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Lent 2004

Dear Friends,

As we begin the journey of Lent our world continues to contain elements of both delight and concern. As Christian people we examine the Scriptures for comfort, stimulation, challenge, and lessons learned through the stories of God among people who are often not all that different from you and me. As we walk this journey together, we might consider doing so with the Bible in one hand and the world in the other. How does Lenten Scripture illuminate our place in God’s great world?

We will hear the words “justice” and “righteousness” a great deal. The HarperCollins NRSV of the Bible defines them in the following way: “Justice is the establishment of the right, and of the person in the right, through fair legal procedures in accordance with the will of the Lord. Righteousness is that quality of life in relationship with others in the community that gives rise to justice” (p.1364).

How do we live in ways that actually give rise to justice, both within our walls here at Grace and beyond? How might God be calling us to live in ways that would meet the divine imperative to righteousness? This is holy ground we are walking together. We live in the hope that you will find sustenance within this community of faith during the season of Lent and thank God for your presence here.

God’s richest blessings be yours,

Ann

The contents of this Lenten Reflection section is also available as a PDF file so that you may create a printable verison to take with you wherever you may go.

Table of Contents

Week of February 22, 2003

Ash Wednesday

Psalms 95 & 32, 143 & 102, 130
Amos 5:6-15
Hebrews 12:1-14
Luke 18:9-14

Pursue peace with everyone. (Hebrews 12:14a)

Pursue is such an active word. Some of its synonyms are trail, hunt, track, follow, seek, chase, go after, hound, stalk…How does one pursue peace? As I used to drive past the Pentagon several times each week, I would think to myself: “If 10% of the people who worked there were hired to do nonviolent peacemaking, what difference might that make in this world?” If this country placed 10% of our national budget toward peacemaking, imagine the kind of impact we would have in this world!

And then there’s the old adage that still rings as true today as it did at its inception: “If you want peace, work for justice.” So then, God, if we are to “pursue peace” I’m thinking that our job as Christian people is to utilize the power of community, to link arms as people who truly care about the plight of others and become agents of justice, freedom and peace. When we pray together, share experiences and dreams, visions for a world that reveals the love of God for all people, perhaps it is in those times that we become a crucible of righteousness out of which justice can emerge. Imagine if 10% of the churches were committed to that in tangible ways…

Thursday

Psalms 37:1-18 & 37:19-42
Habakkuk 3:1-10(11-15)16-18
Philippians 3:12-21
John 17:1-8

Relax, breathe deeply, and meditate on today’s readings.

Friday

Psalms 95 & 31 & 35
Ezekial 18:1-4, 25-32
Philippians 4:1-9
John 17:9-19

The readings for this day teach us that though we are in the world, we are called by God to a higher purpose. To be in the world, but not of it, presents great challenges. It is a challenge to live each day without getting caught up in worry over the temporal things of life. Further, when we are committed to God and to Christ’s teachings, we often find ourselves out of step with society and popular culture. People ridicule us if we do not aspire to or achieve success, as viewed in the eyes of the world.

We are challenged by a world in turmoil. We face a war in Iraq and a global war against terrorism. There is violent conflict in the Middle East, a global AIDS epidemic, and economic insecurity and a health-care crisis at home. The Anglican Communion is threatened with breaking apart because of the consecration of an openly gay priest as a bishop. The list goes on and on. So, how will we be sustained?

We can be sustained by remembering that the people of God have always faced great challenges. The challenges of our current time may be unique, but they are not uniquely difficult. We can remind ourselves that God is always willing to forgive us and help us. We can sustain ourselves with constant prayer and affirmations, and by knowing that God will comfort us in the midst of our tribulations. Most of all, we can remember that Christ has interceded for us with God the Father. Because Christ was obedient to God unto death, we are afforded God’s protection and we are sanctified (made holy).

Saturday

Psalms 30, 32 & 42, 43
Ezekial 39:21-29
Philippians 4:10-20
John 17:20-26

Before reading these passages, I had to look up the meaning of epiphany. The term epiphany means "to show" or "to make known" or even "to reveal." In Western churches, it remembers the coming of the wise men bringing gifts to visit the Christ child, who by so doing "reveal" Jesus to the world as Lord and King. As I read these passages in the context of the definition of epiphany, they remind me of how much God loves us all. There are so many material things in life that are supposedly there to make us happy and fulfilled. However, in the final analysis it is our relationship with God that brings us true happiness and inner peace. As stated in Philippians 4:13, Paul’s contentment came from inward self-sufficiency in Christ, not from outward circumstances. As Paul said, “I can do all things through the one who continually empowers me,” for the power of God works within the believer. The important message I got from reading these passages is that it reveals to us that through God we can find contentment in all circumstances, in plenty or in poverty.

