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Six days before the Passover Jesus came to Bethany, the home of Lazarus, whom he had raised from the dead. 2 There they gave a dinner for him. Martha served, and Lazarus was one of those at the table with him. 3 Mary took a pound of costly perfume made of pure nard, anointed Jesus’ feet, and wiped them[a] with her hair. The house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume. 4 But Judas Iscariot, one of his disciples (the one who was about to betray him), said, 5 “Why was this perfume not sold for three hundred denarii[b] and the money given to the poor?” 6 (He said this not because he cared about the poor, but because he was a thief; he kept the common purse and used to steal what was put into it.) 7 Jesus said, “Leave her alone. She bought it[c] so that she might keep it for the day of my burial. 8 You always have the poor with you, but you do not always have me.” (John 12:1-8) Reflection Washing of other’s feet is an act of service. The addition of using costly perfume is an act of adoration. When I read this scripture, I can just feel the love that Mary had for Jesus. I also feel the scorn that Judas had for the whole situation. My thought about his comment is what concern is it to you how she uses her goods. He needs to worry about himself and his own actions. Jesus of course handles the confrontation very well. I believe we have something to learn from all three people. Love with your whole heart and with the gifts you have. Give to the poor what you can. Mind your own business on things that are not your concern. Pay attention to those who are around you while there are around you. --Charlene Rineer Prayer: Gracious God, thank you for all you have given us. Help us use our gifts and belongings for the good of others. Let us spread the love of God to all we meet. Amen Our devotions are based on this Sunday’s Revised Common Lectionary (RCL). The RCL is a three-year cycle of readings telling the story of our Christian faith and corresponding to the season church calendar. On any given Sunday, we are hearing and praying and examining the same Scripture with millions of Christians around the world. In our current Year C, the Old Testament readings progress through the Prophets and have the theme of the day that it is connected to the Gospel reading. The Psalm, a song the congregation sings in response to the Old Testament reading, most often corresponds to the theme of the Hebrew Lessons and/or that of the Gospel Lesson. The lesson from the Epistles or from Acts typifies the church’s focus on the meaning of Christ for today. The Gospel lesson is connected to the season of the Church Year. This year, our gospel readings are from Luke, who writes that Jesus is the universal Savior and the perfect Son of Man. In the current season of Lent, we focus on baptismal identity and the consequent amendment of life.
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Even though I, too, have reason for confidence in the flesh. If anyone else has reason to be confident in the flesh, I have more: circumcised on the eighth day, a member of the people of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew born of Hebrews; as to the law, a Pharisee; as to zeal, a persecutor of the church; as to righteousness under the law, blameless. Yet whatever gains I had, these I have come to regard as loss because of Christ. More than that, I regard everything as loss because of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake I have suffered the loss of all things, and I regard them as rubbish, in order that I may gain Christ and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but one that comes through faith in Christ, the righteousness from God based on faith. I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection and the sharing of his sufferings by becoming like him in his death, if somehow I may attain the resurrection from the dead. Not that I have already obtained this or have already reached the goal; but I press on to make it my own, because Christ Jesus has made me his own. Beloved, I do not consider that I have made it my own; but this one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the heavenly call of God in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 3: 4b-14) Reflection I often say or sign off messages with, “Enjoy this day,” thinking of this day the Lord made. Rejoice and be glad in it! Paul reflects on all he was and all he did but counts it as nothing. It’s this day and the pressing forward to what God has called him to be and to have that matters. I am one to remember and to reflect but it’s what I set my feet and my heart to do today which will matter. Love God; love others. I’ve tried to do that in the past, with some success I hope and some failure, I’m sure. Today is another day. Burdens from before will not help get my feet moving. Prizes from the past will not serve my neighbor. So, strain forward toward the goal God has called us. --Ruth Gates Prayer Dear God, each day may we forget what is behind us and weighing us down and instead strain toward you. Amen Our devotions are based on this Sunday’s Revised Common Lectionary (RCL). The RCL is a three-year cycle of readings telling the story of our Christian faith and corresponding to the season church calendar. On any given Sunday, we are hearing and praying and examining the same Scripture with millions of Christians around the world. In our current Year C, the Old Testament readings progress through the Prophets and have the theme of the day that it is connected to the Gospel reading. The Psalm, a song the congregation sings in response to the Old Testament reading, most often corresponds to the theme of the Hebrew Lessons and/or that of the Gospel Lesson. The lesson from the Epistles or from Acts typifies the church’s focus on the meaning of Christ for today. The Gospel lesson is connected to the season of the Church Year. This year, our gospel readings are from Luke, who writes that Jesus is the universal Savior and the perfect Son of Man. In the current season of Lent, we focus on baptismal identity and the consequent amendment of life. We often reprint prior devotions that now reflect on the coming lectionary texts. This is a reprint from a devotion originally published on April 4, 2019.
Reading A Song of Ascents. When the Lord restored the fortunes of Zion, we were like those who dream. Then our mouth was filled with laughter, and our tongue with shouts of joy; then it was said among the nations, ‘The Lord has done great things for them.’ The Lord has done great things for us, and we rejoiced. Restore our fortunes, O Lord, like the watercourses in the Negeb. May those who sow in tears reap with shouts of joy. Those who go out weeping, bearing the seed for sowing, shall come home with shouts of joy, carrying their sheaves. (Psalm 126) Reflection Sometimes it takes looking back at all the great things that have happened for us to realize there will be great things ahead even if today is not so great. When the Lord brought his people Zion, it was as if they were dreaming. There was laughter! After many tears through difficult times, they returned with songs of joy. The Psalms remind us to remember the great things God has done. Be filled with joy. Trust and pray. -- Ruth Gates Prayer Lord, you have done great things for us. Though we sometimes sow with tears, we will reap with joy. Amen Our devotions are based on this Sunday’s Revised Common Lectionary (RCL). The RCL is a three-year cycle of readings telling the story of our Christian faith and corresponding to the season church calendar. On any given Sunday, we are hearing and praying and examining the same Scripture with millions of Christians around the world. In our current Year C, the Old Testament readings progress through the Prophets and have the theme of the day that it is connected to the Gospel reading. The Psalm, a song the congregation sings in response to the Old Testament reading, most often corresponds to the theme of the Hebrew Lessons and/or that of the Gospel Lesson. The lesson from the Epistles or from Acts typifies the church’s focus on the meaning of Christ for today. The Gospel lesson is connected to the season of the Church Year. This year, our gospel readings are from Luke, who writes that Jesus is the universal Savior and the perfect Son of Man. In the current season of Lent, we focus on baptismal identity and the consequent amendment of life. Reading
Thus says the Lord, who makes a way in the sea, a path in the mighty waters, who brings out chariot and horse, army and warrior; they lie down, they cannot rise, they are extinguished, quenched like a wick: Do not remember the former things, or consider the things of old. I am about to do a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert. The wild animals will honor me, the jackals and the ostriches; for I give water in the wilderness, rivers in the desert, to give drink to my chosen people, the people whom I formed for myself so that they might declare my praise. (Isaiah 43:16-21) Reflection How many times do you find your mind going down familiar, if unhelpful, tracks? Saying and doing the same things, over and over? It’s so easy to get stuck in a rut. We do it as a church: insist that things be done the way they always have been. We read these Lenten verses knowing that the Resurrection is coming. Let us try not to consider the former things. We are claimed by a God who makes a path in the sea and rivers in the desert. We know that nothing is impossible, not even for death to be overcome. Not even for us to try new things. --Erin Hayes Prayer God of the impossible, help us to do a new thing with you as our guide. Amen. Our devotions are based on this Sunday’s Revised Common Lectionary (RCL). The RCL is a three-year cycle of readings telling the story of our Christian faith and corresponding to the season church calendar. On any given Sunday, we are hearing and praying and examining the same Scripture with millions of Christians around the world. In our current Year C, the Old Testament readings progress through the Prophets and have the theme of the day that it is connected to the Gospel reading. The Psalm, a song the congregation sings in response to the Old Testament reading, most often corresponds to the theme of the Hebrew Lessons and/or that of the Gospel Lesson. The lesson from the Epistles or from Acts typifies the church’s focus on the meaning of Christ for today. The Gospel lesson is connected to the season of the Church Year. This year, our gospel readings are from Luke, who writes that Jesus is the universal Savior and the perfect Son of Man. In the current season of Lent, we focus on baptismal identity and the consequent amendment of life. Today, we look at a Day 3 text from this year’s summer curriculum, “Boundless: God Beyond Measure.”
