Lenten Devotional
Easter Sunday, April 17, 2022
Read: John 20:1-18
Jesus said, “Do not hold on to me, for I have not yet returned to my Father. Go instead to
my brothers and tell them I am returning to my father and to your father, to my God and your
God.
Today is the greatest day of celebration on the Christian Calendar. This is the day that
Christ was raised from the tomb. So we should be glad and rejoice in it. This is the day which
makes our faith so important, not just for First Church, but for the entire world.
As we read the Gospel narrative about Christ’s resurrection, we should make time to re-
pledge our hearts to him, re-connect our spirits to God and renew our hopes and dreams in Jesus,
our risen Savior and almighty Lord.
We are Easter people redeemed from our sins by Christ’s sacrifice and restored to God’s
everlasting kingdom by the power of Christ’s resurrection!
Christ Is Risen! He Is Risen Indeed!
Hallelujah!! Hallelujah!!
Rev. Dr. Yvonne Wallace-Penn
Senior Pastor
Saturday, April 16, 2022
Read: Matthew 27:57-66
Fake News
Even back in Jesus’ day they were fighting over the narrative and what “truths” would be told. By convincing Pilate to post a guard and seal the tomb, the Pharisees managed to give credence to the truth of Jesus’ resurrection rather than denying it as was their hope. In this day and age of Facebook, Instagram, Cable News, etc., etc. there is so much information - and misinformation - out there. I also find it is so easy to get into my own “silo” and only listen to the messengers that I agree with and hear the information I want to hear. During this time of Lent, I want to encourage all of us to take a break from social media and dial into prayer and Bible study. Let’s take this time to reflect on the real truths that God has to impart to each of us.
Martha Shrader
Good Friday, April 15, 2022
Read: John 18:25-28
Think about today if you will, the time when humanity kills their God! This dark day records the final words of Jesus. Scripture records seven last statements or the “Seven Last Words.” These words have been piercing, challenging, comforting and instructive for the followers of Christ.
“Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.” Jesus’ forgiveness of others was radical and to a degree never seen before. He forgave them in the midst of his persecution. Even more, he acknowledged that we were not responsible for this Crucifixion. Here our Lord is showing his mercy for us. Think about someone or something that has hurt you in the past. You took the time to pray that the Father forgive them. We must leave all judgment to God. Our job is offer forgiveness and mercy.
“I assure you, today you will be with me in paradise.” We love these words, especially when experiencing hardship and despair. Our Lord offers assurance and salvation to us daily, but especially on Good Friday. It gives me goosebumps to hear this offer of salvation by our Lord. It is in and through him we obtain everlasting life.
“Woman, behold your son.” The Lord gives us the responsibility of caring for our families. What a gift! Unity is long sought by all of us. We say it takes a village to raise a child, and indeed it does. Behold the human family.
“My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” In the business of this life, we are often abandoned by family, friends, colleagues and so forth. Jesus feels the sense of lossness of God in his human nature. It is the kind of despair we are all subject to when Satan enacts his program.
“I thirst.” This word demonstrates our Lord’s physical situation. What a meaningful statement. His thirst is more than physical. He continually seeks for the spiritual salvation of our souls. All of this is done out of his love for each of us. On this awful day, know that Jesus loves each of us thoroughly. On this Good Friday, we need to thirst for his salvation and love.
“Father, into your hands I commend my spirit.” These are the words that indicate we surrender ourselves to God. Through our ministries and our prayers we accomplish our absolution. When we surrender completely to God, we then, are beginning to trust him. We let him have control of our lives.
“It is finished.” God’s full redemption is completed here. God’s love for us is sustained, perfected and assumed. God has completed his plan. On Good Friday, we celebrate that completion. This spiritual statement from Jesus is one that affirms that his mission of the redemption of the whole world is accomplished. “It” refers to his perfect sacrifice of love offered for all of us. His death, which we commemorate today, is the perfect sacrifice which takes away the sins of all. What a gift! And what a sacrifice Jesus endured for us!
So today, on this Good Friday, it would be good if we spent the day pondering the reality of Jesus’ sacrifice. Try to understand what it was like for God to suffer and die. Contemplate what it was like for God, the creator of all things, to be put to death by those whom he created, to suffer at the hands of those whom he loved with a perfect love. Understanding Jesus’ sacrificial love will enable us to love as he did. It will enable us to love those who have hurt us and those who persecute us. His love is total. It is generous beyond description.
Lord, on this very special day, the First United Methodist Church family acknowledges your claim on our souls. This Good Friday symbolizes your plan for completeness for your people. You finished what you started by dying on the cross for our salvation and the salvation of the world. Help us to understand your love and to accept it into our lives. Remember us during this COVID period. Help us to forgive. May we invite you into our own darkness and incompleteness. Lord, we thank you for the gift of your precious blood, poured out for the salvation of the world. Jesus, we put our trust in you. Remember your church! Remember your people! Amen!
Rev. Donald E. Hamilton
Maundy Thursday, April 14, 2022
Read: John 13:1-17
Lent, a period of preparation before we celebrate the Lord’s resurrection at Easter; a period when we practice self-control and self-discipline through fasting; a period devoted to moderation, self-denial; a period when some eat sparingly, some give up watching TV, some give up eating their favorite candy, others give up telling lies (although as Christians we really should not tell any lies).
Lent, a period of sacrifice as we seek to follow Christ and make ourselves more in the image of Christ. I pray that even as we face the day to day trials and joys of living, we are aware of God’s love for us. God has given us instructions about how we should live, and how we should treat our brothers and sisters with love and care.
God is love, and they who worship him must worship him in spirit and truth. So let us strive each day, not just during this Lenten period, to be more like Christ.
God of love, as we go through this Lenten journey, purify and intensify our desire to serve and follow you. Let this journey be focused on grace, love, empathy, forgiveness and thankfulness. Help us to rid ourselves of negative attitudes and infuse positive attitudes within us and towards our brothers and sisters. Let us use this period to reflect, refocus and re-dedicate our lives to you. Amen.
Daphne Marke
Wednesday, April 13, 2022
Read: John 13:21-32
Jesus identified his betrayer (Judas Iscariot) in a tactful way and did not embarrass him. The disciples asked who was going to betray Jesus but he responded that it was to fulfill the scriptures ( verse 8). "He who eats bread with me has lifted up his heel against me." (Psalm 41:9)
After dipping the bread and giving it to Judas, Satan entered Judas. Jesus then told Judas to do what he must do quickly. After receiving the bread, Judas went out immediately and it was night. The disciples thought Judas had gone to give something to the poor, since he had the money box. After Judas left, Jesus said the son of man is glorified, and God is glorified in him. Since Jesus is one with God, God will glorify him immediately.
From Jesus's example, when we have to chastise someone, we can do it with love in a tactful way. We should not shame the person and make them feel worse or embarrassed. The events that preceded Jesus's death were to fulfill the scriptures and bring glory to God.
Heavenly Father, we thank you for sending Jesus to die on the cross and save us. We are unworthy and give you the glory and praise. Amen
Mfon Umoren
Tuesday, April 12, 2022
Read: John 12:20-36
This passage speaks about Jesus telling the crowd of people that his final time in this world is coming to an end soon. They must believe in all that he is telling them so they can prepare for what is to come. The crowd heard a voice speaking to Jesus from heaven and they began to wonder who was “the Son of Man.” Jesus tried to explain to them that the world that they know will be in darkness, for he is the light that will lead them out of the darkness. In verse 35, Jesus said “While you have the light, believe in the light, so that you may become the children of light.” Jesus left and hid from them so that they might ponder on what he told them.
Many times I have wondered about things that have happened in my life and why they happen to me. God has shown me that he is with me always and that I must listen and believe what is said even if I don’t understand why at that moment. When COVID 19 happened and I lost my job because of it, I realized that this was a test of my faith in what God was about to do in my life. And now I know that he was leading me to the place where I am now, a better life in a different way. I thank God for the many blessings that came out of believing, listening and waiting on his direction to which he was leading me. Yes, I had many questions, but I kept on believing in his word. That will always be there for me. If you truly believe in the Lord God, trust and have faith in him. He is the Lord of lords and can make everything right in your life. Thank God every day for what he has done in your life.
Virginia Stinson-Brown
Monday, April 11, 2022
Read: John 12: 1-11
Jesus said, “If any man serve me, let him follow me, for I am a light into the world, that
whoever believes in me should not abide in darkness.” We have heard from the law that Christ
remains forever and we should serve and give him all honor and praise.
Almighty and most merciful father, we ACT
Adore you for you are our forgiving father, we
Confess that we have sinned against you in thought, word and deed and, we
Thank you for your presence in our lives.
Look upon us all and our church, its leaders, members and staff that keep your house open
from day to day. Heal the sick, console the grieving and bring peace, love and unity amongst us,
your children, as we continue serving you, in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen, amen and amen.
Victor Metzger
Palm/Passion Sunday, April 10, 2022
Read: Luke 22:47-53
This scripture gives us a preview of what is to come. Today is Palm Sunday and Jesus makes his triumphant entry into Jerusalem riding on the back of a young donkey. The people are shouting “Hosanna” and waving palm branches. In just five days people will be shouting “crucify him.”
Today is called Palm/Passion Sunday. Some churches skip from today right to the celebration of the Resurrection next Sunday. We need to remember what happens during this week. The Luke scripture takes place in the Garden of Gethsemane on what is now known as Maundy Thursday. This started out as a violent confrontation between Jesus’ followers and those who came to arrest Jesus. In Luke, one of the disciples uses a sword and cuts off the ear of the slave. Jesus stops the violence and heals the slave.
We know the week that Jesus is facing but we celebrate his entry this Palm Sunday. Jesus the healer, Jesus the peacemaker, Jesus the savior - this is who we celebrate and try to live our lives as he wanted his followers to do.
Dear Lord, as we prepare to enter “Holy Week,” may we follow the path set before us. Show us how to be true followers of Jesus, the healer, peacemaker and our savior. Amen.
Donnalee Sanderson
Saturday, April 9, 2022
Read: Luke 22:14-28
Who Is Sitting at Your Table?
Luke tells of Christ’s walk of humility and Christ’s Last Supper, often referred to as the Passover Feast, with his Apostles. More significant is Christ’s revelation to his disciples that one of them will betray him. Jesus knew that his mission on earth would soon be over and he wanted to teach his disciples how to remember him when he was no longer with them. (v 15) “With desire I have desired, I have most earnestly desired, to eat this Passover with you before I suffer.” He knew it was to be the prologue of his sufferings and therefore he desired it because it was to his father’s glory and man’s redemption. Yet, knowing of his death which was to come and seated at the table with him was the one who will betray him. “But behold, the hand of him who betreys me is with me on the table.”
Have you ever been betrayed by a good friend? Can you imagine how Christ felt knowing that one of his disciples, who was a member of his inner circle, would betray him and cause his death? Yet, Christ welcomed him at his table to partake in Holy Communion with him.
He taught his disciples how to remember him when he was no longer with them. He asked them to drink of his blood which would soon be shed as an atonement for our sins. The breaking of the bread signals the breaking of his body as a sacrifice for us and was given to us to be food for our souls. Sounding the alarm that one who sits at the table would betray him, would trigger thoughts of the confusion that may have been at the table. The inquiry was not, Is it you? Or is it such a one? But is it?
“And this we do in remembrance of what he did for us.” Christ encourages us to remember him and to receive all that he has done for us by his sacrificial death. He wants to become our food, to keep our minds on his blood that was shed for us because he loved us and gave his life for us. As we continue to break the bread, we become one body in Christ not just with one another but also with God. He must be remembered because he alone can grant a transformed heart, spiritual life, the power to live a godly life and eternal life for all who believe.
Audrey Arthur
Certified Lay Minister
Friday, April 8, 2022
Read: Philippians 2:5-11
In verses 1-4 of Philippians 2, we are told how Jesus came into this world in man’s flesh in a lowly manger; not in a special hospital where everyone could have accorded him special treatment, for he was the son of the highest. He has all privileges to command everyone around, being the son of God. He chose to be humble, compassionate, not selfish always thinking about others before himself.
These passages are encouraging us to live a life like Jesus. The world of today really needs his way of life, because a lot of bad things happen all over the world. Powerful countries are waging war against small countries for control. Politicians are not bothered about how to house, feed homeless, control the pandemic, guns, young people’s insubordination. Rich always want to get richer at the expense of the poor. People doing everything possible to take away voting rights of some. Muslims and Christians are waging war against each other. Everyone hates everyone.
The passage is teaching us to be humble, caring, ready to help those who cannot help themselves, the poor, the sick, homeless and list goes on, Love one another, always willing to be our brothers’ keepers.
Sam Dina
Thursday, April 7, 2022
Read: Psalm 31:9-16
Here we are in a world turned upside down by a pandemic that requires each of us to wear protective wear and “socially” distance over the past two years. Many of us have felt overwhelmed about making decisions that require us to adjust to the ever-changing pandemic that brings with it a “new normal.” Many have been physically, mentally and spiritually affected, some often found themselves in a state of disconnect from the world, family and friends. Questions arose of: How do we adjust to being physically separated from even our church family? Where are the phone calls from loved ones or friends? How frustrated have we felt not being able to attend events and offer in person comfort: weddings, funerals, birthdays and bedside comfort? Why does the world keep spinning and there are times that the world seems to make us feel unbalanced and threatens to toss us about?
My brothers and sisters who believe in the living Christ, we trust and believe that God and God alone remains our anchor. There is enough of God for each of us. God’s mercy, love and grace remain sufficient for any trial or tribulation found today. Let us use the testimonies of our God’s power to build up our faith in God that promises to never leave, nor forsake us.