Week of 1 Lent

Sunday

Psalms 63:1-8(9-11), 98 & 103
Daniel 9:3-10
Hebrews 2:10-18
John 12:44-50

This series of readings seem to flow together in lovely synchronicity. The readings from the Psalms speak to the depth of God’s love for “he redeems my life from the pit and crowns me with love and compassion.” (Psalm 103:4) Daniel also speaks about God’s love even when we have betrayed that love through sin. The New Testament readings speak to what lengths Jesus will go to for us and for our salvation. In Hebrews, we read of Jesus sharing in our humanity to free us from the devil and make atonement for our sins. Finally, in John we learn that Jesus “did not come to judge the world, but to save it.” (John 12:47) Jesus is the light that frees us from darkness. On the strength of this, I return to Psalm 98:1 where we are urged to “Sing to the Lord a new song, for he has done marvelous things; . .” Sometimes, I find myself in a prayer-rut. I lose sight of the miracle that is God. During Lent, sing a new song and refresh your prayer life and your relationship with God through Jesus Christ. “I will praise you as long as I live, and in your name I will lift up my hands.” (Psalm 63:4)

Monday

Psalms 41, 52 & 44
Genesis 37:1-11
1 Corinthians 1:1-19
Mark 1:1-13

Write your own reflection on today’s readings.

Tuesday

Psalms 45 & 47, 48
Genesis 37:12-24
1 Corinthians 1:20-31
Mark 1:14-28

Read one of today’s Psalms aloud, to yourself or someone else.

Wednesday

Psalms 119:49-72 & 49, [53]
Genesis 37:25-36
1 Corinthians 2:1-13
Mark 1:29-45

Share your thoughts on today’s readings with a loved one.

Thursday

Psalms 50 & [59, 60] or 19, 46
Genesis 39:1-23
1 Corinthians 2:14—3:15
Mark 2:1-12

Relax, breathe deeply, and meditate on today’s readings.

Friday

Psalms 95 & 40, 54 & 51
Genesis 40:1-23
1 Corinthians 3:16-23
Mark 2:13-22

Read and discuss today’s readings with another person.

Saturday

Psalms 55 & 138, 139:1-17(18-23)
Genesis 41:1-13
1 Corinthians 4:1-7
Mark 2:23—3:6

What messages can you find in today’s readings that apply to your life?

Week of 2 Lent

Sunday

Psalms 24, 29 & 8, 84
Genesis 41:14-45
Romans 6:3-14
John 5:19-24

We have heard it said that Lent should be a period of reflection. What exactly does that mean? Does it mean we pray more fervently or attend church more often? Does it mean that we settle down to ponder questions of faith, salvation, or eternity?

Maybe we should move away from doing, and concentrate on just being in God’s presence. If we could set aside the hustle and bustle of everyday life, put away all the hype and hysteria, and just listen, we might for once hear the voice of God.

Maybe Lent is not about conscious reflection. Perhaps Lent is not about trying or working so hard in search of God's message, but about letting go and allowing the Holy Spirit to help us walk through the season with Jesus.

Lent is the time to humble ourselves, confess our total inadequacy, and come before God knowing that Jesus paid the price for our salvation. There is nothing we ourselves can do to attain salvation; that was bought at Calvary.

We must recognize and acknowledge again and again God’s presence in our lives and in our world. We must place our needs, our fears, our failures, our hopes, our very lives in God’s hands, again. By abandoning ourselves in Jesus’ death, we will recognize again who God is and allow God’s transforming grace to work in us, so that after journeying through the darkness of Good Friday with Jesus, we will be able to worship Him on Easter Sunday, secure in the knowledge that by dying with Christ, we also will live eternally with Him.

Let us humble ourselves before our God and acknowledge the ultimate sacrifice that was paid for our redemption. That might put us in a position to hear God in ways that we have not heard in a long time. And it just may be that our Lenten reflection will bring something for which our soul craves—the beginning of a new and closer relationship with God.

