraham not to harm Isaac and provides a ram as the sacrifice. Abraham never once questioned God about if He would provide him with a sacrifice. This story demonstrates a level of trust in the Lord that I hope to one day possess. In this season of Lent, let’s learn to live a little like Abraham, not questioning God about His plan for our lives. Let’s live a life of trusting in God’s plan and knowing that God will provide for us.
Elizabeth Nicodemus — Saturday, March 20, 2021 —
Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you. Matthew 5:42 (NIV)
The Wise Woman’s Stone A wise woman who was traveling in the mountains found a precious stone in a stream. The next day she met another traveler who was hungry, and the wise woman opened her bag to share her food. The hungry traveler saw the precious stone and asked the woman to give it to him. She did so without hesitation.
The traveler left rejoicing in his good fortune. He knew the stone was worth enough to give him security for a lifetime.
But a few days later, he came back to return the stone to the wise woman. “I’ve been thinking,” he said. “I know how valuable this stone is, but I give it back in the hope that you can give me something even more precious. Give me what you have within you that enabled you to give me this stone.”
Prayer: Dear God, teach us to love in actions and deeds as well as in words. We need and want to be like Jesus. Amen.
Anonymous (Reprinted from 2002) — Sunday, March 21, 2021 —
For by grace you have been saved through faith, and this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God—not the result of works, so that no one may boast. Ephesians 2:8-9 (NRSV) — Monday, March 22, 2021 —
As you have heard from the beginning, his command is that you walk in love. 2 John 1:6b (NIV)
“I don’t know what I’m still running on,” I said to my friend the other day in a video message. “I don’t feel like I’ve really rested since this started a year ago.” I’ve spent this last pandemic year in various iterations of teaching high school English online and in-person/hybrid while parenting and trying to help my own young children with their online learning often in the same time and space (my daughter, Lulu, yelling for me to wipe her while my student is asking a question aboutThe Odyssey). People say, "You cannot pour from an empty cup.” How about pouring from a cup that’s been emptied, pulverized and is now being sold as mosaic tile pieces?
This week I had to meet more deadlines at work than felt humanly possible, and in the midst of it, I tried to project a steady, enthusiastic presence. I was wilting inside and hoping nobody could tell. But one of my colleagues stopped me in the hall to ask how I was, and I got teary. Even though we were communicating only with our eyes because of the masks, I could feel his love and care. He said to me, “You are not alone. We are all there with you.” I felt buoyed up, a little lighter when I walked to my next class. And, one of my students, who has been going through major depression and has been online all year (so I have only ever talked with her over Zoom), stayed after class to talk with me and share a poem she’d written. When I asked her,“ How are you doing these days?” She said, “Not great, but writing helps.” And that night, my daughter was jumping-up-and- down excited to show me a painting she’d made of a polar bear standing amid the northern lights. Tiny white paint dots speckled black construction paper and a polar bear stood among them, smiling.
As I was falling asleep that night, I realized that these moments of love and connection and joy must be refilling my cup quietly, without me realizing it. Surely, God is the force of love adding small points of light to these days that often feel like a pile of black construction paper. Thank you, God, for these small moments that are not small moments at all. For the love you give to us and ask us to share.
Emily Mohn-Slate — Tuesday, March 23, 2021 —
Love is patient and kind; love is not jealous or conceited, or proud: love is not ill-mannered, or selfish, or irritable; love does not keep a record of wrongs, love is not happy with evil, but is happy with the truth. Love never gives up. 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 (GNT)
This passage was part of the initiation ceremony of my college sorority. I had to memorize it then and it has influenced me ever since.
I’ve found, however, that it’s not easy to love everyone. Bigotry really bothers me, and I have to remember that people who are prejudiced against others because of skin color, religion, race, or sexual orientation also love small children, can be generous to the poor and honest in their relationships.
Prayer: Dear God, help us to see You in even the most unlovable, to turn enemies into friends, and to share your love with all we meet. Amen.
Betty Queer (Reprinted from 2002) — Wednesday, March 24, 2021 —
But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run and not be weary, and they shall walk and not faint. Isaiah 40:31 (KJV)
I love winter! I love the cold temperatures and the freshly fallen snow. (You have to agree that clean, white, sparkly snow is one of nature’s most beautiful gifts!) But as I watch birds flying south to escape the cold weather, I’m reminded of this verse from Isaiah. If only we could always be on the mountaintop, we say. If only everything in our lives always went the “right way.” If only! But we all have rainy days and low times when we question our faith and wonder who is really in charge of our lives. I truly believe it takes the valleys in life to appreciate the mountain tops we all experience and to really grow in our faith. As part of a poem my mother gave me says:
Sometimes life seems hard to bear, Full of sorrow, trouble and woe It’s then I have to remember That it’s in the valleys I grow
If I always stayed on the mountaintop And never experienced pain, I would never appreciate God’s love And would be living in vain.
