Be Our Light in the Darkness

Daily Meditations for Lent, A.D. 2013 Written by Members of Christ Church Frederica

Saint Simons Island, Georgia

Inspired by the Daily Office Lectionary Readings

The God of Abraham praise, who reigns enthroned above; Ancient of Everlasting Days, and God of Love; Jehovah, great I AM! by earth and heaven confessed; I bow and bless the sacred name forever blest. The great I AM has sworn; I on this oath depend. I shall, on eagle wings upborne, to heaven ascend. I shall behold God's face; I shall God's power adore, and sing the wonders of God's grace forevermore. The heavenly land I see, with peace and plenty blest; a land of sacred liberty, and endless rest. There milk and honey flow, and oil and wine abound, and trees of life forever grow with mercy crowned. The God who reigns on high the great archangels sing, and "Holy, holy, holy!" cry "Almighty King! Who was, and is, the same, and evermore shall be: Jehovah, Lord, the great I AM, we worship thee!"

Christ Church, Frederica

An Episcopal Church in the Diocese of Georgia 6329 Frederica Road Saint Simons Island Georgia 31522 Phone: 912-638-8683 Fax: 912-638-4030 Web: www.christchurchfrederica.org/ Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/christchurchfrederica?fref=ts Clergy & Staff The Rev. Stephen McWhorter, interim rector The Rev. Leigh Hall, interim assistant-rector The Rev. Joel Keys, assisting priest The Rev. Dee Shaffer, assisting priest The Rev. Frazier Green, assisting priest The Rev. James Wethern, deacon The Rev. Jan Saltzgaber, deacon The Rev. Becky Rowell, deacon and seminarian Kathleen Turner, organist and music director Glenn Queener, parish administrator Oscar Covington, cemetery superintendent Shirley Redanz, financial secretary Harrison Branch, sexton Ed & Lynn Turner, volunteer Sunday school coordinators Worship Schedule Daily 8 a.m. Morning Prayer (except Sundays) – St. Ignatius Chapel 5 p.m. Evening Prayer – Christ Church Sunday 8 a.m. Holy Eucharist – Christ Church 9:15 a.m. Holy Eucharist – Christ Church 11:15 a.m. Morning Prayer and Holy Eucharist – Christ Church 5 p.m. Holy Eucharist – St. Ignatius Chapel Friday 11:30 a.m. Holy Eucharist (healing service) – Christ Church Saturday 5:30 p.m. Holy Eucharist – St. Ignatius Chapel

A Lenten Journey Life for all of us is a journey and in the midst of the journey God comes to breathe life into us. And then along the path of our life, His words are given to us. His words of correction, encouragement and promise which feed our souls and bodies. The Word given to us at the beginning of creation is the same Word manifest to us throughout our lives. And the question is what are we going to do with the Word? This season of Lent is a time to study and digest the word of God. Fellow travelers have provided in this journal their insights. You will experience the grace in their lives and the wonder of God’s creation. Each one has been written and informed by the Word. In the Gospel of John we hear these words. “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” From the outset God has been giving us his Word, most significantly in the person of Jesus. Our life is informed and blessed by the Word. Let the words of your sisters- and brothers-in-faith light your fire. Find a way during Lent to be a blessing and encouragement to others. Seek a path which probably will be enlightened by these meditations to be, in the words of the prophet Isaiah, a light to the nations. At Christmas we hear in John’s gospel vital words for our living and dying. “And the Word became flesh and dwells among us, full of grace and truth.” Wonderful words of salvation for us on the path. The Word is at the heart of our Lenten pilgrimage. Stephen McWhorter, interim rector

About this Booklet Welcome, Fellow Pilgrims. We are delighted that you will be sharing our Lenten journey by using the Christ Church, Frederica daily devotional booklet. This is our third annual publication of Lenten meditations written anonymously by 44 members of our parish family. The Daily Office Bible readings are given at the bottom of each mediation. Please note the suggested compact form for daily prayer and Bible reading on the following page. Using it offers a way that we can all be connected in our devotions. Even though we are in different locations when we pray, it is still a shared journey. There are also useful prayers for various occasions and an index of great Bible verses to memorize in the back of this booklet. On the cover is the classic Hebrew hymn Yigdal Elohim Chai (“Exalted be the Living God”), composed by the Jewish liturgical poet Daniel ben Judah in Rome about 1400 A.D. It is from this beautiful expression of faith that our own Hymn 401 is derived. The illustration on the cover is a photo that I took of a detail illustrating Luke 22:43 in the Ascension Window in the south transept of St. John’s Cathedral in Jacksonville, Florida. Both call to mind that this season of reflection is a time of piercing inner search and of meditating on God’s immutable goodness. I hope your Lenten experience will be especially blessed this year as you journey with us. John A. La Boone, editor

LENTEN DAILY DEVOTIONAL PRAYERS Adapted from the Book of Common Prayer The Lord is full of compassion and mercy: come let us adore him. Almighty God, our heavenly Father: We have sinned against you, through our own fault, in thought, and word, and deed, and in what we have left undone. For the sake of your Son our Lord Jesus Christ, forgive us all our offenses; and grant that we may serve you in newness of life, to the glory of your Name. Amen.

(Here you may read one or more Bible readings from the Daily Office lectionary. See notations at the bottom of each day’s meditation.) Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name, thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen

(Here you may make personal thanksgivings and intercessions.)

(In the morning) Heavenly Father, in you we live and move and have our being: We humbly pray

you so to guide and govern us by your Holy Spirit, that in all the cares and occupations of our life we may not forget you, but may remember that we are ever walking in your sight; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Or

(In the evening) Be our light in the darkness, O Lord, and in your great mercy defend us from all

perils and dangers of this night; for the love of your only Son, our Savior Jesus Christ. Amen.

Lent, A.D. 2013

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Collect for Ash Wednesday – Almighty and everlasting God, you hate nothing

you have made and forgive the sins of all who are penitent: Create and make in us new and contrite hearts, that we, worthily lamenting our sins and acknowledging our wretchedness, may obtain of you, the God of all mercy, perfect remission and forgiveness; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

Ash Wednesday, February 13

“Work at living in peace with everyone, and work at living a holy life, for those who are not holy will not see the Lord.” – Hebrews 12:14

So, we begin our journey together through another season of Lent. It’s a time of reflection, mourning, repentance, forgiveness and purification. It is also a time to focus on Christ’s ministry experiences leading to His death and His victory in resurrection. The journey is sometimes disturbed by our traditional practices, unspiritual tendencies and poor habits influenced by the ‘world’. It would be an awesome blessing if we can set ourselves a goal this season: TO BE HOLY. Because without holiness no one will see the Lord. Also, this is what our Lord God commended - “Be holy for I am holy” (Lev 11: 44, 45). Let this thought stay afresh in our hearts and minds and affront in our aftermath experience. God has provided us numerous resources to achieve this goal: Scripture to meditate and anchor to, prayers to strengthen, and the Holy Spirit to lead and guide. But first, we need a determined spirit, total surrender to Christ and complete dependence on His grace. Our rewards: a true celebration of resurrection, knowing that He is our Lord and Savior, and, having His assurance that in Holiness we WILL see God. Amen.

Ps 32, 95,102; 130, 143 Jon 3:1—4:11 Heb 12:1—14 Luke 18:9—14

Thursday, February 14

The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, “Look! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!” – John 1:29

These passages from John contain several references to "witness" and to "see." John testifies without fear about who he is and what his ministry involves. He directly identifies Jesus as "the Lamb of God [and] . . . the Son of God." During this special time of reflection, we should intentionally focus on "seeing" Jesus and his meaning to us as the Lamb of God, and in "witnessing" Jesus' teachings by, in part, acting as Jesus would in our relationships with our families, friends, neighbors and---yes---even strangers and those with whom we disagree. How can one know what Jesus would do, since we are not ourselves divine? We have the Scriptures, pastoral direction, prayer and the blessed company of all faithful people to guide us. Thanks be to God.