Monday

Psalms 56, 57, [58] & 64, 65
Genesis 41:46-57
1 Corinthians 4:8-20(21)
Mark 3:7-19a

During Lent, we reflect upon Christ’s life and death in hope of a deeper relationship with God. Today’s readings remind me of my own weakness when faced with a choice between suffering for the sake of others versus protecting my own self-interests. It is far easier to stay in my comfort zone than to step into the line of fire for a brother or sister in need. It takes a "ruthless trust" in God to willingly choose the path of suffering for others, especially without the promise of any particular reward or outcome.

Joseph did not choose to be sold into slavery or to languish in prison for a crime he did not commit. Yet, if that had not happened, he could not have saved Israel from seven years of famine. It’s likely that the Corinthians did not welcome Paul’s tongue lashing about their arrogant and boastfulness ways. But without it, they would have remained on the path of sin and destruction. On the day the apostles were chosen by Jesus, they probably were not thinking it would lead to their persecution and martyrdom. Yet it was the power of the Holy Spirit and the Apostles’ numerous acts of selflessness that enabled the church to survive and thrive. Likewise, it is through our own acts of selflessness that Christ incarnate may be made manifest today.  Lord, help us to trust in you when faced with the choice to act selflessly for others.

For you have delivered my soul from death and my feet from falling, so that I may walk before God in the light of life.  Psalm 56:13

Tuesday

Psalms 61, 62 & 68:1-20(21-23)24-36
Genesis 42:1-17
1 Corinthians 5:1-8
Mark 3:19b-35

Clean out the old yeast so that you may be a new batch, as you really are unleavened. For our paschal lamb, Christ, has been sacrificed. Therefore, let us celebrate the festival, not with old yeast, the yeast of malice and evil, but with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth. 1 Corinthians 5:7-8

This reading speaks to a situation within the church that was very abhorrent and “of a kind that is not found even among pagans. . .” Members of this church community did not confront this immoral behavior and it became an indictment of the entire community. Paul likens this immoral behavior to old yeast that—even a small amount—can leaven a whole batch of dough, with the dough representing the church community. As with the church in Corinth, Grace Church is a community of believers who are responsible to God and to each other. During this time of self-examination and prayer, consider how your behavior may reflect on your life in Christ and on the community of believers. Are you like the unleavened bread?

Wednesday

Psalms 72 & 119:73-96
Genesis 42:18-28
1 Corinthians 5:9—6:8
Mark 4:1-20

Genesis 42:18-28

Joseph was testing his brothers to make sure they had not been cruel to the youngest brother Benjamin, as they had been to him. He missed his brother Benjamin and wanted to see him again. When Joseph had the money put back in their sacks, the brothers thought God was punishing them for what they had done to Joseph.

1 Corinthians 5:9-6:8

Paul tells us that we should not disassociate ourselves from unbelievers. If we do this we cannot carry out his command to tell them the good news of salvation. We must distance ourselves from the persons who claim to be Christians yet indulge in sin explicitly forbidden in Scripture and then rationalizes their actions. The Bible also tells us not criticize people by gossiping or making rash judgments of others. Paul in his letter teaches us we should not handle disputes between Christians in the secular court system as this system lacks God’s wisdom. God wants us to handle disputes amongst ourselves where we can rely on God’s wisdom for resolution.

Mark 4:1-20

Jesus taught the people by telling them parables. These short stories explain spiritual truths. This teaching compels listeners to think. The parables conceal the truth from those who are too stubborn or prejudiced to hear what is being taught. Most parables have one point. We must be careful not to go beyond what Jesus intended to teach us.

Thursday

Psalms [70], 71 & 74
Genesis 42:29-38
1 Corinthians 6:12-20
Mark 4:21-34

Psalm 70 starts with a heartfelt cry “O Lord make haste to save me!” Yet most of the rest of the readings for this day gave me a different message, one reminding me of a favorite gospel hymn: "You can't hurry God, You just have to wait, You have to trust him and give him time, child, no matter how long it takes." Psalm 74 speaks of a God who "has made me see many troubles and calamities," one who "will revive me again." It talks of a God continually teaching us about the meaning of life around us through the signs of God’s love in the world—despite (or perhaps because of) our trouble and calamities, old age and gray hair. The Genesis story has Joseph asking his brothers to take actions that puzzle them, actions that ultimately will reunite them together as family. Jesus tells parables that turn lamps, bushel baskets, seed grain, and mustard seeds from everyday objects into powerful ways to see God's love.

These readings remind me to be patient and to look for signs of God's love and gifts in unexpected ways and indeed to be thankful that I have so much to learn. I would like always to feel like the author of Psalm 71, who wrote. "O God, from my youth you have taught me and I still proclaim your wondrous deeds."