Reading The gifts he gave were that some would be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, some pastors, and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, until all of us come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to maturity, to the measure of the full stature of Christ. We must no longer be children, tossed to and fro and blown about by every wind of doctrine, by people’s trickery, by their craftiness in deceitful scheming. But speaking the truth in love, we must grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ, from whom the whole body, joined and knit together by every ligament with which it is equipped, as each part is working properly, promotes the body’s growth in building itself up in love. (Ephesians 4:11-16) Reflection When my local youth athletic organization decided to start a volleyball league while I was in high school (since our school did not have a team), I was stoked to be one of the first names signing up to take part. I loved the sport and quickly found my place on the larger team. Later, when they decided to start up a tennis club in similar fashion, I quickly added the skills into my rotation and found a new joy on the court in my coach’s backyard. A few years later when my brother joined both leagues, he absolutely cleaned my clock. I mean, he could kick my butt across both courts! This was just the start of a growing trend in our house. I was proud when I got an A in my calculus class my senior year of high school; my brother aced it in his freshman year. I was relieved to attain the rank of Eagle Scout, narrowly getting my final paperwork in two days before the final deadline on my eighteenth birthday. I think my brother reached Eagle before he could drive. It seemed that at every turn when I thought I had a gift or a skill, even some sort of accomplishment, my brother showed me up with deft skill. And I’ll admit (confess?) to you all these years later that it made me so jealous. I was envious of his capacity to excel at all these things to which I had already set myself! I genuinely coveted the gifts that he had. In the end, that envy really drove a wedge in my capacity to be in good relationship with my brother for years. It wasn’t until we had some time and space for differentiation in college that we finally discerned each of our own unique sets of gifts and skills. Ultimately, I became a pastor, he is now a captain in the Space Force; to say we landed in different places would be putting it lightly! But now, recognizing our own unique places and callings, we are able to support one another with the same zeal with which we competed while growing up. Now, after finally recognizing the ways in which we have been equipped, we are able to build one another up in love (v. 16). Know that in similar fashion, you too have been uniquely equipped for the mutual support of this Body of Christ. You may need some distance to step away from the constant competitive cross-comparison that our world encourages, but the truth is you have been equipped and called into this life of faith. May you not be blown about, but may you find your sure footing, uniquely held in your person, and may you leverage it for the joining and knitting of this life together! ~ Justin Lingenfelter Prayer Good and gracious God, you equip your saints with unique and individual gifts for the sake of your ministry of life in this world. Lead us away from the paralyzing lines of competitive comparison to instead use our gifts to build one another up in your name. This we pray through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. _________________________________________________________________________ Our devotions are based on this Sunday’s Revised Common Lectionary (RCL). The RCL is a three-year cycle of readings telling the story of our Christian faith and corresponding to the season church calendar. On any given Sunday, we are hearing and praying and examining the same Scripture with millions of Christians around the world. In our current Year C, the Old Testament readings progress through the Prophets and have the theme of the day that it is connected to the Gospel reading. The Psalm, a song the congregation sings in response to the Old Testament reading, most often corresponds to the theme of the Hebrew Lessons and/or that of the Gospel Lesson. The lesson from the Epistles or from Acts typifies the church’s focus on the meaning of Christ for today. The Gospel lesson is connected to the season of the Church Year. This year, our gospel readings are from Luke, who writes that Jesus is the universal Savior and the perfect Son of Man. In the current season of Lent, we focus on baptismal identity and the consequent amendment of life. Reading
Now all the tax-collectors and sinners were coming near to listen to him. And the Pharisees and the scribes were grumbling and saying, ‘This fellow welcomes sinners and eats with them.’ So he told them this parable: Then Jesus said, ‘There was a man who had two sons. The younger of them said to his father, “Father, give me the share of the property that will belong to me.” So he divided his property between them. A few days later the younger son gathered all he had and travelled to a distant country, and there he squandered his property in dissolute living. When he had spent everything, a severe famine took place throughout that country, and he began to be in need. So he went and hired himself out to one of the citizens of that country, who sent him to his fields to feed the pigs. He would gladly have filled himself with the pods that the pigs were eating; and no one gave him anything. But when he came to himself, he said, “How many of my father’s hired hands have bread enough and to spare, but here I am dying of hunger! I will get up and go to my father, and I will say to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you; I am no longer worthy to be called your son; treat me like one of your hired hands.’ ” So, he set off and went to his father. But while he was still far off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion; he ran and put his arms around him and kissed him. Then the son said to him, “Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you; I am no longer worthy to be called your son.” But the father said to his slaves, “Quickly, bring out a robe—the best one—and put it on him; put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. And get the fatted calf and kill it, and let us eat and celebrate; for this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found!” And they began to celebrate. ‘Now his elder son was in the field; and when he came and approached the house, he heard music and dancing. He called one of the slaves and asked what was going on. He replied, “Your brother has come, and your father has killed the fatted calf, because he has got him back safe and sound.” Then he became angry and refused to go in. His father came out and began to plead with him. But he answered his father, “Listen! For all these years I have been working like a slave for you, and I have never disobeyed your command; yet you have never given me even a young goat so that I might celebrate with my friends. But when this son of yours came back, who has devoured your property with prostitutes, you killed the fatted calf for him!” Then the father said to him, “Son, you are always with me, and all that is mine is yours. But we had to celebrate and rejoice, because this brother of yours was dead and has come to life; he was lost and has been found.” ’ (Luke 15: 1-3, 11b-32) Reflection I recently read a book about a prodigal daughter. The definition of prodigal is someone who squanders time or money. The story in the book references and questions who was really the Prodigal in Jesus’ parable in Luke 15? Was it the father who gave in too easily to his younger son’s request for the early inheritance? Was it the son who later returned home humbly admitting his wastefulness and failure? Or was it the older brother who resented and wouldn’t accept his brother’s return, squandering his time that could be spent in welcoming and his place at the feast he could have eaten in celebration? Perhaps all three were guilty. Going back to the book I read, the father followed the teachings of Jesus. Welcome the lost child; the sinner who returns; the lamb rescued and returned to the flock. We all have our flaws! God opens His arms to all of us and accepts us when we turn to Him. --Alice Yeakel Prayer Dear Lord we all have flaws. We sometimes make wrong decisions. Help us to understand and be patient as we accept the flaws of those around us. Help us to correct our own flaws. May we learn to love and accept as we deal with our weaknesses. Amen Our devotions are based on this Sunday’s Revised Common Lectionary (RCL). The RCL is a three-year cycle of readings telling the story of our Christian faith and corresponding to the season church calendar. On any given Sunday, we are hearing and praying and examining the same Scripture with millions of Christians around the world. In our current Year C, the Old Testament readings progress through the Prophets and have the theme of the day that it is connected to the Gospel reading. The Psalm, a song the congregation sings in response to the Old Testament reading, most often corresponds to the theme of the Hebrew Lessons and/or that of the Gospel Lesson. The lesson from the Epistles or from Acts typifies the church’s focus on the meaning of Christ for today. The Gospel lesson is connected to the season of the Church Year. This year, our gospel readings are from Luke, who writes that Jesus is the universal Savior and the perfect Son of Man. In the current season of Lent, we focus on baptismal identity and the consequent amendment of life. We often reprint prior devotions that now reflect on the coming lectionary texts. This is a reprint from a devotion originally published on March 27, 2019.