Ps 37 Deut 7:6—11 Titus 1:1—16 John 1:29—34

Friday, February 15

O Lord, I have come to you for protection;” – Psalm 31:1a

David is being bullied. Mockery is the weapon; loud voices tell lies against him; when he speaks, eyes wink to say his mind is not sound. He cries out in great distress. When these mockers are ill, he says, he puts on sackcloth and mourns as if for his own mother. But when he is ill, they rejoice in his hardship, and repay his good with evil. Like Christians to come, David can "be angry and sin not." Ephesians 4:26] Though he prays these haters may find their "way dark and slippery, " with the angel of the Lord chasing them, he himself does not act. Owning his anger, he fills his mind and heart with the healing mercies of God. Each time he imagines dire fates for his tormentors, he immediately turns his heart to God's protection. David took this counsel when King Saul was out to kill him. Finding his adversary sleeping, he cut cloth from Saul's robe to show him he spared his life. Saul returned the favor, restoring David to his rightful place. Later, Saul's namesake, the convert Paul, wrote, "With every temptation,[God] will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it."

Ps 31, 35, 95 Deut 7:12—16 Titus 2:1—15 John 1:35—42

Saturday, February 16

For you are God, my only safe haven. Why have you tossed me aside? – Psalm 43:2

Some things seem so horribly unfair, so utterly, ironically cruel, as to defy all comprehension. When hurricane Sandy devastated the Northeast last fall, we watched in horror as newscasters described a mother watching helplessly as her two young sons slid from her

grasp and were carried away by the floodwaters . Where was God? He’s supposed to be omnipotent, isn’t He? Surely He could have prevented this if He had wanted to! We literally cry out to the heavens, unable to understand, and yet experiencing simultaneously a sense of guilt for questioning God, for attributing to Him, if not an evil purpose, then the failure to thwart the evil once it’s set in motion. But are we missing the larger picture? Should we not instead marvel at the unbelievable resiliency of His people in dealing with adversity? After any shared tragedy, the initial response is usually to congregate in a church and pray for victims and their families. Then a massive groundswell of activity follows, with countless acts of kindness extended to total strangers, revealing the kinship we feel with one another as joint children of God. Throughout the ages the psalmists have observed this, and exhorted us to “hope in God, for we shall again praise him, our help and our God.” We have a refuge, our God, “our help in ages past, our hope for years to come.”

Ps 30, 32, 42, 43 Deut 7:17—26 Titus 3:1—15 John 1:43—51

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Collect for the First Sunday in Lent – Almighty God, whose blessed Son was

led by the Spirit to be tempted by Satan: Come quickly to help us who are assaulted by many temptations; and, as you know the weaknesses of each of us, let each one find you mighty to save; through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

Sunday, February 17

“Beware that in your plenty you do not forget the Lord your God and disobey his commands, regulations and decrees that I am giving you today.” – Deuteronomy 8:11b

Self-deprivation just doesn’t hold much appeal. I don’t particularly care for any part of it and much prefer to revel in my everyday excesses. God has other plans for me. Jesus tells his followers to practice acts of penitence and self-denial as a means to be restored in a closer relationship with God. To be made whole in our loving creator. The Book of Common Prayer calls for weekdays in Lent to be “observed by special acts of discipline or self-denial.” All our traditions call out for Lent to be a time to contemplate and experience the mystery of the Resurrection through our own time of penitence, fasting, reconciliation and restoration. So that’s what I’ll attempt this Lenten season, not self-deprivation for its own sake but as preparation for the glory of our risen Lord.

Ps 63, 98, 103 Deut 8:1—10 1 Cor 1:17—31 Mark 2:18—22

Monday, February 18

The next day there was a wedding celebration in the village of Cana in Galilee. – John 2:1a

This writing assignment is a wonderful coincidence as there will be a joyous marriage in my family this year. My son, the groom and his bride-to-be are a calm, stable and well-suited couple whose years of dating and similar goals promise a drama-free wedding. They will exchange vows according to the Canons of the Episcopal Church and a celebratory dinner will follow. Somehow, I doubt that they can imagine running out of food and wine. The Gospel of John does not relate the specifics of the wedding at Cana but tells us that Jesus, his mother and the disciples attended. It seems routine, until there is no wine left. Jesus performs his first miracle in John and calmly turns six water pots of water into wine, thus bringing order out of seeming chaos. John 2:11 says: “This miraculous sign at Cana in Galilee was the first time Jesus revealed his glory. And his disciples believed in him.” May this example serve as a reminder, especially to a bride and groom that Jesus will bring glory in times of blessing as well as times of challenge.

Ps 41, 44, 52 Deut 8:11—18 Heb 2:11—18 John 2:1—12

Tuesday, February 19

Jesus made a whip from some ropes and chased them all out of the Temple. – John 2:15a

When Jesus cleansed the temple of sellers and money-changers, his anger was not solely about the market-place atmosphere. He was attacking the very foundations of worship in the temple. Sacrifices of cattle, sheep or doves were a required part of worship in the temple, and money had to be changed because Greek and Roman coins could not be used in the temple, so this was business as usual. By chasing out the animals and money-changers, Jesus wanted to redefine the meaning of worship. The temple was the dwelling place of God. In cleansing the temple, Jesus announced that God would be present to believers in a new way. He told the synagogue authorities, “Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up.” God would become available to His people through the presence of the risen Christ, not through the temple. Do we need to cleanse our temple? Do we worship the church or the living Christ?

Ps 45, 47, 48 Deut 9:4—12 Heb 3:1—11 John 2:13—22

Wednesday, February 20

“What do you mean?” exclaimed Nicodemus. – John 3:4a

The gospel lesson today is the familiar story of Nicodemus, a Pharisee, coming in the dark of night to talk with Jesus. When Jesus tells him that no one can see the kingdom of God without

being born again, he doesn’t understand. We are familiar with Nicodemus’ reply, “How can anyone be born after having grown old? Can one enter a second time into the mother’s womb and be born?” What does it mean to be born again? To be born of the Spirit? To be born again implies becoming a new person; of growing up again with a new focus on God’s kingdom, God’s way; of taking a risk of faith in following the Spirit where it leads. The theme of the Lenten readings is “Be our light in the darkness”. Are we too rooted in the world and what we are familiar with to hear God calling us toward the light? To walk in faith wherever He might lead us? Lent is a great opportunity for reflection and renewal – and, hopefully, enlightenment!

Ps 49, 53, 119:49—72 Deut 9:13—21 Heb 3:12—19 John 2:23—3:15

Thursday, February 21

May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing to you, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer. – Psalm 19:14

We all must be a “light to the nations” and what better way than to follow the desires of the psalmist in this recognizable verse. We have heard it all of our lives and sometimes it just goes in one ear and out the other. These words give us specific instructions on how we should speak and think. How many times growing up did we hear from our parents, teachers, and elders: “Think before you speak.” If we just took a minute and did think: “Is what I’m about to say acceptable to God?” Then we would lead a much better life. But above all as we speak these words, we are showing others – Saved and Not Saved – that we are trying to set an example of how we should lead our lives in a manner that is what God wants. We are a “Light in the Darkness” in our words and actions.

