2016 lent devo - Marlton United Methodist Church

 A 2016 Lent Devotional Guide Marlton United Methodist Church
2 Fellow Christ-­‐Followers, Lent is a time of reflection, a time to consider our lives and our need for God’s grace and mercy. The pages of this booklet are filled with writings, poems, hymns, and prayers. As we move into this season of intentional spiritual discipline, my prayer for you is increased intimacy with God, our creator, redeemer and sustainer. May you find affirmation of the truth that you are God’s beloved child. Anna Gillette
Wednesday, February 10
Read Matthew 4:1-­‐11 Jesus was tempted. Jesus was tempted!
Every time I read this story I am amazed, because it shows that
Jesus went through what I go through each and every day. He
was tempted by wealth, power, and the want for more.
How did Jesus counteract this temptation? Look closely at the
passage. He did it by using God’s word. For every temptation
Satan put before him Jesus answered with God’s word. This
shows us that Jesus knew God’s word. He had written it on his
heart.
As we journey through the season of Lent, we remember
Jesus’ 40 days in the desert. Many of us may choose to give up
something for Lent. That’s good. Denying ourselves will remind
us of Jesus’ ultimate sacrifice on the cross.
Let me encourage you to ADD something to your daily routine
during Lent. Start by using this booklet, and delving into God’s
word. When we daily read God’s word, it becomes imprinted on
our hearts and then empowers us to fight temptation and to live
like Christ.
Lord, as I read your word each day, write it on my heart. Amen.
Pastor Anna Gillette
4 Thursday, February 11
Read Psalm 51: 1-­‐13 What is sin? According to the Bible, we all do it, but can we
define what it is. Sin can be defined in many ways. Missing
the mark. Separation from God. Fall from grace. John Wesley
defined sin as, “A willful transgression of a known law of God."
While, John Wesley’s mother, Susanna Wesley describes sin
as: "Whatever weakens your reason, impairs the tenderness of
your conscience, obscures your sense of God, or takes off your
relish of spiritual things; in short, whatever increases the
strength and authority of your body over your mind, that thing is
sin to you, however innocent it may be in itself."
However we define sin, it has the power to not only separate us
from God, but to cause pain in our relationships, interactions,
attitudes, and even our lives. But the good news is, there is
hope for us all!! In this Psalm, written after King David’s fall
with Bathsheba, David pleads for mercy, because of God’s love
and compassion for each of us. The season of Lent can be a
time where we examine the areas that we fall short in, or if you
will, where we sin. It is difficult to term anything we do as sin,
but it is only when we are able to identify the sin in our life, that
we can go to God.
In addition to mercy, David asks God to “Create in him a clean
heart.” In other words, a heart that chooses God first, over sin.
We can make the same request of God to create in us, a clean
heart. What does a clean heart look like? Consider this
description as you meditate on these words of John Wesley in
closing:
"Do all the good you can, in all the ways you can, to all
the souls you can, in every place you can, at all the
times you can, with all the zeal you can, as long as ever
you can."
Create in me a clean heart. Amen.
Pastor Max Ingram Friday, February 12
Read Matthew 4:18-­‐22
There is a strain of sheep in Iceland known as leadersheep.
These sheep are highly intelligent and are often the first out of
the sheep house to lead the flock. They are very alert and
watch for any dangers as they guard against predators. With
their uncanny sense of direction, they have actually been
known to rescue stranded people and lead them back to
safety. Leadersheep also have the ability to sense or forecast
the weather and have been known to refuse to leave the
sheephouse before a major snowstorm. The flock are hardwired to follow the leadersheep and trust him unconditionally.
In Matthew 4:18-22, Jesus calls four men to follow him as he
begins his ministry. Not unlike the sheep who follow the
leadersheep, these men seem hard-wired to follow Jesus
unconditionally and they accept the call - “immediately” and
“at once”. I believe we are all born “hard-wired” to follow
Jesus and need to listen for his call to make the decision to
follow him. How comforting to realize that we don’t need to
live our lives without him! Jesus, like the leadersheep for a
flock of sheep, asks us to follow him to places of peace and
cares for us as he leads us to a relationship with him. When
we put our trust and faith in him, we can walk in the
assurance that we are safe in his arms and can live our lives
with a sense of security and certainty for the future.
Thank you, Jesus, for being our “leadersheep”. Thank you for
the comfort of knowing you care for us and lead us to places of
peace and safety. It is our joy to follow you!
Amen
Diane Holden
6 Saturday, February 13
Read Matthew 6:16-­‐18 Is there a place for fasting in the New Testament times?
A.
Fasting was not required on the disciples of Jesus
Matthew
9:14 (Mark 2:18, Luke 5:33) “Then came to him the disciples of
John, saying, ‘Why do we and the Pharisees fast often, but thy
disciples fast not?’”
B.
But Jesus spoke of a day when there would be a place for
fasting.
Matthew 6: 16-18 (Not “if” but “when ye fast …”) “Moreover,
when ye fast, … But thou, when thou fastest …”
Matthew
9:14-15 ( Luke 5L34-35) “ And Jesus said unto them, can the
children of the bride chamber mourn, as long as the bridegroom
is with them? But the days
will come, when the bridegroom
shall be taken from them, and then they shall fast.”
C.
What guidelines are set forth in scripture concerning fasting
D.
A. It is to be done in a manner of humility and secret. Matthew
6:16-18 “Moreover, when ye fast, be not as the hypocrites, of a
sad countenance: for they disfigure their faces, that they may
appear unto men to fast … But thou, when thou fasts, anoint
thine head, and wash thy face, that thou appear not unto men to
fast, but unto thy Father which is in secret …”(also refer to Luke
18: 9-14, the parable of the tax collector and the Pharisee)III. Is
fasting necessary for today’s Christians?A. Biblical fasting is a
spiritual discipline which was encouraged by Jesus while he was
on earth. When questioned as to why Jesus’ disciples did not
fast while John;s disciples and the Pharisees did fast, Jesus
answered, :” How can the guests of the bridegroom mourn while
he is with them? The time will come when the bridegroom will be
taken from them; then they will fast. (Matthew 9:15)
Lord, from what do I need to fast during this Lenten season?
Show me, and help me to obey. Amen.
Albert McClullough
Sunday, February 14
Read Matthew 7:12 This hymn was written by two Catholic priests from Spain based on
Matthew 25:31-46. Their imagery reflects their experience of “the
least of these,” especially when many of the injustices were
beginning to be brought to light by Latin American liberation
theologians. As you read these words below, imagine how both of
these passages (Matthew 7:12 and 25:31-46) might be understood
from the point of view of persons in various situations around the
world.
“When the Poor Ones”
When the poor ones who have nothing share with strangers,
when the thirsty water give unto us all,
when the crippled in their weakness strengthen others, then
we know that God still goes that road with us.
When at last all those who suffer find their comfort,
when they hope though even hope seems hopelessness,
when we love though hate at times seems all around us, then
we know that God still goes that road with us.