I do not always understand Why things happen as they do, But I am very sure of one thing. My Lord will see me through.
Forgive me Lord, for complaining When I’m feeling so very low. Just give me a gentle reminder That it’s in the valleys I grow.
Thank you for the valleys, Lord For this one thing I know The mountaintops are glorious But it’s in the valleys I grow.
(Excerpt of It's in the Valley I Grow by Jane Eggleston)
Prayer: Dear Lord, help me to keep my faith strong in the valleys so I may mount up with wings as eagles to soar once again on the mountaintop with you. Amen.
Yvonne Stanley (Reprinted from 2002) — Thursday, March 25, 2021 —
Arise, shine, for your light has come. Isaiah 60:1a (NIV)
This scripture passage was used as the Biblical reference for the devotional message in theUpper Room for New Year’s Day 2007. One of the first things I do every morning is read the Upper Room or some other devotional material with its accompanying scripture passage. Then I like to reflect on what message that reading might be giving me on that particular day.
2006 had not been the worst year in our lives, but it hadn’t been the best year either. When I say this, I’m not just thinking of the world of the Pohl family. Our family had lost a loved one who was very close to us. I had been hospitalized three times during the year. Paula also experienced some health problems during that year. But we gained another grandchild that year. At the same time our nation was having some hard problems. Our country had been involved in a war for almost four years, and the announcement had been made on New Year’s weekend that we had lost 3,000 of our valiant men and women who had served in the armed forces in Iraq. But there was hope. We could rise and shine.
What does this have to do with Lenten devotion?
Isaiah 59:20 says that a savior will come to Jerusalem and to the people of Jacob who have turned against sin.
Isaiah 60:1 says to rise and shine and the glory of the Lord will shine upon you.
Place your faith and trust in the Lord and LIVE, for He has risen.
Elmer Pohl (Reprinted from past Lenten Devotional) — Friday, March 26, 2021 —
I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns. (Philippians 1:6, NLT)
I Am Certain There is something so comforting in those first three words: I am certain. There is absolutely no doubt in Paul’s mind whatsoever, even as he was imprisoned in Rome, that God would and will finish that which he started— the redemption and reconciliation of humanity to himself.
God will stop at nothing to accomplish his goal—God himself, by his own power, lowered himself into humanity, lived among us and allowed us to violently end his human life so that he could defeat the death we invited in with our sin. He defeated death for us and offers us life with him. STOP. Let’s read that again. God will stop at nothing to accomplish his goal—God himself, by his own power, lowered himself into humanity, lived among us and allowed us to violently end his human life so that he could defeat the death we invited in with our sin. He defeated death for us and offers us life with him.
The power and ability to do what he did then and continues to do towards our reconciliation is incomprehensible and unimaginable. Let’s not just gloss over it like he was gluing together a broken vase. The work he is doing to bring us back to him is intricate and delicate for we are both stronger than we know and more fragile than we would ever choose to admit. There is work to be done and it must be done with the precision of God’s steady hand and ultimate craftsmanship.
Knowing that God will not stop until I am the person he created me to be both scares me and brings me great joy. It scares me because change and the unknown lie ahead of me. I don’t like change (though I am getting used to it) and the very thought of the unknown sometimes make my blood rush with anxiety and takes my breath away. Yet it brings me joy because I know for certain that he loves me and will always be with me. I know beyond the shadow of a doubt that the closer he gets to completing his work in me, the more intimate and full our relationship will be.
So what’s my part in all of this? To let him. God’s goal of reconciliation requires that I choose of my own freewill to be reconciled to him. That’s my only job. To say yes. Yes to him. Yes to his sovereignty in my life. My job is to fix my eyes on Jesus, the author and perfector of my faith. (Heb. 12:2) I am his apprentice watching my teacher, learning the art of living a godly life copying what I see him do until it becomes a part of who I am and I become the person he created and crafted me to be.
Maureen Profeta — Saturday, March 27, 2021 —
Therefore, keep awake for you do not know when the master of the house will come, in the evening, or at midnight, or at cockcrow, or at dawn, or else he may find you asleep when he comes suddenly. And what I say to you I say to all. Keep awake. Mark 13:35-37 (NRSV)
The phone rang shrilly. It was an ordinary morning and I was engaged in the normal morning activities. The voice on the phone sobbed inconsolably and I knew it was my daughter. She told me she had just miscarried and I wept with her. It would have been their first baby, our first grandchild.