Ps 19, 46, 50, 59, 60 Deut 9:23—10:5 Heb 4:1—10 John 3:16—21

Friday, February 22

“Therefore, change your hearts and stop being stubborn.” – Deuteronomy 10:16

After pleading with God not to destroy his unruly people, Moses tells the Israelites that God demands the following for salvation:“To walk in all his ways, to love him, to serve the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul, and to keep the commandments . . . You shall love the stranger, because you were once strangers in Egypt.” It’s all laid out so simply for us in various passages of the Bible. All that’s required of us is to love God and to love others as ourselves. So why do we all find it so difficult? Maybe it’s the world we live in, with so much emphasis on wealth and status. Deep down inside we all know these are only transitory things which can be lost in an instant – yet we cling to them nevertheless. Francis de Sales, Bishop of Geneva in the 16th century, tells us, “You learn to speak by speaking, to study by studying, to run by running, to work by working; and just so you learn to

love God and man by loving. Begin as a mere apprentice and the very power of love will lead you on to become a master of the art.” What can I do today to live out the great commandment and become a master of the art of loving God and my fellow man?

Ps 40, 51, 54 Deut 10:12—22 Heb 4:11—16 John 3:22—36

Saturday, February 23

Give your burdens to the Lord, and he will take care of you. – Psalm 55:22a

Life is all about relying solely on God. I spent years in tormented frustration relying on myself, refusing to ask for God's help. I have learned that if I rely on God I am happy and I am free. Life goes very smoothly. The rewards that come from relying on God are incredible. By letting Him take care of any 'enemies' that come my way, even those close to me, I am free to put my energy to positive use. Praising God also gives me energy. Most of my talks with God these days are praising Him and not complaining to Him. Complaining makes the problem worse and saps energy. God knows us from top to bottom, inside and out. I don’t need to outline things for Him. He knows me and that is comforting. We are given choices in life. If I do what the scriptures say, I will have a wonderful, relaxed, unworried life and on top of all that good, I will have everlasting life.

Ps 55, 138, 139 Deut 11:18—28 Heb 5:1—10 John 4:1—26

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Collect for the Second Sunday in Lent – O God, whose glory it is always to

have mercy: Be gracious to all who have gone astray from your ways, and bring them again with penitent hearts and steadfast faith to embrace and hold fast the unchangeable truth of your Word, Jesus Christ your Son; who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and reigns, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

Sunday, February 24

“Don’t you realize that all of you together are the temple of God and that the Spirit of God lives in you?” – 1 Corinthians 3:16

When I was younger and would read this passage, it always confused me. “… you are God’s temple … God’s Spirit dwells in you? If anyone destroys God’s temple, God will destroy that person. “If our bodies are His temple, then shouldn’t they be perfect? Having been born physically different, I wondered if God truly was living in me, because I was not a very nice looking temple.

This was not something that caused me sleepless nights, but it sat in the back of my consciousness for many years. I knew that God loved me. That is why the scripture confused me. My first marriage was a violent one. My husband was a man who hit quickly and begged forgiveness slowly. I found myself trying to do everything I could do make him happy. It did not matter if I knew it was wrong, because I did not want to be hit again. Eventually I left. I found great comfort in my church. That is when I realized that the temple the God dwells in is my soul, not my physical body. I also realized that the physical abuse was not the destroying of the temple, but the attempts to make me forsake God to avoid physical pain. An attempt to destroy my soul, my temple. I have forgiven my abuser and am now married to a wonderful spiritual soul who enriches my temple for our Lord. Thanks be to God.

Ps 8, 24, 29, 84 Jer 1:1—10 1 Cor 3:11—23 Mark 3:31—4:9

Monday, February 25

For you have rescued me from death; you have kept my feet from slipping. – Psalms 56:13

Please stop, read, and highlight today’s passages – for these scriptures lead us on a path from the discouragement brought by negative, gossiping, insecure people to the knowledge that when our hearts are steadfast in the Lord we can rise above our feelings of hurt and defeat, sing praises in joy, and even reach out to encourage those around us. Isn’t it a truth we all know already? That those causing pain are often feeling the most pain. They are the most lost, the most defeated, the most profoundly alone. And with respect to our Christian family, don’t we already know that by encouraging one another we will “be encouraged together... each of us by the other’s faith”? How wonderful to be reminded in Holy Scripture of those truths which emotion and hurt can sometimes cloud! Christ said: “My food is to do the will of Him who sent Me, and to accomplish His work” because He understood that by doing God’s work, by sharing God’s love, in fact, we are sustained with new emotional strength and we are taught by the Lord we serve. Let’s each put these truths in action today. We can BE a light in the darkness!

Ps 56, 57, 58, 64, 65 Jer1:11—19 Rom 1:1—15 John 4:27—42

Tuesday, February 26

“For my people have done two evil things: They have abandoned me – the fountain of living water. And they have dug for themselves cracked cisterns that can hold no water at all!” – Jeremiah 2:13

One of the most interesting things about growing older is the realization that things that once held great importance for me no longer seem so important. Views and opinions that once were strong and rigid no longer seem to hold as much truth. Instead there has come a desire to re-prioritize, to discover what’s important to me now. Each day, scripture writers urge me along in my thinking.

Today the Psalmist reminds me that God is my rock and my salvation and that all my happiness depends on His goodness and mercy. The prophet Jeremiah says God gives me an endless supply of living water, but then he warns me about letting my cistern get leaky! Paul in his letter to the Romans tells me that God knows me inside and out. He knows how much I need a Savior. In his account of Jesus’ miraculous healing of the nobleman’s son, John confirms for me the mystery of faith and belief in things unseen. I look forward to where tomorrow’s scriptures will lead me. Maybe growing old is a good thing after all…maybe it’s for turning the heart to the truths that are most important.

Ps 61, 62, 68 Jer 2:1—13 Rom 1:16—25 John 4:43—54

Wednesday, February 27

Give your love of justice to the king, O God…Help him judge your people in the right way;” – Psalm 72:1a, 2a

The Psalmist decries (as he so often does) the persecution that he, a righteous man, suffers at the hands of those who are not righteous. Jesus does a good work, a miraculous healing of a lifelong invalid, ordering him to pick up his mat and walk. Yet both Jesus and the healed man are accused of breaking the law of working on the Sabbath. Like the Psalmist, we often complain bitterly about the existence and enforcement of laws and rules we do not agree with, and argue vociferously for the enforcement of the ones we like. We complain about our elected officials, those we do not elect, the election process itself, and the laws it produces. Many of us are sure that we are righteous, that we know what justice is, and we judge those who do not agree with us. The Psalmist prays that God will endow the king with His justice. Let us not miss a miracle while we follow our own well-meaning rules and attempt to enforce them on others. Let us all pray for our own sense of God’s justice, which is always tempered with mercy and love.

Ps 72, 119:73—96 Jer 3:6—18 Rom 1:28—2:11 John 5:1—18

Thursday, February 28

But I will keep on hoping for you to help me:-- Psalm 71:14a

This psalm’s opening verse is the powerful answer to the angst we feel after reading today’s Epistle and Gospel. Judgment is front and center in Paul’s admonition to the Christians in Rome that “all who have sinned apart from the law will perish apart from the law, and all who have sinned under the law will be judged by the law,” (Romans 2:12) and John’s account of Our Lord’s promise that at the resurrection, when all will come out, that “those who have done good, [will come] to the resurrection of life, and those who have done evil, to the resurrection of condemnation.” (John 5:28—29).

This is a sobering, even fearful, Lenten reading. But how do we know if we have done good “under the law” or “apart from the law”? The Psalmist knew: Take refuge in the Lord. Jesus speaks repeatedly to this in the Gospels, but never more succinctly than in John 5:39: “You search the scriptures because you think that in them you have eternal life; and it is they that testify on my behalf. Yet you refuse to come to me to have life.” Surrendering to God and trusting in His word is faith, and we are called to live that faith each day by simply coming to the Lord. We are always on the right path in the faith when we are confronted by a paradox. The paradox in today’s Office reading is that we can only prevail and be safe if we surrender. Pray today, and throughout this Lenten Season, for the strength to surrender to the Lord and thereby rest in that safest of refuges.