When our joy fills up our cup to overflowing,
when our lips can speak no words other than true,
when we know that love for simple things is better,
then we know that God still goes that road with us.
When our homes are filled with goodness in abundance,
when we learn how to make peace instead of war, when
each stranger that we meet is called a neighbor,then we
know that God still goes that road with us.
Lord, let me see others as you see them, let me love them as
you love them. Amen.
Pastor Anna Gillette
United Methodist Hymnal 434
J.A. Olivar and Miguel Manzano trans. ny George Lockwood
© 1971 Ediciones Paulinas; trans. © 1980 The United Methodist Publishing House
8 Monday, February 15
Read Psalm 56 Trampled, attacked, injured, evil, strife, crime, tears: all words
of King David to describe a “not good” day. Do you remember
a time when you felt trampled, attacked, and injured; a day
when evil, strife, crime and tears flooded your mind; fear and
hopelessness ruled the day? Honestly I believe we all have
had some “not good” days. Perhaps illness, family strife, work
injustice, grief over a death weighed us down perhaps even to
the point of despair.
David gives us instructions for living victoriously through those
“not good” days. He says: “When I am afraid, I put my trust in
You. In God, whose word I praise, in God I trust; I shall not be
afraid.” It seems a rather simple answer, doesn’t it? “This I
know, that God is for me. In God, whose word I praise, in the
Lord, whose word I praise, in God I trust; I shall not be afraid.”
Simple? Yes! Easy? Not really! Jesus himself showed us that
trusting completely in God was a simple answer but even for
the very Son of God, it was not easy. When His agony was
all-consuming as He prayed in Gethsemane, “Thy will be
done”, Jesus, the Christ, trusted wholly in His Father’s plan
and went willingly with His enemies to be trampled, attacked,
injured and “He gave up His life”. His death paid the price for
the sins of us all. That’s why we now recognize a very “not
good” day as “Good Friday”. We can now say with King
David, ”For you have delivered my soul from death, yes, my
feet from falling, that I may walk before God in the light of life.”
“I am trusting Thee, Lord Jesus
Trusting only Thee,
Trusting Thee for full salvation,
Great and free. Amen
Richard Leslie, father of Pastor Anna
Tuesday, February 16
Read Hosea 6:1-­‐3 During a beautiful prayer practice called "Lectio Divina", the
pray-ers are asked to listen to scripture and identify a word or
phrase that stands out to them. Upon reading today's scripture
passage, the word "trust" did just that!. And I had an
immediate admiration for it's author, Hosea.
Earlier in the book, the Israelites had turned their backs on
God. They spurned God's love and, instead, turned to false
Gods. Their idolatry angered God and led them on a path
to destruction. Hosea warned them of God's impending
judgment to no avail. But Hosea didn't give up on them. He
trusted God's love for the people of Israel so strongly that he
proclaimed the promises in today's passage: "God will heal
us.... he will bind up our wounds... he will restore us to his
presence... he will come to us like the winter rains, like the
spring rains that water the earth". Isn't it amazing that
Hosea could trust God to be so merciful in the midst of Israel's
sins?
But Hosea knew God! He knew that our God's love is always
steadfast and his mercy unending. He knew that there is
nothing we can do to separate us from God's love. He knew
that, no matter how many times we fall short,
God will always offer reconciliation in response to our
repentance. He knew that God's loving arms are always open
to welcome us back into the fold. Hosea knew that God would
offer this loving response to the Israelites, just as he still
offers it to us today.
Trust in the Lord! His love never ends!
Loving God, help us to trust your promises. Help us to know
your love, your mercy and your forgiveness. In Jesus' name,
Amen.
Betty Rae McKie
10 Wednesday, February 17
Read Micah 6:6-­‐8 “What can I bring before the lord?”
This scripture does not talk of sacrificing something for
our sins but giving something to show our love for God. It
explains how God doesn’t need ten thousand rivers of olive oil
to show your love. He “requires” something much deeper.
Mark 12:7 - “Give to Caesar what is Caesar’s and to God
what is Gods.”
God does not want the fruit of your labor but the fruit of your
love. God asks us to do three things:
1) Act Justly – simply to be fair to one another.
2) Walk humbly – If we put God first in all the things we
do in our life from tying our shoes in the morning to the
achievements we do at work or in school to saying our
prayers at night with the knowledge that God is the
reason we receive compliments, we will always be
humble in the eyes of the Lord.
3) Love mercy – Not mercy out of pity, but mercy out of
love.
“You must forgive to be forgiven”
As followers of Christ we are not here to judge or force
our religion or opinions on others. We are not here to belittle
people for their beliefs, be it Muslim, Jewish or Atheist. We
are told to love. Love God and each other. Jesus states: “A
new command I give you: love one another as I have loved
you, so you must love one another, by this everyone will know
that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” (John
13:34-35)
Lord God teach us to act justly, guide us to walk humbly,
and fill our hearts with the love of mercy so that others
will know that we are Christians by our love. Amen.
Joseph Marcavage
Thursday, February 18
Read Matthew 7:24-­‐28 Wise and foolish builders
There are 2 foundations one has a better structure than the
other. one was built on rock which is Jesus and the one built on
the sand is the one without Jesus. The one built on the sand fell
apart when winds and rain came. People will start to fall apart
when they have hard times without Jesus. We want to build on
the rock because it is rock and hard and steady and then we
can stay with God and be loved by God. You will have a better
life if you follow Him and build your life on Him. If you build on
sand, it will go plop and fall down. So build your life on Jesus
so we can have good days and so we can get through the bad
days.
Dear Lord please make our foundation from rock built in your
neighborhood. Please don't let it be built on the sand without
You. Lord please help me build my foundation on rock so I can
follow you. Amen
Max III and Bradley Ingram
12 Friday, February 19
Read Matthew 8:23-­‐27 The weather forecast for life is calling for storms. Storms are
coming in fact, consider it a warning; life contains storms. Some
of them are quick and violent, others are like stalled tropical
depressions, they last for days and are followed by floods and
mudslides and sink holes!
Whether I am in the midst of a storm or awaiting the next, I take
splice in this story. First of all, Jesus is asleep. For him, the
storm that is freaking me out is something small in the big
scheme of things. Next, when I call to him, Jesus stops the
storm with just a few words!
When the storms of life come, and they always do, call out to
Jesus. Let him calm your storm by reminding you that he loves
you and he will never leave you.
His peace is stronger than any storm, and for that I praise our
Savior!
Jesus, calm the storms in my life. Remind me that your peace
can quiet even the wildest storm. Amen.
Pastor Anna Gillette
Saturday, February 20
Read Matthew 9:9-­‐13 “Follow Me”
Just as Jesus called Matthew, he seeks and calls each
one of us, yes, ordinary us. He calls at our work places,
he calls at our homes, wherever we are, or whatever we
are doing, and asks us to “Follow Him”. Have you heard
Him? When he calls he not only makes us realize our
great need for him, for His forgiveness, His salvation and
His peace, but that others need it too.