Reading From now on, therefore, we regard no one from a human point of view; even though we once knew Christ from a human point of view, we know him no longer in that way. So, if anyone is in Christ, there is a new creation: everything old has passed away; see, everything has become new! All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ, and has given us the ministry of reconciliation; that is, in Christ God was reconciling the world to himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and entrusting the message of reconciliation to us. So, we are ambassadors for Christ, since God is making his appeal through us; we entreat you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God. For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God. (2 Corinthians 5: 16-21) Reflection So, if anyone is in Christ, there is a new creation: everything old has passed away; see, everything has become new! 2 Corinthians 5: 17 I remember the first time I really heard this verse. It stopped me in my tracks. Then I guess I could say it put me on a new set of tracks. I won't go into the what, when, where and why of it all. Just know it happened. The verse sometimes turns up in liturgy, so I am reminded in worship on Sundays again and again. Really, we can be renewed each day as we live in Christ. Have you heard this verse before? Does it stop you in your tracks? What new tracks do you follow as a new creation in Christ? -- Ruth Gates Prayer Creator God, renew us each day. Amen Our devotions are based on this Sunday’s Revised Common Lectionary (RCL). The RCL is a three-year cycle of readings telling the story of our Christian faith and corresponding to the season church calendar. On any given Sunday, we are hearing and praying and examining the same Scripture with millions of Christians around the world. In our current Year C, the Old Testament readings progress through the Prophets and have the theme of the day that it is connected to the Gospel reading. The Psalm, a song the congregation sings in response to the Old Testament reading, most often corresponds to the theme of the Hebrew Lessons and/or that of the Gospel Lesson. The lesson from the Epistles or from Acts typifies the church’s focus on the meaning of Christ for today. The Gospel lesson is connected to the season of the Church Year. This year, our gospel readings are from Luke, who writes that Jesus is the universal Savior and the perfect Son of Man. In the current season of Lent, we focus on baptismal identity and the consequent amendment of life. We often reprint prior devotions that now reflect on the coming lectionary texts. This is a reprint from a devotion originally published on March 2, 2017.
Reading Happy are those whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered. Happy are those to whom the Lord imputes no iniquity, and in whose spirit, there is no deceit. While I kept silence, my body wasted away through my groaning all day long. For day and night your hand was heavy upon me; my strength was dried up as by the heat of summer. Selah Then I acknowledged my sin to you, and I did not hide my iniquity; I said, “I will confess my transgressions to the Lord,” and you forgave the guilt of my sin. Selah Therefore, let all who are faithful offer prayer to you; at a time of distress, the rush of mighty waters shall not reach them. You are a hiding place for me; you preserve me from trouble; you surround me with glad cries of deliverance. Selah I will instruct you and teach you the way you should go; I will counsel you with my eye upon you. Do not be like a horse or a mule, without understanding, whose temper must be curbed with bit and bridle, else it will not stay near you. Many are the torments of the wicked, but steadfast love surrounds those who trust in the Lord. Be glad in the Lord and rejoice, O righteous, and shout for joy, all you upright in heart. (Psalm 32) Reflection A few years ago, I went to a lecture by David Gregory at Susquehanna University. Gregory is a CNN analyst, who used to work at NBC News and hosted “Meet The Press.” He was also a White House Correspondent during the George W. Bush presidency. Gregory has written a book about his journey of faith. He talked about it during his lecture. One of the points he made was that despite his rise in television news and being very successful, there were times in his life that he still felt empty. As we started to explore his Jewish faith, it started to be more in his heart, rather than just in his head. When I read this Psalm, I thought of Gregory’s speech. This Psalm reminds us of happiness as it is tied to our faith. It reminds us that God is always with us. It reminds us that there is more to life than just what happens on earth. Gregory says he reads the Psalms and turns to them for comfort. In times when you need to be reminded to be happy, or in times that you need a pick me up, turn to the Psalms and remember that God is with you. –Chad Hershberger Prayer Be by my side, Lord, and help me to see you and be happy. Amen. Our devotions are based on this Sunday’s Revised Common Lectionary (RCL). The RCL is a three-year cycle of readings telling the story of our Christian faith and corresponding to the season church calendar. On any given Sunday, we are hearing and praying and examining the same Scripture with millions of Christians around the world. In our current Year C, the Old Testament readings progress through the Prophets and have the theme of the day that it is connected to the Gospel reading. The Psalm, a song the congregation sings in response to the Old Testament reading, most often corresponds to the theme of the Hebrew Lessons and/or that of the Gospel Lesson. The lesson from the Epistles or from Acts typifies the church’s focus on the meaning of Christ for today. The Gospel lesson is connected to the season of the Church Year. This year, our gospel readings are from Luke, who writes that Jesus is the universal Savior and the perfect Son of Man. In the current season of Lent, we focus on baptismal identity and the consequent amendment of life. We often reprint prior devotions that now reflect on the coming lectionary texts. This is a reprint from a devotion originally published on March 1, 2016.