Ps 70, 71, 74 Jer 4:9—10, 19—28 Rom 2:12—24 John 5:19—29

Friday, March 1

“You search the Scriptures because you think they give you eternal life. But the Scriptures point to me!” – John 5:39

When reading the assigned passages, I noticed the extreme stress and laments trying to ‘hit the mark’ in what God expects. Is it this law, or that? To do this, or something else? Appearing as an abandonment into revolving doors of mundane debate instead of a handy, GPS map, the verses conclude no one is righteous. Even the Psalms cry out, “Save me, O God, for the waters have come up to my neck….My eyes fail, looking for my God.” OK. We’re lost. Give us a map. Please. How can God, who is Love, in whose Love image we are all made, be so confusing? Perhaps we, ourselves, confuse things – not the first time human perception has had its hat on backwards. Like a child’s love, let’s accept the simply simple. By looking so far out there, we miss what is placed within; we forget our Love inheritance. “How can you believe [others]….but do not seek the glory that comes from the only God?” (John 5:44) Jesus shows us our essential ingredient and we realize – our True GPS, written in Love’s hand, lives right inside us, lights our way, and flows through our actions. Be still, and know.

Ps 69, 73 Jer 5:1—9 Rom 2:25—3:18 John 5:30—47

Saturday, March 2

For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God’s glorious standard. – Romans 3:23

Generations seek peace, community and joy. Still, peace, community and joy remain elusive for many. Could it be that we are not viewing life in the right light? Do we need 'more' knowledge, logic, books, or money; and, what will having ‘more’ do if we do not use what we already have to make a difference? One would then have to ask if ‘not having’ might unite us into one body that would make a difference. What if we and our world did not have walls, buildings, and different names – would it then be easier to make a difference?

Maybe to receive the Kingdom, we need to reach out as the body and be the gospel. My question then is: What does that look like? What if we met people within their walls, instead of only meeting them if they are within our walls? What if, surrounded only by creation and not walls, we looked out with His light and extended peace, community and joy. Who are your neighbors? Do they live in your neighborhood, check your groceries, or pass by you at the Jiffy Mart with dank and worn clothes? What did you just write upon your heart about them? Maybe they are seeking peace, community and joy. Maybe Jesus wants you to be there at that moment for them – or maybe God put them there at that moment for you. Praise God for He is good and that the light of Jesus shows us the way to peace, community and joy. Don't let it take another generation. “The Lord is my light and my salvation…” (Psalm 27:1)

Ps 23, 27, 75, 76 Jer 5:20—31 Rom 3:19—31 John 7:1—13

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Collect for the Third Sunday in Lent – Almighty God, you know that we have

no power in ourselves to help ourselves: Keep us both outwardly in our bodies and inwardly in our souls, that we may be defended from all adversities which may happen to the body, and from all evil thoughts which may assault and hurt the soul; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

Sunday, March 3

Taste and see that the Lord is good. – Psalm 34:8a

OK, your assignment for today is to go to YouTube on the internet and search on “O Taste and See.” Listen to any version of Ralph Vaughn Williams’ beautiful anthem. Then listen to “O Taste and See” sung by the Chicago Mass Choir. Isn’t it interesting that one verse of scripture could produce two such different but powerful musical offerings up to God? But an intriguing verse it is. What exactly does the psalmist mean when we are told to “taste” the Lord? To my mind, of the five senses our sense of taste may be the most personal. If we are fortunate to have all our senses, we can often see and hear things from far away. And I am certainly willing to touch and even smell things I wouldn’t think about putting in my mouth. But tasting something new and unfamiliar often requires a certain leap of faith, doesn’t it? Then when whatever it is tastes really, really good, it sends a shiver of satisfaction throughout our entire body. So, I think tasting God means to sense His presence in our life as deeply and intensely as possible; to feel so close to God “that you could almost taste it.” And once you have tasted, you’ll know how good God is and how happy you can be to have taken refuge in Him.

Ps 34, 93, 96 Jer 6:9—15 1 Cor 6:12—20 Mark 5:1—20

Monday, March 4

“Look beneath the surface so you can judge correctly.” – John 7:24

Jesus was teaching in the temple when he spoke these words. The Jews were confounded that a man of no formal education could be such a gifted and knowledgeable teacher. They didn't know what to make of him. Jesus implored the Jews not to judge on appearance but instead to exercise ethical conduct when passing judgment. "Righteous judgment " implies judging someone to be without fault. How many times in scriptures do we read about passing judgment based on appearance, social status, wealth, birthright, or ethnicity? Judging others based on the social conventions of the day is an age old failing of mankind, and one that requires constant work not to fall victim to. Think of the intellect, the talents, the humor, the humanity we discover in those less educated, less attractive, less socially "positioned" than ourselves, when we take the time to know them for who they are. We are capable of doing better, such as when we reach out to others different from ourselves, during crises and tragedies of monumental scale, such as 9-11, Katrina, or most recently, Hurricane Sandy. This Lenten season let us each resolve to exercise compassion and acceptance each and every day, absent any natural disaster, and to not pass judgment on those who differ in their religion, their skin color, their politics, their economic stratum. Only then will we truly be living Christ's teachings.

Ps 77, 79, 80 Jer 7:1—15 Rom 4:1—12 John 7:14—36

Tuesday, March 5

On the last day, the climax of the festival, Jesus stood and shouted to the crowds, “Anyone who is thirsty may come to me!” – John 7:37

God gives us a thirst that can only be quenched by Him. We are invited to come to the Lord and drink. Jesus says to us: “Are you thirsty? Are you looking for more than you have? Are you lonely? Do you feel guilt? Are you sad? Do you grieve? Are you angry? Come to Me. I am the answer to your thirst.” We need not come to the Lord’s house to drink. His comfort comes to us in prayer wherever we may be.

Ps 78 Jer 7:21—34 Rom 4:13—25 John 7:37—52

Wednesday, March 6

How sweet your words taste to me; they are sweeter than honey. – Psalm 119:103

"Go and be a light unto the nations," so saith our beloved priest each Sunday morning. I don't think he means for me to go out into the big world but, at my age, as the old adage goes, to "brighten the corner where you are." My corner is on one of God's loveliest spots, an island in the Atlantic where I delight each morning in the red winter sun, spreading across the marshes and

flowing down the dirt road to my mailbox, where I listen to birds that sing to the new day and watch the deer that stands motionless, looking at me before swiftly vanishing into the deep woods. I feel God's love poured into my heart and I pray to share it in my corner. My morning prayer is to be a light to all I meet, to smile, to empathize, to share, most especially to share time to help ease the burdens of fellow travelers in this time and space we are blessed to have, thanks be to God.

Ps 81, 82, 119:97—120 Jer 8:18—9:6 Rom 5:1—11 John 8:12—20

Thursday, March 7

You forgave the guilt of your people – yes, you covered all their sins. – Psalm 85:2

As I read the words of Jesus to the Jewish religious leaders in today’s passage from John 8, I imagine myself in their shoes. They believe themselves to be in the right. They are trained in the law. They feel threatened and wonder what danger this man poses. Is he speaking of suicide when he says he is going where they cannot? With our knowledge of following events, this can seem almost amusing, but I can relate to their confusion. After all, even His own disciples did not fully understand Jesus’ words until after He died and was raised from the dead. But in spite of this confusion, many who listened to His words that day still believed in Him. Jesus was not simply debating these religious leaders and the surrounding crowd. He was trying to bring them to salvation. This is clear in His promise to them and to us: If you continue in My word, you are truly my disciples; and you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free. In this scripture God is telling us to be his true disciples by living in His word every day. The reward for doing this will be freedom from sin, from worry, and from self-doubt. It is freedom to be and to do all that God means for us to do.