Barbara Kingsolver writes in her book Animal Dreams: “A miscarriage is a natural and common event. All told, probably more women have lost a child from this world than have not. Most don’t mention it, and they go on from day to day as if it hadn’t happened, and so people imagine that a woman in this situation never really knew or loved what she had. But ask her sometime how old would your child be now? and she’ll know.”
As time passed, my daughter began to heal physically, but she couldn’t seem to stop grieving. She went back to work and was surprised at how many people at work, both men and women, quietly and privately shared their own experiences of loss. She bough self-help books on grief and followed all the “steps.” Finally, she consulted a psychologist who gently suggested that her spiritual life was “out of kilter.”
In the midst of daily chores, too busy schedules, we need to revive our spiritual life… watch and pray, keep awake. Easter gives us a heightened sense of spirituality, but we need to watch and pray every day, not just at Easter. Looking for God, expecting God every day is the call of Christians.
Prayer: Dear Lord, enter our hearts everyday, help us to watch and listen. Let us pray daily, attend church, work for justice in the community and listen to the still, small voice of God for comfort and guidance. Lord, we praise your name. Amen.
Nancy Moore (Reprinted from 1997) — Sunday, March 28, 2021 —
Surely God is my salvation; I will trust and not be afraid. The LORD, the LORD himself, is my strength and my defense; he has become my salvation. Isaiah 12:2 (NRSV) — Monday, March 29, 2021 —
Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. Hebrews 11:1 (NIV)
Rainy Days and Mondays Don’t Always Get Me Down As I look out my window, it’s one of those foggy, gray, misty, winter Monday mornings that make me want to crawl back into bed and sleep through the day. Even though my joints ache a little from the cold and damp, I know that above that blurred horizon, the sun is still in its place in the universe, shining bright and warming the earth. I know that it’s there just as it should be and that I will see the proof of what I know soon. Maybe not today or even tomorrow, but I will see the beautiful light of the sun and feel the warmth of it on my face again. And as I affirm that belief in my head and my heart, I can almost see the sun breaking through the gloom. It seems just a little brighter, at least in my eyes.
There are many things about God that we as human beings cannot explain or understand or prove so we have to choose to believe that when God says he will provide that he can and will even if we don’t know how it works. We must choose to believe that the Holy Spirit is leading us in God’s path and listen until we hear his voice telling us which way. Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, "This is the way; walk in it." Isaiah 30:21 (NIV) Even when that way leads us through foggy, gray, misty winter days, we must choose to believe that God is with us and then believe it with all our hearts despite the questions and obstacles that keep us from seeing what we are certain of and with that belief comes a hint of the joy of the Lord that one day will be fully known and understood by us all.
Maureen Profeta — Tuesday, March 30, 2021 —
Father, forgive them for they do not know what they are doing. Luke 23:34a (NRSV)
FOR THEY DO NOT KNOW WHAT THEY ARE DOING. Of course, they knew what they were doing, these Christ-accusers, these synagogue rulers and their assistants. They were eliminating this trouble-maker, this disturber of their peace. This blasphemer. They thought they were doing the right thing. But did they really know what they were doing? WHAT WERE THE UNINTENDED CONSEQUENCES OF WHAT THEY WERE DOING?
They did not know that almost two thousand years after the fact we would be talking about what they did. They did not know that millions upon millions would stake their very lives on the meaning of that Cross. They did not know that we would sing “In the Cross of Christ I Glory.”
None of us knows what some seemingly insignificant act or word of oursin the long run may mean. Someone asked Archbishop Tutu of South Africa how he happened to become a priest. He replied, “One day, when I was a boy, a white priest tipped his hat to my mother.” A so simple act, or was it so simple? A white priest tipping his hat to a black lady in South Africa helped to turn the tides of history in that land. Did that white priest know all that he was doing?