Our Omega and Alpha, the almighty creator of all things good, we give you thanks for your love and mercy that never ceases to cover us. You have an infinite amount of love for all who believe in you and the living risen Christ, who sits at your right hand. Let us remain grateful for your powerful love, shown in the perfect, precious blood of your only son our Savior Jesus Christ who redeemed us all. Lord steady us in these times, let us remember your power to conquer any weapon formed against. We are awakened in this Lenten season to your power to renew, refresh and strengthen us for any journey. God, we reach our hearts to you in glory, honor and praise. In Jesus’ precious name we pray. Amen.
Joyful
Latitia Felus,
Certified Lay Minister
Wednesday, April 6, 2022
Read: Isaiah 50:4-9
This passage tells how we begin to be and remain God’s people. When we are young, we have ears to listen to and pick up the word of God from our parents and those who teach us. When we are older we, in turn, have the tongue to pass this word on to those who need it and who will listen.
But this process is not automatic. The teacher gets a lot of guff and must be persistent. She/he gets help from the Lord in order to stand against the guff and those who can’t seem to listen. “..he who vindicates me is near. Who will contend with me? …It is the Lord who helps me; who will declare me guilty?”
Lord God our Father, help us in trying to be your people to be both listeners and teachers. Amen.
Jim Langworthy
Read: John 20:1-18
Jesus said, “Do not hold on to me, for I have not yet returned to my Father. Go instead to
my brothers and tell them I am returning to my father and to your father, to my God and your
God.
Today is the greatest day of celebration on the Christian Calendar. This is the day that
Christ was raised from the tomb. So we should be glad and rejoice in it. This is the day which
makes our faith so important, not just for First Church, but for the entire world.
As we read the Gospel narrative about Christ’s resurrection, we should make time to re-
pledge our hearts to him, re-connect our spirits to God and renew our hopes and dreams in Jesus,
our risen Savior and almighty Lord.
We are Easter people redeemed from our sins by Christ’s sacrifice and restored to God’s
everlasting kingdom by the power of Christ’s resurrection!
Christ Is Risen! He Is Risen Indeed!
Hallelujah!! Hallelujah!!
Rev. Dr. Yvonne Wallace-Penn
Senior Pastor
Saturday, April 16, 2022
Read: Matthew 27:57-66
Fake News
Even back in Jesus’ day they were fighting over the narrative and what “truths” would be told. By convincing Pilate to post a guard and seal the tomb, the Pharisees managed to give credence to the truth of Jesus’ resurrection rather than denying it as was their hope. In this day and age of Facebook, Instagram, Cable News, etc., etc. there is so much information - and misinformation - out there. I also find it is so easy to get into my own “silo” and only listen to the messengers that I agree with and hear the information I want to hear. During this time of Lent, I want to encourage all of us to take a break from social media and dial into prayer and Bible study. Let’s take this time to reflect on the real truths that God has to impart to each of us.
Martha Shrader
Good Friday, April 15, 2022
Read: John 18:25-28
Think about today if you will, the time when humanity kills their God! This dark day records the final words of Jesus. Scripture records seven last statements or the “Seven Last Words.” These words have been piercing, challenging, comforting and instructive for the followers of Christ.
“Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.” Jesus’ forgiveness of others was radical and to a degree never seen before. He forgave them in the midst of his persecution. Even more, he acknowledged that we were not responsible for this Crucifixion. Here our Lord is showing his mercy for us. Think about someone or something that has hurt you in the past. You took the time to pray that the Father forgive them. We must leave all judgment to God. Our job is offer forgiveness and mercy.
“I assure you, today you will be with me in paradise.” We love these words, especially when experiencing hardship and despair. Our Lord offers assurance and salvation to us daily, but especially on Good Friday. It gives me goosebumps to hear this offer of salvation by our Lord. It is in and through him we obtain everlasting life.
“Woman, behold your son.” The Lord gives us the responsibility of caring for our families. What a gift! Unity is long sought by all of us. We say it takes a village to raise a child, and indeed it does. Behold the human family.
“My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” In the business of this life, we are often abandoned by family, friends, colleagues and so forth. Jesus feels the sense of lossness of God in his human nature. It is the kind of despair we are all subject to when Satan enacts his program.
“I thirst.” This word demonstrates our Lord’s physical situation. What a meaningful statement. His thirst is more than physical. He continually seeks for the spiritual salvation of our souls. All of this is done out of his love for each of us. On this awful day, know that Jesus loves each of us thoroughly. On this Good Friday, we need to thirst for his salvation and love.
“Father, into your hands I commend my spirit.” These are the words that indicate we surrender ourselves to God. Through our ministries and our prayers we accomplish our absolution. When we surrender completely to God, we then, are beginning to trust him. We let him have control of our lives.
“It is finished.” God’s full redemption is completed here. God’s love for us is sustained, perfected and assumed. God has completed his plan. On Good Friday, we celebrate that completion. This spiritual statement from Jesus is one that affirms that his mission of the redemption of the whole world is accomplished. “It” refers to his perfect sacrifice of love offered for all of us. His death, which we commemorate today, is the perfect sacrifice which takes away the sins of all. What a gift! And what a sacrifice Jesus endured for us!
So today, on this Good Friday, it would be good if we spent the day pondering the reality of Jesus’ sacrifice. Try to understand what it was like for God to suffer and die. Contemplate what it was like for God, the creator of all things, to be put to death by those whom he created, to suffer at the hands of those whom he loved with a perfect love. Understanding Jesus’ sacrificial love will enable us to love as he did. It will enable us to love those who have hurt us and those who persecute us. His love is total. It is generous beyond description.
Lord, on this very special day, the First United Methodist Church family acknowledges your claim on our souls. This Good Friday symbolizes your plan for completeness for your people. You finished what you started by dying on the cross for our salvation and the salvation of the world. Help us to understand your love and to accept it into our lives. Remember us during this COVID period. Help us to forgive. May we invite you into our own darkness and incompleteness. Lord, we thank you for the gift of your precious blood, poured out for the salvation of the world. Jesus, we put our trust in you. Remember your church! Remember your people! Amen!
Rev. Donald E. Hamilton
Maundy Thursday, April 14, 2022
Read: John 13:1-17
Lent, a period of preparation before we celebrate the Lord’s resurrection at Easter; a period when we practice self-control and self-discipline through fasting; a period devoted to moderation, self-denial; a period when some eat sparingly, some give up watching TV, some give up eating their favorite candy, others give up telling lies (although as Christians we really should not tell any lies).
Lent, a period of sacrifice as we seek to follow Christ and make ourselves more in the image of Christ. I pray that even as we face the day to day trials and joys of living, we are aware of God’s love for us. God has given us instructions about how we should live, and how we should treat our brothers and sisters with love and care.
God is love, and they who worship him must worship him in spirit and truth. So let us strive each day, not just during this Lenten period, to be more like Christ.
God of love, as we go through this Lenten journey, purify and intensify our desire to serve and follow you. Let this journey be focused on grace, love, empathy, forgiveness and thankfulness. Help us to rid ourselves of negative attitudes and infuse positive attitudes within us and towards our brothers and sisters. Let us use this period to reflect, refocus and re-dedicate our lives to you. Amen.
Daphne Marke
Wednesday, April 13, 2022
Read: John 13:21-32
Jesus identified his betrayer (Judas Iscariot) in a tactful way and did not embarrass him. The disciples asked who was going to betray Jesus but he responded that it was to fulfill the scriptures ( verse 8). "He who eats bread with me has lifted up his heel against me." (Psalm 41:9)
After dipping the bread and giving it to Judas, Satan entered Judas. Jesus then told Judas to do what he must do quickly. After receiving the bread, Judas went out immediately and it was night. The disciples thought Judas had gone to give something to the poor, since he had the money box. After Judas left, Jesus said the son of man is glorified, and God is glorified in him. Since Jesus is one with God, God will glorify him immediately.
From Jesus's example, when we have to chastise someone, we can do it with love in a tactful way. We should not shame the person and make them feel worse or embarrassed. The events that preceded Jesus's death were to fulfill the scriptures and bring glory to God.
Heavenly Father, we thank you for sending Jesus to die on the cross and save us. We are unworthy and give you the glory and praise. Amen
Mfon Umoren
Tuesday, April 12, 2022
Read: John 12:20-36
This passage speaks about Jesus telling the crowd of people that his final time in this world is coming to an end soon. They must believe in all that he is telling them so they can prepare for what is to come. The crowd heard a voice speaking to Jesus from heaven and they began to wonder who was “the Son of Man.” Jesus tried to explain to them that the world that they know will be in darkness, for he is the light that will lead them out of the darkness. In verse 35, Jesus said “While you have the light, believe in the light, so that you may become the children of light.” Jesus left and hid from them so that they might ponder on what he told them.
Many times I have wondered about things that have happened in my life and why they happen to me. God has shown me that he is with me always and that I must listen and believe what is said even if I don’t understand why at that moment. When COVID 19 happened and I lost my job because of it, I realized that this was a test of my faith in what God was about to do in my life. And now I know that he was leading me to the place where I am now, a better life in a different way. I thank God for the many blessings that came out of believing, listening and waiting on his direction to which he was leading me. Yes, I had many questions, but I kept on believing in his word. That will always be there for me. If you truly believe in the Lord God, trust and have faith in him. He is the Lord of lords and can make everything right in your life. Thank God every day for what he has done in your life.
Virginia Stinson-Brown
Monday, April 11, 2022
Read: John 12: 1-11
Jesus said, “If any man serve me, let him follow me, for I am a light into the world, that
whoever believes in me should not abide in darkness.” We have heard from the law that Christ
remains forever and we should serve and give him all honor and praise.
Almighty and most merciful father, we ACT
Adore you for you are our forgiving father, we
Confess that we have sinned against you in thought, word and deed and, we
Thank you for your presence in our lives.
Look upon us all and our church, its leaders, members and staff that keep your house open
from day to day. Heal the sick, console the grieving and bring peace, love and unity amongst us,
your children, as we continue serving you, in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen, amen and amen.
Victor Metzger
Palm/Passion Sunday, April 10, 2022
Read: Luke 22:47-53
This scripture gives us a preview of what is to come. Today is Palm Sunday and Jesus makes his triumphant entry into Jerusalem riding on the back of a young donkey. The people are shouting “Hosanna” and waving palm branches. In just five days people will be shouting “crucify him.”
Today is called Palm/Passion Sunday. Some churches skip from today right to the celebration of the Resurrection next Sunday. We need to remember what happens during this week. The Luke scripture takes place in the Garden of Gethsemane on what is now known as Maundy Thursday. This started out as a violent confrontation between Jesus’ followers and those who came to arrest Jesus. In Luke, one of the disciples uses a sword and cuts off the ear of the slave. Jesus stops the violence and heals the slave.
We know the week that Jesus is facing but we celebrate his entry this Palm Sunday. Jesus the healer, Jesus the peacemaker, Jesus the savior - this is who we celebrate and try to live our lives as he wanted his followers to do.
Dear Lord, as we prepare to enter “Holy Week,” may we follow the path set before us. Show us how to be true followers of Jesus, the healer, peacemaker and our savior. Amen.
Donnalee Sanderson
Saturday, April 9, 2022
Read: Luke 22:14-28
Who Is Sitting at Your Table?
Luke tells of Christ’s walk of humility and Christ’s Last Supper, often referred to as the Passover Feast, with his Apostles. More significant is Christ’s revelation to his disciples that one of them will betray him. Jesus knew that his mission on earth would soon be over and he wanted to teach his disciples how to remember him when he was no longer with them. (v 15) “With desire I have desired, I have most earnestly desired, to eat this Passover with you before I suffer.” He knew it was to be the prologue of his sufferings and therefore he desired it because it was to his father’s glory and man’s redemption. Yet, knowing of his death which was to come and seated at the table with him was the one who will betray him. “But behold, the hand of him who betreys me is with me on the table.”
Have you ever been betrayed by a good friend? Can you imagine how Christ felt knowing that one of his disciples, who was a member of his inner circle, would betray him and cause his death? Yet, Christ welcomed him at his table to partake in Holy Communion with him.
He taught his disciples how to remember him when he was no longer with them. He asked them to drink of his blood which would soon be shed as an atonement for our sins. The breaking of the bread signals the breaking of his body as a sacrifice for us and was given to us to be food for our souls. Sounding the alarm that one who sits at the table would betray him, would trigger thoughts of the confusion that may have been at the table. The inquiry was not, Is it you? Or is it such a one? But is it?
“And this we do in remembrance of what he did for us.” Christ encourages us to remember him and to receive all that he has done for us by his sacrificial death. He wants to become our food, to keep our minds on his blood that was shed for us because he loved us and gave his life for us. As we continue to break the bread, we become one body in Christ not just with one another but also with God. He must be remembered because he alone can grant a transformed heart, spiritual life, the power to live a godly life and eternal life for all who believe.
Audrey Arthur
Certified Lay Minister
Friday, April 8, 2022
Read: Philippians 2:5-11
In verses 1-4 of Philippians 2, we are told how Jesus came into this world in man’s flesh in a lowly manger; not in a special hospital where everyone could have accorded him special treatment, for he was the son of the highest. He has all privileges to command everyone around, being the son of God. He chose to be humble, compassionate, not selfish always thinking about others before himself.
These passages are encouraging us to live a life like Jesus. The world of today really needs his way of life, because a lot of bad things happen all over the world. Powerful countries are waging war against small countries for control. Politicians are not bothered about how to house, feed homeless, control the pandemic, guns, young people’s insubordination. Rich always want to get richer at the expense of the poor. People doing everything possible to take away voting rights of some. Muslims and Christians are waging war against each other. Everyone hates everyone.