Ps 42, 43, 85, 86 Jer 10:11—24 Rom 5:12—21 John 8:21—32

Friday, March 8

We are no longer slaves to sin. – Romans 6:6b

What is the saddest word in the Bible and in human speech? Some might think it is “death”; others “depart”, and some may even think it is “lost”. But what is the saddest word? What is the word that is the fountain of woe, the mother of sorrows, as universal as human nature, and as eternal as human history? What is the word that nailed the Son of God to the Cross? The word is “sin.” Genesis 4:7 tells us: “Sin croucheth at the door.” We hear a lot about this thing sin. From the early days of our youth we are instructed that to do certain things is to sin. We are told that to break any of the Ten Commandments is sin. But sin is even more than this; but the definition need not be complicated: Sin is the separation between a person and God. St. Paul called this separation “estrangement”, meaning that a person has been split off from God.

A minister friend of mine once said that he had heard people say they did not cheat, that they did not steal and that they did not murder. But my friend said, “Neither does a fence post.” Quite often our sin is not in doing something; but in not doing anything. What then should we be doing? We find in the Bible these words of Jesus: “This commandment I give unto you, that you love one another.” If sin is the saddest word, then love is the most beautiful word. Love one another – thanks be to God.

Ps 88, 91, 92 Jer 11:1—8, 14—20 Rom 6:1—11 John 8:33—47

Saturday, March 9

“These wicked people refuse to listen to me. They stubbornly follow their own desires and worship other gods. Therefore, they will become like this loincloth [girdle] – good for nothing! – Jeremiah 13:10 Through Jeremiah, God once again speaks to his people using an everyday item familiar to everyone to illustrate his point and thus his prophecy to them. The linen girdle is a waist- belt, worn over the tunic or outer garment. It becomes very easily soiled because it will brush up against many things to soil it over the course of days, weeks, months. The "girdle" in this illustration represents the people of God, in this case the people of Judah. We wear our waist-belt close to us, just as God wants to be close to us. Jeremiah uses the image of hiding the girdle under a rock, following God's instructions, for a period of time – long enough for it to rot! We also can hide ourselves from his true word through our worship of false prophets, false gods and dirty traditions, thus becoming rotten and useless to God. We are told in verses 9 and10 that God will destroy everything that his people take pride in serving other than Him. We, like the waist-belt, brush up against many things which will make our faith dirty over the days, weeks and months of our lives. Serving and worshiping other gods shall be as this girdle – useless. Whose words do you hear? The words of the world or the true words of the one true God?

Ps 87, 90, 136 Jer 13:1—11 Rom 6:12—23 John 8:47—59

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Collect for the Fourth Sunday in Lent – Gracious Father, whose blessed Son

Jesus Christ came down from heaven to be the true bread which gives life to the world: Evermore give us this bread, that he may live in us, and we in him; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God now and for ever. Amen.

Sunday, March 10

Testing him, they demanded that he show them a miraculous sign from heaven to prove his authority. – Mark 8:11b

A Drama in Four Scenes Inspired by the Gospel of Mark: Scene I. Late afternoon beside a Galilean lake. Jesus is teaching 4,000 people who have come to see him, to hear him, to be with him. Jesus realizes the lateness of the hour and that the people are returning home hungry. In his compassion he blesses and feeds them. The feast is plentiful with seven baskets left over. Scene II. After the feast. The dark, shadowing Pharisees appear demanding a miracle. Their request echoes the temptations in the wilderness. There will be no sign for self-righteous Pharisees. Scene III. Later, in a boat. The disciples are complaining that now they have only one loaf of bread among them. Jesus knows what they are thinking: a quick selfish food miracle? They are warned: “Beware being puffed up, the leaven of self-serving.” Jesus asks: “DON’T YOU REMEMBER what you have heard, what you have seen in the bounty of God’s miraculous extravagant grace? Don’t you remember these serving acts of ministry in the Kingdom of God? Scene IV. Your Lenten journey. “Don’t you remember” what God through Christ has done and is still doing for you? Remember and give thanks!

Ps 19, 46, 66, 67 Jer 14:1—9, 17—22 Gal 4:21—5:1 Mark 8:11—21

Monday, March 11

Where is there anyone as mighty as you, O Lord? You are entirely faithful. – Psalm 89:8b

Today’s lectionary provides excellent insight into the relationship between God and his chosen people as it is manifested in the Old Covenant and how that relationship is fundamentally changed through Jesus’ death and resurrection. Psalm 89 details God’s commitment to David. Then the passage from Jeremiah continues this theme of punishment for sin. What we see is a seemingly endless cycle of God providing for his people and asking for their obedience to his law, followed by his people’s failure to do so, thereby incurring his wrath and punishment. Yet he does not abrogate the Covenant. Rather God sent His Son to fulfill the law for us. As St. Paul explains to the Romans: “In the same way, my friends, you have died to the law through the body of Christ, so that you may belong to another, to him who has been raised from the dead in order that we may bear fruit for God. While we were living in the flesh, our sinful passions, aroused by the law, were at work in our members to bear fruit for death. But now we are discharged from the law, dead to that which held us captive, so that we are slaves not under the old written code but in the new life of the Spirit.” (Rom7:4-6) Thank you God for knowing I couldn’t do it on my own.

Ps 89 Jer 16:10—21 Rom 7:1—12 John 6:1—15

Tuesday, March 12

Jesus soon saw a huge crowd of people coming to look for him. – John 6:5a

God continues to feed us with His love and also with His gift of messages as we speak to Him through prayer. Do we spend enough time seeking knowledge of how we can serve Him? Not just hearing what and how we can react to the needs of His children, but also by carrying through with help for his people in need? Can we recognize the help that we can give to others through our prayers and also our gifts of love and attention to their needs? It is often only God’s messages to us that can make us aware of exactly what we can do to improve the lives of others through our gifts of love and care. The actual service is through our behavior to show others what is available from God when we speak to them about our experiences of His love, and the hope that we can teach them to share in the love that God sends to all of us who are willing to give the knowledge of His loving care through our actions. May God’s love continue to inspire us so that we may serve His children by showing God’s love through our love for them.

Ps 94, 95, 97, 99, 100 Jer 17:19—27 Rom 7:13—25 John 6:16—27

Wednesday, March 13

So letting your sinful nature control your mind leads to death. But letting the Spirit control your mind leads to life and peace. – Romans 8:6

Alright, I admit it up front: I’ve been a fan of self-improvement books for most of my adult life. That’s not to say that I would admit to this in public or that I wanted people to know about this habit. Having struggled with depression since the age of 13, I’ve been on a quest for relief and find that cultivating feelings of gratitude and a positive outlook have helped. This brings me to thoughts about today’s lesson, John 6:27—40. As usual, C. S. Lewis says it best in Mere Christianity: “For mere improvement is not redemption, though redemption always improves people even here and now and will, in the end, improve them to a degree we cannot yet imagine. God became man to turn creatures into sons: not simply to produce better men of the old kind but to produce a new kind of man. It is not like teaching a horse to jump better and better but like turning a horse into a winged creature.” So, it’s fine to read self-help literature; it can lead you into positive channels. On the other hand, in this fallen world, only God’s Grace through his son Jesus Christ can give us the assurance that “all who see the Son and believe in him may have eternal life and I will raise them up on the last day.” May we all reflect on these words during the season of Lent.

Ps 101, 109, 119:121—144 Jer 18:1—11 Rom 8:1—11 John 6:27—40

Thursday, March 14

Let all who seek God’s help be encouraged. – Psalm 69:32b

Several years ago, I was privileged to meet Archbishop Desmond Tutu, Nobel Peace Laureate, primate of the Anglican Church of South Africa and icon of hope in a world of inequality and injustice. Desmond Tutu stands no taller than 5’4’’ and yet he completely fills a room. He has an incredible sense of humor and an infectious laugh that erupts frequently throughout his conversations. He is totally disarming, enthusiastic, optimistic, warm, wise, inspiring and unforgettable. In 1995, Nelson Mandela appointed Tutu Chair of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, established to explore human rights violations that occurred under apartheid. As such, he was compelled to listen to some of the most horrific stories of man’s inhumanity to man. I asked him how he could endure such agony. His reply was that he concentrated, as a human being, on listening attentively to what was being said by fellow human beings. For the guilty, confession was vital, redemptive; for the victim, the experience of justice was healing; finding the capacity to forgive was empowering. “Forgiveness is the grace by which the other person is enabled to get up with dignity, to begin anew. Through forgiveness, both parties are permitted to make peace with the past.”