Reading The Lord said to Joshua, “Today I have rolled away from you the disgrace of Egypt.” And so that place is called Gilgal to this day. While the Israelites were camped in Gilgal, they kept the Passover in the evening on the fourteenth day of the month in the plains of Jericho. On the day after the Passover, on that very day, they ate the produce of the land, unleavened cakes, and parched grain. The manna ceased on the day they ate the produce of the land, and the Israelites no longer had manna; they ate the crops of the land of Canaan that year. (Joshua 5:9-12) Reflection This Lent, I’ve been reflecting more on the Lord’s Prayer. I try to pray it daily and often words in it strike me in new ways as I try to mediate on its contemporary meaning. In our story today, we are reminded of the Israelites who had finished their wanderings. God provided for them daily bread in the form of manna. But now, the manna stopped. And they could like off the land and harvest the crops of Canaan. In both cases, God provided. God provided manna. God provided crops in Canaan. God made sure the Israelites, God’s chosen people, had what they needed. And God makes sure we, as children of God, are provided for. Today, I challenge you to pray the Lord’s Prayer and think about the line, “Give us this day our daily bread.” What is the daily bread that God is providing for you? Give thanks to the Lord for all the good things God provides! --Chad Hershberger Prayer Give us today our daily bread, heavenly Father, and provide for all our needs. Amen. Our devotions are based on this Sunday’s Revised Common Lectionary (RCL). The RCL is a three-year cycle of readings telling the story of our Christian faith and corresponding to the season church calendar. On any given Sunday, we are hearing and praying and examining the same Scripture with millions of Christians around the world. In our current Year C, the Old Testament readings progress through the Prophets and have the theme of the day that it is connected to the Gospel reading. The Psalm, a song the congregation sings in response to the Old Testament reading, most often corresponds to the theme of the Hebrew Lessons and/or that of the Gospel Lesson. The lesson from the Epistles or from Acts typifies the church’s focus on the meaning of Christ for today. The Gospel lesson is connected to the season of the Church Year. This year, our gospel readings are from Luke, who writes that Jesus is the universal Savior and the perfect Son of Man. In the current season of Lent, we focus on baptismal identity and the consequent amendment of life. We often reprint prior devotions that now reflect on the coming lectionary texts. This is a reprint from a devotion originally published on February 22, 2016.
Reading At that very time there were some present who told him about the Galileans whose blood Pilate had mingled with their sacrifices. He asked them, “Do you think that because these Galileans suffered in this way, they were worse sinners than all other Galileans? No, I tell you; but unless you repent, you will all perish as they did. Or those eighteen who were killed when the tower of Siloam fell on them—do you think that they were worse offenders than all the others living in Jerusalem? No, I tell you; but unless you repent, you will all perish just as they did.” Then he told this parable: “A man had a fig tree planted in his vineyard; and he came looking for fruit on it and found none. So, he said to the gardener, ‘See here! For three years I have come looking for fruit on this fig tree, and still, I find none. Cut it down! Why should it be wasting the soil?’ He replied, ‘Sir, let it alone for one more year, until I dig around it and put manure on it. If it bears fruit next year, well and good; but if not, you can cut it down.’” (Luke 13: 1-9) Reflection A few years ago, our Wednesday night Lantern worship services were dramas based on parables and one evening it was the Parable of the Barren Fig Tree. I will always remember Glen, who played the role of the fig tree, shaking down to his very roots. He really became the character of a laid back, lazy, unproductive tree holding two branches in his hands above his head until it was noticed his branches were totally bare, the accusation of wasting soil and the threat of being cut down. Then began the look of worry in his face and the nervous shaking of the branches. No, his arms weren't just getting tired. He was one scared tree and we all believed it. We also knew ourselves we could be that tree. As Glen recalls his character development for the performance, “The fig tree was a bit of a slacker. He felt he had pulled the wool over the eyes of his master, and he was pretty proud of the fact. That turned out to be not the case as the lack of his initiative was discovered” I can't remember exactly how the story was enacted but I know by the end his branches were no longer shaking. They may have even had leaves and fruit growing on them. The gardener asked the master for a year to give the tree a chance and then dug around and fertilized it. The tree bore fruit, well and good, and was not cut down. While we have work to do for the kingdom, I don't think we need to be terrified trees as we trust the gardener, Jesus, will loosen up our feet and feed us to be productive. Let that be our prayer as we are grateful for God's patience. --Ruth Gates Prayer Watchful Father, you see all we do and notice what we don't. While we know it is only by grace we are saved, help us to do something for your Kingdom. Thank you for being patient with us. Amazing when the fruits of our labor make a difference. Amen Our devotions are based on this Sunday’s Revised Common Lectionary (RCL). The RCL is a three-year cycle of readings telling the story of our Christian faith and corresponding to the season church calendar. On any given Sunday, we are hearing and praying and examining the same Scripture with millions of Christians around the world. In our current Year C, the Old Testament readings progress through the Prophets and have the theme of the day that it is connected to the Gospel reading. The Psalm, a song the congregation sings in response to the Old Testament reading, most often corresponds to the theme of the Hebrew Lessons and/or that of the Gospel Lesson. The lesson from the Epistles or from Acts typifies the church’s focus on the meaning of Christ for today. The Gospel lesson is connected to the season of the Church Year. This year, our gospel readings are from Luke, who writes that Jesus is the universal Savior and the perfect Son of Man. In the current season of Lent, we focus on baptismal identity and the consequent amendment of life. Reading
I do not want you to be unaware, brothers and sisters, that our ancestors were all under the cloud, and all passed through the sea, and all were baptized into Moses in the cloud and in the sea, and all ate the same spiritual food, and all drank the same spiritual drink. For they drank from the spiritual rock that followed them, and the rock was Christ. Nevertheless, God was not pleased with most of them, and they were struck down in the wilderness. Now these things occurred as examples for us, so that we might not desire evil as they did. Do not become idolaters as some of them did; as it is written, ‘The people sat down to eat and drink, and they rose up to play.’ We must not indulge in sexual immorality as some of them did, and twenty-three thousand fell in a single day. We must not put Christ to the test, as some of them did, and were destroyed by serpents. And do not complain as some of them did, and were destroyed by the destroyer. These things happened to them to serve as an example, and they were written down to instruct us, on whom the ends of the ages have come. So if you think you are standing, watch out that you do not fall. No testing has overtaken you that is not common to everyone. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tested beyond your strength, but with the testing he will also provide the way out so that you may be able to endure it. (I Corinthians 10: 1-13) Reflection The Corinthians were simply a mess and Paul calls them out on it yet with a word of healing and hope. You might think a new church would be a pious community but, oh no, not them. Paul calls them idolaters, sinners and complainers who put Christ to the test. Then he adds don’t even go on about your suffering because that is nothing new. It’s not unique to you. Suffering goes way back. And he reminds them of all the Israelites went through during the time of the Exodus. Yes, know your history. We have been and are still broken, sinful and complaining people. There has been and still is suffering. But also know God’s history. God has a remarkable history of patience, faithfulness, graciousness and persistence. So, we lay our messy history next to God’s history of mercy. We see how God relentlessly pursues us in our hurts and sorrows with grace and forgiveness. God has been, still is and always will be with us. That is very good news. That is the reason we can step into the world each day. We know that whatever struggles are in front of us, God steps into that world with us. In fact, in Christ Jesus, God leads us into that world with the grace and strength we need to face whatever lies ahead. --Ruth Gates Prayer Dear God, thank you for going with us and not letting us go. Help us to bring a word of healing and hope to those who need it. Amen. Our devotions are based on this Sunday’s Revised Common Lectionary (RCL). The RCL is a three-year cycle of readings telling the story of our Christian faith and corresponding to the season church calendar. On any given Sunday, we are hearing and praying and examining the same Scripture with millions of Christians around the world. In our current Year C, the Old Testament readings progress through the Prophets and have the theme of the day that it is connected to the Gospel reading. The Psalm, a song the congregation sings in response to the Old Testament reading, most often corresponds to the theme of the Hebrew Lessons and/or that of the Gospel Lesson. The lesson from the Epistles or from Acts typifies the church’s focus on the meaning of Christ for today. The Gospel lesson is connected to the season of the Church Year. This year, our gospel readings are from Luke, who writes that Jesus is the universal Savior and the perfect Son of Man. In the current season of Lent, we focus on baptismal identity and the consequent amendment of life. Today, we look at a Day 3 text from this year’s summer curriculum, “Boundless: God Beyond Measure.”