We should not delay when Jesus says, “Follow Me”.
These two words will change our lives from self-serving
to God-serving. Then, with God’s guidance, we can
bring the message of His love, His blessings and His
mercy to others.
The challenge before us, then, is to share the love of
God with others and live out our faith each and every
day. Are we up to the challenge? With Him beside us, I
believe we are!
Thank you Lord Jesus for the great love you have shown to us.
Help us to share your love and mercy with others each and
every day. Amen.
Janet Wilson
14 Sunday, February 21
Read Proverbs 31: 10-­‐31 In the Old Testament, Jeremiah and Hosea also talk about wives.
They are writing of Israel. Israel-God’s people- are named as God’s
wife. In the New Testament, the Revelation of John describes the
Church as the bride of Christ, clothed in fine linen, waiting for her
Groom. What would our proverbs passage say if we gave it the same
allegorical treatment?
A good church is hard to find, and worth far more than diamonds.
God trusts her without reserve, and never has reason to regret it.
Never spiteful, the church treats God generously all her life long. The
church is up before dawn, preparing breakfast for her family and
organizing her day.
She looks over a field and buys it, then, with money she's put aside,
plants a garden. First thing in the morning, the church dresses for
work, rolls up her sleeves, eager to get started. The church senses
the worth of her work, and is in no hurry to call it quits for the day.
The church is quick to assist anyone in need, and reaches out to help
the poor.
She doesn't worry about her family when it snows; their winter
clothes are all mended and ready to wear.
Because of the church, God is greatly respected.
The church always faces tomorrow with a smile.
When the church speaks she has something worthwhile to say, and
she always says it kindly.
The church keeps an eye on everyone in her household, and keeps
them all busy and productive.
Her children respect and bless her; her husband joins in with words
of praise: "Many organizations have done wonderful things, but
you've outclassed them all!"
Dynamic preachers can mislead and beautiful stained glass soon
fades. The church to be admired and praised is the church who lives
in the Fear-of-God.
Lord, help us to be such a church! Amen.
Pastor Anna Gillette
Monday, February 22
Read Ecclesiastes 3:1-­‐8
A time for everything. Really? My understanding of this
passage has changed as I have aged. As a youth, I saw it as
a roadmap: these are the things that will happen in life. Later
as I was raising our family, teaching, keeping our household
and generally running around like a crazy woman, I saw it as
a reminder that I had to take time for all the feelings and
passions of life. Now I read these words and can look back
over the trail of my life and smile at the absolute truth of the
passage. There is a season for every activity under heaven!
Why is there a season for Lent, a time of reflection? Like in
art, contrasts make the difference. Reread the passage again.
See the contrasts? Birth and dying, tearing down and building
up, keeping and throwing out, and loving and hating are all
dramatic contrasts. Without the darkness of night, the sunrise
is not such a big deal! A season of repentance, a time of
exploring your choices and the results, give you the
consequences of those choices. Result: you have sinned
against God and against man, not once, but over and over
and over. Consequence: forever being separated from God.
But wait! You’ve seen the darkness now glory in the daybreak
of the Resurrection! Jesus paid the price for you! You are
forgiven, not once, but over and over and over!
Let the dawn of the Resurrection remind you of your
contrasts: very certain death to everlasting life through Jesus
Christ who walks with you in all times and seasons of your
life.
Open my eyes to the contrasts of my life, Lord. Thank you for
being there with me. Praise to You, for the gift of everlasting
life!
Rebecca Leslie, mother of Pastor Anna
16 Tuesday, February 23
Read Isaiah 40:28-­‐31 The Blizzard of 2016
STORMS. They come in all sizes, large to small. This one was
predicted to be crippling. One that would dump 12 inches of snow in
our area, with high winds blowing the snow and making driving
problematic. It was huge! The 4th largest this area has seen.
Five hundred vehicles stranded with passengers for thirty hours on
the Pennsylvania turnpike, businesses closed, church services
cancelled and flooding worse than “Hurricane Sandy” in some shore
towns. A state of emergency was declared for 2 days, and most of
us, except the children, were experiencing frustration, hoping for a
quick end to all this.
This blizzard has reminded me of storms I’ve lived through and some
lessons I’ve learned. Lessons that can also be applied to our
spiritual lives .
• Storms are inevitable. No one can accurately predict the size,
length, or intensity. It’s all a part of the Creator’s domain.
• Prepare when you’re cautioned. Stock up on emergency supplies,
to take you through. Rely on past experiences, even if it’s a
sudden storm. Refer to those great bible leaders who faced their
storms and documented their stories for us to read and heed.
• Help a neighbor. I have been blessed by the kindness of neighbors
and it’s a joy to “Pass It On”.
• Trust the Creator. You are never alone. He is riding out the storm
with you, giving you His strength, and His Peace.
• Give thanks and Praise for how He brought you through. Journal
the experience, and pray for those less fortunate.
Prayer: Father, reveal the lesson you want me to learn from this
blizzard. Keep me safe “ til the storm passes by”. Amen
Valerie Robinson
Wednesday, February 24
Read Isaiah 53:5-­‐6 Everyone of us has failed in some way to do what we know is
the right thing to do or say. We can’t hit delete or erase or undo
what we have done. We can be sorry. We can dwell on it. We
can’t forgive ourselves sometimes. God knows our
weaknesses and makes us able to forgive ourselves and others
because He sent his precious son, Jesus, to forgive us and
take over our burdens, Jesus was willing to even die on the
cross for our sins - not His. How wonderful, how amazing, how
insightful is that! Just by believing in Him, He gives us the
peace we can’t give ourselves and the love that passes all
understanding. .
Jesus gave His life for us. Now it’s our turn to accept Him and
give our lives to Him unconditionally. He did that for us. He
accepts us the way we are. His love is so all encompassing .
He gives us the courage to face each new challenge trusting in
Him to see us through. When we fail He lifts us up and gives
us peace. Faith in Him will do that for you. What grace beyond
compare!
And when I think that God, His son not sparing sent Him to die,
I scarce can take it in:
That on the cross, my burden gladly bearing, He bled and died
to take away my sin:
HOW GREAT THOU ART! HOW GREAT THOU ART!” Your love astounds me. Thank you. Amen.
Joy Haggerty
Thursday, February 25
Read Psalm 23 "The Lord is my shepherd I Shall not want"
I am a sheep in need of a Shepherd. I need Him to take me to places
of rest and quiet when life gets crazy. I need my shepherd to restore
my health whether it be physical, emotional or spiritual. I need my
shepherd to help me keep my mind on him and the things I can do
with the gifts He has given to me to make Him happy.
When I go through difficult times I do not need to be afraid because
my Shepherd's arm is around my shoulder holding me close. He is
leading and guiding me.
My Shepherd provides me with food, clothing and shelter. My cup is
never half full; but running over with His blessings.
My Shepherd's goodness and kindness are with me forever ... and
one day I will live with my Shepherd in Heaven for eternity.