Ps 69, 73 Jer 22:13—23 Rom 8:12—27 John 6:41—51

Friday, March 15

And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God’s love. – Romans 8:38a

All of us want to be accepted somewhere and by someone. We all have friendships that are formed based on who accepts us in our life. Do you remember the TV show “Cheers?” Do you remember the tag line for that show? It was set in a bar “where everybody knows your name”. The world craves that kind of acceptance, where everybody knows your name, where everybody loves you and where you’re acceptable. The good news of today’s readings is that you can claim God’s acceptance (love) of you and it is plain as day (in scripture) that there is nothing that can make God stop loving you. He’s always loved you. Right from the beginning of time, God loved you and wanted to have a deep and intimate relationship with you. He doesn’t expect you to do anything to earn this love, His love is UNCONDITIONAL and nothing can separate you from it. It’s the sentiment also expressed by the psalmist when he says “give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; and His love endures forever.” In your Lenten journey may you claim afresh the unconditional and enduring love of God and take hope and strength in the fact that nothing can separate you from it. Thanks be to God!

Ps 107 Jer 23:1—8 Rom 8:28—39 John 6:52—59

Saturday, March 16

Let your unfailing love surround us, Lord, for our hope is in you alone. – Psalm 33:22

Psalm 33 says “Sing joyfully to the Lord, you righteous; it is fitting for the upright to praise him. Praise the Lord with the harp, make music to him on the ten-stringed lyre. Sing to him a new song; play skillfully and shout for joy.” These verses makes me smile as I immediately picture myself in church singing at the “top of my lungs” even though I feel that I cannot carry a tune at all. And, my family often reminds me that my fears of lacking talent are, indeed, correct! We are so blessed to have the musical talent that we do at our church that inspires me every time that the organ keys are touched and great melodies explode into our air! It happens often that I leave church on Sunday and sing a hymn (or two) over and over to myself as the day continues – and it just feels good! When I read this Psalm again it makes me feel as if I am praising the Lord for his goodness (even if I cannot carry a tune) and that is a wonderful and comforting feeling! Thanks be to God!

Ps 33, 102, 108 Jer 23:9—15 Rom 9:1—18 John 6:60—71

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Collect for the Fifth Sunday in Lent – Almighty God, you alone can bring into

order the unruly wills and affections of sinners: Grant your people grace to love what you command and desire what you promise; that, among the swift and varied changes of the world, our hearts may surely there be fixed where true joys are to be found; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

Sunday, March 17

Songs of joy and victory are sung in the camp of the godly. – Psalm 118:15a

Psalm 118 is rich with phrases found in our liturgy and prayers:

This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it (v. 24)

Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord (v. 26)

Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever (v.1 and 29) While any of these verses would be a candidate for reflection, it is actually the psalm as a whole that offers inspiration this Lenten season. The psalm begins with thanksgiving, moves to petition for deliverance and returns to thanksgiving as it ends. Serving as a model for prayer, the psalm teaches us to sandwich our petitions between thanksgivings for God’s ongoing goodness and love that endure forever. Because the Lord has made all our days, we rejoice in the mundane

events of ordinary days and during the crises in times of trial. In all our days, we remember and give thanks for God’s grace, mercy and blessings.

Ps 118, 145 Jer 23:16—32 1 Cor 9:19—27 Mark 8:31—9:1

Monday, March 18

Be my rock of protection, a fortress where I will be safe. – Psalm 31:2b

My rock. Yes, Lord, you are my rock. I call upon you all the day long. I ask and pray and plead. Sometimes, I remember to give you thanks and praise, but I always ask more than I thank. Forgive me, Lord. (There I go again, asking.) Yes, Lord, you are my rock today and for all eternity. You are my anchor in the storm. In times of joy, you are the wind beneath my wings. Let me take this moment to give you thanks for all the blessings of this life. Yes, Lord, you are my rock, my everything.

Ps 31, 35 Jer 24:1—10 Rom 9:19—33 John 9:1—17

Tuesday, March 19

My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth. – Psalm 121:2

The 121st psalm is one of my favorites and is one of the scriptures that has “been written on my heart” for many years. I find I come back to the comfort of these words often, especially when the world is coming in on me. One thing I have cherished more lately than before are the Bible verses that I learned as a child, because they seem to come back to me when I need them the most—times of sadness, tragedy, sickness, or when the world, as Winnie the Pooh says, just gets to be “too much for me”. Substitute the personal pronouns “me” or “I” every place that uses “you” or “they” and you will get a whole new prospective. For me, it’s not so much the hills that I look to for help, it’s the fact that when I do look He is always there—neither slumbering nor sleeping. The psalmist uses “Lord” as the name for God. Lord is the title that is used when talking about being in covenant with God. The psalmist recognizes that when you are in covenant with the Lord then you are protected and He will not cause you to stumble, slip, or fall—a big comfort in this world of confusion and misunderstandings. It doesn’t mean everything will always be wonderful, but He will always be with us through it all.

Ps 121, 122, 123, 124, 125, 126 Jer 25:8—17 Rom 10:1—13 John 9:18—41

Wednesday, March 20

O Israel, hope in the Lord; for with the Lord there is unfailing love. His redemption overflows. – Psalm 130:7

One of the life lessons I have learned over the years is “never say never”. I cannot tell you the number of times I have stomped my foot, saying, “I will never…”, only to have to remove that foot from my mouth at a later date. Life is not black and white, no matter how much we try to make it that way. In those moments when I am sheepishly pulling my foot out of my mouth, embarrassed at my failure, hypocrisy or ignorance, I am thankful for the Lord’s steadfast love and redemption. He treats us much better than we treat ourselves or our fellow man. To be so forgiving is a worthy goal for us all.

Ps 119:145—176, 128, 129, 130 Jer 25:30—38 Rom 10:14—21 John 10:1—18

Thursday, March 21

The people surrounded him and asked, “How long are you going to keep us in suspense? – John 10:24a

A teen-aged daughter, a newborn and a dog make for a noisy house, especially when I try to watch the morning news. Daughter’s iPod blaring, coffee pot gurgling, baby crying…with all that noise, I have to strain to hear what is going on in the world. I often fail at this task. Our world is full of noise. We struggle to hear Jesus’ call through the world’s noisiness. With so many competing voices, it’s hard for us to choose which voice is his. Take comfort: since we know that we are his, we KNOW his voice. If we listen intently, we can cut through the noise to hear him calling, comforting, and caring. This is an acquired skill though. Here’s how I do it: I pick a place and a time when I won’t be bothered. I select a short scripture passage, read it about five times, and then simply say, “Lord, speak.” The hard part? Shutting up so that he can! I don’t always “hear his voice,” but more often than not, I sense his presence, calling me, comforting me, and caring for me.

