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2012

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Foreword

During the Ash Wednesday service which marks the beginning of Lent, we are invited toread and meditate on God’s holy Word. I invite you to use this booklet as a tool as youjourney through this Lenten season.

I would also like to invite you to join in a faith community at St. Martin’s beginning onWednesday, February 29th at 6 pm and continuing throughout Lent. The discussion willcenter on Christian hospitality and we will begin each evening together by sharing a meal –what a wonderful way to get to know one another!

Many thanks to ALL who contributed to this project. Without you, it would not have beenpossible.

Peace,

Michelle Trieschmann

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Ash Wednesday, February 22

“Let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus the pioneerand perfecter of our faith.” (Hebrews 12:1-2)

By Heidi Gioia

can relate to Paul’s letter on a rather literal level: I train for triathlons.

The race begins with a mad dash into the water. It’s chaotic, with people jockeying forposition. As I put my head in to murky water, the world changes. The temperature

shocks my lungs. I try to get in to a rhythm but instead panic. I see vague outlines of bodies.I’m battered by hands and legs. I question whether I’ll live, let alone finish. Frankly, I justcan’t do it on my own.

And then I say a prayer. I come to peace with mysurroundings, moving out of my physical training anddigging deeper. I feel God’s presence as I forget aboutthe external race and simply pull one arm out of thewater after another, looking up to blue skies as I take abreath, thanking God for showing me the path.

Oftentimes, the rest of my race is also an opportunity to follpeople who encourage me when I’m facing a strong headwinthe chance to extend grace to those who likewise suffer. As Iout for me, one foot in front of the other. It’s a journey filledsee Christ in all of them.

While I know that Paul didn’t have triathlons in mind whendisciplines us in many ways. I’ve faced many more significaeverything, each day, God is encouraging me, inviting me toloving discipline.

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TODAY’S READINGSMorning Psalms: 95, 32, 143Evening Psalms: 102, 130Amos 5:6-15Hebrews 12:1-14

ow Jesus. Along the way, I meetd and want to quit. Then I getrun, I follow the path that’s setwith all kinds of people and I

he wrote, God challenges andnt trials in my life, but throughsurrender my own will to his

Luke 18:9-14

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Thursday, February 23

"Yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will be joyful in God my Savior" (Habakkuk 3:18)

By Steve Young

he readings for today all include the fact that being God’s followers we are stillsurrounded by those that don’t follow the laws of our Lord. The non-followers arecalled “evil” by Habakkuk, “enemies of the cross of Christ” by Paul to the Philippiansand “wicked” in today’s Psalm.

At first glance at these readings it appears that despair is everywhere. As I was readingthese for the first time those on the radio were discussing the turmoil in Syria and Egypt,

the same region that the authors of today’s writingswere living. How much the world has changed but howlittle relief to the despair in God’s children.

As I took a closer look at the readings my mood wasuplifted. In the first Psalm reading we are told that ourinheritance will endure forever and in Paul’s letter hedescribes “our citizenship is in heaven.” The second

Psalm reading continues the good of the Lord here on earth also. He tells those of us thatfollow him that we will inherit the land and dwell in it forever. Even Habakkuk, with all ofhis anguish, ends his passage with “I will rejoice in the Lord. I will be joyful in God mySavior.”

As Christians we usually tend to pray for guidance to handle the events beyond our grasp orfor our fellow humans that are in need, as those in today’s readings do, but most of us don’ttake the time to rejoice in the good that is happening to us and to our fellow man. As youpray the Prayers of the People this weekend at our service listen quietly to all the fellowparishioners that have special request for those that are ill or who have died. You probablywon’t hear any rejoices during the prayer of thanksgiving.

The gospel reading is appropriate for the ending of our readings today by the way we arereminded that Jesus prays for us that follow him. Today spend a little joyful time andobserve all that is good in the world knowing that we are in His hands and he prays for us.As the thanksgiving portion of the Prayers of the People are observed this Sunday speak upand rejoice!

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TODAY’S READINGSMorning Psalm: 37:1-18Evening Psalm: 37:19-42Habakkuk 3:1-10(11-15)16-18Philippians 3:12-21John 17:1-8

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Friday, February 24

O come, let us sing unto the lord; let us heartily rejoice in the strength of our salvation.(Psalm 95:1)

By Ed Naylor

still remember my introduction to the Episcopal Church. My sister, a church musicmajor in college, took a job at an Episcopal Church about 30 miles from our home. Iwent along to sing in the choir and help with driving on the twice weekly commute. Myhome church was United Methodist, but with a minister in a clerical collar, liturgical

paraments, and a boys choir! It was closer to an Episcopal congregation. But in spite of thatI was awed and thrilled by the musical richness I discovered at St. John’s by the Campus inAmes, Iowa. Especially meaningful to me was the service of Morning Prayer.

If you, like me, remember using the 1928 prayer book, youmay have been in a congregation where the Eucharist wascelebrated every other week, alternating with the service ofMorning Prayer. And at St. John’s we SANG MorningPrayer. After the processional hymn, opening sentences, andprayer of confession, we sang (using Anglican chant) theVenite, “O come, let us sing unto the lord; let us heartilyrejoice in the strength of our salvation...” Then we wouldsing a psalm and then two more canticles after the scripture readings. This was heady stuffto a teenager who loved to sing!

Although we do not do Morning Prayer as a corporate worship experience these days, I stillfind it a valuable part of my personal devotions. If you have never done so, I recommendreading Morning Prayer to start your day. You will need a prayer book and Bible. There is atable in the back of the Book of Common Prayer, beginning on page 936, for the readingseach day. Also, there is a list of canticles suggested for each day on page 144.

Does this sound like a lot of work, hunting up scriptures and canticles to stick in theappropriate place in the service each time you get ready to pray? I think of it as part of our“sacrifice of praise and thanksgiving” which we offer to God daily. I invite you to join withme in offering praise to God each morning, using the rich resource of the prayer book, as we“heartily rejoice in the strength of our salvation.”

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TODAY’S READINGSMorning Psalms: 95 & 31Evening Psalm: 35Ezekiel 18:1-4,25-32Philippians 4:1-9John 17:9-19

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Saturday, February 25

And my God will fully satisfy every need of yours according to his riches in glory in ChristJesus. To our God and Father be glory forever and ever. Amen. (Philippians 4:10-20)

By Theresa Luebcke

am always amazed, when many of us (myself included), do not want to part with our“treasures” if they are not being used the way we want them to be used. We won’t givedonations to Komen if they give part of it to Planned Parenthood (or, if they don’t!). Or,

we won’t tithe to our Church if part of MY money is going to the Diocese. We always askfirst, “What’s in it for me?”

In this passage, Paul raves about the generosity of thePhilippians. Paul says no other group believed enough in hismission to “stay with him,” to support him. Paul did not askfor gifts, but the Philippians alone sent gifts to him. For Paulto use as Paul saw fit. There were no strings attached, asPaul states he can live without the gifts. The Philippiansexpected nothing in return, they did not know if they would

ever see Paul again. And Paul lets them know he appreciates the Philippians sharing in hisdistress.

Today, we call this “paying it forward.” How many of us have “paid it forward” today? Dowe willingly give to the Church? Or do we grudgingly agree to participate, only if ouragenda is met? Do we give of our time to support programs, even when we are sure they donot support our views?

Do we really believe “… God will fully satisfy every need …”?

How can our generosity show others we hold this belief?

ITODAY’S READINGSMorning Psalms: 30, 32Evening Psalms: 42, 43Ezekiel 39:21-29Philippians 4:10-20John 17:20-26

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Sunday, February 26

O God, you are my God, I seek you, my soul thirsts for you; my flesh faints for you, as in adry 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 lipswill praise you. So I will bless you as long as I live; I will lift up my hands and call on yourname. (Psalm 63:1-4)

By Teresa Reeves

oday’s psalm tells of a time when David is fleeing from Absalom. He is pressed hardby enemies who want his life and he is forced into the desert. David has gone fromgreatness and triumph into the desert of despair. He speaks of how his soul thirsts

and his body longs for God. His fear and the barren harsh surroundings offer little to givehim hope. Truly, these are some of David’s darkest days.

David, however, draws strength from hisremembrances of being in the sanctuary and frombeholding God’s power and glory. He recalls thegreat love he has experienced from Godthroughout his life and recalls the many challengesthat God has already brought him through.

Many times throughout our lives, we too are cast into experiences and circumstances likeDavid’s desert experience. We feel threatened on all sides and alone. We are afraid anddon’t know where to turn for help. These isolating feelings can be profound. It makes uswonder “where is God”? Has he abandoned me?

We cannot let the desert experiences of life keep us from God. Instead of turning away fromGod, we must strive even harder to know God and seek nourishment from Him through the“spiritual food” that is the sacrament. We can look to others to pray for us and give ussupport and encouragement. If plagued by sleep problems think of God and offer up yourprayers to Him. After all, it is one thing to for us to say, “I believe in God” and a quitedifferent matter to call, “God, my God.”

God never promised that life would be without hard times. The desert experiences of lifecan bring us closer to God and deepen and strengthen our relationship with Him. Yes, evendeserts can prove to be a blessing.

TTODAY’S READINGSMorning Psalms: 63:1-8(9-11), 98Evening Psalm: 103Daniel 9:3-10Hebrews 2:10-18John 12:44-50

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Monday, February 27

The beginning of the good news of Jesus Christ, the Son of God. As is written in theprophet Isaiah, See, I am sending my messenger ahead of you, who will prepare yourway. I have baptized you with water; but he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit. Inthose days Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee and was baptized by John in the Jordan.And the Spirit immediately drove him out into the wilderness. He was in the wildernessfor forty days, tempted by Satan; and he was with the wild beasts; and the angels waitedon him. (Mark 1: 1-2;8-9;12-13)

By Kay Fletcher

ark, the shortest of the gospels and probably the first written, begins boldly bydeclaring the true nature of Jesus' life, death and resurrection. The Good News iswhat God has done in Jesus his Son. He has been heralded by John the Baptist

and identified with his people through baptism.