Because the Lord is my Shepherd I have everything I need.
Thank you Lord! Amen.
Cindy Bradley
Friday, February 26
Read Romans 12:1-­‐2 Every summer since I was ten years old I’ve gone to Ceta
Canyon for church camp. This camp isn’t like a lot of other
camps; it’s literally in the middle of nowhere. To get to it, you
have to drive far out into the vast nothingness of the Texas
panhandle. Ceta is in a canyon that is surrounded by empty,
ugly farmland, but the canyon itself is gorgeous, green, and
alive.
Because it’s so far out, there is no cell signal in the canyon.
When you’re at camp, you are cutoff from the outside world. It
serves as a time to really get in touch with God and to ignore all
the pressures that society gives us.
Before we leave at the end of the week, they always tell us the
same thing; “When you leave this canyon, you will be out in the
real world again. Be in it, but not of it.” When we are at camp it
is easy to be the person God wants us to be, but when we reenter society the pressures of the world can make it difficult.
We are called to be the light of the world, and we should live
our lives serving God, not pleasing others. This sacrifice will
make all the difference.
Lord, help me to serve you, and you only. Amen.
Eric Gillette
20 Saturday, February 27
Read Romans 12:9-­‐12 Lord, make me an instrument of your peace.
Where there is hatred, let me sow love;
Where there is error, truth;
Where there is injury, pardon;
Where there is doubt, faith;
Where there is despair, hope;
Where there is darkness, light;
And where there is sadness, joy.
O Divine Master, grant that I may not so much seek
To be consoled as to console;
To be understood as to understand;
To be loved as to love.
For it is in giving that we receive;
It is in pardoning that we are pardoned;
It is in self-forgetting that we find;
And it is in dying to ourselves that we are born to
eternal life. Amen.
St. Francis of Assisi (1182-1226)
Sunday, February 28
Read Psalm 24:1-­‐6 This following is from the Sarum Primer. Sarum refers to a the
type of worship that comes out of church in Salisbury, England.
This prayer, “God be in my head,” appears frequently in
modern materials about spiritual practices and contemplative
prayer.
After praying through these words, read again the passage
from Psalm 24. As you think about your day, consider a time
where you might have the opportunity to dwell upon this prayer
in your activity: perhaps working in the garden, washing
dishes, or knitting. You might even explore the possibility to
pray through these words while drawing, writing or through
other creative expressions. As you continue on your Lenten
journey, allow this prayer to mold your thoughts and actions.
God be in my head, and in my understanding;
God be in mine eyes, and in my looking;
God be in my mouth, and in my speaking;
God be in my heart, and in my thinking;
God be at mine end, and at my departing.
Walk with me Lord. Amen. Pastor Anna Gillette 22 Monday, February 29
Read Psalm 27:1 Stronghold. What an old fashioned word! You might find a word
like that only in a poem or song. Stronghold: a strongly fortified
place, a heavily armored structure built for protection, a citadel.
Is there something happening in your life that scares you? Is
their chaos or dissension? What about loneliness? In a world of
thieves, terrorists, high prices, uncertain health care, what are
your fears?
On large warships, the fear was being attacked and disabled or
sunk. Ship builders created a superstructure of heavy armor
designed to protect the bridge, that most important part of the
ship responsible for running the ship. That structure was called
the citadel. In case of attack, the citadel would guard and
protect no matter what.
We have a citadel, a refuge, a stronghold to guard and protect
us from the attacks of Satan and this world. His name is Jesus,
our Light and salvation! Whom or what do we need to fear?
Jesus is your citadel who holds you strongly. Reread the
passage again, but this time as a song of praise lifted up to
Jesus, your Light and salvation!
Thank you Lord for holding me strongly. You are my light and
my salvation! In the midst of the battles, remind me you are my
citadel. Amen.
Rebecca Leslie, mother of Anna Gillette
Tuesday, March 1
Reading Philippians 2:1-­‐11 "In Love, Christ Came Among Us"
In love, Christ came among us,
coming not as king, but as a tiny baby born in
Bethlehem;
and we knew Him not, and we knew Him not,
and we knew Him not.
With grace, He walked among us,
showed us how to live;
giving, teaching, healing,
calling us to God;
and we followed not, and we followed not,
and we followed not.
Ah, holy Jesus, who brought this upon thee?
Alas, my treason, Jesus, hath undone Thee!
'Twas I, Lord Jesus, I it was denied Thee,
I crucified Thee.
In love, Christ came among us and went to Calvary.
The perfect lamb of God died to set us free,
and still we loved Him not, still we loved Him not,
and we followed not, and we followed not,
and we knew Him not, and we knew Him not.
Kyrie, kyrie, kyrie eleison.
Have mercy on us, Lord, have mercy. Amen.
Words by Bill F. Leach and music by Joseph M. Martin
© 1999,2004, Harold Flammer Music and Malcolm Music
Wednesday, March 2
Read Psalm 63:1-­‐4 Is there anything more precious than life itself? Surely not the
things of this world. I recently read a book about the horrible
conditions under which coal workers in England in the mid
1800’s lived and died. The book contrasted the lives of the coal
miners’ families and the lives of the coal rich British aristocracy.
Many of the aristocratic mine owners gave little thought to the
worth of the lives they were supposed to be protecting and for
whom they were to provide. If it had not been for many local
Methodist congregations, led by ordained Elders, the fight for
justice would have been even more devastating.
Back to the question: Is there anything more precious than life
itself? In Psalm 63, King David gives us an answer that made
me stop and think. He wrote: “Because Your steadfast love is
better than life, my lips will praise You.” The steadfast, gracefilled, merciful, amazing love of God, lavished on us through
Jesus, the Christ, is indeed more precious than life itself.
During this season of reflection and self-examination we call
Lent, take time to experience more fully that one thing that is
greater than life; the deep, deep love of God. Respond with
praise!
Amazing Love, how can it be
That you, my Lord, would die for me.
I praise you. Amen
Richard Leslie, father of Pastor Anna
Thursday, March 3
Read Psalm 63:5-­‐8 “His Wing’s Shadow”
His Wing’s Shadow
On the shadow of Your wings,
where no sun or rain will blind
where Thy loving-kindness waits
to fill hearts with peace of mind.
On the shadow of Your wings,
where no storm or wind will meet
where Thy grace inspires calm
to give the weary heart retreat.
On the shadow of Your wings,
where no fear or doubt will soar
where Thy steadfast love exists
to help grieving hearts restore.
On the shadow of Your wings,
where no pain or hurt will be
where Thy goodness is prepared
to bring broken hearts to Thee.
On the shadow of Your wings,
where no star or moon will fade
where Thy mercies reach forever
to heal hearts that are afraid.
Oh, precious is Your loving kindness,
where our trust can mount and rise
where unfailing love gives assurance
Your wing’s shadow protects our cries.
Safe in the shadow of our wings I sing for joy, thank you,
God for your rich blessings. Amen.