Reading The gifts he gave were that some would be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, some pastors and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, until all of us come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to maturity, to the measure of the full stature of Christ. We must no longer be children, tossed to and fro and blown about by every wind of doctrine, by people’s trickery, by their craftiness in deceitful scheming. But speaking the truth in love, we must grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ, from whom the whole body, joined and knit together by every ligament with which it is equipped, as each part is working properly, promotes the body’s growth in building itself up in love. (Ephesians 4:11-16) Reflection I’ve been a part of some discussions lately about how in our culture today, it isn’t always okay to be friendly with people whose viewpoint is different from your own. I heard a story in a podcast about how the host, when he visits his wife’s family in Texas, enjoys hanging out with a friend of their family. However, he and that friend are very different. The friend is religious, he is not. The friend is conversative politically, he is more centrist to left leaning. The host says some outsiders might discourage him from visiting the friend when they travel. But he says that individual is his favorite person to visit. This summer, we are going to talk to our campers about how God’s welcome is abundant. God would pick to hang out with anyone! In fact, Jesus was a model of that when he was on earth. He hung out with tax collectors and prostitutes! Our scripture for today reminds us that we each have different gifts and as we share those gifts with people who are not like us, we are enriched by giving and also by receiving the gifts the other person has to share. We need all the parts to make this world go around. Thanks be to God! --Chad Hershberger Prayer Lord, you can show us the way to welcome others with big, open arms. Help us to be kind to the stranger and those who differ from us. Amen. Our devotions are based on this Sunday’s Revised Common Lectionary (RCL). The RCL is a three-year cycle of readings telling the story of our Christian faith and corresponding to the season church calendar. On any given Sunday, we are hearing and praying and examining the same Scripture with millions of Christians around the world. In our current Year C, the Old Testament readings progress through the Prophets and have the theme of the day that it is connected to the Gospel reading. The Psalm, a song the congregation sings in response to the Old Testament reading, most often corresponds to the theme of the Hebrew Lessons and/or that of the Gospel Lesson. The lesson from the Epistles or from Acts typifies the church’s focus on the meaning of Christ for today. The Gospel lesson is connected to the season of the Church Year. This year, our gospel readings are from Luke, who writes that Jesus is the universal Savior and the perfect Son of Man. In the current season of Lent, we focus on baptismal identity and the consequent amendment of life. Reading
A Psalm of David, when he was in the Wilderness of Judah. O God, you are my God, I seek you, my soul thirsts for you; my flesh faints for you, as in a dry and weary land where there is no water. So I have looked upon you in the sanctuary, beholding your power and glory. Because your steadfast love is better than life, my lips will praise you. So I will bless you as long as I live; I will lift up my hands and call on your name. My soul is satisfied as with a rich feast, and my mouth praises you with joyful lips when I think of you on my bed, and meditate on you in the watches of the night; for you have been my help, and in the shadow of your wings I sing for joy. My soul clings to you; your right hand upholds me. (Psalm 63) Reflection This psalm reminds me of a gospel hymn, ”My Lord Is With Me All the Time.” Sometimes we may not think so, but God shows Himself in the simplest of ways. On Feb 24th, I saw a cluster of snowdrops on an embankment among the roots of a tree. The next day we had sleet and freezing rain but after the ice melted the snowdrops were still blooming. The conclusion of a book I Just finished ends with these words: “Let us not focus on the frozen ground but on the green blades of new life rising from that ground.” --Alice Yeakel Prayer Dear Lord, help us to recognize and feel your everlasting presence. Amen Our devotions are based on this Sunday’s Revised Common Lectionary (RCL). The RCL is a three-year cycle of readings telling the story of our Christian faith and corresponding to the season church calendar. On any given Sunday, we are hearing and praying and examining the same Scripture with millions of Christians around the world. In our current Year C, the Old Testament readings progress through the Prophets and have the theme of the day that it is connected to the Gospel reading. The Psalm, a song the congregation sings in response to the Old Testament reading, most often corresponds to the theme of the Hebrew Lessons and/or that of the Gospel Lesson. The lesson from the Epistles or from Acts typifies the church’s focus on the meaning of Christ for today. The Gospel lesson is connected to the season of the Church Year. This year, our gospel readings are from Luke, who writes that Jesus is the universal Savior and the perfect Son of Man. In the current season of Lent, we focus on baptismal identity and the consequent amendment of life. Reading
Ho, everyone who thirsts, come to the waters; and you that have no money, come, buy and eat! Come, buy wine and milk without money and without price. Why do you spend your money for that which is not bread, and your labor for that which does not satisfy? Listen carefully to me, and eat what is good, and delight yourselves in rich food. Incline your ear, and come to me; listen, so that you may live. I will make with you an everlasting covenant, my steadfast, sure love for David. See, I made him a witness to the peoples, a leader and commander for the peoples. See, you shall call nations that you do not know, and nations that do not know you shall run to you, because of the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, for he has glorified you. Seek the Lord while he may be found, call upon him while he is near; let the wicked forsake their way, and the unrighteous their thoughts; let them return to the Lord, that he may have mercy on them, and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon. For my thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways my ways, says the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts. (Isaiah 55:1-9) Reflection “Why do you spend your money for that which is not bread, and your labor for that which does not satisfy?” This Lenten season, I encourage you to think about what you are spending your money and your labor on, both literally and figuratively. Where does your mental energy go? Do you spend it on bread that satisfies, or on worries fueled by social media, unfair comparisons or insecurities and even hatred? It’s a question that I could ask myself every day. Now is the time. Seek the Lord while he may be found. His mercy and pardon are abundant. --Erin Hayes Prayer Thank you, Lord, for your abundant mercy and pardon. Help us to daily turn to you for the bread that satisfies. Amen. Our devotions are based on this Sunday’s Revised Common Lectionary (RCL). The RCL is a three-year cycle of readings telling the story of our Christian faith and corresponding to the season church calendar. On any given Sunday, we are hearing and praying and examining the same Scripture with millions of Christians around the world. In our current Year C, the Old Testament readings progress through the Prophets and have the theme of the day that it is connected to the Gospel reading. The Psalm, a song the congregation sings in response to the Old Testament reading, most often corresponds to the theme of the Hebrew Lessons and/or that of the Gospel Lesson. The lesson from the Epistles or from Acts typifies the church’s focus on the meaning of Christ for today. The Gospel lesson is connected to the season of the Church Year. This year, our gospel readings are from Luke, who writes that Jesus is the universal Savior and the perfect Son of Man. In the current season of Lent, we focus on baptismal identity and the consequent amendment of life. In the current season of Lent, we focus on baptismal identity and the consequent amendment of life. Today, we look at a Day 3 text from this year’s summer curriculum, “Boundless: God Beyond Measure.”