The passage is teaching us to be humble, caring, ready to help those who cannot help themselves, the poor, the sick, homeless and list goes on, Love one another, always willing to be our brothers’ keepers.
Sam Dina
Thursday, April 7, 2022
Read: Psalm 31:9-16
Here we are in a world turned upside down by a pandemic that requires each of us to wear protective wear and “socially” distance over the past two years. Many of us have felt overwhelmed about making decisions that require us to adjust to the ever-changing pandemic that brings with it a “new normal.” Many have been physically, mentally and spiritually affected, some often found themselves in a state of disconnect from the world, family and friends. Questions arose of: How do we adjust to being physically separated from even our church family? Where are the phone calls from loved ones or friends? How frustrated have we felt not being able to attend events and offer in person comfort: weddings, funerals, birthdays and bedside comfort? Why does the world keep spinning and there are times that the world seems to make us feel unbalanced and threatens to toss us about?
My brothers and sisters who believe in the living Christ, we trust and believe that God and God alone remains our anchor. There is enough of God for each of us. God’s mercy, love and grace remain sufficient for any trial or tribulation found today. Let us use the testimonies of our God’s power to build up our faith in God that promises to never leave, nor forsake us.
Our Omega and Alpha, the almighty creator of all things good, we give you thanks for your love and mercy that never ceases to cover us. You have an infinite amount of love for all who believe in you and the living risen Christ, who sits at your right hand. Let us remain grateful for your powerful love, shown in the perfect, precious blood of your only son our Savior Jesus Christ who redeemed us all. Lord steady us in these times, let us remember your power to conquer any weapon formed against. We are awakened in this Lenten season to your power to renew, refresh and strengthen us for any journey. God, we reach our hearts to you in glory, honor and praise. In Jesus’ precious name we pray. Amen.
Joyful
Latitia Felus,
Certified Lay Minister
Wednesday, April 6, 2022
Read: Isaiah 50:4-9
This passage tells how we begin to be and remain God’s people. When we are young, we have ears to listen to and pick up the word of God from our parents and those who teach us. When we are older we, in turn, have the tongue to pass this word on to those who need it and who will listen.
But this process is not automatic. The teacher gets a lot of guff and must be persistent. She/he gets help from the Lord in order to stand against the guff and those who can’t seem to listen. “..he who vindicates me is near. Who will contend with me? …It is the Lord who helps me; who will declare me guilty?”
Lord God our Father, help us in trying to be your people to be both listeners and teachers. Amen.
Jim Langworthy
Tuesday, April 5, 2022
Read: Psalm 118:1-2, 19-29
Psalm118 begins and ends with the declaration that the Lord is good and his love endures forever. This declaration recognizes that the goodness of God is at the end of all things. We are called to declare his never-ending love and mercy. In addition, all praise and thanks should be given to God because God is the gate through which we can be saved, and the door is opened for all through faith in God. All we have to do is to open up to God, who promised to be with us at all times and God will be there.
In spite of the difficulties we may face, if we have faith, love, and trust in the Lord, he will give us strength to face every trial with courage. Our prayers will be answered and we will experience victory. So, no matter what you may be facing, be confident in God’s unchanging love for you. You may be tempted to put your trust in men or earthly things but know that God will always deliver if you trust and wait on him.
Father God, we praise and thank you for loving us. Help us always to remember that we are covered by your love, and you will never leave or forsake us. Amen.
Agnes Beache
Read: Psalm 118:1-2, 19-29
Psalm118 begins and ends with the declaration that the Lord is good and his love endures forever. This declaration recognizes that the goodness of God is at the end of all things. We are called to declare his never-ending love and mercy. In addition, all praise and thanks should be given to God because God is the gate through which we can be saved, and the door is opened for all through faith in God. All we have to do is to open up to God, who promised to be with us at all times and God will be there.
In spite of the difficulties we may face, if we have faith, love, and trust in the Lord, he will give us strength to face every trial with courage. Our prayers will be answered and we will experience victory. So, no matter what you may be facing, be confident in God’s unchanging love for you. You may be tempted to put your trust in men or earthly things but know that God will always deliver if you trust and wait on him.
Father God, we praise and thank you for loving us. Help us always to remember that we are covered by your love, and you will never leave or forsake us. Amen.
Agnes Beache
Monday, April 4, 2022
Read: Luke 19:28-40
Jesus’s Triumphant Entry into Jerusalem
In this passage Jesus is making preparations for his final confrontations with the Pharisees and Sadducees who have consistently challenged his claim of being the Messiah, despite his teachings and modeling of God’s prescribed behaviors for eternal life. Jesus’s preparations include sending two disciples to the village to bring him a colt which is tied to a rail and has never been ridden. If anyone (especially the owners) questions their taking of the colt, they are to tell them, “The Lord needs it.” The two disciples found the colt and its owners, as Jesus had told them they would, and gave the owners the response that Jesus had told them to say if they were questioned for taking the colt. After receiving the colt from the owners, they brought the colt to Jesus, covered the colt with their cloaks, and set Jesus on it.
Jesus’s ride through the village attracted people who spread their cloaks on the road before him, and they sang loud songs of praise which acknowledged Jesus as “king.” These triumphant actions drew criticism from the Pharisees who ordered Jesus to stop his followers from shouting out these titles of honor and praise. Jesus’s response indicated had the people not responded in this manner, the “stones” would shout out instead. If stones could honor Jesus as the son of God, Savior of the world, and king of kings, why couldn’t the Pharisees and other religious leaders of the time recognize Jesus as God’s unique and life-saving gift to mankind?
Perhaps the reason for the Pharisees’ rejection of Jesus lies in their personal perceptions of what the savior and king of kings should be. They did not expect a carpenter born of lowly birth to be the one who would save mankind from its self-destruction and God’s rejection for life eternal. Because they had failed to recognize God on earth, they sealed their exclusion from God’s heavenly kingdom and life eternal.
Heavenly Father, help us to understand that the only way mankind can know you is to have a trusting and lasting relationship with Jesus whom You sent to show us the way to life eternal. Help us to shout out our praise and honor to you for everything you give us. Amen
Deborah Pleasant
Fifth Sunday in Lent, April 3, 2022
Read: John 12:1-8
In So Doing, We Are Blessed
Many start the year with resolutions toward frugality, learning to count the cost of all that we possess to live in comfort and safety. In John 12, we find one who counts the cost in a different way. The disciples are taking the time to have dinner with Jesus, just six days before Passover- when according to tradition would have been a time of preparation, to ‘remove uncleanliness before Passover’ (John 11:55-57).
This gathering was special however as we have just learned of the miracle of Jesus restoring Lazarus back to life. Mary recognized that she possessed an expensive jar of perfume, and to her, living in safety meant to count the cost of the precious life before her. She knelt before Jesus to bathe his feet with her hair. Judas abruptly criticizes Mary. Yet Jesus recognized the deceit in Judas’ heart, not one of charity but one of duplicity. Mary, knowing the cost of the spikenard, delighted in the priceless service of our Lord. Jesus, who would take Mary’s prostrate devotion to heart, likewise washed the feet of the disciples in the next chapter of John declaring “…Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them.”(John 13:14-17) reminding them to serve one another as he had exampled.
Mary became an instrument of God in pouring out the fragrant oil, symbolizing how Jesus poured out his love, redeeming her brother Lazarus, redeeming and saving us all. The cost, that the Holy One deserves a fragrant offering, yet desires us to cleanse one another with same witness he lived and taught, as he has promised in so doing, we are blessed.
Loving God, as we count the cost of you who died for us, has risen, and will come again to judge how we love one another and to liberate us from earthly suffering, may we seek our redeemer, almighty God, each day that we may we be blessed in living your example. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Marci Matthews
Saturday, April 2, 2022
Read: Philippians 3:12-14
Forgetting What Is Behind
Today, many of us are living under the shadow of our past. I talked with a friend recently and all he could talk about were his missed opportunities, failed dreams, whether he can ever recover for lost years considering his age. Perhaps, you feel the same way. To let go your past, remember Apostle Paul’s message to the Philippians. We can look at our past, learn from our past, but we can’t live in our past.
We must give our past to Jesus Christ let him take care of that. There are things we must forget from our yesterdays: our defeats, our failures, and those missed opportunities. When it comes to these adversaries, we must forget them and let God heal us of those hurts. Perhaps there are friends and family members who will occasionally bring up our past mistakes. Just ignore them and focus on Jesus our redeemer: “and straining toward what is ahead…” (v. 13).
If Paul who imprisoned and killed many Christians can move forward, through Jesus Christ, so can we! We can’t live off of yesterday’s blessing or yesterday’s strength either. The “good old days” are today! We have to live one day at a time and focus on what God is doing right now. Paul confesses that he has not arrived (v.12). If he wrote 13 books of the Bible and had not arrived, certainly God is not through with any of us. God has more for us! Let’s look ahead expectantly for what God wants to do in our lives!
Oh Lord, please free us from our past and give us the strength to look ahead expectantly for what you want to do in our lives! In Jesus Christ we pray. Amen
Dipo Ogunrinde
Read: Luke 19:28-40
Jesus’s Triumphant Entry into Jerusalem
In this passage Jesus is making preparations for his final confrontations with the Pharisees and Sadducees who have consistently challenged his claim of being the Messiah, despite his teachings and modeling of God’s prescribed behaviors for eternal life. Jesus’s preparations include sending two disciples to the village to bring him a colt which is tied to a rail and has never been ridden. If anyone (especially the owners) questions their taking of the colt, they are to tell them, “The Lord needs it.” The two disciples found the colt and its owners, as Jesus had told them they would, and gave the owners the response that Jesus had told them to say if they were questioned for taking the colt. After receiving the colt from the owners, they brought the colt to Jesus, covered the colt with their cloaks, and set Jesus on it.
Jesus’s ride through the village attracted people who spread their cloaks on the road before him, and they sang loud songs of praise which acknowledged Jesus as “king.” These triumphant actions drew criticism from the Pharisees who ordered Jesus to stop his followers from shouting out these titles of honor and praise. Jesus’s response indicated had the people not responded in this manner, the “stones” would shout out instead. If stones could honor Jesus as the son of God, Savior of the world, and king of kings, why couldn’t the Pharisees and other religious leaders of the time recognize Jesus as God’s unique and life-saving gift to mankind?
Perhaps the reason for the Pharisees’ rejection of Jesus lies in their personal perceptions of what the savior and king of kings should be. They did not expect a carpenter born of lowly birth to be the one who would save mankind from its self-destruction and God’s rejection for life eternal. Because they had failed to recognize God on earth, they sealed their exclusion from God’s heavenly kingdom and life eternal.
Heavenly Father, help us to understand that the only way mankind can know you is to have a trusting and lasting relationship with Jesus whom You sent to show us the way to life eternal. Help us to shout out our praise and honor to you for everything you give us. Amen
Deborah Pleasant
Fifth Sunday in Lent, April 3, 2022
Read: John 12:1-8
In So Doing, We Are Blessed
Many start the year with resolutions toward frugality, learning to count the cost of all that we possess to live in comfort and safety. In John 12, we find one who counts the cost in a different way. The disciples are taking the time to have dinner with Jesus, just six days before Passover- when according to tradition would have been a time of preparation, to ‘remove uncleanliness before Passover’ (John 11:55-57).
This gathering was special however as we have just learned of the miracle of Jesus restoring Lazarus back to life. Mary recognized that she possessed an expensive jar of perfume, and to her, living in safety meant to count the cost of the precious life before her. She knelt before Jesus to bathe his feet with her hair. Judas abruptly criticizes Mary. Yet Jesus recognized the deceit in Judas’ heart, not one of charity but one of duplicity. Mary, knowing the cost of the spikenard, delighted in the priceless service of our Lord. Jesus, who would take Mary’s prostrate devotion to heart, likewise washed the feet of the disciples in the next chapter of John declaring “…Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them.”(John 13:14-17) reminding them to serve one another as he had exampled.
Mary became an instrument of God in pouring out the fragrant oil, symbolizing how Jesus poured out his love, redeeming her brother Lazarus, redeeming and saving us all. The cost, that the Holy One deserves a fragrant offering, yet desires us to cleanse one another with same witness he lived and taught, as he has promised in so doing, we are blessed.
Loving God, as we count the cost of you who died for us, has risen, and will come again to judge how we love one another and to liberate us from earthly suffering, may we seek our redeemer, almighty God, each day that we may we be blessed in living your example. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Marci Matthews
Saturday, April 2, 2022
Read: Philippians 3:12-14
Forgetting What Is Behind
Today, many of us are living under the shadow of our past. I talked with a friend recently and all he could talk about were his missed opportunities, failed dreams, whether he can ever recover for lost years considering his age. Perhaps, you feel the same way. To let go your past, remember Apostle Paul’s message to the Philippians. We can look at our past, learn from our past, but we can’t live in our past.
We must give our past to Jesus Christ let him take care of that. There are things we must forget from our yesterdays: our defeats, our failures, and those missed opportunities. When it comes to these adversaries, we must forget them and let God heal us of those hurts. Perhaps there are friends and family members who will occasionally bring up our past mistakes. Just ignore them and focus on Jesus our redeemer: “and straining toward what is ahead…” (v. 13).
If Paul who imprisoned and killed many Christians can move forward, through Jesus Christ, so can we! We can’t live off of yesterday’s blessing or yesterday’s strength either. The “good old days” are today! We have to live one day at a time and focus on what God is doing right now. Paul confesses that he has not arrived (v.12). If he wrote 13 books of the Bible and had not arrived, certainly God is not through with any of us. God has more for us! Let’s look ahead expectantly for what God wants to do in our lives!