©2013 Deborah Ann Belka
http://poetrybydeborahann.wordpress.com/2013/04/18/his-wings-shadow/
26 Friday, March 4
Read Isaiah 41:10 A poem inspired by a scripture
dear to my heart: Isaiah 41:10
Burdens of illness surround,
Decisions and outcomes abound,
Trying to see
The future for me.
Friends and family praying,
Encouraging Words saying,
Then a stirring in my heart,
And peace has its starts.
I listen - my Lord comes near,
Calming all my fears,
If I forget to pray,
He’s there anyway.
Knowing all my needs,
Forgiving my misdeeds,
Seeing days and night times through,
Holding me so lovingly too.
Leading me on this earthly way,
Assuring me of that heavenly day.
You are with me everyday, you hold me close and keep me safe.
Thank you, Lord. Amen.
Gerri Christopherson
Saturday, March 5
Read Psalm 130 “Hurry up and wait...” Dad spoke that line often. These years later, I
don’t remember the situations he applied it to, exactly. I suspect it
had something to do with the times someone races past your car as
you drive along, only to be stopped directly in front of you at the
next red traffic signal.
For a long time I thought waiting on God must be something like
that; time wasted, sitting here, waiting for Someone at a giant
cosmic intersection to make my light turn green. It’s not true. It’s
not about the absence of activity—it’s about interaction with Him.
When I “wait for the Lord” He gives me time to be heard. When I
“wait for the Lord” He offers time for healing. Waiting for God lets
His forgiveness catch up to me. When “My soul waits for the Lord” is when my soul--when I--am Redeemed By GOD.
To redeem, from www.merriam-webster.com:
• Buy back
• Free from what distresses or harms; free from captivity by
payment of ransom; extricate from or help to overcome something
detrimental; release from blame or debt; free from the
consequences of [wrongdoing]
• Change for the better
• Repair, restore
• Remove the obligation of by payment; make good; fulfill
• Make worthwhile; retrieve
Thank you Lord for holding me strongly. You are my light and my
salvation! In the midst of the battles, remind me you are my citadel.
Amen.
Tracie Kelley
28 Sunday, March 6
Read Galatians 1 John 4:7-­‐12 Today’s passage is all about love. We are assured that “love”
comes from God – it is not some made-up thing by humans or even
the Hallmark company. God has shown us love, so that we can
love one another. A good way of thinking about “love” is to replace
the word “love” with “service”.
Serve one another. Love is all about action and serving others. In
the truest sense, love is not some sappy emotion or overwhelming
feeling – it is about service and thinking about other before our
selves
It is through God’s love that we are released to serve others. When
we experience the unconditional love of God – it frees us to love
and serve one another. God’s love melts loneliness, erases sin,
and positions us to serve one another in tangible ways.
John Wesley reminds us that, “An ounce of love is worth a pound of
knowledge." Love has more power than any amount of knowledge.
Love, as service, changes people. As the old saying goes, “You
must show people how much you care, before they care what you
know.” Again, the best way to demonstrate love to others, is by
serving them.
John Wesley uses even stronger language to describe love, “I
observed, ‘Love is the fulfilling of the law, the end of the
commandment.’ It is not only ‘the first and great’ command, but all
the commandments in one. ‘Whatever things are just, whatsoever
things are pure, if there be any virtue, of there be any praise,’ they
are all comprised in this one word, love.” For Wesley, “Love” is all
the commandments in one, and that one word describes all the
virtues of living the Christian life.
Note that today’s passage never talks about feelings, but instead
about service and treatment of one another, which is
why…Love…as shown by God…Never Fails… Today choose to
love one another and by love, we mean serve one another!! (Find a
tangible way to love someone today through service.)
Lord, show me how to love. Amen.
Pastor Max Ingram
Monday, March 7
Read 1 John 4:18-­‐21 In English the word “love” can refer to many different and
unrelated things. With English we use the same word when we
“love” our spouse or we “love” hotdogs.
Thank God that He gave us His New Testament in Greek, the
universal language of the day. Greek is a very specific
language and uses four different words for “love.” Eros is
romantic love, Philio is brotherly love, Storge is familial love
between parents and children.
The love we encounter in the reading for today is Agape.
Agape is the purely unconditional and unmerited love which
God lavishes on His children. It was shown to us as God sent
His only begotten Son, Jesus, the Christ to live a life which
fulfilled the demands of the law and thus became the final
atonement for sin. Agape—amazing grace and love.
When we get that, when we understand the Gospel and faith is
created in our hearts by the work of the Holy Spirit; when we
know that because of this great love we are accepted as God’s
children and are given the the assurance of eternal life with
God; when we say with conviction “When I get to heaven,” not
“If I get to heaven,” then out of a humble and truly grateful
heart we show God’s amazing love to others. Try it and see
the reaction and imagine our whole world living out Agape.
Lord God, Heavenly Father,
Teach us how to love with the love you have shown us,
In Jesus’ Holy Name. Amen. Amen.
Richard Leslie, father of Pastor Anna
30 Tuesday, March 8
Read Romans 13:8-­‐10 Anytime somebody speaks about love, my mind goes
immediately to the wedding scene in The Princess Bride, where
the priest speaks about, “Wuv, twooo wuv…”
In the scripture for today, Paul is essentially telling us that in
order to follow Christ, all we need is to love God and love
others.
But don’t get the wrong idea, the kind of love Paul writes about
is true love; not love that keeps score, not love that comes from
obligation.
Everything that is needed to follow Christ is to love like Jesus
loved. “Owe no one anything, except to love.”
These simple words are the ones we should use to guide our
decisions. We should ask ourselves, “Is this action one that
comes from love, true love?”
You showed us how to love, help us to do it! Amen.
Jeffrey Gillette, Centenary UMC
Wednesday, March 9
Read Luke 15:1-­‐7 Kat was terrified. She sat buckled into her harness and sitting
on the edge but couldn’t lean forward to head down the zipline.
Kat was a member of our small group at church camp in Texas.
While she was frozen in fear, the rest of the group sat in the hot
sun and waited their turn. They had a choice to make -- they
could either complain about their situation or encourage Kat. It
was a long 15 minutes of shouting up words of courage and
hope before she finally took the plunge. Even though most of
our group had to come back during free time for their turn,
everyone of us was filled with joy for Kat. She had overcome a
crippling fear of heights and that success led to other
breakthroughs during the rest of the week.
It’s not easy always waiting in line or compromising our plans
for another, but we are called to rejoice with heaven over those
who repent. We have a choice to make as well, are we going
to be the grumblers or those who rejoice?
God help me to welcome sinners and rejoice in their
victories. Lord, I ask that you welcome me in spite of my
own sin and rejoice in my repentance. Amen
Trey Gillette
32 Thursday, March 10
Read Luke 15:8-­‐10 The woman had 10 coins when she lost one she dropped
everything to find it. Even with 9 left she didn't want to lose the
one. This is how God is with us. When one of his children
wanders off the path of faith he cares so much about finding
them and getting them back on track. This shows He loves
each and every one of us. This makes me feel special to know
that God loves me. He takes time to focus on me and think
about me and help me. He thinks I'm one in a million!