Read Matthew 25:31-46: “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 gathered before him, and he will separate people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats, and he will put the sheep at his right hand and the goats at the left. Then the king will say to those at his right hand,‘ 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.’ Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when was it that we saw you hungry and gave you food, or thirsty and gave you something to drink? And when was it that we saw you a stranger and welcomed you, or naked and gave you clothing? And when was it that we saw you sick or in prison and visited you?’ And the king will answer them, ‘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.’ Then he will say to those at his left hand,‘ You that are accursed, depart from me into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels; for I was hungry and you gave me no food, I was thirsty and you gave me nothing to drink, I was a stranger and you did not welcome me, naked and you did not give me clothing, sick and in prison and you did not visit me.’ Then they also will answer, ‘Lord, when was it that we saw you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or naked or sick or in prison, and did not take care of you?’ Then he will answer them, ‘Truly I tell you, just as you did not do it to one of the least of these, you did not do it to me.’ And these will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal life.” (NRSV)
Jesus pictures the last judgment sharply; it is the judgment of everyday living. It is driving home the basic truth of life that what we do or what we do not do may have consequences far beyond our imagining. There is no such thing as a casual word, an unimportant glance; a frown or a smile. Life is serious business. We are more important under God’s planning than we realize.
Prayer: Dear Lord, *take my life and let it be consecrated to Thee; take my moments and my days; let them flow in ceaseless praise.* Amen.
*(Excerpt from Take My Life And Let It Be by Frances Ridley Havergal)
Charles Brown (Reprinted from 1997) — Wednesday, March 31, 2021 —
A Psalm of David. The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not be in want. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he restores my soul. He guides me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever. Psalm 23 (NIV)
A life changing event… On June 10, 2003 at the cath lab waiting room, Sue heard an arrest alert called over the PA system. For the better part of two hours, the cardiac team worked to get my blood pressure above zero. With all their efforts, they saved my life. When I was home, various people asked“ Did you have one of those things? You know, one of those light experiences?” My answer was “yes.”
While I was under, I was in a large room. It was dark in that there was no artificial light on. At the end of the room it was open and I saw the brightest light I’d ever experienced. The light, though bright, was non-threatening and very, very peaceful. As the light shown into the room, I saw a man standing faced away from me, so I couldn’t see his face. I perceived him to be an escort. Apparently, he was in no hurry, and I wasn’t in a hurry. Later, I thought if the Lord knows the date, the time and the place, why did he send the escort?
Twelve years ago, I was with my dad the night before he expired; went home and he died. I was upset because I felt he had struggled alone. Surely I was wrong. My experience showed how very peaceful it is, and you are not alone. Perhaps I’m to share this experience with others.
Thank you, Lord, that you are ever with us to give us comfort.
Bob Keim (Reprinted from 2004) — Maundy Thursday, April 1, 2021 —
Then he poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples’ feet and to wipe them with the towel that was tied around him. He came to Simon Peter, who said to him, “Lord, are you going to wash my feet?” Jesus answered, “You do not know now what I am doing, but later you will understand.” Peter said to him, “You will never wash my feet.” Jesus answered, “Unless I wash you, you have no share with me.” Simon Peter said to him, “Lord, not my feet only but also my hands and my head!” John 13:5-9 (NRSV)
Ballerina Feet There are few aesthetics more beautiful to me than the feet of dancing ballerinas. Adorned with ethereal-looking satin pointe shoes, and pointed in arches that mimic the shape of bananas, those feet glide, spin, run, leap, and appear weightless. Ballerinas are incredible athletes. Their strength, agility, balance, and poise never cease to amaze me.
Yet, the instant those pointe shoes come off, the aesthetic of a ballerina’s feet changes from day to night, and the illusion of perfection dissolves into a hot mess. Because underneath the beauty of dancing en pointe is the evidence of hard, painful, exhausting work. Ballerinas’ feet are notoriously ugly, sporting blister upon blister and callous upon callous, not to mention the bone spurs, bunions, cracked toenails, and bloody toes.
Funny how when I spend time with Jesus and Simon Peter at the Last Supper, it’s ballerina feet that come to mind. On the night of Jesus’ arrest he shares one final meal with those closest to him, playing the part of a servant as he bends low and washes their feet. That is, until he reaches Simon Peter who obviously feels very uncomfortable allowing Jesus to wash his feet. He seems to prefer to keep his feet wrapped up tightly in pointe shoes, intent on maintaining a pristine aesthetic of flawlessness.
The thing is... Jesus isn’t interested in feet that look perfect or that glide and spin effortlessly. Jesus is intent on holding our behind-the-scenes feet, cradling them in his hands, soothing the callouses and bringing relief from the blisters. He loves us as we are, bunions and cracked toenails and all. After all, unless we allow him to see all of who we are, how is he supposed to cleanse us and make us whole?
Prayer: Jesus, you amaze us. You could’ve done anything, yet what you’re most intent on doing is washing our feet. May we have the humility to surrender ourselves to your cleansing love and mercy. Amen.