The Gospel of Mark makes us take a serious view of life. Many of us like our Christianitythe same way we take our coffee – straight. Well, that is what you get in the Gospel ofMark. You get it straight, right at the beginning.

Jesus is Baptized and the Spirit descends on him. It seemshe is ready for ministry. Yet, immediately the Spirit drivesJesus into the wilderness. He spends forty days dealing withthe temptations that come with power. Jesus is thenequipped to proclaim the Good News. Think of the daily,hourly temptations that pull us off course, divert our energyand impede our ability to proclaim the Good News.

History tells us about Alexander the Great, Charles the Great, and Frederick the Great, butno one ever speaks of Jesus the Great. That is because Jesus has no rivals. He showed usthe way of love and salvation. As the savior of the world, he is the only one – and had nosuccessors. There is an absolute finality about his life. And it is this magnificentuniqueness, this designation of Jesus as surpassing all other persons, that is the theme ofthe opening of this Gospel.

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TODAY’S READINGSMorning Psalms: 41, 52Evening Psalm: 44Genesis 37:1-111 Corinthians 1:1-19Mark 1:1-13

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Tuesday, February 28

Clap your hands, all you peoples; shout to God with loud songs of joy. (Psalm 47:1)

By Carole Clary

he writers of today’s Psalms passages express joy in God’s blessings and sing praiseto him.

As with all the psalms they reflect the many aspects of Israel’s relationship andreverence for God. A preface in the New Oxford Annotated Bible reminds us that theintrinsic spiritual depth and beauty of the psalms havemade them from earliest times a treasury of resources forpublic and private devotion both in Judaism andChristianity. As I read the first the Old Testamentselections and then the New Testament passages certainpraise phrases from the psalms kept popping into my mind.I realized after reading Paul’s powerful letter to theCorinthians several times that my devotional experiencehad been enriched somehow because the voices of the psalms writers continued to speak tome as I listened to Paul.

Perhaps you will find your reflection these on these scriptures will be enhanced as mine wasin the following:

“For God’s foolishness is wiser than human wisdom, and God’s weakness is stronger thanhuman strength.” (1 Corinthians 1:25)Great is the Lord and greatly to be praised (Psalm 48:1)

“But God chose what is foolish in the world to shame the wise; God chose what is weak toshame the strong.” (1 Corinthians 1:27)The Lord is awesome (Psalm 47:2)

“God chose who is low and despised in the world, things that are not, to reduce to nothingthings that are, so that no one might boast in the presence of God.” (1 Corinthians 1:28-29)Sing praises (Psalm 47:6)

“He is the source of your life in Christ Jesus, who became for us wisdom from God andrighteousness and sanctification and redemption in order that as it is written, ‘Let the onewho boasts, boast in the Lord.’” (1 Corinthians 1:30-31)Sing praises to God. (Psalm 47:6)He will be our guide forever. (Psalm 48:14)

TTODAY’S READINGSMorning Psalm: 45Evening Psalms: 47, 48Genesis 37:12-241 Corinthians 1:20-31Mark 1:14-28

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Wednesday, February 29

“What no eye has seen, nor ear heard, nor the heart of man conceived, what God hasprepared for those who love him,” God has revealed to us through the spirit.(I Corinthians 2:9-10)

By Diana Hauser

recently received a e-mail from my good friend, Judy, a conservative Christian fromArizona. Judy sends me many e-mails, but this one was different. Paintings of theApostles and St. Paul plus vivid commentary about how each had been martyred were

shown. The reader was supposed to become a “better” Christian with less complainingabout the pain, problems and sacrifice of daily living by contemplating the martyrdom ofthe early church fathers. This e-mail was a mystery to me but it started my thinking aboutliving the way God desires.

Thinking about the martyrs was helpful to me in one way.I came to our Old Testament reading feeling a realadmiration for Joseph. As soon as Joseph shows up wherehis brothers are tending the flocks, “Here comes thatDreamer!” they say. He is thrown into a pit instead ofbeing killed right away at the insistence of Reuben whoplans to come back later to rescue Joseph. Reuben exits

stage right and the remaining brothers sell Joseph to an Ishmaelite trading caravan boundfor Egypt. The price is twenty pieces of silver. Joseph is sold to Potiphar in Egypt. Josephwas falsely accused and landed in jail. He interpreted dreams and eventually became themost powerful ruler next to Pharaoh. He was eventually in a position to save his familyincluding his brothers from starvation. When he eventually revealed his identity to hisbrothers, he cried over them and forgave them. He forgave them.

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TODAY’S READINGSMorning Psalm: 119:49-72Evening Psalms: 49, [53]Genesis 37:25-361 Corinthians 2:1-13Mark 1:29-45

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Thursday, March 1

Be still, and know that I am God. (Psalm 46:10)

By Mary Pomeroy

he power and beauty in these eight words written above is stunning. If we but let it,the spiritual calm they impart helps us in times of stress, illness, and other troubles inour lives. Think of the power in the knowledge that God is always there for us! When

we are in a state of stress and upset, it leaves us feeling vulnerable. We need to cling to thatstabilizing force that is in the love of God.

“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help introuble.” (Psalm 46:1) It is said these words inspiredMartin Luther’s hymn “A Mighty Fortress Is Our God.”Knowing that God is indeed our “Mighty Fortress” allowsus to think more clearly and make better decisions.Putting our full faith and trust in our Lord frees us to dobattle against any strife we may encounter.

We must also remember, especially in this time of political turmoil not only in our Nationbut in all of the troubled areas of this world, that He promises protection for all people. Aswe pray daily for His loving help in our own lives, we must also pray daily for His lovinghelp for not only our Nation but for His peace and protection for all of the people on ourEarth. “He makes wars cease to the end of the earth; he breaks the bow, and shatters thespear; he burns the shields with fire” 46:9

God asks that we come to Him as little children, full of faith and love in Him who protectsus. “Be still, and know that I am God.”

TTODAY’S READINGSMorning Psalm: 50Evening Psalms: 59, 60 or 19, 46Genesis 39:1-231 Corinthians 2:14-3:15Mark 2:1-12

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Friday, March 2

… all belongs to you, and you belong to Christ, and Christ belongs to God. (1 Corinthians3:22-23)

By The Rev. Jon Hall

rchbishop Desmond Tutu and his daughter Mpho, who is an Episcopal priest in theU.S., collaborated on a wonderful book published in 2010 called Made for Goodness(and why this makes all the difference). The central tenet is that we are all made for

goodness and in the image of God. He even calls each person a temple in which God haschosen as a dwelling place. We usually think of temples being a type of building or a gardenwe tend, or the office we work in for a good percentage of our life, or a favorite part of ourhouse.

Temples tend to be “the places in which we put ourfaith,” Tutu says. However the holy spaces are not onlycreated in these historic places and things but in theindividual people of God. Bishop Tutu digs a littledeeper, similarly to St. Paul’s letter to the Corinthians,to point out that the people of God are temples of theHoly Spirit. And this is not merely about our bodies

being the temple “but our very selves, the essence of our being, as the place where the Spiritdwells.”

Consider St. Paul’s message to the early church and how they might have struggled toaccept and believe that God considered each one of them as an important part of creation.Paul was relaying to the average person that they were a monumental destination for theholiness of God. Each person was to be thought of as place for Christ to reside.

Also think about how we treat the holy spaces we have known in our own lives withreverence, whether it is in the mountains, along a beach, or that place in the house wherewe go to be in prayer or simply to relax. We experience not just being in the favorite roomof the house but also being at home.

Now imagine that God sees a home in each one of us a holy place to reside. We can think ofourselves as a holy dwelling place because God has put Christ into the world and the HolySpirit in our hearts and minds. We are all connected. We all belong to one another. We areall made for goodness! And that makes all the difference.

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TODAY’S READINGSMorning Psalms: 40, 54Evening Psalm: 51Genesis 40:1-231 Corinthians 3:16-23Mark 2:13-22

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Saturday, March 3

Think of us in this way, as servants of Christ and stewards of God’s mysteries. Moreover,it is required of stewards that they should be found trustworthy. But with me it is a verysmall thing that I should be judged by you or by any human court. I do not even judgemyself. I am not aware of anything against myself, but I am not thereby acquitted. It isthe Lord who judges me. Therefore do not pronounce judgment before the time, before theLord comes, who will bring to light the things now hidden in darkness and will disclosethe purposes of the heart. Then each one will receive commendation from God. (1Corinthians 4:1-5)

By Stephanie Wiles

Corinthians 4:1-7 speaks of a deeply personalrelationship with God. God is the only one whotruly knows our heart. God is the only one who

can truly judge our actions. We have all beentempted to place ourselves in the position of judgeand jury but St. Paul reminds us that we are servantsand stewards of Christ and that Christ alone has thepower to judge our spiritual lives. As the child of a minister, I often felt that I lived in afishbowl, visible from all sides at all times and an easy target for criticism from people whodid not understand the world that I grew up in. I found it comforting to know that althoughhurtful at the time, the only real opinion that mattered was God’s and the redemption thatHe purchased for me with Christ’s life on the cross. It has made me stop and try to giveothers the benefit of the doubt and to try to be slow in making hasty decisions of others andtheir actions. Each day I strive to be a trustworthy steward, sometimes I fail and sometimesI succeed, but I try and try again.