This reminds me of a quote my mom read me from Max
Lucado;
"If God had a refrigerator, your picture would be on it. If He had
a wallet, your photo would be in it. He sends you flowers every
spring and a sunrise every morning... Face it, friend. He is
crazy about you!"
Wouldn't you like to go to the party the Angels throw for a lost
soul that has returned to God??
Dear Lord, thank you that each of us are forever your one in a
million! And thank you that when we are lost you will always be
there to lead us back to your House! Amen
Lily Ingram Friday, March 11
Read Luke 15:11-­‐32 The Parable of the Prodigal Son is one of the most cherished and
well-known of Jesus’ parables. A father’s youngest son, reduced to
misery and poverty after squandering his inheritance on lavish
living, returns home intending to beg his father to hire him as a lowly
servant, lest he starve. The father instead welcomes his son with
open arms and receives him back into the family with much joy and
celebration.
The father of the parable shows the same abundant forgiveness
and love as does our Heavenly Father, and the youngest son could
be any of us lowly sinners who simply do not deserve such profound
love and acceptance but nonetheless find ourselves so blessed by
and through our Savior, Jesus Christ.
There is another character in the narrative that also has something
important to tell us. The eldest son, who was faithful to his father
while his younger brother abandoned his family to seek out Earthly
pleasures, sees how his younger brother is fawned over by his
father upon his return and burns with self-righteous anger and
jealousy. We should be cautioned by the example of the older son.
We may consider ourselves to be righteous through word and deed,
but if love is not in our hearts, we have done nothing but erect a
shallow façade. Let us remember Paul’s words: “If I speak in the
tongues of men or of angels, but do not have love, I am only a
resounding gong or a clanging cymbal.” 1 Corinthians 13 (NIV).
We are called upon by our Savior to exercise the same love to our
fellow humans (shown through forgiveness, tolerance, gentleness,
etc.) shown by the father in the parable and our Heavenly Father
while taking care not to fall prey to the self-righteousness and
pettiness of the eldest son. Lord, remind us that we are all sinners and that we all require Your
grace. Let us deal with our fellow humans, believer and non-believer
alike, so as to mirror the abundant love you show all of Your children.
Amen.
Stan Wojculewski 34 Saturday, March 12
Read John 11:1-­‐15 In this season of Resurrection, this is a story about bringing
life to something that was dead. Jesus’ friend, Lazarus was
dead, but was about to experience the ultimate rebirth. There
are areas of our life that are dead, and need Jesus to breath
new life in to them. There are parts of our lives that we hide
in the darkness – and need to be brought in to the light.
Today, let us focus on Jesus’ teaching in verse 9. “9 Anyone
who walks in the daytime will not stumble, for they see by this
world’s light. 10 It is when a person walks at night that they
stumble, for they have no light.” When we walk in the light we
will not stumble – but when we walk in the darkness, we
stumble. Think about walking around your house in the
middle of the night, when all the lights are off (including your
nightlights). Even though we basically know where every
thing is in the house, in the dark, it is still very difficult to
navigate. Life can be that way as well!!
Walking in the light, is not only walking with God, it also being
part of the family of God. Walking with others include
opportunities like attending church together, being a part of a
small group, bibles studies, choir, and various service
opportunities. It these types of opportunities that help us to
live life together – which has always been God’s design from
the very beginning (See Adam & Eve).
The truth is that if you look for the light you can often find it,
but if you look for the dark, it is all you will ever see. We must
seek out the light, as well as be the light to others – through
encouragement and service to others. Light brings life – and
darkness brings death. Be the light for others, and you will
help breath life in to the dark corners of both your life and
others lives.
Help me to walk in your light. Amen.
Pastor Max Ingram
Sunday, March 13
Read John 11: 17-­‐27
When God doesn’t respond to your request the way you think
He should, do you believe that He is working His plan out in
your life?
Martha didn’t understand Jesus’ reply of, “…this sickness will
not end in death. It is for God’s glory so God’s Son may be
glorified …,” when she asked Jesus to come heal her brother,
Lazarus. However, when Jesus came after Lazarus’ death, she
had faith that God would give Jesus whatever He asked.
Jesus told Martha, “Your brother will rise again.”
Martha said, “Yes, I believe You are … the Son of God.”
This event was God’s plan to help Martha and others
strengthen their belief in Jesus’ and God’s power. It
foreshadowed Jesus’ resurrection and God;s plan for eternal
life for us.
We need to surrender our control of our lives and commit to
God’s plan for our lives. When I was young my mother told me,
“God loves you, He is always at your side, and He has the best
plan for your life. Commit your life to Him, trust and obey His
word, and you will receive His gift of eternal life.”
When you pray do you mean, “Thy will be done,” or are you still
trying to control your life?
Martha’s life changed, and she “believed.”
Dear Heavenly Father, help us not be afraid to surrender our control of
our lives to you. We know if we trust and obey you, You will guide us
each step of the way You have planned for us. Thank You for Your
love, care and gift of eternal life. Amen.
Dolores Wirth
36 Monday, March 14
Read John 11:28-­‐37 It was the darkest hour for Mary and Martha. Their beloved
brother Lazarus who had been gravely ill, had died. It was now
four days after his burial. The house was filled with friends and
family, all there to support the sisters and to mourn the loss of
their beloved Lazarus. I am quite sure they came bearing
casseroles and cakes when they came! Isn’t that what we do?
When there is a death in a family, we cook and mourn. The
feelings of loss were especially hurtful since the sisters has
sent word to Jesus when Lazarus became ill. They expected
Him to come and cure their brother. But Jesus didn’t come. In
their timeline, it was too late, but God had a completely different
timeline and a completely different outcome.
It is hard to see beyond the hurt…any hurt, to find the bigger
picture. Mary and Martha only knew that if Jesus had been
there, their brother would not have died. No other picture was
even in their minds. God always sees the bigger picture. He
always knows what will come next, even to the end of the age.
Yet, when Jesus saw Mary crying, His heart was full of
compassion and scripture says “Jesus wept”.
The reading stops there, but you know what happened next. If
not, read 38-43. The Lord who loved Mary and Martha also
loves you, deeply and completely. The Lord of all, the son of
God loves you, he weeps with you and He has saved your soul
for eternity!
Lord, how can I even understand the kind of love you show me daily?
You are the Lord and Giver of Life, I will praise you all the days of my
life!
Rebecca Leslie, mother of Pastor Anna
Tuesday, March 15
Read John 11: 38-­‐44 “Lazarus Come Forth”
As you called out to Lazarus, “Come forth,” You call out to us.
You speak to the inner sanctuary of our heart and soul,
the veil is removed our
spiritual eyesight is restored.
Your truth is made known
and blindness is no more.
The grave clothes fall away
and our hearts are born again.
We are made new in the likeness of Christ.