Oh Lord, please free us from our past and give us the strength to look ahead expectantly for what you want to do in our lives! In Jesus Christ we pray. Amen
Dipo Ogunrinde
Friday, April 1, 2022
Read: Philippians 3:7-11
Many people focus on the past - they tend to focus on things that are unchangeable. However, the Apostle Paul emphasizes that what matters more is knowing Jesus Christ. He also said anything that would keep us from knowing Christ should be thrown away. Paul had everything, but considered them to be valueless. These things were worthless to him when compared to knowing Jesus.
The way we can view our lives from this perspective is to know how valuable Jesus Christ is to us. When we go through rough times, Jesus Christ invites us to get closer to him, so that we can build a strong relationship with him and continue to know him more.
We should not dwell on the material things and the things we have gained and lost in this life. Jesus is the center of it all. We must remember that he is preparing us to be like him. The Bible tells us that if we suffer with Jesus, we will reign with him. As a believer, the goal is to know Christ and to be like him. When we know who Jesus Christ is, it creates an intimate place of love, hope and peace; helps us change our lives for the better, helps face our trials, and also endure growth in our faith.
Jesus’s death for us on the cross is the only way we were saved. People will offend, judge and dismiss us, but let’s remember that, it is time we begin to share the sufferings of Christ who was despised and rejected by man.
Lord, thank you that your power that works in us for your sanctification in Jesus name. May we hold on tight to you so that we continue to know you better. Let us be reminded of your power of resurrection in Jesus mighty name. Amen!
Dorothea Williams
Read: Philippians 3:7-11
Many people focus on the past - they tend to focus on things that are unchangeable. However, the Apostle Paul emphasizes that what matters more is knowing Jesus Christ. He also said anything that would keep us from knowing Christ should be thrown away. Paul had everything, but considered them to be valueless. These things were worthless to him when compared to knowing Jesus.
The way we can view our lives from this perspective is to know how valuable Jesus Christ is to us. When we go through rough times, Jesus Christ invites us to get closer to him, so that we can build a strong relationship with him and continue to know him more.
We should not dwell on the material things and the things we have gained and lost in this life. Jesus is the center of it all. We must remember that he is preparing us to be like him. The Bible tells us that if we suffer with Jesus, we will reign with him. As a believer, the goal is to know Christ and to be like him. When we know who Jesus Christ is, it creates an intimate place of love, hope and peace; helps us change our lives for the better, helps face our trials, and also endure growth in our faith.
Jesus’s death for us on the cross is the only way we were saved. People will offend, judge and dismiss us, but let’s remember that, it is time we begin to share the sufferings of Christ who was despised and rejected by man.
Lord, thank you that your power that works in us for your sanctification in Jesus name. May we hold on tight to you so that we continue to know you better. Let us be reminded of your power of resurrection in Jesus mighty name. Amen!
Dorothea Williams
Thursday, March 31, 2022
Read: Psalm 126:4-6
A Psalm of Pain, Hope, Joy and Thanksgiving
The Psalm reflects a period in the life of the Israelites where they went through hardship, pain and lost hope in captivity. Likened to our times, what have we sown in tears?
- single-handedly raising kids without spousal support?
-going through an illness all alone?
-doing our very best at work and not being appreciated or rewarded?
-studying hard for examinations and not getting the expected grades?
-struggling to sustain relationships/lifestyles?
-obeying authority by observing the strict restrictions of COVID 19?
The good news is: “Rejoice, for those who sow in tears will reap with songs of joy”
This is a period of repentance. This is the time to sacrifice and deny ourselves those things that put a distance between us and our God. Let us look ahead of our struggles, pain and discomfort now (sowing in tears) so that we can look forward with prayers and fasting, crying out to God for the restoration of our fortunes (peace, love, healing, abundance).
Amen
Susan Osifade
Wednesday, March 30, 2022
Read: Psalm 126:1-3
When God brought back the exiles to Jerusalem, it was like a dream. When they were returning, they were filled with joy, singing and dancing as they entered Jerusalem. The other nations said, what amazing things God has done for them.
Yes, God has done amazing things for us. What joy we have to celebrate their return from captivity. God's power not only released them from sins but brought them closer to God. God is always there to carry us through and forgive us.
Always put your faith in God, whatever comes your way, God is always in charge of us.
Father, we thank you for all that you have done for us, continue to guide and guard us in everything we do in Jesus name we pray. Amen.
Regina Jalloh
Read: Psalm 126:4-6
A Psalm of Pain, Hope, Joy and Thanksgiving
The Psalm reflects a period in the life of the Israelites where they went through hardship, pain and lost hope in captivity. Likened to our times, what have we sown in tears?
- single-handedly raising kids without spousal support?
-going through an illness all alone?
-doing our very best at work and not being appreciated or rewarded?
-studying hard for examinations and not getting the expected grades?
-struggling to sustain relationships/lifestyles?
-obeying authority by observing the strict restrictions of COVID 19?
The good news is: “Rejoice, for those who sow in tears will reap with songs of joy”
This is a period of repentance. This is the time to sacrifice and deny ourselves those things that put a distance between us and our God. Let us look ahead of our struggles, pain and discomfort now (sowing in tears) so that we can look forward with prayers and fasting, crying out to God for the restoration of our fortunes (peace, love, healing, abundance).
Amen
Susan Osifade
Wednesday, March 30, 2022
Read: Psalm 126:1-3
When God brought back the exiles to Jerusalem, it was like a dream. When they were returning, they were filled with joy, singing and dancing as they entered Jerusalem. The other nations said, what amazing things God has done for them.
Yes, God has done amazing things for us. What joy we have to celebrate their return from captivity. God's power not only released them from sins but brought them closer to God. God is always there to carry us through and forgive us.
Always put your faith in God, whatever comes your way, God is always in charge of us.
Father, we thank you for all that you have done for us, continue to guide and guard us in everything we do in Jesus name we pray. Amen.
Regina Jalloh
Tuesday, March 29, 2022
Read: Isaiah 43:19-21
It is good to rest in God's word. God’s promise is the backbone of covenant and the foundation on which Isaiah 43:19-21 stands. Often, the world portrays promise as “broken,” “breached,” “empty.’’ Yet God remains steadfast and true in his vow to us. Did God not create a miraculous dry highway down the middle of the Red Sea for his children’s crossing at the height of their disbelief?
This scripture reading underscores God’s grace and saving power. God promises to do something new in our lives but like the Israelites we must recognize the impasse which results from our own human shortcomings. We cannot navigate the likes of things like ignorance, depression, infertility, poverty or illness alone. Nor can any amount of knowledge, privilege or money get us out of the impossible jams of life. Even the highs can be overwhelming if one is not grounded. At the end of our own resources, God patiently awaits. God is the oar.
As we begin to trust God to do the impossible, crisis becomes an opportunity for a new testimony. God does not want us to fail. But God does not promise a perfect or comfortable life in the human sense either. Instead, God uses our gifts and limitations to do good works and glorify him. All we have to do is get the understanding and trust God to do the absolute best with our lives. Thus begins the building blocks of faith, and the footprints to our road of purpose.
Lord, help us to remember that you are the potter, and we are the clay. Forgive our arrogance and disbelief and mold us in such a way that every breath we take praises you. Amen.
Yulanda Swindell
Read: Isaiah 43:19-21
It is good to rest in God's word. God’s promise is the backbone of covenant and the foundation on which Isaiah 43:19-21 stands. Often, the world portrays promise as “broken,” “breached,” “empty.’’ Yet God remains steadfast and true in his vow to us. Did God not create a miraculous dry highway down the middle of the Red Sea for his children’s crossing at the height of their disbelief?
This scripture reading underscores God’s grace and saving power. God promises to do something new in our lives but like the Israelites we must recognize the impasse which results from our own human shortcomings. We cannot navigate the likes of things like ignorance, depression, infertility, poverty or illness alone. Nor can any amount of knowledge, privilege or money get us out of the impossible jams of life. Even the highs can be overwhelming if one is not grounded. At the end of our own resources, God patiently awaits. God is the oar.
As we begin to trust God to do the impossible, crisis becomes an opportunity for a new testimony. God does not want us to fail. But God does not promise a perfect or comfortable life in the human sense either. Instead, God uses our gifts and limitations to do good works and glorify him. All we have to do is get the understanding and trust God to do the absolute best with our lives. Thus begins the building blocks of faith, and the footprints to our road of purpose.
Lord, help us to remember that you are the potter, and we are the clay. Forgive our arrogance and disbelief and mold us in such a way that every breath we take praises you. Amen.
Yulanda Swindell
Monday, March 28, 2022
Read: Isaiah 43:16-18
As I read this passage it fills me with so much joy to know that no matter what life throws at me God will be with me. I can’t help but think back to a time several years ago when I was going through a rough patch medically. I was in a group and the old saying popped into my head about God not giving you more than you can handle, and my husband piped up with a resounding “NO! God gives you more than you can handle so you with always turn to God to help you though it.” As the years have passed, I think of this often. No matter what you are going though God is clearing the path for you to go on the way that God has cleared for you. Even the most faithful sometimes get thrown for a loop. Keep the faith and follow the path that God is leading you down and don’t let the past hold you back. It is in the past for a reason. The path with God is leading you forward.
Lord help us to remember that even when the chariots and horses of the world today try to chase us, we should put our faith in the one true God who will leave them all lying dead in the road no longer getting in our way. Help us to remember that you are our strength in all times of trouble. Be with us though all our struggles and lead us to the future with you in our hearts. Amen.
Tracy R. Day
Read: Isaiah 43:16-18
As I read this passage it fills me with so much joy to know that no matter what life throws at me God will be with me. I can’t help but think back to a time several years ago when I was going through a rough patch medically. I was in a group and the old saying popped into my head about God not giving you more than you can handle, and my husband piped up with a resounding “NO! God gives you more than you can handle so you with always turn to God to help you though it.” As the years have passed, I think of this often. No matter what you are going though God is clearing the path for you to go on the way that God has cleared for you. Even the most faithful sometimes get thrown for a loop. Keep the faith and follow the path that God is leading you down and don’t let the past hold you back. It is in the past for a reason. The path with God is leading you forward.
Lord help us to remember that even when the chariots and horses of the world today try to chase us, we should put our faith in the one true God who will leave them all lying dead in the road no longer getting in our way. Help us to remember that you are our strength in all times of trouble. Be with us though all our struggles and lead us to the future with you in our hearts. Amen.
Tracy R. Day
Fourth Sunday in Lent, March 27, 2022
Read: Luke 15:25-32
The story before these verses describes a father's joy and excitement in finding his lost son. The father was elated to have the son back in his loving arms. He was also ready to forgive the son for the wrongs and look forward to a brighter future. The lost son had also repented and asked for forgiveness. We read the current passage of the father's older son, who could not understand the father's viewpoint of love and forgiveness.
When it comes to the children of God, have you read anywhere in the Bible of Jesus taking the viewpoint of the older son? Why is it, as children of God, we too sometimes take the viewpoint of the older son? Why do we find it so hard to forgive, show love, and accept others with their faults? Throughout the Bible, we read of situations where Jesus recognizes others' weaknesses, yet he shows them, agape love. Think about Peter denying Jesus three times; think about Paul persecuting Christians; and think about Judas Iscariot, who betrayed him.
Why can't we, as children of God, display similar love to each other in dark moments? Why can't we remember that Jesus did the same for each of us? Through Jesus' crucifixion and resurrection, he forgives us of our sins and makes us righteous in the eyes of God the father. Sisters and brothers, let us not judge each other by our standards or society standards. But let us embrace each other with love, joy, and complete forgiveness just as Jesus does for us.
Dear Father, thank you for the unconditional love and forgiveness you show to your children each day. This Lenten season, help your children, through your grace and mercy, to do the same to each other in your precious name. Amen
Janet Burrowes
Read: Luke 15:25-32
The story before these verses describes a father's joy and excitement in finding his lost son. The father was elated to have the son back in his loving arms. He was also ready to forgive the son for the wrongs and look forward to a brighter future. The lost son had also repented and asked for forgiveness. We read the current passage of the father's older son, who could not understand the father's viewpoint of love and forgiveness.
When it comes to the children of God, have you read anywhere in the Bible of Jesus taking the viewpoint of the older son? Why is it, as children of God, we too sometimes take the viewpoint of the older son? Why do we find it so hard to forgive, show love, and accept others with their faults? Throughout the Bible, we read of situations where Jesus recognizes others' weaknesses, yet he shows them, agape love. Think about Peter denying Jesus three times; think about Paul persecuting Christians; and think about Judas Iscariot, who betrayed him.
Why can't we, as children of God, display similar love to each other in dark moments? Why can't we remember that Jesus did the same for each of us? Through Jesus' crucifixion and resurrection, he forgives us of our sins and makes us righteous in the eyes of God the father. Sisters and brothers, let us not judge each other by our standards or society standards. But let us embrace each other with love, joy, and complete forgiveness just as Jesus does for us.
Dear Father, thank you for the unconditional love and forgiveness you show to your children each day. This Lenten season, help your children, through your grace and mercy, to do the same to each other in your precious name. Amen
Janet Burrowes
Saturday, March 26, 2022
Read: Luke 15:11-24
The parable of the prodigal son is by far one of the most revered lessons of the Gospels. For many, the rebellion displayed by the son and the subsequent hardships he endured serve as a cautionary tale: a reminder of what can happen when we deviate from the will of the father and resort to rebellious living. At the same time, the mercy that the father extended to his son serves as an illustration for the love, generosity, and unmerited grace that our father in heaven has for us. This passage tells us the son “came to his senses” and repented. The passage goes on to say that while the son was still a “long way off,” the father saw him and was filled with compassion.