Elisabeth Hartwell — Good Friday, April 2, 2021 —
At three o’clock Jesus cried out with a loud voice, “Eloi, Eloi, lema sabachthani?” which means, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” Mark 15: 34 (NRSV)
Everybody thinks their sorrow Should be gently graded on a curve. - David Bailey, “All Day Today” on the album Rusty Brick Road
“On a scale of 1 to 10, how would you rate your pain this week?” said the physical therapist. The question seems unanswerable. If one is in pain, isn’t it always a 10? Physical or emotional pain has a way of consuming a person, making it impossible to concentrate on anything, impossible to see outside oneself. At least that’s the way it seems on the face of it.
And yet Jesus on the cross gives us another way. He was betrayed by his followers, humbled before the political leaders, abandoned by the crowd, mocked by soldiers, and finally crucified to death.
The gospels of Matthew and Mark imply the painfulness of this type of death, with Jesus’ cry, “My God, My God, why have you forsaken me?” The gospel of Luke shows that in the midst of his pain, Jesus was able to be compassionate to others: Jesus asks for forgiveness for the very ones putting him to death. In the gospel of John, Jesus has compassion for his mother and his disciple, binding them together as a new family at this time of their great sorrow.
This is the hard path that Jesus points us to—through our own pain, and perhaps because of our own pain, Jesus asks us to have compassion for others in pain. Jesus sets a high, even impossible, mark. We will inevitably miss this mark, but Jesus asks us to try.
Through grading our own sorrow and pain “on a curve,” perhaps we can learn to practice the compassion of Jesus.
Prayer: Jesus, we have collectively been through painful times in the past year. Each of us has suffered pain individually as well. Teach us how to reach through our pain to act with compassion for others and for ourselves. Bring us healing, and help each of us to be a source of healing for others. Amen.
Carolyn Gibbs — Holy Saturday, April 3, 2021 —
Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and there was no longer any sea. I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying,“ Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”
He who was seated on the throne said, “I am making everything new!” Then he said, “Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.” Revelation 21:1-5 (NIV)
Resurrection– It’s Who We Are! Very soon Christians all over the world will celebrate the life, death and resurrection of the Lord Jesus—the very essence of our faith and hope. Christ stepped into humanity and introduced us to the nature of God in human terms we could grasp. In word and deed, he showed us how to love as he loves—fully and without reservation. He gave himself over to death on a cross to atone for our sins and then conquered death by stepping out of his grave resurrected. By his own power, not just being alive again, but alive forever, never again to taste death. First Jesus and then, upon his return, his people—those who have died and those who are still alive will be swept up together with the Lord into a new resurrected life. This is the hope we have as Christians and the hope we celebrate every Sunday, most of all Easter morning.
But like the Jews of the Old Testament waiting for the Messiah, we are now living with a promise that is thousands of years old and the zeal we once felt is long gone. We’re not as expectant as we once were that tomorrow may be the day Jesus returns. I imagine if we’re totally honest with one another, most of us would have to admit that we believe we won’t see the Second Coming of Christ in our lifetime. As his people who once believed to their core that his return was imminent, now our default understanding is that his return is years, maybe centuries away. We’ve lost the urgency and anticipation of the coming of our Savior.
Someday we all (those alive and those who have already passed), in our resurrected bodies, will be able to enjoy the very presence of God unfettered by this life and the sin of this world. Together we will gaze upon the face of our Savior, maybe hand in hand. We will sing together sweet harmonies in praise to our King. Maybe it will be tomorrow, next week, next month, fifty years from now or so far in the future, we have no word for it. But it will happen because the Lord has already made it possible. He has already set it into motion and the momentum of his power and grace can never be stopped or undone. This joy we are anticipating won’t be for just a moment in time that disappears too soon, but for an eternity.
God’s promises aren’t just generic platitudes or slogans we find comforting from time to time. His promises are personal, for you and me, right now, this moment and forever. They bring us hope, joy, strength and grace right now. Jesus is alive and he is with us right now loving us, leading us, protecting us and forgiving us. He isn’t holding back anything. Let’s not hold anything back either. Jesus is risen! He is risen indeed!
Maureen Profeta — Easter Sunday, April 4, 2021 —
He is risen! He is risen indeed!
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! By his great mercy he has given us a new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and into an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you, who are being protected by the power of God through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. In this you rejoice, even if now for a little while you have had to suffer various trials, so that the genuineness of your faith—being more precious than gold that, though perishable, is tested by fire—may be found to result in praise and glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed. Although you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and rejoice with an indescribable and glorious joy, for you are receiving the outcome of your faith, the salvation of your souls. 1 Peter 1:3-9 (NRSV)