Our sins are forgiven; our soul is redeemed.
The chains of bondage are gone
and we are forever freed.
Our grave clothes are gone;
we are no longer dead but born again!
In your hands our hears and souls
are forever there to stay.
Our spirit is renewed and shines like the Son.
Our hearts are bound no more but feel light and free!
Our God is glorified for all the world to see!
You call out to us, “Come forth!
Be born again and be set free!”
You call me into new life. Embolden me to follow! Amen.
.
Captivated by God’s Love: Poems from the Heart
Sandra Lott
Lulu Press, Inc, 2014
38 Wednesday, March 16
Read Deuteronomy 6:4-­‐9 One of the centerpieces of Jewish prayer in Sabbath services and in daily
personal prayer is commonly referred to as the Shema. Shema Yisrael is
the original Hebrew for Hear O Israel. The V’ahavta (meaning you shall
love) follows the Shema and contains what Jesus considered the Greatest
commandment. The following is a reimagining of these passages by the
Jewish poet, Marge Piercy.
Shema
Hear, Israel, you are of God and God is one.
Praise the name that speaks us through all time.
V'ahavta
So you shall love what is holy with all your courage,
with all your passion with all your strength.
Let the words that have come down
shine in our words and our actions.
We must teach our children to know and understand them.
We must speak about what is good
and holy within our homes
when we are working, when we are at play,
when we lie down and when we get up.
Let the work of our hands speak of goodness.
Let it run in our blood and glow from our doors and windows.
We should love ourselves, for we are of God.
We should love our neighbors as ourselves.
We should love the stranger, for we
were once strangers in the land of Egypt
and have been strangers in all the lands of the world since.
Let love fill our hearts with its clear precious water.
Heaven and earth observe how we cherish or spoil our world.
Heaven and earth watch whether we choose life or choose death.
We must chose life so our children's children may live.
Be quiet and listen to the still small voice within that speaks in love.
Open to that voice, hear it, heed it and work for life.
Let us remember and strive to be good.
Let us remember to find what is holy within and without.
Amen, let it be.
Jewish Poet, Marge Piercy (1936 - )
Thursday, March 17
Read 1 Timothy 4:12 Paul is trying to convince Timothy to stay strong. “Believe in
yourself,” he says, “because I believe in you and so does God.
You have great potential. Make smart choices and be kind to
others. If you live this way, the way Jesus taught us, you will
make a great difference.”
All of us need to hear these words. It doesn’t matter if we’re old
or young, we all need to recognize that God believes we can do
good things. Because of this, we can choose to make a
difference by setting an example and striving to be like Christ.
No excuses! You have set the bar high, help me to live up to your expectations. Amen. Peter Gillette 40 Friday, March 18
Read Matthew 20:1-16
My love is too narrow.
I have pre-judged who should receive my love.
I have decided that some are not worthy of my love.
To be truthful, I have decided that some are unworthy of
God’s love.
Who do I think I am?
This parable stings a bit, because when I read it, I see my
narrow love, my narrow mind, my narrow heart.
Yet, God asks us to love ALL.
Christ showed us that even the sinners, the outcasts, the
undesirables … even THOSE people can be invited to dinner,
to be included in conversation, to be cared for and learned
from.
I am not better than any other, because we are all God’s kids.
We were all made in God’s image, and every person is worthy
of love.
Expand my love, Lord. Amen.
Pastor Anna Gillette
Saturday, March 19
Read Matthew 20:29-­‐34 Open my eyes, that I may see
glimpses of truth thou hast for me;
place in my hands the wonderful key
that shall unclasp and set me free.
Silently now I wait for thee,
ready, my God, thy will to see.
Open my eyes, illumine me, Spirit divine!
Open my ears, that I may hear
voices of truth thou sendest clear;
and while the wavenotes fall on my ear,
everything false will disappear.
Silently now I wait for thee,
ready, my God, thy will to see.
Open my ears, illumine me, Spirit divine!
Open my mouth, and let me bear
gladly the warm truth everywhere;
open my heart and let me prepare
love with thy children thus to share.
Silently now I wait for thee,
ready, my God, thy will to see.
Open my heart, illumine me, Spirit divine!
Lord, I want my sight. Open my eyes, please. Amen.
Clara H. Scott (1841-1897)
United Methodist Hymnal #454
© 1980 The United Methodist Publishing House
42 Palm Sunday, March 20
Read Matthew 21:1-­‐17 As I read this Scripture I couldn't help but read it in the
light of what was about to happen to Jesus.
Palm Sunday, What an awesome Sunday! People
were rejoicing and celebrating. "Hosanna, the King of
Kings!!" and in 5 short days that all would drastically
change.
Kind of like our faith sometimes...times of feeling very
close to God and times when we feel God is far away.
So, where are you in the course of life now? Are you
on riding into town on a donkey, people cheering,
encouraging you, loving you? Good for you! Rejoice in
God's goodness to you.
Maybe you are going through a desert time. Your faith
seems lifeless. Nothing seems to be getting through.
He has not abandoned you even if He is silent. His
promise is sure. Celebrate God's faithfulness.
Or maybe this is a painful time. The world seems to be
crashing down. You may be in the midst of a storm
and you are wondering if you will survive.
Here is a story from Max Lucado that will hold true for
all theses seasons of life.
Max Lucado was living on a houseboat in Miami when
Hurricane David was heading toward him. The single
guys staying on the boat wondered how best to
protect their fragile home. In the midst of their
bewilderment a man named Phil gave them great
advice, "Tie her to land and you'll regret it. Those trees
are gonna get eaten by the 'cane. Your only hope is to
anchor deep," he said. "Place four anchors in four
different locations, leave the rope slack, and pray for
the best."
What a good analogy for us, anchor deep. Tie your
hopes and confidence not to things like emotions,
circumstances and the approval of others. Drop your
anchor. Tie your hope to the firm foundation of God's
Word, Character, Power, and Track-record. He will
see you through.
I would think the disciples were on a emotional ride
before and after that first Palm Sunday. They didn't
enjoy it at the time, but as they looked back they were
able to see that the lowest times were blessed times.
The experiences that could have destroyed them,
were actually the experiences God was using to
transform them.
So wherever you are this Palm Sunday, remember the
promises of the One who created us. Remember His
goodness and rely on His strength.
Dear Hosanna and Savior! Whether the crowds are for us or
against us may we remember the One who is always on our
side! Amen.
Jill Ingram
44 Monday, March 21
Read Matthew 26: 1-­‐13 I have never poured perfume on a person’s head, but I have
gently washed my sons’ heads with baby shampoo, dressed
their wounds, and even rubbed lotion on their dry winter skin.
The things I applied to my boys were not expensive, but I did
apply them with great care. Especially for their first baths when
they were infants, I remember just how precious those babies
were to me. As I washed them, I thanked God for them. As I
gently dried them with the softest of towels, I remember
cherishing the opportunity to care for them.
Jesus tells his disciples that this woman was doing much the
same. She was cleansing him with something often reserved
for the tender and special work of preparing a body for burial.