Reading So then, remember that at one time you Gentiles by birth, called “the uncircumcision” by those who are called “the circumcision” —a physical circumcision made in the flesh by human hands— remember that you were at that time without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers to the covenants of promise, having no hope and without God in the world. But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ. For he is our peace; in his flesh he has made both groups into one and has broken down the dividing wall, that is, the hostility between us. He has abolished the law with its commandments and ordinances, that he might create in himself one new humanity in place of the two, thus making peace, and might reconcile both groups to God in one body through the cross, thus putting to death that hostility through it. So he came and proclaimed peace to you who were far off and peace to those who were near; for through him both of us have access in one Spirit to the Father. So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are citizens with the saints and also members of the household of God, built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the cornerstone. In him the whole structure is joined together and grows into a holy temple in the Lord; in whom you also are built together spiritually into a dwelling place for God. (Ephesians 2:11-22) Reflection Ephesians 2:11-22 is from a letter written to the people in Ephesus. In it we are reminded that in God’s home everyone is welcomed and joined together through Jesus. Bowl: Gather around your bowl. Add water to your bowl. Trace back where that water came from (faucet, county water treatment plant, local river). Activity: Have each person get someone else in the group some water to drink (refill their water bottle, for example). Be sure to ask if they would like a drink, politely get them some, and give them their drink along with considerate words. Connect: Offering a glass of water is a way to welcome someone, whether a stranger or friend, into our house. God’s welcome is as simple as making us feel at home. Around the World: Offering a refreshing drink to a guest is universally understood as welcoming. Learn how many people don’t have access to clean drinking water. Commit to using less water (in your shower, cleaning dishes). Any leftover water can be poured into thirsty plants. --LOM Curriculum Prayer Dear God, We are lost without you. Help us to trust that your grace is big enough for us and to know that you are always waiting for us with open arms. May we forgive as you have forgiven us. In Jesus’s name we pray. Amen.
Today is Raise the Region! It our our annual online fundraiser with the First Community Foundation of PA. If you enjoy our First Light Devotions, please consider giving to help support what we do at camp.
We often reprint prior devotions that now reflect on the coming lectionary texts. This is a reprint from a devotion originally published on March 11, 2019.
Reading At that very hour some Pharisees came and said to him, ‘Get away from here, for Herod wants to kill you.’ He said to them, ‘Go and tell that fox for me, “Listen, I am casting out demons and performing cures today and tomorrow, and on the third day I finish my work. Yet today, tomorrow, and the next day I must be on my way, because it is impossible for a prophet to be killed away from Jerusalem.” Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the city that kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to it! How often have I desired to gather your children together as a hen gathers her brood under her wings, and you were not willing! See, your house is left to you. And I tell you, you will not see me until the time comes when you say, “Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord.” ’ (Luke 13: 31-35) Reflection Have you ever felt like giving up? You’re not making any progress? Well meaning friends may have even said, "Quit trying. You’re not going to make it." I read a book where the theme was though you may feel discouraged you ARE trying. You may NOT make the Olympic team. You may NOT win the election. But you HAVE made the effort. Jesus was warned but He continued doing His work. So must we. -- Alice Yeakel Prayer Dear God, when we feel disappointed or discouraged, help us to keep trying. Amen. Our devotions are based on this Sunday’s Revised Common Lectionary (RCL). The RCL is a three-year cycle of readings telling the story of our Christian faith and corresponding to the season church calendar. On any given Sunday, we are hearing and praying and examining the same Scripture with millions of Christians around the world. In our current Year C, the Old Testament readings progress through the Prophets and have the theme of the day that it is connected to the Gospel reading. The Psalm, a song the congregation sings in response to the Old Testament reading, most often corresponds to the theme of the Hebrew Lessons and/or that of the Gospel Lesson. The lesson from the Epistles or from Acts typifies the church’s focus on the meaning of Christ for today. The Gospel lesson is connected to the season of the Church Year. This year, our gospel readings are from Luke, who writes that Jesus is the universal Savior and the perfect Son of Man. In the current season of Lent, we focus on baptismal identity and the consequent amendment of life. Reading
Brothers and sisters, join in imitating me, and observe those who live according to the example you have in us. For many live as enemies of the cross of Christ; I have often told you of them, and now I tell you even with tears. Their end is destruction; their god is the belly; and their glory is in their shame; their minds are set on earthly things. But our citizenship is in heaven, and it is from there that we are expecting a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ. He will transform the body of our humiliation that it may be conformed to the body of his glory, by the power that also enables him to make all things subject to himself. Therefore, my brothers and sisters, whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, stand firm in the Lord in this way, my beloved. (Philippians 3: 17-4:1) Reflection I am one of those non-competitive types who nonetheless will cheer for whatever team is mine at the time. And over the past 20 years there have been a lot of teams. My daughter played softball so there were many teams along the way – Go White Sox! and Go Raiders! and Go Blazers! My son, on the other hand, has playing been in or directing the band for football or basketball teams - Go Zips! and Go Tigers! Now I even cheer, Go Huskies! and Go Green Bay! for the teams of the significant others in my kids’ lives. And yes, I dress in team colors. That’s a lot of combinations to have had on hand: black and white, red and blue, red and white, blue and gold, orange and black, purple and black, green and yellow. And there will be more teams, more cheers and more colors ahead. Yet, whatever team I am identifying with at the time – Blazers, Zips, Tigers or Huskies – the bottom line is my identity is in Christ. My citizenship is in heaven. I am subject to Christ and beloved. So, I stand firm and cheer for that! --Ruth Gates Prayer Dear God, whatever challenges I face in life, remind me I am yours and I can stand firm beloved by you. Amen Our devotions are based on this Sunday’s Revised Common Lectionary (RCL). The RCL is a three-year cycle of readings telling the story of our Christian faith and corresponding to the season church calendar. On any given Sunday, we are hearing and praying and examining the same Scripture with millions of Christians around the world. In our current Year C, the Old Testament readings progress through the Prophets and have the theme of the day that it is connected to the Gospel reading. The Psalm, a song the congregation sings in response to the Old Testament reading, most often corresponds to the theme of the Hebrew Lessons and/or that of the Gospel Lesson. The lesson from the Epistles or from Acts typifies the church’s focus on the meaning of Christ for today. The Gospel lesson is connected to the season of the Church Year. This year, our gospel readings are from Luke, who writes that Jesus is the universal Savior and the perfect Son of Man. In the current season of Lent, we focus on baptismal identity and the consequent amendment of life. Reading
The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life; of whom shall I be afraid? When evildoers assail me to devour my flesh— my adversaries and foes— they shall stumble and fall. Though an army encamp against me, my heart shall not fear; though war rise up against me, yet I will be confident. One thing I asked of the Lord, that will I seek after: to live in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the Lord, and to inquire in his temple. For he will hide me in his shelter in the day of trouble; he will conceal me under the cover of his tent; he will set me high on a rock. Now my head is lifted up above my enemies all around me, and I will offer in his tent sacrifices with shouts of joy; I will sing and make melody to the Lord. Hear, O Lord, when I cry aloud, be gracious to me and answer me! “Come,” my heart says, “seek his face!” Your face, Lord, do I seek. Do not hide your face from me. Do not turn your servant away in anger, you who have been my help. Do not cast me off, do not forsake me, O God of my salvation! If my father and mother forsake me, the Lord will take me up. Teach me your way, O Lord, and lead me on a level path because of my enemies. Do not give me up to the will of my adversaries, for false witnesses have risen against me, and they are breathing out violence. I believe that I shall see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. Wait for the Lord; be strong and let your heart take courage; wait for the Lord! (Psalm 27) Reflection In one of our family’s favorite children’s books, “Rabbit’s Snow Dance” Rabbit wants it to snow, even though it is summer. The impatient hare chants “I want it, I want it, I want it right now.” Although the folk tale ultimately warns of the generational consequences of Rabbit’s selfish and impatient behavior, I think children and adults alike can relate to his chant. In big things and small, it is hard for most of us to be patient. It can be especially difficult to wait on God to answer our prayers. Yet we know, God’s time is different, and like David, we should wait for the Lord. Perhaps today we can try to be more like David than Rabbit. Be strong, and let your heart take courage. --Erin Hayes Prayer God of our light and salvation, it can be difficult to wait for answers to our prayers. Help us to be patient and take courage in you. Amen. Our devotions are based on this Sunday’s Revised Common Lectionary (RCL). The RCL is a three-year cycle of readings telling the story of our Christian faith and corresponding to the season church calendar. On any given Sunday, we are hearing and praying and examining the same Scripture with millions of Christians around the world. In our current Year C, the Old Testament readings progress through the Prophets and have the theme of the day that it is connected to the Gospel reading. The Psalm, a song the congregation sings in response to the Old Testament reading, most often corresponds to the theme of the Hebrew Lessons and/or that of the Gospel Lesson. The lesson from the Epistles or from Acts typifies the church’s focus on the meaning of Christ for today. The Gospel lesson is connected to the season of the Church Year. This year, our gospel readings are from Luke, who writes that Jesus is the universal Savior and the perfect Son of Man. In the current season of Lent, we focus on baptismal identity and the consequent amendment of life. We often reprint prior devotions that now reflect on the coming lectionary texts. This is a reprint from a devotion originally published on March 12, 2019.