1 TODAY’S READINGSMorning Psalm: 55Evening Psalms: 138, 139:1-17(18-23)Genesis 41:1-131 Corinthians 4:1-7Mark 2:23-3:6

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Sunday, March 4

My Father is always at work, and I too, am working...for The Father loves the Son andshows him all he does. Yes, to your amazement, He will show him even greater thingsthan these…and whoever hears my word and believes…has eternal life. (John 5:19 – 24)

By Kim Montgomery

In the first part of John 5, Christ healed an invalid, who had been waiting to be healed for38 years. This man had no one to help him and was unaware with whom he was speaking.He had no relationship with the Lord, yet he trusted that he should do what Christ told himto do, immediately, and without hesitation. Jesus asked the man a simple question: “Do youwant to get well?... [then] pick up your mat and walk.”

When I studied this passage two years ago in Bible study,my group talked about the many ways that our own habitsinterfere with our ability to listen to the Lord. While we allwant to immediately do what Christ asks, with nohesitation, in the same way as the invalid in this passage,many of us, myself included, had to admit that WE want tofeel in control of what we do on any given day, and at anygiven moment. We know that God determined our path,

even before we were born, yet we allow worldly demands or the expectations of thosearound us, to interfere with following Christ. At the end of our discussion, we prayed, and Istill pray, that we would strive to listen more to God, and that our actions would seek tofulfill God’s plan for our lives, rather than our own, and that through our actions, we wouldshow our children that all we do, we do in Christ’s name.

TODAY’S READINGSMorning Psalms: 24, 29Evening Psalms: 8, 84Genesis 41:14-45Romans 6:3-14John 5:19-24

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Monday, March 5

Already you have all you want! Already you have become rich! Quite apart from us youhave become kings! Indeed, I wish that you had become kings, so that we might be kingswith you! For I think that God has exhibited us apostles as last of all, as though sentencedto death, because we have become a spectacle to the world, to angels and to mortals. Weare fools for the sake of Christ, but you are wise in Christ. We are weak, but you arestrong… (1 Corinthians 4:8-10)

By Ralph Trieschmann

n this letter to the Church in Corinth, Paul begins in a tone that I don’t recall seeingoften in scripture, but can relate to in our modern world, sarcasm. I too like to tossaround a little sarcasm in conversation from time to time; in fact I revel in it – what a

fun way to make a point, just so long as you do it with enough inflection in your voice sopeople know you are being sarcastic. I actually hear characters from Monty Python in myhead each time I reread the beginning of the verses, they are after all the masters of sarcasmin my book.

So having been hooked by the tone Paul takes withthe Corinthians, I read on to try to see what couldhave given cause for such a rebuke. What I learned isthat Paul was a bit upset that the new Christians hewas nurturing had come to think themselvescompleted in their spiritual journey. “What a finechurch we have in Corinth,” they might have beenheard saying, “we’ve done all we needed to do to earn us favor with the Lord.” The pointPaul wants them, and us, to hear is that the journey is never quite complete and perhaps themore you actually feel “full” the more work you are expected to do. In my life and myjourney within our church I often feel blessed by all that I see around me. The challengenow is how to share the bounty of our spirit, empty our cups and fill them again withnewness. None of us are complete alone. We need one another within our community, andour community needs us and together we all continue the work of Christians. Do not sufferthe complacency of the Corinthians. Christianity is not something accomplished; it is apath we chose to travel.

I

TODAY’S READINGSMorning Psalms: 56, 57, 58Evening Psalms: 64, 65Genesis 41:46-571 Corinthians 4:8-20(21)Mark 3:7-19a

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Tuesday, March 6

Looking at those who sat around him, Jesus said, ‘Here are my mother and my brothers!Whoever DOES the will of God is my brother and sister and mother.’ (Mark 3:34-35)

By The Rev. Emily Hillquist Davis

’m an only child. The GOOD news of Jesus Christ in my life has been that I’ve foundbrothers, sisters and mothers in many churches along the way ―and also beyond churches, those doing God’s will call me into new life, strength and ministry.

Jesus’ mission is to spread the GOOD news:“God’s Kingdom is near. Trust in this goodnews. Repent. Turn back to God.” (Mark 1:15)He preaches it unceasingly in word and deed insynagogues and households town after town,demonstrating the good news of God’s nearnessand loving kindness with his powerful healingtouch. People from further and further are

coming, seeking healing and deliverance. Jesus and the twelve find themselves throngedwherever they go, constrained by crowds. Today we read they couldn’t eat for all the peoplepressing in. But who understands Jesus really? People seem to come for healing only; notfor transformation. His family thinks he’s lost his mind. Religious leaders are out to gethim. Things are heating up.

In Lent, things feel like they’re heating up. The pressure is on as we prepare to face againJesus’ death in Holy Week. But maybe “Repent!” is not so harsh. It means “turn back.”Turn back from the distraction of false pressures. Turn back to a God whose nearness andcompassion Jesus taught, lived and died to make real for us.

Can you write here, as I did above, ONE way that Jesus Christ has meant GOOD news foryou?

This will help you honor Jesus’ death as for a friend you’d visit in hospice to tell what adifference she or he has made in your life.

In Lent let’s refresh our trust in the Gospel as GOOD news, embracing again Jesus’ call tohealing, strength and DOing God’s will.

ITODAY’S READINGSMorning Psalms: 61, 62Evening Psalms: 68:1-20(21-23)24-36Genesis 42:1-171 Corinthians 5:1-8Mark 3:19b-35

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Wednesday, March 7

And he said to them, ‘To you has been given the secret of the kingdom of God, but for thoseoutside, everything comes in parables; in order that ‘they may indeed look, but notperceive, and may indeed listen, but not understand; so that they may not turn again andbe forgiven.’” (Mark 4:11-12)

By Julie Clark

o you ever find yourself hearing, but notlistening? I do. In reading Mark 4:1-20, Ireflected on the parable of the Four Soils and its

meaning. Why did Jesus choose to put this lesson inparable form, and not just “tell it like it was”? Wouldn’tthat have saved some time and energy? Time andenergy… hmmm… As do most mothers, I carry a busyschedule…work, school projects, afterschool activities,family time, etc. Communication is essential to many of these activities, and I rely heavilyon my calendar and to-do list. I eagerly scratch items off my list so I can address the nextones, and it’s never-ending. Time-saving strategies, energy conservation, Hurry! Hurry!Hurry!

“[T]hey may indeed look, but not perceive, and may indeed listen, but not understand; sothat they may not turn again and be forgiven.’” (Mark 4:12)

When I rush through life and focus on my lists, I miss the details. As I reflect on myspiritual journey, I recall the times that life has thrown me curveballs, and my plans had tobe modified. It was during those challenging times that I slowed down, truly listened, andgrew in my faith. During this time of Lent, I’ll be thinking about how I’m communicating.Am I just hearing or am I listening to those around me? I don’t want to rush through lifeand miss the important details. I want to spend time with others, and listen to their lifestories. I want to spend some alone time to reflect on my many blessings, and how I mightpay them forward. I want to take time to smell the roses…and open my ears and mind, too!

D TODAY’S READINGSMorning Psalm: 72Evening Psalms: 119:73-96Genesis 42:18-281 Corinthians 5:9-6:8Mark 4:1-20

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Thursday, March 8

He also said, ‘With what can we compare the kingdom of God, or what parable will weuse for it? It is like a mustard seed, which, when sown upon the ground, is the smallest ofall the seeds on earth; yet when it is sown it grows up and becomes the greatest of allshrubs, and puts forth large branches, so that the birds of the air can make nests in itsshade.’ (Mark 4:30-32)

By Ann Kidd

hen I read the phrase “kingdom of God” I immediately think of Heaven, but I’msure it could be interpreted many ways, just as the word church (or Church) hasmany interpretations. It could be considered the current Christian community we

live in here on earth, something we as Christians should be working toward, or a number ofother things. And though Heaven is a word that is easily recognized and commonly used,can I truly fathom the concept? Probably not. And could I find the words to explain it tosomeone else? Definitely not.

The Parable of the Mustard Seed reminds of me when I waspregnant. “The love for a child is a love like no other.”That’s what everyone tells you, but until you actually havekids you just can't fully understand it. When my husband,Brian, and I finally decided to start a family we actuallywondered if we could love a baby as much as our beloveddogs. We had no idea! Henry arrived in March of 2008 andwith him came an overwhelming feeling of love. Charlie

completed our family in September 2010, but the love didn't stop there. It's incredible howwe can feel the love growing each and every day. And just like the tiny mustard seed, it’ssoon big enough in which to make a home.

God, help me to open my heart so I can experience a love beyond my imagination, both hereon this beautiful earth and in your everlasting kingdom.

W

TODAY’S READINGSMorning Psalms: 70, 71Evening Psalm: 74Genesis 42:29-381 Corinthians 6:12-30Mark 4:21-34

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Friday, March 9

On that day, when evening had come, he said to them, ‘Let us go across to the other side.’And leaving the crowd behind, they took him with them in the boat, just as he was. Otherboats were with him. A great gale arose, and the waves beat into the boat, so that the boatwas already being swamped. But he was in the stern, asleep on the cushion; and theywoke him up and said to him, ‘Teacher, do you not care that we are perishing?’ He wokeup and rebuked the wind, and said to the sea, ‘Peace! Be still!’ Then the wind ceased, andthere was a dead calm. He said to them, ‘Why are you afraid? Have you still no faith?’And they were filled with great awe and said to one another, ‘Who then is this, that eventhe wind and the sea obey him?’ (Mark 4:35-41)

By Stewart Wiles

hen I read the passage Mark 4:35-41,I think about the blind faith thateach of us is called upon by God to

have. I cannot physically see God but I knowHe is with me. Jesus tells us that he has goneahead of us to make a place for us but he willleave a part of himself with us in the HolySpirit. It is that piece that gives me the comfort to trust God through difficult and goodtimes in my life. There have been times when I have chosen poorly in life but I know thatGod’s presence is with me the same as when I choose well in life. It is steady, calming,reassuring, comforting, unyielding but honest. I know that when I choose poorly that myfeelings of regret are there because I need to feel regret and likewise when I choose well Ifeel contentment. Just as the fisherman trusted Jesus to calm the sea in the passage inMark, you have to trust that Jesus will bring you piece in your life.