You see, at this time in history, great care was given to cleanse
the skin of one who died, to pamper the body one last time.
She was, Jesus said, giving him great care, while they were
preoccupied with the wrong things.
Years later, my boys are grown, and I realize the sweet days of
their infant baths were short lived. Jesus was trying to tell his
disciples their time with him was also short lived.
Lord, help me to take time to be with you, and to savor every
minute. Amen.
Pastor Anna Gillette
Tuesday, March 22
Read Matthew 26: 14-­‐16 Ah, holy Jesus, how hast thou offended,
that we to judge thee have in hate pretended?
By foes derided, by thine own rejected,
O most afflicted!
Who was the guilty? Who brought this upon thee?
Alas, my treason, Jesus, hath undone thee!
'Twas I, Lord Jesus, I it was denied thee;
I crucified thee.
Lo, the Good Shepherd for the sheep is offered;
the slave hath sinned, and the Son hath suffered.
For our atonement, while we nothing heeded,
God interceded.
For me, kind Jesus, was thy incarnation,
thy mortal sorrow, and thy life's oblation;
thy death of anguish and thy bitter passion,
for my salvation.
Therefore, kind Jesus, since I cannot pay thee,
I do adore thee, and will ever pray thee,
think on thy pity and thy love unswerving,
not my deserving.
Ah holy Jesus, I crucified thee, God interceded for my salvation
- not my deserving. And so, Lord, I adore you and will praise you
forever. Amen!
Johann Heermann, 1585-1647
United Methodist Hymnal #289
© 1980 The United Methodist Publishing House
46 Wednesday, March 23
Read Matthew 26:17-­‐25 Surely you don’t mean me, Lord!
I am not the betrayer.
I have not wronged you, have I?
You couldn’t mean me!
Yet the psalmist writes, “ Against you, and you alone have I
sinned.” (Psalm 51:4)
So, when I judge my neighbor, I sin against you.
When I overlook somebody’s pain, I sin against you.
When I spend what I have on my wants rather than sharing with
those in need, I sing against you.
When I gossip, I sin against you.
When I don’t say a word to stop hateful jokes or talk, I sin
against you.
When I delight in somebody else’s failure or pain, I sing against
you.
When I let jealousy overrun my thoughts and choices, I sin
against you.
When I want my way, and my way only, I sin against you.
When I seek to exalt myself rather than exalt you, I sin against
you.
Yes, Lord. I have betrayed you. I’m sorry.
Forgive me, Lord. Amen.
Pastor Anna Gillette
Maundy Thursday, March 24
Read Matthew 26: 26-­‐30
When we moved from Texas to New Jersey, it was hard. We
were surrounded by so many people and yet terribly lonely. It
was difficult to navigate new paths, new relationships, and
what’s the deal with all of those jug-handles? There was a
place where we found peace and connection in our new chaos
-- the dinner table. When we gathered to eat we not only
shared bread and meat, but we shared our lives with one
another.
The disciples couldn’t have fully understood everything that
Jesus was saying or what it would mean for their lives. We too
come to the table of grace unable to comprehend all that Jesus
has done for us, but when we gather we have the opportunity to
share in the true life of Christ. We are connected with one
another and with God through this mighty act of salvation. In
God we find peace, in Christ we find forgiveness, in the cross
we find everlasting life. Thanks be to God!
God, thank you. By your Spirit make us one with Christ, one with each
other, and one in ministry to all the world, until Christ comes in final
victory and we feast at his heavenly banquet. Through your Son Jesus
Christ, with your Holy Spirit in your Holy Church, all honor and glory is
yours, Almighty Father, now and forever. Amen
Trey Gillette 48 Good Friday, March 25
Read Matthew 26:47 -­‐ 27:56 In my sixty plus years there have been times that I have been
accused of not hearing even though I was listening.
Sorry to say they were usually right. I wish I knew why, maybe it is because I am a man, a father I
am not sure.
When I hear the ones I love tell me of impending problems my
mind shifts to the fix it mode; when this happens I do not hear
the rest of the of the story.
I think Peter was guilty of this shortcoming.
Sometime in the middle of Christ telling his disciples that he
would be betrayed, Peter must have been shifted to fix it mode … “This will not happen. Not on my watch!”
Peter did not hear the rest of the story, when Peter pulled his
sword to protect his friend.
He could have caused a massacre which in turn could have
caused a rebellion.
Judah was right at this time for such a rebellion.
Christ stopped him. This time Peter had heard.
How often have you listened but not heard.
How often have you tried to fix it for God. If we learn one thing it
is to hear the "Plan" the "Whole Plan"
We do not need to fix God's Plan
We simply need to follow.
Lord help me too listen to you. Help me to hear you.
Help me to trust your “Plan.” Amen.
Dan Todd
Saturday, March 26
Read Matthew 27: 57-­‐66 What preparations are you making today? Do you have eggs to
dye, baking to do, a lawn to mow, a house to clean? Pastor
Max and I probably have some finishing touches to make on
our sermons, Tim is probably rehearsing some music. I know
there are lilies to place in the sanctuary, and clean up to do
after the Community Resurrection Celebration today.
Whatever our plans for tomorrow, we have preparations to do
today.
In our busyness, let’s not forget the preparation that took place
so many years ago.
Joseph of Arimathea prepared a tomb, wrapped Jesus’ body in
cloth, and tucked him away behind a large stone.
It’s not unlike the way Mary, just 33 years earlier, wrapped
Jesus’ body in cloth and tucked him away in a manger.
Such a difference, though. In the manger, Jesus had his entire
earthly life ahead of him. In the tomb, Jesus had our eternal
lives ahead of him!
As we prepare for tomorrow, let’s remember the most important
thing: Christ has died, Christ has risen, and Christ will come
again!
Savior, Remind me what matters most. Amen.
Pastor Anna Gillette
50 Easter Sunday, March 27
Read Matthew 28: 1-­‐10
Nature from her sleep is waking,
From her icy bondage breaking,
Vernal life and beauty taking,
Lo, the winter is past.
Birds their carols sweet are singing
Trees and flow’rs their fragrance bringing,
Lo, the winter is past,
Lo, the winter is past.
In our hearts new joy is dawning,
On this happy Easter morning,
Every life with hope adorning,
Lo! the winter is past!
Gone are Lenten gloom and sadness,
Bright our path with Easter gladness,
Lo! the winter is past!
Lo! the winter is past!
Christ with pow’rs of Death hath striven,
To the world new life hath given,
Op’ning wide the gates of Heaven,
Lo! the winter is past.
Sing we to our Lord most glorious,
Rising over Death victorious,
Lo! the winter is past!
Lo! the winter is past!
After a long cold winter, we welcome new birth! Hallelujah! We praise you, risen Christ! Amen. Arthur F.M. Custance, 1902 Sin, where are your shackles?
Death, where is your sting?
Hell has been defeated.
The grave could not hold the king.
-Eddie Carswell 52