Reading After these things the word of the Lord came to Abram in a vision, “Do not be afraid, Abram, I am your shield; your reward shall be very great.” But Abram said, “O Lord God, what will you give me, for I continue childless, and the heir of my house is Eliezer of Damascus?” And Abram said, “You have given me no offspring, and so a slave born in my house is to be my heir.” But the word of the Lord came to him, “This man shall not be your heir; no one but your very own issue shall be your heir.” He brought him outside and said, “Look toward heaven and count the stars, if you are able to count them.” Then he said to him, “So shall your descendants be.” And he believed the Lord; and the Lord reckoned it to him as righteousness. Then he said to him, “I am the Lord who brought you from Ur of the Chaldeans, to give you this land to possess.” But he said, “O Lord God, how am I to know that I shall possess it?” He said to him, “Bring me a heifer three years old, a female goat three years old, a ram three years old, a turtledove, and a young pigeon.” He brought him all these and cut them in two, laying each half over against the other; but he did not cut the birds in two. And when birds of prey came down on the carcasses, Abram drove them away. As the sun was going down, a deep sleep fell upon Abram, and a deep and terrifying darkness descended upon him. When the sun had gone down and it was dark, a smoking fire pot and a flaming torch passed between these pieces. On that day the Lord made a covenant with Abram, saying, “To your descendants I give this land, from the river of Egypt to the great river, the river Euphrates.” (Genesis 15: 1-12, 17-18) Reflection Abram had a lot of questions for God. Many questions which God kept answering but after the long day, Abram fell asleep and a deep and terrifying darkness descended upon him. God continued to speak assurances and when the sun had gone down, a fire and flame passed as the Lord made a covenant with Abram. There is something about a campfire that is reassuring. Light you can see; warmth you can feel. I think campfires are one of my top 5 favorite things at Camp. The sun goes down and the campfire is lit. Facing it is light and warmth; looking behind is darkness. God speaks love and I believe. That's campfire faith. -- Ruth Gates Prayer Faithful God, when the dark is deep and life is scary, may the fire of your presence remind us of your love. Amen. Our devotions are based on this Sunday’s Revised Common Lectionary (RCL). The RCL is a three-year cycle of readings telling the story of our Christian faith and corresponding to the season church calendar. On any given Sunday, we are hearing and praying and examining the same Scripture with millions of Christians around the world. In our current Year C, the Old Testament readings progress through the Prophets and have the theme of the day that it is connected to the Gospel reading. The Psalm, a song the congregation sings in response to the Old Testament reading, most often corresponds to the theme of the Hebrew Lessons and/or that of the Gospel Lesson. The lesson from the Epistles or from Acts typifies the church’s focus on the meaning of Christ for today. The Gospel lesson is connected to the season of the Church Year. This year, our gospel readings are from Luke, who writes that Jesus is the universal Savior and the perfect Son of Man. In the current season of Lent, we focus on baptismal identity and the consequent amendment of life. Today, we look at a Day 2 text from this year’s summer curriculum, “Boundless: God Beyond Measure.”
Reading Let the same mind be in you that was in Christ Jesus, who, though he was in the form of God, did not regard equality with God as something to be exploited, but emptied himself, taking the form of a slave, being born in human likeness. And being found in human form, he humbled himself and became obedient to the point of death— even death on a cross.Therefore, God also highly exalted him and gave him the name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bend, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. (Philippians 2: 5-11) Reflection Attitude. We hear so much about it. Sayings like, "The Power of Positive Thinking!" or "Your attitude, not your aptitude, determine your altitude." Such empowering words! Sounds like the right attitude can really get you places. However, as Christians, we are told to imitate Christ's attitude. So, what was Christ's attitude? Humility. God came to earth as a baby born in a very humble place. Jesus lived humbly in service to others. Then He suffered a humiliating death on the cross. Not such an empowering approach, one would think, and yet...God highly exalted him! Knees bow before and tongues confess Jesus Christ is Lord! Humility to Glory. Yes, we are to imitate Christ's humility. There truly is power in that attitude and to God be the glory! --Ruth Gates Prayer Dearest Lord Jesus, we offer, in stunned humility, our gratitude and praise for your complete act of sacrifice. You gave yourself even for sinners like us. Truly you are the Son of God. Amen. (Prayer from the Moravian Daily Text) Our devotions are based on this Sunday’s Revised Common Lectionary (RCL). The RCL is a three-year cycle of readings telling the story of our Christian faith and corresponding to the season church calendar. On any given Sunday, we are hearing and praying and examining the same Scripture with millions of Christians around the world. In our current Year C, the Old Testament readings progress through the Prophets and have the theme of the day that it is connected to the Gospel reading. The Psalm, a song the congregation sings in response to the Old Testament reading, most often corresponds to the theme of the Hebrew Lessons and/or that of the Gospel Lesson. The lesson from the Epistles or from Acts typifies the church’s focus on the meaning of Christ for today. The Gospel lesson is connected to the season of the Church Year. This year, our gospel readings are from Luke, who writes that Jesus is the universal Savior and the perfect Son of Man. In the current season of Lent, we focus on baptismal identity and the consequent amendment of life. We often reprint prior devotions that now reflect on the coming lectionary texts. This is a reprint from a devotion originally published on March 14, 2014.