W TODAY’S READINGSMorning Psalm: 69:1-23(24-30)31-38Evening Psalm: 73Genesis 43:1-151 Corinthians 7:1-9Mark 4:35-41

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Saturday, March 10

In whatever condition you were called, brothers and sisters, there remain with God.(1 Corinthians 7:24)

By Rich Luebcke

have been intrigued with Paul’s letters for some time, especially as to their geography.So I did a bit of research about the city of Corinth. Once destroyed by the Romans, itwas rebuilt and became an important center of commerce in Greece. About five times as

large as Athens in the time of Paul, it exhibited all the good and bad large cities do today.And, just as we do in the cities of today, the residents of Corinth had needs – and questions.

The church he helped established there was apparentlyalways asking, “Why? How? What?” In this passage Paulwas answering questions about marriage. He was answeringquestions about faith within the family. He was answeringquestions about a person’s status when they came to thefaith. Would one’s past or present condition keep them fromthe grace of God?

My faith journey has been … interesting to me. Born of a Baptist father and Roman Catholicmother, our move out of the city was punctuated by one request by my mother: my fatherhad to find a place of worship for us. Being of German descent, he found a Presbyterianchurch led by a … German. Marrying a cradle Episcopalian brought me to ourdenomination. Although that lady has moved on, I have found my church home, and myfaith strength here.

Will my past journey keep ME from the grace of God? Paul told the members of the churchin Corinth that their condition or journey didn’t matter. He sums it up in verse 24, “Inwhatever condition you were called, brothers and sisters, there remain with God.” Thatverse gives me pause. God wants me in whatever condition I showed up. That verse alsogives me hope. I can remain with God. My question has been answered.

ITODAY’S READINGSMorning Psalms: 75, 76Evening Psalms: 23, 27Genesis 43:16-341 Corinthians 7:10-24Mark 5:1-20

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Sunday, March 11

More majestic than the thunders of mighty waters, more majestic than the waves of thesea, majestic on high is the Lord! (Psalm 93) Sing to the Lord, bless His name; tell of Hissalvation from day to day. Declare His glory among the nations, His marvelous worksamong all the peoples. (Psalm 96)

By Susan Gillies

top and think of that moment, the one when the gloriousness hit you and you weretaken aback. Maybe it was a small shudder of wonder; maybe it was a blow so grand itstruck like lightning; or maybe it was the stopping of time when you had no choice but

to sit still and take it all in. But there has been that moment when you realize… God is trulymarvelous.

I have seen it out the window from a house in Japan where I stayed with a family. The bed,the most comfortable and soft resting place I can ever remember, sat next to an openwindow- no screen or curtains to numb the view, presenting an endless field of green sittingbefore a snow capped mountain, cool air blowing over me in the shade of the Japanese rockgarden just below the sill. I found peace and rest and believed…God is truly marvelous.

I have seen it in my daughter who heard the story of amother with young triplets who lost her husband to braincancer, and as I gathered used clothes and toys to givethem, discovered my daughter emptying $30 from her piggybank to donate to a family who needed more than she couldever know. I found selflessness and generosity andbelieved…God is truly marvelous.

I have seen it in Joplin, devastated by such a horrific natural disaster many questionedwhere God was during the tornado that killed 159 people. The simple answer to this from aresident of the broken town- God was indeed there; the miracle after seeing the devastationis that there weren’t in fact more people killed. In this town where so many came from allover to help those they didn’t know, I found hope and promise and believed…God is trulymarvelous.

Take this moment and reflect about the many wonders of God’s world, of the people aroundyou, and how truly marvelous He is.

S

TODAY’S READINGSMorning Psalms: 93, 96Evening Psalm: 34Genesis 44:1-17Romans 8:1-10John 5:25-29

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Monday, March 12

“The boy cannot leave his father, for if he should leave his father, his father would die.”(Genesis 44:18-34)

“Your daughter is dead. Why trouble the teacher any further?” (Mark 5:21-43)

By Liz Arras

rom the deepest part of my being, I cannot fathom losing a child, or giving up on mychild. In a few months, our little family of three will become a family of four. I prayevery day that our son will be born healthy and strong – just like I prayed every day of

my first pregnancy that Ethan would be born healthy and strong.

But Ethan was born a bit too early, and with lungs that werenot yet strong. He spent the first moments of his life in theNICU, with only his father by his side, because I wasn’t ableto be there – I had to heal enough to be able to be there forhim. But his Daddy was there - every spare minute,learning to take his temperature, learning to change hisdiaper, holding him, talking to him, praying over him – not

knowing how long he would be there, but never doubting he would grow to be healthy andstrong.

I will never stop troubling “the teacher” to keep watch over my children, to heal them whenthey are ill, to guide them when they have decisions to make… but also to celebrate whothey have become, the strength they have found, the love and joy they make in the world –because he is the reason we have hope, we have love, we have successes, we have eachother.

FTODAY’S READINGSMorning Psalm: 80Evening Psalms: 77, 79Genesis 44:18-341 Corinthians 7:25-31Mark 5:21-43

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Tuesday, March 13

Joseph said to his brothers, ‘I am Joseph. Is my father still alive?’ But his brothers couldnot answer him, so dismayed were they at his presence. (Genesis 45:3)

By Colleen Hall

magine the shock Joseph’s bothers must have felt. Years before the brothers hadyielded to their base instincts; jealousy, rage, greed, and self-interest and destroyedtheir brother, their father’s favorite, or so they thought. Suddenly, in one blinding

moment, it becomes clear that Joseph not only survived, he prospered.

Often the theme lifted out of this passage relates to Joseph and his amazing capacity forforgiveness. Surely we all have a great deal to learn about that. However, this time when Iread it, I was struck by the brothers and their responseto Joseph. They were dumbfounded, literally. I foundmyself wondering how long it took them to speak andwhat they said when they finally found themselves ableto talk. How did they absorb the enormous gift Josephbestowed upon them? Joseph did not just reveal himselfto them, he also provided for them in a time of famine.What does it feel like to be given such an enormous gift?

Somehow I feel that their reaction is similar to my own when I stop to think about myrelationship with God. My ability to understand God’s gift to me, to process it and torespond is limited. Because of its enormity it is difficult for me to take in, yet because I amin need, I walk in the light of the gift every day, without being fully able to understand it. Iam sure the same was true for Joseph’s bothers. They needed to accept his help, born of hisforgiveness, in order to survive. I feel sure that it was quite some time before they came toreally understand it.

One way to begin understanding is to bring others into the presence of the gift, to share itand watch their amazement. And so it is during this season of Lent that we contemplate thegift. I encourage you to share it with others and invite them to stand in amazement withyou.

I

TODAY’S READINGSMorning Psalm: 78:1- 39Evening Psalm: 78:40-72Genesis 45:1-151 Corinthians 7:32-40Mark 6:1-13

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Wednesday, March 14

Thy word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path. (Psalm 119:105)

By Jeff Klieve

he above verse is from today’s Morning Psalm and it helps me to think of “thy word”as “God’s laws.” The passage reminds us about how God’s laws shape our lives andguides us in the choices we make and in what we do, albeit imperfectly on our end.

Some time ago in Men’s Bible Study, John Lange, our very able facilitator, posed thishypothetical question: “Would you still love and worship God if there was not the promiseof eternal life?” A very hypothetical and thought provoking question indeed, but I think Iwould. You see, I am a typical male who doesn’t like roadmaps, instruction manuals, orasking for directions, but when it comes to how I live out my life I need guidance. God’slaws ... including the 10 commandments and the teachings of Jesus ... provide me with apowerful compass that I can’t imagine living without. Indeed, the world would be a darkand scary place to me without it. That’s not to say that I’m always paying attention to thecompass, or that I know what the compass is trying to tell me, or when I do know, that Ifollow what the compass is telling me, but I know the compass is there for you and me, hasbeen for a long time and always will be.

Regarding the Men’s Bible Study mentioned above, it’son Thursday mornings at 6:30. I know that’s early, butit’s a time when other commitments of the day don’t getin the way and my mind is still relatively void ofcompeting thoughts. Please join a great group of guysexploring the meaning of God’s word together.

T

TODAY’S READINGSMorning Psalm: 119:97-120Evening Psalms: 81, 82Genesis 45:16-281 Corinthians 8:1-13Mark 6:13-29

26

Thursday, March 15

Taking the five loaves and the two fish, he looked up to heaven, and blessed and broke theloaves, and gave them to his disciples to set before the people; and he divided the two fishamong them all. (Mark 6:41)

By Ashleigh Kellogg

he disciples had been so busy sharing Jesus’ teachings that they hadn’t even had achance to eat. Jesus told them that they should go off by themselves and unwind fora bit. However, people saw them and recognized them and followed them. Jesus

began teaching and eventually the crowd numbered five thousand! After several hours, thedisciples wanted to tell the crowd to go into town and get some dinner, but Jesus ensuredthe disciples that they could feed the people with the five loaves of bread and two fish thatthey had. I’m sure you remember how this story ends.

How often have we felt that God was asking of us the impossible? How many times hasmerely being aware of God’s presence calmed our fears?