I’m encouraged to know that while we might be a long way off from where we need to be, from a distance, the Lord will extend his loving grace to us and offer redemption from our mistakes. When we take one step toward him, he’ll take two towards us. Amen!
On this day, let the lyrics of the popular song serve as our prayer:
“Thank You for saving a sinner like me. To tell the world salvation is free. There were times when I just didn't do right, But You watched over me all day and night. Your grace and mercy brought me through, I'm living this moment because of You. I want to thank you and praise You too. Your grace and mercy brought me through.
Corey Beauford
Read: Luke 15:11-24
The parable of the prodigal son is by far one of the most revered lessons of the Gospels. For many, the rebellion displayed by the son and the subsequent hardships he endured serve as a cautionary tale: a reminder of what can happen when we deviate from the will of the father and resort to rebellious living. At the same time, the mercy that the father extended to his son serves as an illustration for the love, generosity, and unmerited grace that our father in heaven has for us. This passage tells us the son “came to his senses” and repented. The passage goes on to say that while the son was still a “long way off,” the father saw him and was filled with compassion.
I’m encouraged to know that while we might be a long way off from where we need to be, from a distance, the Lord will extend his loving grace to us and offer redemption from our mistakes. When we take one step toward him, he’ll take two towards us. Amen!
On this day, let the lyrics of the popular song serve as our prayer:
“Thank You for saving a sinner like me. To tell the world salvation is free. There were times when I just didn't do right, But You watched over me all day and night. Your grace and mercy brought me through, I'm living this moment because of You. I want to thank you and praise You too. Your grace and mercy brought me through.
Corey Beauford
Friday, March 25. 2022
Read: II Corinthians 5:18-21
The context for this passage is really the preceding verse which declares that if one is “reconciled” with God, the old person is replaced by a new being. These verses then explain the duties and responsibilities of the new being. One who has been redeemed through the sacrifice of God’s own son, must now pass on this graciousness to others so that they too can come to know the savior and receive forgiveness and be “redeemed.”
Got it? Sounds so simple, doesn’t it? Yet daily, we who claim to be “reconciled” (reunited) with our God, cannot find a way to pass on the message of love and caring for each other. We ignore the opportunities created by our churches and communities to give aid to those who are needing help. We see our so-called law makers who do not hesitate to say they are Christians, deny any kind of help for those among us who are desperate for assistance. Do we keep silent or condone their behavior through our inaction? To paraphrase Matthew 5:16, Let your light shine before men, so they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.
During Lent we often self-examine. Christopher Brinson wrote a song that asks “What if God is unhappy with our praise?” Look it up. Or not. Your choice. Then ask yourself ,is he?
Merlyn Drummond
Read: II Corinthians 5:18-21
The context for this passage is really the preceding verse which declares that if one is “reconciled” with God, the old person is replaced by a new being. These verses then explain the duties and responsibilities of the new being. One who has been redeemed through the sacrifice of God’s own son, must now pass on this graciousness to others so that they too can come to know the savior and receive forgiveness and be “redeemed.”
Got it? Sounds so simple, doesn’t it? Yet daily, we who claim to be “reconciled” (reunited) with our God, cannot find a way to pass on the message of love and caring for each other. We ignore the opportunities created by our churches and communities to give aid to those who are needing help. We see our so-called law makers who do not hesitate to say they are Christians, deny any kind of help for those among us who are desperate for assistance. Do we keep silent or condone their behavior through our inaction? To paraphrase Matthew 5:16, Let your light shine before men, so they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.
During Lent we often self-examine. Christopher Brinson wrote a song that asks “What if God is unhappy with our praise?” Look it up. Or not. Your choice. Then ask yourself ,is he?
Merlyn Drummond
Thursday, March 24, 2022
Read: II Corinthians 5:16-17
Paul is writing to the church at Corinth. We are God's ambassadors. Paul is encouraging believers to embrace and follow the way of Jesus that will transform lives.
It is written that Corinthians are brand new people on the inside. The Holy Spirit gives them new life and that they are not the same anymore. Christians are recreated beings in vital union with Christ and we begin a new life under a new master. Christians must have a new way of looking at all people and all of God's creations.
Paul wrote that we can forget about our old ways and rely on Jesus who was sent with a new beginning. With Christ in the vessel, we will smile at the storm. If God is with you, who can be against you. We walk by faith and not by sight.
In our going out and coming in, we trust in you. Cover us with your mighty wings and keep us safe. Protect us Lord, especially our children, so that we will continue to worship you and build your holy house where we come to worship you. In Jesus' mighty name. Amen.
Glenis Cole
Read: II Corinthians 5:16-17
Paul is writing to the church at Corinth. We are God's ambassadors. Paul is encouraging believers to embrace and follow the way of Jesus that will transform lives.
It is written that Corinthians are brand new people on the inside. The Holy Spirit gives them new life and that they are not the same anymore. Christians are recreated beings in vital union with Christ and we begin a new life under a new master. Christians must have a new way of looking at all people and all of God's creations.
Paul wrote that we can forget about our old ways and rely on Jesus who was sent with a new beginning. With Christ in the vessel, we will smile at the storm. If God is with you, who can be against you. We walk by faith and not by sight.
In our going out and coming in, we trust in you. Cover us with your mighty wings and keep us safe. Protect us Lord, especially our children, so that we will continue to worship you and build your holy house where we come to worship you. In Jesus' mighty name. Amen.
Glenis Cole
Wednesday, March 23, 2022
Read: Psalm 32:6-11
Christ-Our Hiding Place!
How timely that the Psalmist reminds us not to be as “horses or mules which have no understanding!” So, then, as Children of God, we are encouraged to seek refuge in our “hiding place,” Christ Jesus. “While we walk the Pilgrim Pathway,” be reminded that prayer is key! Key to our sustenance-not that we will escape the “fiery darts of the wicked,” but the faith which propels our solemn requests will shield us from their attacks! So, come with me to the Prayer Room-Jesus is waiting! Let us petition the Throne of Grace on behalf of our world, nation, community, family, and ourselves. This room may be on a stroll downtown, in transit, at your work-filled desk/station, closet, neighborhood lake or just anywhere! God, through his son, is our teacher, guide, counselor, friend, defender, comforter and so much more! “His ears are always ready to hear our cry.” Thus, on the way from earth to heaven, He will guide us with his eye! Hallelujah! Sing along, with me, the words of William O. Cushing-another one of my favorites…
How oft in the conflict, when pressed by the foe,
I have fled to my Refuge and breathed out my woe;
How often, when trials like sea billows roll,
Have I hidden in Thee, O Thou Rock of my soul.
Hiding in Thee, hiding in Thee,
Thou blest “Rock of Ages,” I’m hiding in Thee.
Jamon E. Liburd,
Certified Lay Servant
Read: Psalm 32:6-11
Christ-Our Hiding Place!
How timely that the Psalmist reminds us not to be as “horses or mules which have no understanding!” So, then, as Children of God, we are encouraged to seek refuge in our “hiding place,” Christ Jesus. “While we walk the Pilgrim Pathway,” be reminded that prayer is key! Key to our sustenance-not that we will escape the “fiery darts of the wicked,” but the faith which propels our solemn requests will shield us from their attacks! So, come with me to the Prayer Room-Jesus is waiting! Let us petition the Throne of Grace on behalf of our world, nation, community, family, and ourselves. This room may be on a stroll downtown, in transit, at your work-filled desk/station, closet, neighborhood lake or just anywhere! God, through his son, is our teacher, guide, counselor, friend, defender, comforter and so much more! “His ears are always ready to hear our cry.” Thus, on the way from earth to heaven, He will guide us with his eye! Hallelujah! Sing along, with me, the words of William O. Cushing-another one of my favorites…
How oft in the conflict, when pressed by the foe,
I have fled to my Refuge and breathed out my woe;
How often, when trials like sea billows roll,
Have I hidden in Thee, O Thou Rock of my soul.
Hiding in Thee, hiding in Thee,
Thou blest “Rock of Ages,” I’m hiding in Thee.
Jamon E. Liburd,
Certified Lay Servant
Tuesday, March 22, 2022
Read: Psalm 32:1-5
“The Joy of Forgiveness”
These verses convey several aspects of God’s forgiveness. God forgives rebellion, puts sin out of sight and clears our record of sin. Paul quoted and showed that we can have this joyous experience of forgiveness through faith in Christ. To confess our sin is to agree with God, acknowledging that God is right to declare what we have done as sinful and that we are wrong to desire or to do it. It will give us real happiness and relief from guilt.
Michele Jackson
Read: Psalm 32:1-5
“The Joy of Forgiveness”
These verses convey several aspects of God’s forgiveness. God forgives rebellion, puts sin out of sight and clears our record of sin. Paul quoted and showed that we can have this joyous experience of forgiveness through faith in Christ. To confess our sin is to agree with God, acknowledging that God is right to declare what we have done as sinful and that we are wrong to desire or to do it. It will give us real happiness and relief from guilt.
Michele Jackson
Monday, March 21:2022
Read: Joshua 5:9-12
Well, I must admit I struggled a whole lot with this passage and what to write about, so I am going to write the few things I took from it. If you read verse 8, we learn about the circumcision of the Israelite men by Joshua, not the Israelites that who had been in Egypt, they were already circumcised but the Israelites who were born in the wilderness and were not. Joshua had to remind Israel of their identity as God’s covenant, so he demanded that all males be circumcised before they got too far into the land of promise. As we begin to read verse 9, we learn God told Joshua “Today I have rolled away the reproach of Egypt from you and the place was called Gilgal, it just so happens that Gilgal in Hebrew is “I have rolled away.” Passover was celebrated on the 14th day, an interesting tidbit here is that for the 40 years they were in the wilderness the Israelites did not observe Passover, probably because Passover could not be celebrated by those who were not circumcised.
My final take is our own rituals of Baptism and the Lord’s Supper are so important to us because we seek to let God remind us of our identities just as circumcision and Passover, neither of which is observed by many today, was important to Joshua and the Israelites.
Thank you for making covenants with us, help us always to remember the importance of our covenant and to ensure that we share it with the generations to come, in the name of Jesus. Amen.
Cindy Harding,
Certified Lay Servant
Read: Joshua 5:9-12
Well, I must admit I struggled a whole lot with this passage and what to write about, so I am going to write the few things I took from it. If you read verse 8, we learn about the circumcision of the Israelite men by Joshua, not the Israelites that who had been in Egypt, they were already circumcised but the Israelites who were born in the wilderness and were not. Joshua had to remind Israel of their identity as God’s covenant, so he demanded that all males be circumcised before they got too far into the land of promise. As we begin to read verse 9, we learn God told Joshua “Today I have rolled away the reproach of Egypt from you and the place was called Gilgal, it just so happens that Gilgal in Hebrew is “I have rolled away.” Passover was celebrated on the 14th day, an interesting tidbit here is that for the 40 years they were in the wilderness the Israelites did not observe Passover, probably because Passover could not be celebrated by those who were not circumcised.
My final take is our own rituals of Baptism and the Lord’s Supper are so important to us because we seek to let God remind us of our identities just as circumcision and Passover, neither of which is observed by many today, was important to Joshua and the Israelites.
Thank you for making covenants with us, help us always to remember the importance of our covenant and to ensure that we share it with the generations to come, in the name of Jesus. Amen.
Cindy Harding,
Certified Lay Servant
Third Sunday in Lent, March 20, 2022
Read: Mark 1:9-13
We can all relate to COVID and the effects and feelings of isolation. At the height of the pandemic, it felt like being in the wilderness - searching for answers; praying for God to keep us and our loved ones safe from the virus. In v12, after Jesus’ baptism and at the start of his ministry, the Holy Spirit drove Jesus into the wilderness for forty days. Fast forward to today, our COVID-wilderness journey began nearly two years ago and spread quickly across the world. People near and far had to learn how to live with the virus, cope with loss, and adapt to a new way of life. In v13, Jesus is tempted by Satan, but God is present and sends angels to care for him. In the end, Jesus proved victorious in the wilderness! While we journey through this COVID-wilderness with all its temptations and tribulations, God sends angels to be with us. Let us remember to give thanks and praise to God for his constant presence, protection, and provision that regardless of circumstances, we too, are victorious!
Thank you, God, for always being with us despite what comes our way. Guide our steps and give us strength to be victorious so we can live out the plans you have for each of us. Amen.
Sophie Dunbar-Amer
Read: Mark 1:9-13
We can all relate to COVID and the effects and feelings of isolation. At the height of the pandemic, it felt like being in the wilderness - searching for answers; praying for God to keep us and our loved ones safe from the virus. In v12, after Jesus’ baptism and at the start of his ministry, the Holy Spirit drove Jesus into the wilderness for forty days. Fast forward to today, our COVID-wilderness journey began nearly two years ago and spread quickly across the world. People near and far had to learn how to live with the virus, cope with loss, and adapt to a new way of life. In v13, Jesus is tempted by Satan, but God is present and sends angels to care for him. In the end, Jesus proved victorious in the wilderness! While we journey through this COVID-wilderness with all its temptations and tribulations, God sends angels to be with us. Let us remember to give thanks and praise to God for his constant presence, protection, and provision that regardless of circumstances, we too, are victorious!
Thank you, God, for always being with us despite what comes our way. Guide our steps and give us strength to be victorious so we can live out the plans you have for each of us. Amen.
Sophie Dunbar-Amer
Saturday, March 19. 2022
Read: I Peter 3:8-17
Christian life is always a journey. With the Bible, every day is a new discovery on how God is been good to us. God always reveals to us what needs to be done in most circumstances. Despite our mistakes and sin, God always guides us and gives us solace.