Ps 131, 132, 133, 140, 142 Jer 26:1—16 Rom 11:1—12 John 10:19—42

Friday, March 22

For the glory of your name, O Lord, preserve my life. Because of your faithfulness, bring me out of this distress. – Psalm 143:11

Forsaken, exiled, broken, grieving. Not words that we normally associate with God’s love, yet we often find His people, even His Son, experiencing these conditions. But, why? The answer lies in the depth of God’s love for us, His children. We are not, to Him, mere temporal creatures destined to live for some one-hundred years. He will settle for nothing less than the reunion of our perfected souls with Him for all eternity. At times in our lives, each of us will wonder how our loving and merciful Lord can allow us to suffer so terribly. It is at these agonizing but crucial moments that He calls us to praise Him, love

Him and cast ourselves on Him. In so sanctifying these trials, they are made Holy and ready us for the day when God will welcome us into His eternal Joy. When you face these times, resist the temptation turn away from God. Instead, pour out your cries, your love and your praise to Him, and know that He will bring you through to peace, joy and a faith stronger than you ever imagined. Then you will know that He carried you through it all, that you may live praising and glorifying Him, not on your own account but that by His work through you others may turn to Him and be saved.

Ps 22, 141, 143 Jer 29:1, 4—13 Rom 11:13—24 John 11:1—27

Saturday, March 23

My heart is breaking as I remember how it used to be; – Psalm 42:4a

When painful changes come into our lives, it's rough. And when the misfortune cannot be remedied in this lifetime, it gives us a lot to deal with. The death of a loved one, the loss of a career, changes in our health, financial ruin, a dreaded diagnosis, the collapse of a valued or hoped-for relationship, the loss of a home. Things like that happen to countless people every single day. The pain lingers and eventually our thoughts turn to happier times in the past when we felt blessed and at peace. Alas, even the goodness of those memories tends to emphasize our later misfortunes. But we can continue to be blessed no matter how the world treats us. Whenever we are loved we are blessed. (That includes being loved by ourselves.) I think as people of God we can each have a ministry of treating other people with gentleness, sincere interest and unfailing goodwill. It's important that we help each other discover or rediscover that we are each loveable and good regardless of how life has treated us. We have to do whatever we can to help our fellow humans know that the present is a good time to live because we are all cared about and cared for. May we always strive to treat other people as if we knew their individual struggles.

Ps42, 43, 137, 144 Jer 31:27—34 Rom 11:25—36 John 11:28—44

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A Prayer for Holy Week – Journey with us, O holy God, as we continue our way

to the cross. sharpen our focus, that our attention may center more on you than ourselves; lead us through the shadows of darkness and prepare our hearts, that we might be a people of prayer, ready to perceive and respond to your Son and our Savior, Jesus Christ; in his name we pray. Amen.

Palm Sunday, March 24

He is righteous and victorious, yet he is humble, riding on a donkey – riding on a donkey’s colt. – Zechariah 9:9b

Palm Sunday is all about intimacy with God. It is not out there and untouchable. It is immediate and personal. The entrance of Jesus into Jerusalem is the road he traveled for our salvation. That is why it is a journey we must take. When I came to understand the mighty act of grace that God gives us on Palm Sunday, I begin to grasp more fully the truth of his message. We hear about that intimacy on Christmas when God is birthed for us. We see and perhaps seek that intimacy as we see Jesus teaching, healing and sharing a common meal. Then with the trumpets blaring we encounter again that intimacy as Jesus enters to Jerusalem to proclaim the truth, cleanse the temple and set things right. And we rebelled and crucified him by our prejudice, indifference and not confronting the truth. In Jesus we have the whole story of God’s grace and love. Why ignore and resist such a wonderful gift? His entrance into Jerusalem is for you and for me.

Ps 24, 29, 103 Zech 9:9—12 1 Tim 6:12—16 Matt 21:12—17

Holy Monday, March 25

Many in the crowd had seen Jesus call Lazarus from the tomb, raising him from the dead, and they were telling others about it. – John 12:17

In Psalm 51, the fault that grieves David is his own. He promises to spread God's name among the people, if he can be forgiven. "Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me," he pleads. Such a great soul's frailty makes me fear my own. Obviously I must seek renewal of spirit always. How good to know renewal awaits me in God's church, in the "blessed company of all faithful people." Walking my dog at night, I let myself venture near memory's raw nerve: my late son's life was almost as hard as his loss of it. From childhood, we learned too late, this undemanding boy had disabilities that would emerge at eighteen years, as paranoid schizophrenia. Recalling the suffering that disease caused our innocent son hits that raw nerve. Pray! I think, and hear, "God will wipe away all tears from your eyes." From his eyes, God, I say. The words bring me healing tears, and I push harder on the stroller my dog rides in. With all my heart, mind, and soul, I resolve again, I will love the God whose mercy surrounds my son and me.

Ps 51, 69:1—23 Jer 12:1—16 Phil 3:1—14 John 12:9—19

Holy Tuesday, March 26

But we are citizens of heaven where the Lord Jesus Christ lives.—Philippians 3:20a

In his epistle to the Philippian Christians, Paul tells them that “our citizenship is in heaven.” At this time in history Philippi was a Roman colony in Greece. Many of those who lived in Philippi were soldiers in the Roman army protecting the frontier. After twenty one years of military service Rome would grant them citizenship, a goal most of them wanted to have. Therefore, they were not natural-born Roman citizens; it took major effort and a long time to become a citizen. We too are not natural-born citizens of heaven. The Baptismal service in the 1928 Payer Book says very plainly at the beginning, “that which by nature (we) cannot have,” meaning heaven. We must be reborn into citizenship in heaven by accepting Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior. As Philippi was a Roman colony in Greece, Christ Church is a heavenly colony on St. Simons Island. We represent citizens of heaven on this island and by our behavior they will know we are Christians. Let us claim our citizenship in heaven by acting accordingly.

Ps 6, 94 Jer 15:10—21 Phil 3:15—21 John 12:20—26

Holy Wednesday, March 27

For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength.—Philippians 4:13

The readings for this day seem to anticipate what is yet to come during Holy Week by reflecting on how those in the Bible readings for this day have dealt with difficult times, by asking for God’s help and trusting Him to provide guidance and salvation. Psalm 55 expresses deep hurt over the betrayal of close friends or family. Psalm 74 reminds us that while waiting for His reply, we should review prayers already answered. Jeremiah promises that the Lord will search our hearts and examine our minds, to reward us as our deeds deserve. John tells about Jesus’ words; just before he faced the terrible end, that He is the Light and the apostles should trust his light while they have it, as one walking the darkness does not know where he is going. Philippians 4:13 is perhaps one of the most quoted verses in the Bible. I am reminded of the effect one person following a clear Christian path can have on others, particularly in the workplace. Ten years ago, a young college student was hired to work part time as a receptionist at my business. She had Phil 4:13 written on the book where she took phone messages. In everything she said and did, everyone knew she was a Christian, not just by printing those words but by her actions. She provided an example of competence, efficiency and loyalty, and her behavior toward customers was outstanding. She was a light to her work community and a wonderful reflection of her parent’s training. What kind of light am I showing?

Ps 55; 74 Jer 17:5—10, 14—17 Phil 4:1—13 John 12:27—36

Maundy Thursday, March 28

So, my dear friends, flee from the worship of idols. – 1 Corinthians 10:14

“Expectations are premeditated resentments” (Alcoholics Anonymous)

Since it is uncommon to see people worshipping statues in modern times, what relevance has idolatry? Do we not idolize our social status, wealth, Sea Island stickers, our historic church? Could we, in faith, release these things? What would it take? Do we not idolize the past when we were younger and healthier? Even our worship can be idolized...the 1928 Prayer Book, Rite 1, a certain preacher, a certain service time. We all bring our expectations to the church. We have all been members of Christ Church for a long time and remember (idolize) how it used to be. It is tempting to be resentful when these expectations are not met. St Paul reminds us to ponder our idolatrous nature. Fleeing idolatry in all its manifestations is the same as releasing our expectations and meeting the future as God presents it. AA knows that true happiness requires putting our life in the hands of a greater power. We can learn this as well. What are we afraid of?