Reading Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan and was led by the Spirit in the wilderness, where for forty days he was tempted by the devil. He ate nothing at all during those days, and when they were over, he was famished. The devil said to him, “If you are the Son of God, command this stone to become a loaf of bread.” Jesus answered him, “It is written, ‘One does not live by bread alone.’” Then the devil led him up and showed him in an instant all the kingdoms of the world. And the devil said to him, “To you I will give their glory and all this authority; for it has been given over to me, and I give it to anyone I please. If you, then, will worship me, it will all be yours.” Jesus answered him, “It is written, ‘Worship the Lord your God, and serve only him.’” Then the devil took him to Jerusalem, and placed him on the pinnacle of the temple, saying to him, “If you are the Son of God, throw yourself down from here, for it is written, ‘He will command his angels concerning you, to protect you,’ and ‘On their hands they will bear you up, so that you will not dash your foot against a stone.’” Jesus answered him, “It is said, ‘Do not put the Lord your God to the test.’” When the devil had finished every test, he departed from him until an opportune time. (Luke 4:1-13) Reflection The lesson for the First Sunday in Lent this year is Jesus’ temptation in the wilderness in Luke. Christians begin the Lenten journey with Jesus which concludes with the crucifixion and resurrection with a text that reminds us that Jesus experienced temptation just us we do. We remember also that somehow the Lord did not give in to those temptations. Each day, we will be accompanied by the devil and Jesus. Matthew and Mark tell us in their temptation account that the angels waited on Jesus. He didn’t pass through those days without help. Just so, we too have help when Satan whispers in our ear—Jesus, the resurrected Christ who fights with us in our battles with the devil. Unlike Jesus, sometimes we will fail in our struggles against evil. Then Jesus walks with us to pick us up with forgiveness and encouragement. And a last thought: Jesus was not done with the devil after those 40 days. Luke tells us that Satan waited for “an opportune time” to tempt Jesus more. Our struggle against evil is constant. It doesn’t end. The devil takes few breaks. Neither does Jesus. I want Jesus to walk with me. --Jim Bricker Prayer In my trials, when I’m in trouble, all along my pilgrim journey, when my heart is almost breaking, when my head is bowed in sorrow, I want you, Jesus to walk with me. Amen. Our devotions are based on this Sunday’s Revised Common Lectionary (RCL). The RCL is a three-year cycle of readings telling the story of our Christian faith and corresponding to the season church calendar. On any given Sunday, we are hearing and praying and examining the same Scripture with millions of Christians around the world. In our current Year C, the Old Testament readings progress through the Prophets and have the theme of the day that it is connected to the Gospel reading. The Psalm, a song the congregation sings in response to the Old Testament reading, most often corresponds to the theme of the Hebrew Lessons and/or that of the Gospel Lesson. The lesson from the Epistles or from Acts typifies the church’s focus on the meaning of Christ for today. The Gospel lesson is connected to the season of the Church Year. This year, our gospel readings are from Luke, who writes that Jesus is the universal Savior and the perfect Son of Man. In the current season of Lent, we focus on baptismal identity and the consequent amendment of life. Reading
“Beware of practicing your piety before others in order to be seen by them; for then you have no reward from your Father in heaven. “So, whenever you give alms, do not sound a trumpet before you, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, so that they may be praised by others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward. But when you give alms, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your alms may be done in secret; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you. “And whenever you pray, do not be like the hypocrites; for they love to stand and pray in the synagogues and at the street corners, so that they may be seen by others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward. But whenever you pray, go into your room and shut the door and pray to your Father who is in secret; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you. “And whenever you fast, do not look dismal, like the hypocrites, for they disfigure their faces so as to show others that they are fasting. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward. But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, so that your fasting may be seen not by others but by your Father who is in secret; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you. “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust consume and where thieves break in and steal; but store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust consumes and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. (Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21) Reflection Today we begin our Lenten journey once again. It’s Ash Wednesday. For many, you might have a tradition of giving something up for Lent, or starting a new faith practice, or having a season of service. Whatever you do, this passage reminds us that we shouldn’t brag about what we do, but rather do it for the glory of God as we look toward the cross of Good Friday. What does Lent mean to you? Maybe it is a time of making better choices. Maybe it is a time of sincere devotion to your faith. Maybe it is just being reminded more frequently that is God is with you. Go into this year’s Lenten journey as we look toward the cross and trust God. --Chad Hershberger Prayer Let our prayers rise before you this season, Lord. Help our hearts and minds be stuck on you. Amen. Our devotions are based on this Sunday’s Revised Common Lectionary (RCL). The RCL is a three-year cycle of readings telling the story of our Christian faith and corresponding to the season church calendar. On any given Sunday, we are hearing and praying and examining the same Scripture with millions of Christians around the world. In our current Year C, the Old Testament readings progress through the Prophets and have the theme of the day that it is connected to the Gospel reading. The Psalm, a song the congregation sings in response to the Old Testament reading, most often corresponds to the theme of the Hebrew Lessons and/or that of the Gospel Lesson. The lesson from the Epistles or from Acts typifies the church’s focus on the meaning of Christ for today. The Gospel lesson is connected to the season of the Church Year. This year, our gospel readings are from Luke, who writes that Jesus is the universal Savior and the perfect Son of Man. In the current season of Lent, we focus on baptismal identity and the consequent amendment of life. Reading
But what does it say? “The word is near you, on your lips and in your heart” (that is, the word of faith that we proclaim); because if you confess with your lips that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For one believes with the heart and so is justified, and one confesses with the mouth and so is saved. The scripture says, “No one who believes in him will be put to shame.” For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek; the same Lord is Lord of all and is generous to all who call on him. For, “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.” (Romans 10:8b-13) Reflection Many Christian brothers and sisters use this passage to turn people toward faith: believe and confess and you will be saved. In other Christian traditions, we might be reminded that God does the action. God is the one who saved through Jesus Christ and are adopted as God’s children through baptism. Whatever your belief, coming to faith in God is important. Paul reminds us that God loves all. There was great division in his time between Jews and Greeks, but he reminds us God is Lord of all. In my view, there is room for people to come to faith on different paths. The important part is that they get here. I surely don’t want to put up roadblocks for someone to be in relationship with God. God is love and wants everyone to enjoy that amazing love! --Chad Hershberger Prayer As we grow in our faith, be with us, God, and continually remind us of your amazing love. Amen. Our devotions are based on this Sunday’s Revised Common Lectionary (RCL). The RCL is a three-year cycle of readings telling the story of our Christian faith and corresponding to the season church calendar. On any given Sunday, we are hearing and praying and examining the same Scripture with millions of Christians around the world. In our current Year C, the Old Testament readings progress through the Prophets and have the theme of the day that it is connected to the Gospel reading. The Psalm, a song the congregation sings in response to the Old Testament reading, most often corresponds to the theme of the Hebrew Lessons and/or that of the Gospel Lesson. The lesson from the Epistles or from Acts typifies the church’s focus on the meaning of Christ for today. The Gospel lesson is connected to the season of the Church Year. This year, our gospel readings are from Luke, who writes that Jesus is the universal Savior and the perfect Son of Man. In the current season of Lent, we focus on baptismal identity and the consequent amendment of life. |
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