As we are getting ready to celebrate Easter, we need to reflect on how God has been good to us. In the scripture, I Peter 3:8-17, our Lord is reminding us of what Christian character should be.
With all that Jesus has done for us at the cross, we should strive to be a forgiving people and try not to grieve others with our actions.
Precious Lord, thank you for your guidance which is found in the Bible, your holy words. Lord, I praise you. Thank you Jesus for the sacrifice you have made for me and all the people who trust in you. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.
Afi Logbo
Read: I Peter 3:8-17
Christian life is always a journey. With the Bible, every day is a new discovery on how God is been good to us. God always reveals to us what needs to be done in most circumstances. Despite our mistakes and sin, God always guides us and gives us solace.
As we are getting ready to celebrate Easter, we need to reflect on how God has been good to us. In the scripture, I Peter 3:8-17, our Lord is reminding us of what Christian character should be.
With all that Jesus has done for us at the cross, we should strive to be a forgiving people and try not to grieve others with our actions.
Precious Lord, thank you for your guidance which is found in the Bible, your holy words. Lord, I praise you. Thank you Jesus for the sacrifice you have made for me and all the people who trust in you. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.
Afi Logbo
Friday, March 18, 2022
Read: I Corinthians 10:1-13
Ash……temptation, we all experience temptations every day and we wonder why is God dangling these temptations in front of us……is it because God wants us to fail, to give in to the temptation. You can rest assured that is not the case at all. What God wants us to know is that any temptation that is put before us has been put before many others before us. God also wants us to know we will never face a temptation that is too great for us to resist it, notice I said too great for us to resist NOT more than we can bear.
So why does God do this you ask, now that’s a good question, so let me see if I can shed some light on this for you. The answer is that God wants us to lean on him. God will give you the strength you need to resist ANY temptation. Now this is very important: we must never think we are so strong that we can resist temptations on our own. When we do this, it makes us more vulnerable to temptation/sin. I know for a fact that God will give you the strength needed to resist temptation. Here is my personal example- I am a recovering alcoholic for 29 ½ years but there have been many times I have been in a grocery store that sells liquor or have been offered a drink at an event or party, and I had been struggling with my depression, and I wanted that drink real bad. I just knew that was a way to numb the pain I was feeling, but instead of giving in to the temptation I turned to God, asking him to give me the strength to walk away, to remove the temptation completely and every single time I was able to walk away with no desire whatsoever to have that drink.
So, when that temptation comes, and it will come, look to God. God is holding out his hand to help you through, lean on him, God WILL give you the strength you need.
Thank you Lord for being our rock, the help we need when we need it the most. Help us always to remember that when temptations come, we take our outstretched hand, to lean on you to see us through. In the name of Jesus, Amen.
Cindy Harding,
Certified Lay Servant
Read: I Corinthians 10:1-13
Ash……temptation, we all experience temptations every day and we wonder why is God dangling these temptations in front of us……is it because God wants us to fail, to give in to the temptation. You can rest assured that is not the case at all. What God wants us to know is that any temptation that is put before us has been put before many others before us. God also wants us to know we will never face a temptation that is too great for us to resist it, notice I said too great for us to resist NOT more than we can bear.
So why does God do this you ask, now that’s a good question, so let me see if I can shed some light on this for you. The answer is that God wants us to lean on him. God will give you the strength you need to resist ANY temptation. Now this is very important: we must never think we are so strong that we can resist temptations on our own. When we do this, it makes us more vulnerable to temptation/sin. I know for a fact that God will give you the strength needed to resist temptation. Here is my personal example- I am a recovering alcoholic for 29 ½ years but there have been many times I have been in a grocery store that sells liquor or have been offered a drink at an event or party, and I had been struggling with my depression, and I wanted that drink real bad. I just knew that was a way to numb the pain I was feeling, but instead of giving in to the temptation I turned to God, asking him to give me the strength to walk away, to remove the temptation completely and every single time I was able to walk away with no desire whatsoever to have that drink.
So, when that temptation comes, and it will come, look to God. God is holding out his hand to help you through, lean on him, God WILL give you the strength you need.
Thank you Lord for being our rock, the help we need when we need it the most. Help us always to remember that when temptations come, we take our outstretched hand, to lean on you to see us through. In the name of Jesus, Amen.
Cindy Harding,
Certified Lay Servant
Thursday, March 17, 2022
Read: Luke 13:1-5
Our water supplies have been polluted with a variety of pollutants. In order to get clean and safe water it has to go through a variety of filtration processes or some water purification process. These processes filters out solid and microscopic pathogens to make the water safe to drink. For purification: water can be boiled for five minutes; liquid household bleach can be added to disinfect and kill micro-organisms; and water can be distilled to remove pollutants.
We, God’s good creation, have been defiled and polluted and unsafe for God’s kingdom. God has devised a way to clean us up so that we stand before God (at some point) and not die. This process is called salvation and it is done through sacrifice, the ultimate one is Jesus taking the cross to purge us of sins.
In this season of Lent let us reflect on this great gift of salvation that cleanses us and enables us to stand before God. Let us remember this process of cleansing which can only be done by repenting of our sins and accepting Jesus Christ. Let us reflect on our life to see where we are straying and realign our lives and ourselves with the promises that God has given us. Let us search our souls and repair the breaches. Let us repent and allow Christ’s teachings to rule our lives and the Holy Spirit to take charge, lead and direct our ways.
Lord, as we journey through this Lenten season, we thank you for your love which we cannot be separated from. Thank you for giving us this opportunity to repent of our sins, knowing that we can do nothing to save ourselves and our salvation is from you. Amen
Pamella Miller
Read: Luke 13:1-5
Our water supplies have been polluted with a variety of pollutants. In order to get clean and safe water it has to go through a variety of filtration processes or some water purification process. These processes filters out solid and microscopic pathogens to make the water safe to drink. For purification: water can be boiled for five minutes; liquid household bleach can be added to disinfect and kill micro-organisms; and water can be distilled to remove pollutants.
We, God’s good creation, have been defiled and polluted and unsafe for God’s kingdom. God has devised a way to clean us up so that we stand before God (at some point) and not die. This process is called salvation and it is done through sacrifice, the ultimate one is Jesus taking the cross to purge us of sins.
In this season of Lent let us reflect on this great gift of salvation that cleanses us and enables us to stand before God. Let us remember this process of cleansing which can only be done by repenting of our sins and accepting Jesus Christ. Let us reflect on our life to see where we are straying and realign our lives and ourselves with the promises that God has given us. Let us search our souls and repair the breaches. Let us repent and allow Christ’s teachings to rule our lives and the Holy Spirit to take charge, lead and direct our ways.
Lord, as we journey through this Lenten season, we thank you for your love which we cannot be separated from. Thank you for giving us this opportunity to repent of our sins, knowing that we can do nothing to save ourselves and our salvation is from you. Amen
Pamella Miller
Wednesday, March 16, 2022
Read: Psalm 63:1-8
Seeking After God
Our reading today is suitable for us while in this constrained version of public worship we have now. What I have learned in this past couple of years is the longing that we all have to be with each other either at church, family or any kind of gathering. This has brought a lot of emotional and mental pressures into our lives; some have been able to handle it properly while others could not. The Psalmist made us to understand that we are to long for God in our lives as we would long for water if stranded on a hot, parched, and weary land. As believers in Jesus Christ, seeking after God should be our most important priority. If we maintain this one priority above all else, no matter what pressures that come into our life we will be able to handle them. To seek after God means to pursue God alone to fill the vacuum in our life.
To seek after God means to have an intimate personal relationship with God (63:1).
To seek after God means always to desire more of God (63:1).
The person who seeks after God has inner satisfaction (63:5).
The person who seeks after God has inner joy (63:5, 7, 11).
The person who seeks after God has inner stability and strength in crisis (63:7-8).
Lent reminds us of the personal and intimate connection we share with Christ. We are called to remember our longing for communion with God. Therefore, let us offer praise and wonder at the depth of God’s mercy. Praise brings us back to the reflection of what God has done. The psalmist shows us that through praise and worship we have the power to overcome whatever troubles us.
Praise the Lord
Uloma Nathan-Igwe
Read: Psalm 63:1-8
Seeking After God
Our reading today is suitable for us while in this constrained version of public worship we have now. What I have learned in this past couple of years is the longing that we all have to be with each other either at church, family or any kind of gathering. This has brought a lot of emotional and mental pressures into our lives; some have been able to handle it properly while others could not. The Psalmist made us to understand that we are to long for God in our lives as we would long for water if stranded on a hot, parched, and weary land. As believers in Jesus Christ, seeking after God should be our most important priority. If we maintain this one priority above all else, no matter what pressures that come into our life we will be able to handle them. To seek after God means to pursue God alone to fill the vacuum in our life.
To seek after God means to have an intimate personal relationship with God (63:1).
To seek after God means always to desire more of God (63:1).
The person who seeks after God has inner satisfaction (63:5).
The person who seeks after God has inner joy (63:5, 7, 11).
The person who seeks after God has inner stability and strength in crisis (63:7-8).
Lent reminds us of the personal and intimate connection we share with Christ. We are called to remember our longing for communion with God. Therefore, let us offer praise and wonder at the depth of God’s mercy. Praise brings us back to the reflection of what God has done. The psalmist shows us that through praise and worship we have the power to overcome whatever troubles us.
Praise the Lord
Uloma Nathan-Igwe
Tuesday, March 15, 2022
Read: Isaiah 55:6-9
This passage asks us to seek God while he may be found - seeking God means to acknowledge and center God in our lives; to live our lives in ways that are pleasing to God. To please God, the passage implores us to forsake our wicked ways and seek to live righteously; to ask for forgiveness for our sins, and if we are sincere, God will forgive us. God has higher thoughts and better plans for his people. God knows what we need better than we do. There will be times when we struggle with situations and circumstances that seem beyond our control, at times like these, we need to seek God’s counsel and guidance, and not rely on our own counsel. God knows the big picture of our lives.
Lord, please forgive me my sins and position me always to seek the path of righteousness. Show me Lord, the changes I need to make in order to be close to you. Please remind me as I go through personal trials that you offer unconditional joy, peace, hope, comfort and salvation. Help me to remember that your views are higher than mine, and as such, always to seek your counsel and guidance in all that I do. In Jesus' mighty name I pray. Amen.
Phebean Oyefusi
Read: Isaiah 55:6-9
This passage asks us to seek God while he may be found - seeking God means to acknowledge and center God in our lives; to live our lives in ways that are pleasing to God. To please God, the passage implores us to forsake our wicked ways and seek to live righteously; to ask for forgiveness for our sins, and if we are sincere, God will forgive us. God has higher thoughts and better plans for his people. God knows what we need better than we do. There will be times when we struggle with situations and circumstances that seem beyond our control, at times like these, we need to seek God’s counsel and guidance, and not rely on our own counsel. God knows the big picture of our lives.
Lord, please forgive me my sins and position me always to seek the path of righteousness. Show me Lord, the changes I need to make in order to be close to you. Please remind me as I go through personal trials that you offer unconditional joy, peace, hope, comfort and salvation. Help me to remember that your views are higher than mine, and as such, always to seek your counsel and guidance in all that I do. In Jesus' mighty name I pray. Amen.
Phebean Oyefusi
Monday, March 14, 2022
Read: Isaiah 55:1-5
Food costs money, only lasts a short while and only meets our physical needs. One of my favorite treats is Wendy's four for $4! But, a few hours later, I'm on empty - so, I have to either cook from scratch or warm up food from the refrigerator or freezer!!! God, wants to give us, free of charge, nourishment for our souls. We get this everlasting nourishment by listening, seeking and calling on God. God’s salvation is freely offered, but to nourish our souls we must eagerly receive it. We will starve spiritually without this food as surely as we will starve physically without our daily bread.
God's covenant with David promised a permanent homeland for the Israelites, but Israel did not fulfill its part of the covenant to obey God and stay away from idols and worldly influences. Even so, God was ready to renew his covenant again. He is a forgiving God!!!
God wants a people who will be devoted to him. Let us not be caught up in worldly treasures which pleasures are short-lived. Instead, let us thirst for the knowledge of God. God wants his people to be fully devoted to him. We cannot pretend, God knows our hearts and whether what we say has integrity.
Father God, thank you for loving us - offering us life, abundant and eternal, through Jesus Christ our Lord. We give you thanks, seek to know you better and the power of your resurrection. Amen.
Mary DeaVone
Read: Isaiah 55:1-5
Food costs money, only lasts a short while and only meets our physical needs. One of my favorite treats is Wendy's four for $4! But, a few hours later, I'm on empty - so, I have to either cook from scratch or warm up food from the refrigerator or freezer!!! God, wants to give us, free of charge, nourishment for our souls. We get this everlasting nourishment by listening, seeking and calling on God. God’s salvation is freely offered, but to nourish our souls we must eagerly receive it. We will starve spiritually without this food as surely as we will starve physically without our daily bread.
God's covenant with David promised a permanent homeland for the Israelites, but Israel did not fulfill its part of the covenant to obey God and stay away from idols and worldly influences. Even so, God was ready to renew his covenant again. He is a forgiving God!!!
God wants a people who will be devoted to him. Let us not be caught up in worldly treasures which pleasures are short-lived. Instead, let us thirst for the knowledge of God. God wants his people to be fully devoted to him. We cannot pretend, God knows our hearts and whether what we say has integrity.
Father God, thank you for loving us - offering us life, abundant and eternal, through Jesus Christ our Lord. We give you thanks, seek to know you better and the power of your resurrection. Amen.