Consider our baptismal covenant. I will, with God’shelp. There is no obstacle that God wants us to tacklewithout his help. I was 21 when my beloved grandmapassed away very suddenly; this was the first real lossI’d experienced. The sadness was almost suffocating.Watching my family grieve was nearly unbearable. Iremember getting ready the day of the funeral and mydad and I discussed how we were kind of surprised that we were able to do what needed tobe done. The feelings of despair were very slowly lifting and what seemed impossible threedays ago was suddenly possible. My family clung to our wonderful memories of grandmaand moved forward, with God’s help.

Today, pray for God’s help to make even the most daunting of tasks doable. Let God’spresence restore your hope, bring you peace and allow Him to make the impossiblepossible.

T

TODAY’S READINGSMorning Psalms: 83 or 42, 43Evening Psalms: 85, 86Genesis 46:1-7,28-341 Corinthians 9:1-15Mark 6:30-46

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Friday, March 16

The righteous flourish like the palm tree, and grow like a cedar in Lebanon. They areplanted in the house of the Lord; they flourish in the courts of our God. In old age they stillproduce fruit; they are always green and full of sap, showing that the Lord is upright; heis my rock, and there is no unrighteousness in him. (Psalm 92:12-15)

By Larry Cornelius

ent is a time of reflection and preparation. This corresponds to my personal time oftransition. The Psalms lay out three ways of approaching and contemplating atransition in life.

Psalm 88 (Prayer for Help in Despondency) is a negative response. I can relate to thefeelings of anger and hurt. However, blaming God or anyone else is a cop out.

Psalm 91 (Assurance of God’s Protection) is not consistent with my personal beliefs and Ireject the notion that God’s Grace is a vaccine against all troubles. Bad things do happen togood people and all of us experience setbacks in life.

Psalm 92 (Thanksgiving for Vindication) is more on point. Ijust had a birthday so I like the part about the righteousflourishing and in old age still producing fruit, being greenand being full of sap. But more importantly this psalm isabout being joyful and thankful … being positive enables usto take matters into our own hands with God’s help andassurance.

The Genesis reading is where Joseph is righteous and faithful and succeeds when thosearound him are in despair. The reading from 1 Corinthian’s is about being flexible andwilling to fit into your surroundings to be more effective. Paul also encourages running therace wisely in order to win. In Mark Jesus is teaching by example and the disciples may notunderstand everything that is happening but certainly can see that following the Lord issomething comforting and good.

I pray that I can be righteous in my job search and not be angry or sad. I should not trustin some kind of divine intervention, but with God’s help I can reinvent myself to be strongerand to be focused on the prize. I hope to find myself in a better place through God’s graceand to be refreshed and reenergized.

L

TODAY’S READINGSMorning Psalms: 88Evening Psalms: 91, 92Genesis 47:1-261 Corinthians 9:16-27Mark 6:47-56

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Saturday, March 17

O give thanks to the Lord, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures for ever. O givethanks to the God of gods, for his steadfast love endures for ever. O give thanks to the Lordof lords, for his steadfast love endures for ever. (Psalm 136:1-3)

By Doug Edmonson

usic has been something of a late life experience for me. I played the trumpet injunior high school but had no formal vocal training until joining the St Martin’schoir in 2006. When we sing, we make a joyful noise and celebrate our Lord and

our savior, Jesus Christ. It is a joyful part of our worship service.

The Psalms were the music of our Hebrew forefathers.They were a lyrical praise of our Lord in music and prayer,often referring to coronations, weddings, thanksgivingsand praise. The complete Psalms consists of 150 songs andprayers, with frequent use of parallelism, using melodiesthat would have been well known by early congregations.

Psalm 136 is a lyrical song giving the history of the Hebrews with a repeat of the phrase “forhis steadfast love endures forever.” The Psalm starts out with “Give thanks to the Lord forhe is good and his steadfast love endures forever.” And if we follow the Lord in spreadinghis love to others, his steadfast love does endure through us and through others forever.How simple life would be if we could just follow this one principle. As Jesus told us, “Loveone another as yourself.” Isn’t this what Psalm 136 is saying? If we love and accept eachother unconditionally, aren’t we spreading the Lord’s steadfast love?

So let us sing the Lord’s praises every day of the week. Let us spread the Lord’s love byloving one another as our self. Let us make a joyful noise in our Sunday services and witheach and every person we encounter each day of our lives. If we do, His steadfast love willendure forever.

MTODAY’S READINGSMorning Psalms: 87, 90Evening Psalm: 136Genesis 47:27-48:71 Corinthians 10:1-13Mark 7:1-23

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Sunday, March 18

God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear,though the earth should change, though the mountains shake in the heart of the sea;though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains tremble with its tumult.(Psalm 46:1-3)

By Michael Wiles

hen I read Psalm 46 it made me believe that God was able to unify all of Hispeople and that he would never leave them because he loves his children. I thinkthat it is important to stop and look for God’s love in your own life. For example, I

find God’s love when I am stressed with school work, especially finals, but then when I usemy prayer coin He gives me peace of mind. At other times when I have physically pushedmy comfort level in sports I find God to be very present when I am most uncomfortable.My experience learning to scuba dive is a good example. It was frightening for me to thinkabout the depths I would be learning to dive at. I constantly thought about what might gowrong. When I jumped into the warm waters of the Florida Keys and saw the world Godcreated under the water I became relaxed. I was simply in awe of this magnificent creation

and knew God was there. I had a similar experience whilerepelling off a 150 foot cliff. Once I got over the edge I wasmore focused on the view from the cliff wall to the forestbelow than I was repelling down. I hope during the quiettime of Lent you are able to feel that God is with you and thatyou can feel the strength and peace that he brings in your life.This Psalm makes me think of Luther’s hymn “A mightyfortress” and that his strength is unending for each of us.

W

TODAY’S READINGSMorning Psalms: 66, 67Evening Psalms: 19, 46Genesis 48:8-22Romans 8:11-25John 6:27-40

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Monday, March 19

Therefore, my dear friends, flee from the worship of idols. I speak as to sensible people;judge for yourselves what I say. The cup of blessing that we bless, is it not a sharing in theblood of Christ? The bread that we break, is it not a sharing in the body of Christ? Becausethere is one bread, we who are many are one body, for we all partake of the one bread.(1 Corinthians 10:14-17)

By Sherrie Algren

n Paul’s letter to the Corinthians, he warns them to “flee from idolatry.” While we aregenerally not giving tribute to Greek gods, we are often giving time and tribute toworldly accomplishments. Having a strong work ethic, education, and common sense

gets one far in life. We accumulate money and prestige. How important is theaccumulation of money, power and status in God’s heavenly kingdom? Our work andaccomplishments should be viewed in the realm of God’s priorities, not human ones. Howmany people do we ignore or harm in the goal of betteringourselves?

Paul advises to “not seek your own advantage, but that ofothers.” If only we could live our lives by this golden rule,our needs would surely be met as we seek to meet theneeds of others. As I want my children to be kind to oneanother, so must God want his children to demonstratekindness to His creation.

I have taken comfort at St. Martin’s with the overwhelming kindness of the parishioners. 1Corinthians 10:17, “we who are many are one body, for we all partake of the one bread.”Holy Communion each week brings our priorities back to God and the body of the faithful.

I

TODAY’S READINGSMorning Psalm: 89:1-18Evening Psalm: 89:19-52Genesis 49:1-281 Corinthians 10:14-11:1Mark 7:24-37

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Tuesday, March 20

Make a joyful noise to the Lord all the earth. (Psalm 100:1)We are his people and the sheep of his pasture. (Psalm 100:3)For the Lord is good: his steadfast love endures forever (Psalm 100:5)

By Leanne Lyle

his has always been a favorite of mine. The phrase “make a joyful noise unto the Lordall the earth,” creates a feeling of celebration and acknowledges who God is in our lifeand to share it with the world. He is always with me, especially when I am in a

difficult or scary situation, I have come to know, that we truly are “His people and the sheepof his pasture,” when something bad happens.

The “aha” moment for me happened when our 11month old daughter, Amie, was stricken with acutemeningitis while we were living in remote northernMaine. After a harrowing 6 hour ambulance ride toBangor, despite all-out medical efforts for 3 weeks, shewas still not recovering. Doctors recommended brainsurgery to relieve an infection on her frontal lobe, butwhich could possibly do more damage.

As I sat in the darkness of a motel room crying, praying and fearing for our child, I feltunsure about the surgery. Suddenly I experienced an incredible sense of calm and peace. Iknew God was helping me to see clearly that we needed a second opinion. Fortunately, theUSAF “takes care of our own” and without delay a med-evac jet flew in and took us toBoston where they determined that surgery wasn't needed, just continued antibiotics. Sherecovered after 2 weeks, but the disease left her with some deficits, including deafness.

God continued to shepherd us as we faced a new world with a deaf child, special schooling -and Steve's diminished military career options. Despite all that, God's healing mercy andlove filled us with strength. Our family recovered and became more solid in our Faith. Hisfaithfulness encourages us to “make a joyful noise unto the Lord” every day, because he isalways present to guide us “for the Lord is good, His mercy endures forever and his faithendureth to all generations.” Amen!

T

TODAY’S READINGSMorning Psalms: 97, 99, 100Evening Psalms: 94, 95Genesis 49:29-50:141 Corinthians 11:17-34Mark 8:1-10

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Wednesday, March 21

Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of services,but the same Lord; and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God whoactivates all of them in everyone. To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for thecommon good. (1 Corinthians 12:4-7)

By Janis Greenbaum

here are certain terms and phrases we use in church that I especially love. One ofthose is “spiritual gifts.” Maybe that’s because I don’t always feel like I’m aparticularly “gifted” person. But I think I am drawn to these words because I am so

often amazed at the fabulous things I see other people do that I could never do myself.