Ps 102, 142, 143 Jer 20:7—11 1 Cor 10:14—17, 11:27—32 John 17

Good Friday, March 29

“Do not lay your hand on the boy or do anything to him; for now I know that you fear God, since you have not withheld your son, your only son, from me.” – Gen: 22:12.

Today, of all days in our Church’s calendar we are called upon to remember and focus on the sonship of Jesus. The Old Testament reading ends well, for Isaac; but it foretells the sacrifice of a son that will not, at least today. God’s symbolism, both in the Genesis story of Isaac and the Gospel record of our Lord’s passion, could not have been more powerful to the world that venerated Abraham for his faith or heard Jesus cry from the cross “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” (Ps. 22:1) In the patriarchal worlds of both Abraham and Jesus, to sacrifice a son, especially an only son, was unimaginable. The Bible is replete with this celebration of sons. We remember well old Jacob’s joy upon being reunited in Egypt with his “stolen” son Joseph, and we feel the relief and understand fully the celebration held by the father of the prodigal son who returns, safe and redeemed. Yet to redeem us, then and now, God allowed His only son to be sacrificed. We may tend to be a bit jaded by 2000 years of recalling this sacrifice, but we should not be. “For God so loved the world.” (John 3:16) Can you imagine such love?

Ps 22, 40, 54, 95 Gen 22:1—14 1 Pet 1:10—20 John 13:36—38

Holy Saturday, March 30

Let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it. – Hebrews 4:16

To what or whom do you cling? Who or what gives you security? If someone truly loves you, they will want you to be the best person you can be. They will do whatever they can to help you excel in life and we will cling to those people who shape us into people of character and integrity: parents, grandparents, teachers and friends. Healthy relationships where we are encouraged, challenged, supported and loved. The problem is that even healthy, solid people make mistakes. So, who can I cling to who will never let me down and never mislead me? Who can I cling to who will help me to grow into a mature spiritual person? Scripture assures us that Jesus, as our High Priest, will never let us down and the events of Good Friday have reminded us again of the length to which He was willing to go so that we may have an advocate before God securing for us His grace and mercy. On this Holy Saturday, on Easter morn and every day, cling to that!

Ps 27, 88, 95 Job 19:21—27a Heb 4:1—16 Matt 27:57—66

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Collect for Easter Sunday – O God, who for our redemption did give your only

begotten Son to the death on the cross, and by his glorious resurrection has delivered us from the power of our enemy: Grant us so to die daily to sin, that we may evermore live with him in the joy of his resurrection; through the same your Son Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

Easter Day, March 31

From his abundance we have all received one gracious blessing after another. – John 1:16

There is a quotation by writer Judith Ortiz Cofer that goes something like this: "When he took my face in his hands, I was chaos on the first day, waiting for the Word." The line comes from a poem about two lovers, but when I read it, I instantly think of Christ and how we all – whether we can admit it or not – how we all long to feel the closeness of Jesus, how we all long to have the chaos of our lives ordered by the Word. I imagine there is nothing quite so chaotic, nothing quite so dark as an empty tomb. And yet, just as the breath of God moved over the waters of Creation, so too does it move in and through our lives, enlightening the dark spaces and bringing us light and life.

This Easter morning, allow the shimmering light of the Resurrection to bring you grace upon grace. The light shines in the darkness, and no, the darkness did not overcome it. It never will.

Ps 113, 114, 148, 149, 150 Exod 12:1—14 Rom 6:3—11 John 1:1—18

____________________ PRAYERS FOR VARIOUS OCCASIONS

(For Christ Church, Frederica) Almighty and everliving God, ruler of all things in heaven and earth,

hear our prayers for this parish family. Strengthen the faithful, arouse the careless, and restore the penitent. Grant us all things necessary for the common life, and bring us all to be of one heart and mind within your holy Church; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

(In the Morning) Lord God, almighty and everlasting Father, you have brought us in safety to this

new day: Preserve us with your mighty power, that we may not fall into sin, nor be overcome by adversity; and in all we do direct us to the fulfilling of your purpose; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

(At Bedtime) Be present, O merciful God, and protect us through the hours of this night, so that

we who are wearied by the changes and chances of this life may rest in your eternal changelessness; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

(For the Human Family) O God, you made us in your own image and redeemed us through Jesus

your Son: Look with compassion on the whole human family; take away the arrogance and hatred which infect our hearts; break down the walls that separate us; unite us in bonds of love; and work through our struggle and confusion to accomplish your purposes on earth; that, in your good time, all nations and races may serve you in harmony around your heavenly throne; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

(For a Church Guild, Committee or Other Group) Almighty and everliving God, source of all wisdom

and understanding, be present with those who take counsel for the renewal and mission of your Church. Teach us in all things to seek first your honor and glory. Guide us to perceived what is right, and grant us both the courage to pursue it and the grace to accomplish it; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

(In Times of Illness) O God, the source of all health: So fill my heart with faith in your love, that with

calm expectancy I may make room for your power to possess me, and gracefully accept your healing; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

(When Studying the Bible) Blessed Lord, who has caused all holy Scriptures to be written for our

learning; Grant that we may hear, read, mark, learn, and inwardly digest them, that by patience, and the comfort of thy holy Word, we may embrace, and always hold fast the blessed hope of everlasting life, which you have given us in our Savior Jesus Christ. Amen.

(For Travelers) O God, our heavenly Father, whose glory fills the whole creation, and whose

presence we find wherever we go: Preserve those who travel, especially ________________; surround them with your loving care; protect them from every danger; and bring them in safety to their journey’s end; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

(For Guidance) Direct us, O Lord, in all our doings with your most gracious favor, and further us

with your continual help; that in all our works begun, continued and ended in you, we may glorify your holy Name, and finally, by your mercy, obtain everlasting life; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

(At a Birthday Celebration) O God, our times are in your hand: Look with favor, we pray, on your

servant _______________ as he/she begins another year. Grant that he/she may grow in wisdom and grace, and strengthen his/her trust in your goodness all the days of his/her life; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

(For Those We Love) Almighty God, we entrust all who are dear to us to your never-failing care

and love, for this life and the life to come, knowing that you are doing for them better things than we can desire or pray for; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. Great Bible Verses to Memorize God’s protection – Exod 14:14

Giving – Deut 16:17

Courage – Josh 1:9

Obedience – 1 Sam 15:22

Repentance – 2 Chron 7:14

God’s mystery – Job 36:26

Thankfulness – Ps 9:1

God’s creation – Ps 19:1

Centering – Ps 19:14

God’s kingship – Ps 24:1

Power of words – Prov 18:21

Value of gentleness – Prov 15:1

Honoring God – Eccles 12:1

Renewed strength – Isa 40:29—31

Confidence in God – Hab 3:19

Servant leadership – Matt 20:26—28

Inner peace – John 14:27

Belonging to God – Rom 12:1—2

Facing temptation – 1 Cor 10:13

New life – 2 Cor 5:17

Refuge – Ps 32:8

Sin – Ps 51:8

Rescue – Ps 55:17

Trust – Ps 56:3

Thankfulness – Ps 92:1

Singing praises – Ps 96:1

God’s goodness – Ps 100:4

God’s creation – Ps 102:25

Prayer – Ps 116:1

God’s dependability – Ps 107:1

Supplication – Ps 116:15

Guidance – Ps 119:105

Seeking wisdom – Prov 1:7

Cheerful giving – 2 Cor 9:7

Concentration – Gal 6:4

Endurance – Gal 6:9

Holy living – Ephes 4:25

Encouraging words – Ephes 4:29

Heavenly thoughts – Col 3:2

Sexual temptations – 1 Thess 4:3

Money in perspective – 1 Thess 13:5

God’s faithfulness – James 1:17

Patience – James 1:19

Priorities – James 4:7

Confession – 1 John 1:9

Love in action – 1 John 3:18

Notes on My 2013 Lenten Journey

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