Mary DeaVone
Second Sunday in Lent, March 13, 2022
Read: Psalm 27:7-14
David was confident about the faithfulness of God when he wrote this Psalm. Although he was used mightily by God, David had made many mistakes in his past but sought to be a better man and leader. He wrote this “instruction manual” for prayer.
First, we must remember to seek God. David is humble and reverent. He asks God to hear him, have mercy on him and he acknowledges God’s help in the past. David comes before God, acknowledging his ways and asking not to be judged according to his misdeeds. When we are desperate, do we remember to approach God in such humility or do we launch in to our list of requests? David expresses gratitude for God’s faithfulness which is greater than that of even his parents.
We are all leaders in some shape or form whether it be in our homes or other places. Leadership in 2022, as it was in David’s time, is very difficult, as there are always detractors who seek to derail good leadership. Instead of a prayer of retaliation, David’s prayer request is to lead an exemplary life so that his leadership would be by example and that all the oppressors’ destructive efforts would be thwarted. He knows that his prayer is aligned with God’s purpose for his life and so he can go confidently before God to pray for and receive an answer to his prayer.
Are your prayers in alignment with God’s purpose for your life? Will you accept God’s guidance into a straight path? Approach God with humility and confidence and remember that God is faithful to those who seek God’s face.
Lord, thank you for being faithful to me despite my sins. Thank you for hearing my prayer and protecting and guiding me so that my life would be a good example for others. Amen.
Marcia Cort
Read: Psalm 27:7-14
David was confident about the faithfulness of God when he wrote this Psalm. Although he was used mightily by God, David had made many mistakes in his past but sought to be a better man and leader. He wrote this “instruction manual” for prayer.
First, we must remember to seek God. David is humble and reverent. He asks God to hear him, have mercy on him and he acknowledges God’s help in the past. David comes before God, acknowledging his ways and asking not to be judged according to his misdeeds. When we are desperate, do we remember to approach God in such humility or do we launch in to our list of requests? David expresses gratitude for God’s faithfulness which is greater than that of even his parents.
We are all leaders in some shape or form whether it be in our homes or other places. Leadership in 2022, as it was in David’s time, is very difficult, as there are always detractors who seek to derail good leadership. Instead of a prayer of retaliation, David’s prayer request is to lead an exemplary life so that his leadership would be by example and that all the oppressors’ destructive efforts would be thwarted. He knows that his prayer is aligned with God’s purpose for his life and so he can go confidently before God to pray for and receive an answer to his prayer.
Are your prayers in alignment with God’s purpose for your life? Will you accept God’s guidance into a straight path? Approach God with humility and confidence and remember that God is faithful to those who seek God’s face.
Lord, thank you for being faithful to me despite my sins. Thank you for hearing my prayer and protecting and guiding me so that my life would be a good example for others. Amen.
Marcia Cort
Saturday, March 12, 2022
Read: Luke 13:31-35
Confronting rejection happens in the discipleship of Jesus. It’s a challenge to speak and inform unbelieving folks to see the purpose and reason for being on earth. The adversary is encouraging folks to think their reason for being is based on their own understanding and not follow the one God who does matter even if his words are evident of what is happening. It is always an uphill climb professing the love of Christ and speaking for him. They had tried to warn Jesus that his life was in danger because of Herod, but Jesus knew he had a mission to accomplish and not even Herod would be a threat.
There is a push back on speaking about the Lord at a place of work or in public. Social media turns people away from the Lord with notorious influences that promote interest that are not of God. The world doesn’t consider the spiritual influence of what is exciting according to God but according to man’s understanding encouraged by the adversary. There is a threat that whatever “religion” you belong to is all right, as long as it is not imposed on those who are uninterested. Conversation about the heavenly Father doesn’t spark interest, but a good time at a party does.
The love of Christ encourages us never to give up representing him. We are all his children and carrying the light for God is not the popular thing to do, but the honorable thing to do. The struggle of getting at least one unsaved person to see this can be exhausting but also encouraging not to give up. The love of God is the strength to get to the finish line. It’s a journey that never ends and keeping the torch glowing will be forever until his return.
Father we are determined to continue showing the love and message you gave so your purpose will always be seen, encouraging and changing hearts no matter how hard the battle gets. Amen.
Jeff Fox,
Certified Lay Servant
Read: Luke 13:31-35
Confronting rejection happens in the discipleship of Jesus. It’s a challenge to speak and inform unbelieving folks to see the purpose and reason for being on earth. The adversary is encouraging folks to think their reason for being is based on their own understanding and not follow the one God who does matter even if his words are evident of what is happening. It is always an uphill climb professing the love of Christ and speaking for him. They had tried to warn Jesus that his life was in danger because of Herod, but Jesus knew he had a mission to accomplish and not even Herod would be a threat.
There is a push back on speaking about the Lord at a place of work or in public. Social media turns people away from the Lord with notorious influences that promote interest that are not of God. The world doesn’t consider the spiritual influence of what is exciting according to God but according to man’s understanding encouraged by the adversary. There is a threat that whatever “religion” you belong to is all right, as long as it is not imposed on those who are uninterested. Conversation about the heavenly Father doesn’t spark interest, but a good time at a party does.
The love of Christ encourages us never to give up representing him. We are all his children and carrying the light for God is not the popular thing to do, but the honorable thing to do. The struggle of getting at least one unsaved person to see this can be exhausting but also encouraging not to give up. The love of God is the strength to get to the finish line. It’s a journey that never ends and keeping the torch glowing will be forever until his return.
Father we are determined to continue showing the love and message you gave so your purpose will always be seen, encouraging and changing hearts no matter how hard the battle gets. Amen.
Jeff Fox,
Certified Lay Servant
Friday, March 11, 2022
Read: Philippians 3:17-4:1
This scripture is simply telling Christians to hold fast to almighty God and grow in the things of Jesus teachings. Paul is asking Christians to mimic his teaching approach of the Bible. Paul’s best teaching tool is more than a letter - it is his life. Paul made his own example a model for his readers because his focus is on Christ. What he did shows clearly in his words, actions, and attitudes. Paul further says that our citizenship is not on earth but in heaven and as we wait on him, he is the legitimate person to transform us before taking us into heaven. So you see if we do not have a relationship with Jesus Christ, there is no way we can make it into the wonderful home.
Rita Cole
Read: Philippians 3:17-4:1
This scripture is simply telling Christians to hold fast to almighty God and grow in the things of Jesus teachings. Paul is asking Christians to mimic his teaching approach of the Bible. Paul’s best teaching tool is more than a letter - it is his life. Paul made his own example a model for his readers because his focus is on Christ. What he did shows clearly in his words, actions, and attitudes. Paul further says that our citizenship is not on earth but in heaven and as we wait on him, he is the legitimate person to transform us before taking us into heaven. So you see if we do not have a relationship with Jesus Christ, there is no way we can make it into the wonderful home.
Rita Cole
Thursday, March 10, 2022
Read: Psalm 27:1-6
Lord, you are my light and salvation. As long as I keep this thought with me, I will be strong and fearless. My belief in my Lord is strong and I know that he will protect me in his house from all my enemies and they will fall to the ground if they even think to do me harm. I will lift my head high above my enemies with his strength and will sing praises of joy unto the Lord in his house.
Heavenly Father I thank you for giving me and your children strength to walk by our enemies fearlessly. Continue to protect us dear Lord and forgive us if we don’t show you our love. Thanks be to God. Amen.
Hazel Waters
Read: Psalm 27:1-6
Lord, you are my light and salvation. As long as I keep this thought with me, I will be strong and fearless. My belief in my Lord is strong and I know that he will protect me in his house from all my enemies and they will fall to the ground if they even think to do me harm. I will lift my head high above my enemies with his strength and will sing praises of joy unto the Lord in his house.
Heavenly Father I thank you for giving me and your children strength to walk by our enemies fearlessly. Continue to protect us dear Lord and forgive us if we don’t show you our love. Thanks be to God. Amen.
Hazel Waters
Wednesday, March 9, 2022
Read: Genesis 15:17-18
The Lord’s Covenant with Abram
Genesis 15 explores the significance of God’s promises to Abram and Sarai about descendants and land.
In verse 17-18 Abram has trouble believing the promise of the land. Genesis informs that God instructed Abram to take a series of animals and, cut them in two and lay each half opposite its counterpart. This practice has been attached to covenants that bind inharmonious parties together. The weaker passes through the halved animals. Genesis continues, Abram fell into a deep sleep and in a dream or vision Abram observes a smoking pot and a flaming torch passing between the cut-up animals. The burning pot which is translated as an image for the divine is the one who passes through the passageway of death.
This is God who enters a binding covenantal commitment with this dusty creature who seemingly remains uncertain of God. This is a God who will carry the weight of the covenant. The land indeed will be given. Through the crucifixion of Jesus, we, too, are recipients of a great promise as he bled and died for our sins so that we may have the gift of salvation and the promise of a life eternal. God is always putting himself on the line for us. Sometimes we become so absorbed in holiness traditions that it clouds the significance of our human response, and we woefully neglect the importance of reminding our people that the God who promises is faithful.
Perhaps we could stand to spend more time examining the heifers, goats, rams, and birds of our time for ways to image the Good News. Perhaps it is our neighborhood changing demographics reflecting the diversity of God, or the negative examples of our political division as anti-image of the church’s unity. (Madsen. M, 2013). God is still using the things in the world to communicate his promise. Amen.
Judith David Tanner,
Certified Lay Servant
Read: Genesis 15:17-18
The Lord’s Covenant with Abram
Genesis 15 explores the significance of God’s promises to Abram and Sarai about descendants and land.
In verse 17-18 Abram has trouble believing the promise of the land. Genesis informs that God instructed Abram to take a series of animals and, cut them in two and lay each half opposite its counterpart. This practice has been attached to covenants that bind inharmonious parties together. The weaker passes through the halved animals. Genesis continues, Abram fell into a deep sleep and in a dream or vision Abram observes a smoking pot and a flaming torch passing between the cut-up animals. The burning pot which is translated as an image for the divine is the one who passes through the passageway of death.
This is God who enters a binding covenantal commitment with this dusty creature who seemingly remains uncertain of God. This is a God who will carry the weight of the covenant. The land indeed will be given. Through the crucifixion of Jesus, we, too, are recipients of a great promise as he bled and died for our sins so that we may have the gift of salvation and the promise of a life eternal. God is always putting himself on the line for us. Sometimes we become so absorbed in holiness traditions that it clouds the significance of our human response, and we woefully neglect the importance of reminding our people that the God who promises is faithful.
Perhaps we could stand to spend more time examining the heifers, goats, rams, and birds of our time for ways to image the Good News. Perhaps it is our neighborhood changing demographics reflecting the diversity of God, or the negative examples of our political division as anti-image of the church’s unity. (Madsen. M, 2013). God is still using the things in the world to communicate his promise. Amen.
Judith David Tanner,
Certified Lay Servant
Tuesday, March 8, 2022
Read: Genesis 15:7-12
This passage is one of two parallels where God offers Abram two covenants: one for land and one for progeny. This version is in the Yahwist tradition and the other, in chapter 17, the Priestly tradition. The latter is where the Lord renames Abram to Abraham. And this passage has parallels with that beginning this chapter. In both, the Lord offers a covenant to Abram, Abram protests or complains and the Lord resolves the issue.
Verse 6 in the first part of this chapter is picked up in two places in the New Testament, by Paul in Romans 4 and also in James 2:23. Paul points out how the Lord imputes Abram’s belief as righteousness which he calls Abram’s faith. So Paul states that we Gentiles who believe are Abram’s progeny by faith rather than as for Jews who are progeny by blood and the law.
In today’s passage the Lord begins by pointing out that Abram now stands on the land that he promised Abram when he was in Ur of the Chaldeans. So Abram asks “How will I know?” So the Lord instructs him in preparing a sacrifice which would take considerable effort, both in preparing and defending the sacrifice. He falls into a deep sleep. Due to the parallel with the first part of this chapter, we expect a resolution.
Lord God our father, we thank you that we are a part of the people of faith and belief in your word. Amen.
Jim Langworthy
Read: Genesis 15:7-12
This passage is one of two parallels where God offers Abram two covenants: one for land and one for progeny. This version is in the Yahwist tradition and the other, in chapter 17, the Priestly tradition. The latter is where the Lord renames Abram to Abraham. And this passage has parallels with that beginning this chapter. In both, the Lord offers a covenant to Abram, Abram protests or complains and the Lord resolves the issue.
Verse 6 in the first part of this chapter is picked up in two places in the New Testament, by Paul in Romans 4 and also in James 2:23. Paul points out how the Lord imputes Abram’s belief as righteousness which he calls Abram’s faith. So Paul states that we Gentiles who believe are Abram’s progeny by faith rather than as for Jews who are progeny by blood and the law.
In today’s passage the Lord begins by pointing out that Abram now stands on the land that he promised Abram when he was in Ur of the Chaldeans. So Abram asks “How will I know?” So the Lord instructs him in preparing a sacrifice which would take considerable effort, both in preparing and defending the sacrifice. He falls into a deep sleep. Due to the parallel with the first part of this chapter, we expect a resolution.
Lord God our father, we thank you that we are a part of the people of faith and belief in your word. Amen.
Jim Langworthy
Monday, March 7, 2022
Read: Genesis 15:1-6
God’s Promises Are True
God is faithful in all his promises. He is on time and never late. Abraham, getting older by the day feared that he would have to leave all his inheritance to his trusted servant Eliezer of Damascus because he did not have a son. He also feared revenge from the kings he had just defeated.