In his First Letter to the Corinthians, Paul says, “Now there are varieties of gifts, but thesame Spirit; and there are varieties of services, but the same Lord; and there are varieties ofactivities, but it is the same God whoactivates all of them in everyone. To eachis given the manifestation of the Spirit forthe common good.”

I wish I could be a passionate and talenteddesigner like my oldest sister (whosebirthday is today). I wish I could dancelike my daughter, read music like my son or remember details like my husband. But howboring would my life be if I could have everything I wanted?! God has given all of ussomething special and unique to share with the rest of the world. I’ve found thatdiscovering my gifts is a wonderful journey. Finding a way to use those gifts is my mission.

The priest at our former church home in Florida once explained to me that the Holy Spirit isthe “verb” of the Trinity. The Spirit is what makes me want to take action, to bring my giftsto life. When I see other people doing fabulous things, I appreciate their gifts and amgrateful God has “activated” something equally fabulous in me and all those I love. TheSpirit is in all of us... and that is truly a gift.

T

TODAY’S READINGSMorning Psalms: 101, 109:1-4(5-19)20-30Evening Psalm: 119:121-144Genesis 50:15-261 Corinthians 12:1-11Mark 8:11-26

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Thursday, March 22

For just as the body is one and has many members, and all the members of the body,though many, are one body, so it is with Christ. For in the one Spirit we were all baptizedinto one body…. (1 Corinthians 12:12-13)

By Jane Klieve

very Sunday, as we send our Eucharistic Visitors out into the world, we express thisin the simple response to the Deacon’s words. We say, “We who are many are onebody, because we share one bread, one cup.”

As Paul taught us, we are the community of Christ. No matter how diverse we might be inlooks or profession or talents, we are unified in our faith. As a community, we recognizethat all parts are needed – none of us is superfluous. Each of us plays a role in building upthe body of Christ. Being present for and with each other is an amazing, faith enriching

experience. Our Eucharistic visitors haveshared compelling stories about their visits andthe ways in which their own lives have beentransformed by faithful members of ourcommunity who are not able to attend church inperson. Those conversations and experienceshave an impact on our entire community, notjust the people immediately involved.

All parts are needed to make the whole. I feel God’s presence in so many different ways inour St. Martin’s community. It gives me great joy to be one body with the smiling childrenwho lug the food basket to the altar on Sunday and the people who are visiting for the firsttime and the people who helped build this church.

We who are many are one body.

Thanks be to God.

E

TODAY’S READINGSMorning Psalm: 69:1-23(24-30)31-38Evening Psalm: 73Exodus 1:6-221 Corinthians 12:12-26Mark 8:27-9:1

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Friday, March 23

Then a cloud overshadowed them, and from the cloud there came a voice, ‘This is my Son,the Beloved; listen to him!’ Suddenly when they looked around, they saw no one withthem any more, but only Jesus. (Mark 9:7-8)

By Mike Kellogg

an you imagine being an apostle? I mean, you give up everything, and follow aroundthe person that you think is the Son of God. He’s teaching, and preaching, and youhave bought in. But then he starts talking about death. And not just death, but HIS

death. How can you believe that He is the Son of God if he is going to suffer and die? Andso you doubt.

Most Christians that I know have had the “D-word” creepin to their minds with respect to God at some point. Itseems that any time something doesn’t go our way, westart looking for answers. We may ask God why. We mayeven blame him. It’s natural, I think. But we have toremember that relying on God to take care of you is onething. Relying on God to cater to your every whim is quiteanother.

At least the apostles had God show up to tell them clearly and succinctly that Jesus wastruly the Son of God. We, on the other hand, have to have just a little more faith, and trustthat God knows what is best for us in the end.

Today, let us thank God for all the blessings that he has bestowed upon us withoutforgetting about the ones that we haven’t realized are blessings quite yet.

CTODAY’S READINGSMorning Psalm: 102Evening Psalm: 107:1-32Exodus 2:1-221 Corinthians 12:27-13:3Mark 9:2-13

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Saturday, March 24

When I was a child, I spoke like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child; whenI became an adult, I put an end to childish ways. For now we see in a mirror, dimly, butthen we will see face to face. Now I know only in part; then I will know fully, even as Ihave been fully known. And now faith, hope, and love abide, these three; and the greatestof these is love. (1 Corinthians 13:11-13)

By Mary Drastal

ears ago I had a supervisor that did many things I did not agree with. I felt that shewas manipulative and self-serving. Other teachers in my area felt similarly. Ifacilitated my department at the time and allowed others to gossip about her at

meetings. Of course, these things got back to her and she reprimanded me for allowingthem to happen. I did not feel responsible; I thought that if she were a better director, thiswould not have occurred. Other supervisors whose opinions I valued became aware of thesituation. I began to see how my actions not only hurt others, but me as well.

This experience became a crossroad for me. I realized how I had failed myself and I was notliving up to who I wanted to be. I knew I had to change so that I would never find myself in

this situation again. During this time ofreflection, I came across I Corinthians 13and decided to make it my model for living.I began to work at making praise my newlanguage. Criticism of others becametaboo. I measured my words and tried tospeak less. I ceased to dishonor others andstopped the practice of tallying wrongs

done to me. My life changed dramatically. Not only did I feel more positive, people weremore positive towards me. Many years have gone by since this revelation. 1 Corinthians 13has become my constant companion. It is often difficult to live up to and requires constantpractice. These words are my center and my compass, the structure of my life. I never wantto face another day without them. Praise is the language of love.

Y

TODAY’S READINGSMorning Psalms: 107:33-43, 108:1-6(7-13)Evening Psalm: 33Exodus 2:23-3:151 Corinthians 13:1-13Mark 9:14-29

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Sunday, March 25

Do not be conformed to this world…Rejoice in hope, be patient in suffering, persevere inprayer… (Romans 12:2 & 12)

By Leslie Pattengill

his chapter from Paul’s letter to the Romans is very “meaty.” It’s like Cliff Notes or a“How To” of Christian living. Paul acknowledges how difficult it is to change oldhabits-paganism, lawlessness and self-led choices.

Paul’s life is great example of transformation through God’sgrace. Paul rejoices in the knowledge that Christ died for us.The resurrection of Jesus was powerful and compelling toPaul’s conversion.

It can be the same for us. Grace is God’s free gift to us. Wecan’t earn it. When we open our hearts to God’s grace, everything changes. Opening ourhearts to God’s forgiveness and sacrifice of Jesus, we too are transformed by Christ’s love.This lesson we have to discover over and over. We’re human. We fall into old, comfortablehabits— conformed to this world.

As we persevere in prayer, we accept God’s free gift of grace. Through the sacraments weare renewed, recharged to be in the world, but not of it. Thanks be to God.

TTODAY’S READINGSMorning Psalm: 118Evening Psalm: 145Exodus 3:16-4:12Romans 12:1-21John 8:46-59

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Monday, March 26

But I trust in you, O Lord; I say, ‘You are my God.’ My times are in your hand; deliver mefrom the hand of my enemies and persecutors. Let your face shine upon your servant;save me in your steadfast love. (Psalm 31:14-16)

By Judy Harbaugh

rust in God. This phrase has been so powerful and helpful to me in my seventy yearsof life experiences. Life does not always go as you plan. The smooth road sometimesbecomes rocky. When problems arise, trust in God has repeatedly helped me through

thing beyond my control. Worry is counterproductive and a waste of energy.

God will give you strength. God will lead you along theright path. God will give you courage. The bottom lineis: TRUST IN GOD.

TTODAY’S READINGSMorning Psalm: 31Evening Psalm: 35Exodus 4:10-20(21-26)27-311 Corinthians 14:1-19Mark 9:30-41

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Tuesday, March 27

For God is not a God of confusion but of peace. (1 Corinthians 14:33)

By Mary Richardson

kay, I really had to laugh at the verse above, it seems so self evident. Here is what ishappening in Corinth, a city in Greece. Some Corinthians have gotten a little full ofthemselves for they have been given the gift of tongues. Clearly they think they are

superior to others, even those with the gift of prophesy. Now Paul thinks that speaking intongues is not very helpful if no one knows what you are saying. Prophesy can be betterbecause it edifies. An unbeliever will think you are mad if you speak in tongues but willlisten to someone who prophesies. Paul does not forbid speaking in tongues. But if youchoose to do so, Paul would suggest that one person speak at a time, preferably withsomeone to interpret, thus avoiding the totalchaos that the Corinthians are experiencingduring their church gatherings. This is the pointwhere Paul states that God would rather avoidthe confusion of everyone speaking at once, in alanguage that no one understands. “All thingsshould be done decently and in order.”(1 Corinthians 14:40)

Paul emphasizes in other letters, that we all have spiritual gifts, and that one is not betterthan another. God intends us to use these gifts wisely.

So the lesson for me, although I don’t happen to speak in tongues, which is fine by me, isnot to get so darn cocky. Humility is preferable.

O

TODAY’S READINGSMorning Psalms: 120, 121, 122, 123Evening Psalms: 124, 125, 126, 127Exodus 5:1-6:11 Corinthians 14:20-33a,39-40Mark 9:42-50

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Wednesday, March 28

Long ago I learned from your decrees that you have established them forever. Great peacehave those who love your law; nothing can make them stumble. (Psalm 119:152 & 165)

By Mary K. Heyde

he psalms, words and prayers of real people. So often I can identify with thepsalmists, or gain understanding. In many ways, the problems faced by those whowrote the psalms are similar to what I face in our modern culture.

It is comforting to realize that the word of God isalways there for us –eternally true. It is alsocomforting to understand that God wants us to knowHis word and lean on Him for help. The word of God isconstant. No matter what is happening around me,what is changing, the word of God lasts forever. I canreturn to it over and over. God will always be therewaiting and willing to accept me as I am.

Peace of mind seems hard to attain these days. There is much turmoil in the world. Thepsalms tell me God’s law is the source of peace. The Message paraphrases verse 165, “Forthose who love what You reveal, everything fits.” Those words carry power and comfort forme.

As I make my way in the world, God is there, with instructions. He is there to accept me andgive me chance after chance. He will not change His word. It is constant, eternally.

TTODAY’S READINGSMorning Psalm: 119:145-176Evening Psalms: 128, 129, 130Exodus 7:8-242 Corinthians 2:14-3:6Mark 10:1-16

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Thursday, March 29

I have calmed and quieted myself, I am like a weaned child with its mother; like a weanedchild I am content. (Psalm 131:2)

By Kurt Greenbaum

have not calmed and quieted myself. I am not like a weaned child with its mother. I amnot content.

In fact, I am plagued by doubts and concerns about becoming "that family" — the familythat never sits down long enough together to appreciate its members. Or I am too oftenstressed by the day's work, then I labor to put it behind me so I can be in the moment withthe people who love and care for me.

Psalm 131 is three short verses. These threedeclarative sentences cast the psalmist as a personof contentment, calm and faith — faith that his Lordhelps him handle the Big Things in his life, andbecause of that, he can be at peace.

But as I read Psalm 131, it looks to me like a statement of how the psalmist wishes things tobe, not as how they are.

If I can put my hope in the LORD — both now and forevermore — then my heart will not beproud, my eyes will not be haughty, I will not concern myself with great matters or thingstoo wonderful for me.

It reminds me of the charm I carry in my pocket every day. It's a small cross inscribed withthe Serenity Prayer. When I pull out a handful of change, the cross is in the palm of myhand, a reminder of that prayer, and the aspirational sentiment of Psalm 131.

Put your trust in the Lord. Then you may calm and quiet yourself.

I

TODAY’S READINGSMorning Psalms: 131, 132, 133Evening Psalms: 140, 142Exodus 7:25-8:192 Corinthians 3:7-18Mark 10:17-31

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Friday, March 30

But we have this treasure in clay jars, so that it may be made clear that this extraordinarypower belongs to God and does not come from us. (2 Corinthians 4:7)

By Rebecca Barger

n Paul’s time, it was not unusual to store treasures in clay jars because they wereordinary and inconspicuous so that no attention was drawn to them or to the preciouscontents held within. But, these earthen jars were not very sturdy; they were easily

cracked, chipped or broken. Consequently, it is hard for our 21st century minds tounderstand the reason behind the paradox of putting a treasure into something so fragile.

Looking deeper into the reading, we learn thetreasure Paul is referring to as being the Gospel ofJesus Christ. When preaching, Paul did not focus onhimself, but rather the life and ministry of Christ,often paralleling his own human frailty alongsideGod’s redeeming power. Amid his suffering, Paulreferred to his body as a clay “vessel” or jar that waseasily fractured and broken. For it was through

perseverance that Paul was able to demonstrate and underscored the strengthening powerthat could only come from God, thus revealing God’s splendor and glory.

We know that during our lives we will encounter trials and tribulations, afflictions andillnesses, which will affect and shape our lives. A solid faith foundation, the treasure of theGospel, offers us the hope, comfort and reassurance necessary to steer us through roughsituations and uncertain times. Therefore while pondering our lives metaphorically ascracked clay jars, we may well discover that these are the occasions when the renewingpower of God’s grace will illuminate through our fractures, offering light to a dispirited andshadowy world.

ITODAY’S READINGSMorning Psalm: 22Evening Psalms: 141, 143:1-11(12)Exodus 9:13-352 Corinthians 4:1-12Mark 10:32-45

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Saturday, March 31

As a deer longs for flowing streams, so my soul longs for you, O God. My soul thirsts forGod, for the living God. (Psalm 42:1-2)

By Michelle Trieschmann

When I began reading Psalm 42, I was immediately transported back to our church inSouth Florida. This is the church Ralph and I first regularly attended and became involvedin as a married couple, it was where as an adult I was baptized, confirmed and received intothe open arms of the Episcopal Church and it was where our children were baptized andbegan their journey in the life of the church community.

I grew up going to church. We always attended the local Baptist church, where my parentsstill go and the people of that church remain as close to me as family. It wasn’t where mytrue walk with God began, though. I participated and I prayed and I studied the Bible, but itwas at that small church in Florida where my soul really began to stir and hunger for a realrelationship with God. Below are the lyrics to a song that showed up occasionally duringworship there. From the first time I heard this song, it spoke to me. It put into words how Ifelt deep down, how I felt so at home in the Episcopal Church, a place where I felt my soulreally soar for the first time during worship. Lyrics based on Psalm 42, this song makes mewant to lift my palms to the heavens and sway with the music as my heart sings.

As the Deer (by Martin J. Nystrom, written in 1981)

As the deer panteth for the waterSo my soul longeth after You

You alone are my heart's desireAnd I long to worship You

You alone are my strength, my shieldTo You alone may my spirit yield

You alone are my heart's desireAnd I long to worship You

You're my friend and You are my brotherEven though You are a king

And I love You more than any otherSo much more than anything

I want You more than gold or silverOnly You can satisfy

You alone are the real joy giverAnd the apple of my eye

TODAY’S READINGSMorning Psalms: 137:1-6(7-9), 144Evening Psalms: 42, 43Exodus 10:21-11:82 Corinthians 4:13-18Mark 10:46-52

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Palm Sunday, April 1

Ten measures of beauty God gave to the world;Nine to Jerusalem, one to the rest.Ten measures of sorrow God gave to the world;Nine to Jerusalem, one to the rest.So pray for the peace,pray for the peace,pray for the peace of Jerusalem.(Paraphrase of Babylonian Talmud, Tractate Qiddushin, 48)

By The Rt. Rev. George Wayne Smith

n the three thousand years of its existence, armies have conquered Jerusalem someforty times. Everyone, it seems, wants to possess the Holy City, whose beauty capturesthe imagination. To stand on the Mount of Olives and to look west across the Kidron

Valley and then gaze upon Jerusalem itself is to see a wonder, a jewel shimmering in thedesert air. The Dome of the Rock lies in the near distance, the Dome of the ResurrectionChurch in the far distance. The two domes are exactly the same size and bring a pleasingsymmetry to the landscape, the expanse of which, built mostly from the world's mostdurable limestone, shines radiantly white. Such beauty.

In today’s reading from the gospel of Luke,neither dome had been built yet, that day whenJesus wept over Jerusalem. But its beauty andsorrow both stood in stark relief to him,especially as he glimpsed into the disastrousfuture coming soon.

Disaster and sorrow, however, do not get the lastword--not over Jesus, and not over the Holy

City. The wretched death on a cross claims the life of Jesus, but in raising Jesus from thisdisaster, God takes away the last word from death. Death, in all its stark reality, does notwin. The city of sorrow, over which Jesus once wept, and rightly so, becomes Revelation'scity of hope, with its vision of feasting and joy.

Sorrow does not win. Joy and beauty do.

I

TODAY’S READINGSMorning Psalms: 24, 29Evening Psalm: 103Morning: Zechariah 9:9-12Evening: Zechariah 12:9-11,13:1,7-9Morning: 1 Timothy 6:12-16Evening: Luke 19:41-48

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Monday, April 2

Then Peter remembered and said to him, ‘Rabbi, look! The fig tree that you cursed haswithered.’ Jesus answered them, ‘Have faith in God. Truly I tell you, if you say to thismountain, “Be taken up and thrown into the sea,” and if you do not doubt in your heart,but believe that what you say will come to pass, it will be done for you. So I tell you,whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.(Mark 11:21-24)

By Michelle Magee

hen I was asked to write a Lenten Devotional this year, the introvert from withincringed at the idea. But, for some reason the word “yes” came out of my mouth.After all, I told myself, life can’t fully be experienced unless you take some risks.

As I read through today’s scriptures, the abovereferenced passage from Mark’s gospel sparkedreflection on how I first experienced faith. Sure, Iwent to Catholic school and had religion class 5 daysa week and went to church on Sundays. I knew thedefinition of faith. But, upon reflection, myunderstanding of the concept of faith took shape as afifth grader. I came home from school one day, devastated by a group of not so nice girls. Itseemed like my mom was there just waiting, with the perfect solution. She promptly haveme a copy of Norman Vincent Peale’s “The Power of Positive Thinking” and a scapula towear around my neck to remind me that God was always with me. She also pointed outreferences in the book to two bible passages, which the author suggested repeating 10 timesa day.

• If God be for us, who can be against us? (Romans 8:31)• I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. (Philippians 4:13)

I repeated those passages and wore the scapula for the rest of the school year. As a kid, itfelt like I had this secret shield around me and everything would be okay. And it was.

My mother showed me the meaning of faith that day and many days throughout my life.That experience gave me an incredible gift, on a day that felt so devastating as a fifth grader.My hope is that I can pass on the gift, the way my mom did.

Lastly, is faith a risk? I went back to my first paragraph and believe it could also be saidthat, life can’t be fully experienced unless you have FAITH.