Abraham was miserable, feeling sorry for himself, for although he had great wealth and he served the Lord faithfully, he was very old and didn’t have a son. According to custom he would have to give away all of his wealth to his servant. Sometimes we are like Abraham. When we pray for a need and have to wait for it to be fulfilled, the wait can stretch out for years; we give up hope and console ourselves with explanations why our prayers went unanswered. Sometimes we try to fix things for ourselves, and end up making things worse.
So, in a vision the Lord took Abraham outside by his hand and said to him, “Look at the stars, count them, if you can. Your descendants will be like that - too many to count.” Abraham believed the Lord and the Lord declared him righteous because of his faith.
Let us pause and think about that one situation that we have prayed for and given up hope of receiving an answer to. Next, recognize the reasons that we have rationalized why it would not happen. Then visualize and remember God’s promises to Abraham and relate it to our situation…. Have faith and trust in the Lord. Amen.
Lord I believe in the good things to come from the smallest to the greatest and I trust the Holy Sprit to bring it into manifestation in the name of the Lord. Thank you for always being faithful in your promises to us. Amen.
Ellen Cort
Read: Genesis 15:1-6
God’s Promises Are True
God is faithful in all his promises. He is on time and never late. Abraham, getting older by the day feared that he would have to leave all his inheritance to his trusted servant Eliezer of Damascus because he did not have a son. He also feared revenge from the kings he had just defeated.
Abraham was miserable, feeling sorry for himself, for although he had great wealth and he served the Lord faithfully, he was very old and didn’t have a son. According to custom he would have to give away all of his wealth to his servant. Sometimes we are like Abraham. When we pray for a need and have to wait for it to be fulfilled, the wait can stretch out for years; we give up hope and console ourselves with explanations why our prayers went unanswered. Sometimes we try to fix things for ourselves, and end up making things worse.
So, in a vision the Lord took Abraham outside by his hand and said to him, “Look at the stars, count them, if you can. Your descendants will be like that - too many to count.” Abraham believed the Lord and the Lord declared him righteous because of his faith.
Let us pause and think about that one situation that we have prayed for and given up hope of receiving an answer to. Next, recognize the reasons that we have rationalized why it would not happen. Then visualize and remember God’s promises to Abraham and relate it to our situation…. Have faith and trust in the Lord. Amen.
Lord I believe in the good things to come from the smallest to the greatest and I trust the Holy Sprit to bring it into manifestation in the name of the Lord. Thank you for always being faithful in your promises to us. Amen.
Ellen Cort
First Sunday in Lent, March 6, 2022
Read: Luke 4:1-12
Thought for the Day: As we begin Lent, remember that Jesus came to the world to live like we do; died on the cross for our sins when he did not have any sin and conquered death by rising from the grave on the third day.
As a believer, have you been able to notice that our expectations do not always the realities of our existence? From the passage, Jesus was tempted while he was filled with the Holy Spirit. As a believer, we have the mistaken belief that God will make things easier for us after being saved. This might be true in some ways but we have to prepare ourselves for this by being firmly planted in biblical truths and meditate on the word of God. We let our convictions develop gradually through prayer and fervent Bible study. You know why? Satan knows the Bible, that is why he said to Jesus in Luke 4:3 “If you are the son of God tell this stone to become bread” and Jesus answered “it is written man shall not live by bread alone but on the word of God which is everlasting.” Satan then instantaneously showed Jesus all the good things of the world and then lying to Jesus that it had been given to him. Jesus, ever ready, replied “it is written, worship the Lord your God and serve him only.” Jesus knows his “word” (the Bible) because he is the word made flesh. Do you know?” Do you meditate on the Bible, the word of God? To know the word of God start to do this with the season of Lent and continue.
Satan then took Jesus on Jerusalem’s highest point, the Temple, and said to him, “if you are the son of God, throw yourself down from here. For it is written, ‘he will command his angels concerning you, to guard you carefully. They will lift you up in their hands so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.’” (Psalm 91:11-12) Jesus replied, “It is said, do not put the Lord your God to the test.”
Children of God, to overcome temptation we need to ground ourselves in the scriptures. Then we will be able to stand firm in our faith without wavering. As a believer, we should not only study, meditate and stay in the word during Lent but continue after Lent and all the days of our lives. This is so that we can be ready to defeat the devil and his tricks.
Father Lord, even when I am being tempted, let me experience your peace because Jesus died on the cross for us, in Jesus’ mighty name. Amen.
Olubanke Daka,
Certified Lay Minister
Read: Luke 4:1-12
Thought for the Day: As we begin Lent, remember that Jesus came to the world to live like we do; died on the cross for our sins when he did not have any sin and conquered death by rising from the grave on the third day.
As a believer, have you been able to notice that our expectations do not always the realities of our existence? From the passage, Jesus was tempted while he was filled with the Holy Spirit. As a believer, we have the mistaken belief that God will make things easier for us after being saved. This might be true in some ways but we have to prepare ourselves for this by being firmly planted in biblical truths and meditate on the word of God. We let our convictions develop gradually through prayer and fervent Bible study. You know why? Satan knows the Bible, that is why he said to Jesus in Luke 4:3 “If you are the son of God tell this stone to become bread” and Jesus answered “it is written man shall not live by bread alone but on the word of God which is everlasting.” Satan then instantaneously showed Jesus all the good things of the world and then lying to Jesus that it had been given to him. Jesus, ever ready, replied “it is written, worship the Lord your God and serve him only.” Jesus knows his “word” (the Bible) because he is the word made flesh. Do you know?” Do you meditate on the Bible, the word of God? To know the word of God start to do this with the season of Lent and continue.
Satan then took Jesus on Jerusalem’s highest point, the Temple, and said to him, “if you are the son of God, throw yourself down from here. For it is written, ‘he will command his angels concerning you, to guard you carefully. They will lift you up in their hands so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.’” (Psalm 91:11-12) Jesus replied, “It is said, do not put the Lord your God to the test.”
Children of God, to overcome temptation we need to ground ourselves in the scriptures. Then we will be able to stand firm in our faith without wavering. As a believer, we should not only study, meditate and stay in the word during Lent but continue after Lent and all the days of our lives. This is so that we can be ready to defeat the devil and his tricks.
Father Lord, even when I am being tempted, let me experience your peace because Jesus died on the cross for us, in Jesus’ mighty name. Amen.
Olubanke Daka,
Certified Lay Minister
Saturday, March 5, 2022
Read: Romans 10:11-13
While the context is different, Paul's words remain vital today. There is no difference between Asian and Mexican, Black and White, Nigerian and Malian, Protestant and Catholic, Muslim and Christian, Haitian and Jamaican, Jewish and Buddhist, housed and homeless. God reaches out to all as his beloved ones and expects all of us to do the same.
And for Paul, calling on the name of the Lord meant becoming like the Lord, becoming a part of his family and clan. That meant building the Kingdom of Heaven by being the good news, tending to the sick and the poor, opening one's heart and hearth to the stranger, and witnessing to the wonderful works of God among us.
As we enter into the Lenten season, let us ask God's grace to be as fearless as Jesus was in bringing His message of peace, service and love to a world that experienced as much turmoil as our world of today.
Peter Loan
Read: Romans 10:11-13
While the context is different, Paul's words remain vital today. There is no difference between Asian and Mexican, Black and White, Nigerian and Malian, Protestant and Catholic, Muslim and Christian, Haitian and Jamaican, Jewish and Buddhist, housed and homeless. God reaches out to all as his beloved ones and expects all of us to do the same.
And for Paul, calling on the name of the Lord meant becoming like the Lord, becoming a part of his family and clan. That meant building the Kingdom of Heaven by being the good news, tending to the sick and the poor, opening one's heart and hearth to the stranger, and witnessing to the wonderful works of God among us.
As we enter into the Lenten season, let us ask God's grace to be as fearless as Jesus was in bringing His message of peace, service and love to a world that experienced as much turmoil as our world of today.
Peter Loan
Friday, March 4, 2022
Read: Romans 10:8-10
What is this Bible verse saying to us? It is reminding us that God’s word is here for us. We all know the “Good News.” The word of God, the scriptures are encouraging us to be faithful. God so loves us that he sent his son Jesus to us. Christ was crucified, died, and was buried for all our sins. The Easter story does not end there…….Jesus was resurrected. Hallelujah!!!
We are called to confession and repentance. We must remember to accept the wisdom and leadership of the Holy Spirit. Be cleansed from all unrighteousness by the blood of our savior Jesus the Christ. Be baptized by water as we accept Christ as our savior. We need to genuinely believe in our hearts, and express verbally, with faith that Christ died, was buried and he arose for our salvation!!! This season of Lent gives us an opportunity to embrace the scriptures and renew our faith in the resurrection.
Dear Heavenly Father, we thank you for your holy word and its “Good News.” Please be patient with us as we study and learn the powerful messages of salvation within. We are thankful for the love divine. Thank you for giving us your best gift ever, our Savior the Christ. In his previous name we pray! Amen
Joan Doyle
Read: Romans 10:8-10
What is this Bible verse saying to us? It is reminding us that God’s word is here for us. We all know the “Good News.” The word of God, the scriptures are encouraging us to be faithful. God so loves us that he sent his son Jesus to us. Christ was crucified, died, and was buried for all our sins. The Easter story does not end there…….Jesus was resurrected. Hallelujah!!!
We are called to confession and repentance. We must remember to accept the wisdom and leadership of the Holy Spirit. Be cleansed from all unrighteousness by the blood of our savior Jesus the Christ. Be baptized by water as we accept Christ as our savior. We need to genuinely believe in our hearts, and express verbally, with faith that Christ died, was buried and he arose for our salvation!!! This season of Lent gives us an opportunity to embrace the scriptures and renew our faith in the resurrection.
Dear Heavenly Father, we thank you for your holy word and its “Good News.” Please be patient with us as we study and learn the powerful messages of salvation within. We are thankful for the love divine. Thank you for giving us your best gift ever, our Savior the Christ. In his previous name we pray! Amen
Joan Doyle
Thursday, March 3, 2022
Read: Psalm 91:2, 9-16
These verses remind us that God is our refuge and our fortress in times of trouble. When we are tested in every area of our lives, the devil is not trying to get your house or your car or your job. He doesn’t need those things. He is trying to tempt us to give up our faith and trust in our Lord and Savior. Don’t fall for it. In the midst of all that is happening in the world around us, we must maintain our faith in Christ. He will protect and deliver us from all our troubles and adversaries. Maintain your faith. Verse seven says “A thousand shall fall at thy side, and ten thousand at thy right hand: but it shall not come nigh thee.” Make the Lord your refuge. Turn to him in every instance. God loves you and has given is angels charge over you. Don’t doubt it. Call upon the Lord and he will answer your prayers.
Dear God even if I suffer for the good you call me to do, give me the courage to persevere, to continue in my faith to trust you despite what is happening in the natural. Please protect and guide me as I follow you. Amen.
Annette Carter
Read: Psalm 91:2, 9-16
These verses remind us that God is our refuge and our fortress in times of trouble. When we are tested in every area of our lives, the devil is not trying to get your house or your car or your job. He doesn’t need those things. He is trying to tempt us to give up our faith and trust in our Lord and Savior. Don’t fall for it. In the midst of all that is happening in the world around us, we must maintain our faith in Christ. He will protect and deliver us from all our troubles and adversaries. Maintain your faith. Verse seven says “A thousand shall fall at thy side, and ten thousand at thy right hand: but it shall not come nigh thee.” Make the Lord your refuge. Turn to him in every instance. God loves you and has given is angels charge over you. Don’t doubt it. Call upon the Lord and he will answer your prayers.
Dear God even if I suffer for the good you call me to do, give me the courage to persevere, to continue in my faith to trust you despite what is happening in the natural. Please protect and guide me as I follow you. Amen.
Annette Carter
Ash Wednesday, March 2, 2022
Read: Isaiah 58:1-12
Fasting for the Right Reasons
God is not pleased with us if we fast just for form and fashion (that is) giving the appearance of fasting while doing it only for show.
Every Christian needs to pause every now and then to assess their life path and decisions. The prophet Isaiah warns about pious practices with an ulterior motive. It is unacceptable for us to fast and pray in order to win favor with God. Christians don’t take on spiritual disciplines to win favor with God but to draw near to God. Can you hear God telling us in the Psalm “if you want to dray near to me, draw near to your neighbor through acts of mercy and justice. For when you draw near to others you draw near to me.”
Fasting for the right reasons loosens the bonds of wickedness. It frees the oppressed. It allows us to share our bread with the hungry and bring the homeless into shelters and clothe the naked.
Gracious God, by the grace of your son Jesus Christ and the leadership of your Holy Spirit, enable us to live lives that lead us nearer to you and the people around us. Amen
Rev. Dr. E. Allen Stewart
Consulting Pastor
Read: Isaiah 58:1-12
Fasting for the Right Reasons
God is not pleased with us if we fast just for form and fashion (that is) giving the appearance of fasting while doing it only for show.
Every Christian needs to pause every now and then to assess their life path and decisions. The prophet Isaiah warns about pious practices with an ulterior motive. It is unacceptable for us to fast and pray in order to win favor with God. Christians don’t take on spiritual disciplines to win favor with God but to draw near to God. Can you hear God telling us in the Psalm “if you want to dray near to me, draw near to your neighbor through acts of mercy and justice. For when you draw near to others you draw near to me.”
Fasting for the right reasons loosens the bonds of wickedness. It frees the oppressed. It allows us to share our bread with the hungry and bring the homeless into shelters and clothe the naked.
Gracious God, by the grace of your son Jesus Christ and the leadership of your Holy Spirit, enable us to live lives that lead us nearer to you and the people around us. Amen
Rev. Dr. E. Allen Stewart
Consulting Pastor