WTODAY’S READINGSMorning Psalm: 51:1-18(19-20)Evening Psalms: 69:1-23Lamentations 1:1-2,6-122 Corinthians 1:1-7Mark 11:12-25

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Tuesday, April 3

Turn, O Lord and deliver me: save me because of your unfailing love. The Lord has heardmy cry for mercy; The Lord accepts my prayer. (Psalm 6:4-6)

By Bev Weaver

he Bible gives examples of God’s compassion and mercy, from God’s sparing theNation of Israel after it had been stubborn and rebellious, to the way Christ forgavethe men who nailed him to the cross. Our faith teaches us to have a kind, open, and

loving spirit. Compassion and understanding are not always easy to give, but I have learnedthat nothing else makes the heart lighter or does so much to boost my sense of hope and

faith in God and other people. We have a wonderful model inour Lord, who was a friend to the meek and helpless andencouraged people to care about each other. One truth thatis important to me is that when we can bring compassionand comfort to others, this allows the world to see Jesusagain through us. The following is a statement I feel worthsharing:

Before you know compassion as the deepest thing inside - you must know sorrow as thedeepest thing inside yourself. Then it is only compassion that makes sense anymore.

… for we were so utterly, unbearably crushed that we despaired of life itself. Indeed, wefelt that we had received the sentence of death so that we would rely not on ourselves buton God who raises the dead. (2 Corinthians 1:8-9)

One thing that I know for sure is that the path to heaven runs through suffering. Throughthe sorrow of the world, through that certain challenge of doubt and pain, we have faith.God is love. God is in control. We have faith that God will wipe away every tear and replaceit with abundant joy.

TTODAY’S READINGSMorning Psalm: 6, 12Evening Psalm: 94Lamentations 1:17-222 Corinthians 1:8-22Mark 11:27-33

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Wednesday, April 4

Cast your burden on the Lord, and he will sustain you; he will never permit the righteousto be moved. But you, O God, will cast them down into the lowest pit; the bloodthirsty andtreacherous shall not live out half their days. But I will trust in you. (Psalm 55:22-23)

By Judi Batch

s I looked through the readings selected for today I felt that Psalm 55 spoke theloudest to me. This Psalm is a lament, perhaps prayed by the king, for divinedeliverance from his enemies and a longing for a place of safety in the wilderness

instead of the violent city. To make matters worse, a dear friend has also dealt unfairly withhim while pretending to be an ally, and that is even a deeper pain to bear. The plea is madethat his enemies “go down alive to Sheol” and have a premature death. The psalmist endswith the words “But I will trust in you.”

I don’t ever remember feeling like I was surrounded byenemies, but I certainly have had days whereeverything seemed to be going wrong. Sometimespeople have made things difficult by makingunreasonable requests or rules, and there have evenbeen times in my life when a friend violated aconfidence or acted in a way that caused our friendshipto end. I understand the hurt, and then the anger that follows, when things don’t seem fairor someone you cared deeply for betrays you. Fortunately, after the first flash of angersimmers down to a hurt, I change some of the nastier things I wished for in anger.

Most of us don’t hold such a powerful position as our psalmist the king. I am sure that hefeels like he has given his very best to the people he rules and now is feeling veryunappreciated to say the least. (I myself have felt that way during my “pity party”moments.) I can only imagine how disappointed our Lord must be at the times when webehave unkindly toward others, don’t appreciate him or the magnificent earth he has givenus, or the sacrifices he made so that we could spend eternity with him. God always listens toall of our pains, complaints and petitions, no matter how petty or foolish they may be. Heforgives us for the wrong things we say and do, and He is always only a prayer away. I toopray, “But I will trust in you”.

A

TODAY’S READINGSMorning Psalm: 55Evening Psalm: 74Lamentations 2:1-9, 14-172 Corinthians 1:23-2:11Mark 12:1-11

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Maundy Thursday, April 5

For those who eat and drink without discerning the body of Christ eat and drink judgmenton themselves. (Corinthians 11:30)

By William R. Wilkins

oday is Maundy Thursday; the day Jesus, via the Last Supper, provided his disciplesthe means to connect us all to one another and with God.

And what strikes me in the readings for the day, from the beginning to end is the conflict inloving God. It isn’t easy. Since the beginning when man realized his connection to theLord, humanity has been tested over and over.

Whether it is Abraham with his son, Joseph and thefate his brothers cast him into or David with his riseand eventual familial collapse, with Divine Favorcome Divine Trials.

It is no different when you read Mark. Here Jesusmust confront not only his service to the Lord and the

price he must pay, but he faces the knowledge of betrayal, disavowal and cowardice; fromthe men he loves and trusts most. And knowing this, he must willingly accept his fate if heis to save us all.

As both a Parent and Sunday School teacher, this quite a matter to explain. How can a Godwho loves and cares so much put people into these situations? My answer is that Faith is achoice. You do not come to Faith by reason. Nor do you come to Faith by having easy timesor selfish motivations.

Faith means realizing that even with all of our intellectual capacity, no matter how much welearn, being human means we truly understand little. And like doing the right thing, havingFaith is hard at times.

Nevertheless, when we are judged in this way by the Lord, we are being disciplined sothat we will not be finally condemned with the world. (Corinthians 11:32)

T

TODAY’S READINGSMorning Psalm: 102Evening Psalms: 142, 143Lamentations 2:10-181 Corinthians 10:14-17, 11:27-32Mark 14:12-25

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Good Friday, April 6

My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? Why are you so far from helping me, fromthe words of my groaning? O my God, I cry by day, but you do not answer; and by night,but find no rest. (Psalm 22:1-2)

By Helen Turner Murphy

avid was describing much agony and despair at the beginning of Psalms 22. He wasvery frightened, expressing fears that “something was wrong,” “that something badwas going to happen.” That “bad men” were going to harm him. He did not feel that

God was listening or going to protect him. He didn’t understand why God had helpedothers, but wasn’t responding to his cry for help. David then started to feel that he, himself,was worthless; only a worm. He recalled how others scorned and mocked him, saying thatif he believed in this God, then let this God help him.

David’s writings closely parallel thoughts andfeelings of Jesus during the period of hiscrucifixion. According to resources, it is notknown when David wrote this Psalm, but there isthought that this Psalm is someway describing theexperience of Jesus’ crucifixion.

The first twenty-one verses focus on the agonyand pain of David; the rest of the Psalm focuses on praises. David’s frustration had beenrelated to feeling that he hadn’t been heard by God; that God had forsaken him. But Davidcontinued in prayer until he knew that God had heard him, and answered him. At this time,David’s expressions of suffering turn to praising God.

David suffered, he prayed and God answered. Jesus did the same. He suffered in manyways before he died on the cross. Jesus prayed to God from Gethsemane, “My Father, if it ispossible, let this cup pass from Me, yet not as I will, but as Thou wilt.” Jesus also prayed inagony, “My God, My God why has Thou forsaken me?” possibly reflecting the desertionJesus felt as he was bearing the sins of the world. Jesus died for us, so that we might haveever-lasting life. Therefore we, too, sing praises to God.

D

TODAY’S READINGSMorning Psalms: 22Evening Psalms: 40:1-14(15-19), 54Lamentations 3:1-9,19-331 Peter 1:10-20Morning: John 13:36-38Evening: John 19:38-42

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Holy Saturday, April 7

Who has commanded and it came to pass, unless the Lord does not approve. Is it not fromthe mouth of the Most High that good and evil come? (Lamentations 3:37)

By Mary Richardson

ow many times have we all heard, “The God of the Old Testament is a God ofwrath?” I certainly believed it most of my life, until I began reading the OldTestament. These ancient books are filled with deeply moving expressions of God’s

love. He is always there. It is the people who turn away. God remains faithful, always andforever, even in the Old Testament. Why must God punish his people? The ancientsbelieved it was the only way to return them to the faith; it was the only way they got themessage.

Lamentations of Jeremiah is a powerful, beautifullywritten, and definitely a downer part of the Old Testament.I picture my favorite prophet, despised by the people andphysically battered, sitting at the gates of Jerusalem inutter despair. He had spoken God’s warning to repent tono avail. Jerusalem has been conquered by theBabylonians, inhabitants slaughtered or taken into slavery.The temple, the center of faith for the people, God’s

footstool, is in complete ruin. Does it get any worse? God must be a God of wrath andpunishment, who has utterly forsaken his people.

Out of the destruction of the temple, God’s people had to find a new way to live, worshipand understand God. The Scripture for the first time became the center of their connectionwith God. Out of the ashes of Jerusalem emerged a new way and a new understanding,which leads us to Jesus and Christianity. For Jesus did not come in a vacuum, he camefrom and was a part of all the traditions of the Old Testament. He knew the Scriptures,prayed them and his words were an extension of what was already there. The OldTestament God is not one of wrath, but a God of love for the whole world, forgiving andfaithful to his people.

H

TODAY’S READINGSMorning Psalms: 88Evening Psalm: 27Lamentations 3:37-58Morning: Hebrews 4:1-16Evening: Romans 8:1-11

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Notes:

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Upcoming Opportunities at St. Martin’s

Alternative Worship Service Saturdays 5:05 pm

Sunday Worship Service Sundays 8:00 am10:15 am

Christian Education (all ages) Sundays 9:00 am

Mid-Week Holy Eucharist Wednesdays 12:00 pm

Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper Tuesday, February 21 5:30-7:30 pm

Ash Wednesday Worship Service Wednesday, February 22 12:00 pm7:00 pm

Stations of the Cross Each Friday in Lent 6:00 pm(February 24-April 6)

Lenten Series Wednesdays in Lent 6:00 pm dinner“Discovering Christian Hospitality” (February 29-March 28) 7:00 pm program

Maundy Thursday Thursday, April 5 7:00 pm

Good Friday Friday, April 6 12:00 pm6:00 pm (Stations)7:00 pm

Holy Saturday Saturday, April 7 5:05 pm

Easter Vigil Saturday, April 7 7:00 pm

Easter Worship Service Sunday, April 8 7:30 am9:00 am10:15 am

St. Martin’s Episcopal Church15764 Clayton Road

Ellisville, Missouri 63011Phone: 636.227.1484 Fax: 636.227.1494

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