Friday

Psalms 95 & 69:1-23(24-30)31-38 & 73
Genesis 43:1-15
1 Corinthians 7:1-9
Mark 4:35-41

When asked to write a Lenten reflection, I was excited. I thought, Hey, this might be fun! The chapter and verse labels for my assigned readings were not particularly meaningful to me. I had no sense of what was ahead. Then I read them. And then I read them again. I read them a third time. Oh. What can I offer about these? How are these related? What can I, a gay man, say about Paul’s advice on marriage between a man and a woman? The short passage from the story of Israel and Joseph doesn’t inspire me particularly, I thought. And, oh, no, what new thing can I say about Jesus keeping us safe in all storms? Then, four words jumped out at me—just as he was. The disciples “took him along, just a he was, in the boat.” I checked another translation. The words were there again--just as he was. Then it dawned on me—these words telling how the disciples carried Jesus over the sea also speak to how He carries us. Whenever a person comes to Jesus, Jesus accepts him. Jesus takes him along, just as he is. Jesus takes all of us, just as we are. All we need to do is to get on the boat and let him be the pilot.

Saturday

Psalms 75, 76 & 23, 27
Genesis 43:16-34
1 Corinthians 7:10-24
Mark 5:1-20

Mark 5:1-20 is about a mentally ill man ("possessed by a demon") whom Jesus healed.  According to the passage, Jesus confronted the "filthy spirit" within the man, who was one of many afflicted people living among the tombs in the region of the Gerasenes.  Jesus ultimately exorcised the man by sending his demon, and apparently those of the others, into a herd of 2000 pigs who then rushed over the bluff into the sea and drowned.  Jesus and his disciples proceeded to get into a boat to leave.  When the former demoniac pleaded with Jesus to take him along, Jesus advised him, "Go home to your people and tell them what your patron has done for you--how he has shown mercy on you."

It is widely acknowledged that the Four Gospels, as well as some other gospels left out of the Bible like the Gospel of Thomas, were written during the first two centuries A.D. by various authors drawing from oral tradition and written sources.  According to the Fellows of the Jesus Seminar, roughly 75 highly distinguished Biblical scholars representing a wide array of religious traditions and academic institutions in North America and Europe (led by co-chairs Robert Funk and John Dominic Crossan), Jesus did not say the words in this passage.  In fact, these scholars agree that about 80 percent of the words ascribed to Jesus in the gospels were not actually spoken by him.  How the Jesus of history became the Christ of faith is a fascinating topic that is now being discussed openly by many Christians outside the scholarly realm.

Week of 3 Lent

Sunday

Psalms 93, 96 & 34
Genesis 44:1-17
Romans 8:1-10
John 5:25-29

I have been attending the Bible study in the Old Testament taught by Janice Robinson on Thursday nights. I have been discovering who God is and what God is like. Although it didn’t seem fair to me what happened in the Genesis account, it was deemed to be just. Also because of Christ Jesus, I am forgiven. Then in the book of John, I am reminded of God’s love, concern, and compassion for God’s created ones.

During this Lenten season, I can experience our Lord’s joy in trusting God and fulfilling the purpose for which He was sent to me. I am reminded, too, to remain faithful to what God would want me to do, and be patient while God is working on me.

Monday

Psalms 80 & 77, [79]
Genesis 44:18-34
1 Corinthians 7:25-31
Mark 5:21-43

As we begin a new workweek, it is time for us to take a minute to think about how far we have traveled since childhood. We can look back at all of the trials and tribulations we had to overcome. We can think about the annoyances that convey with modern life. A good example would to consider this winter’s weather, the traffic, the waiting for public transportation, the expanded length of time required to get to home and family. Through all of these, we are expected to carry on.

If one were to try to overcome these obstacles alone, it would be extremely difficult and sometimes the problems of living get the best of us. But those who believe that something, someone outside of ourselves guides us and directs our path through this life have a way to overcome these problems. Our religion acts as a balm to soothe our soul.

As we approach this time of the year, we remember a special time of sacrifice. We remember the One who has died for the forgiveness of our sins. We remember the pain of His journey. We remember the beauty, calmness, and serenity that His Grace and His Mercy give to each and every one.

Tuesday

Psalms 78:1-39 & 78:40-72
Genesis 45:1-15
1 Corinthians 7:32-40
Mark 6:1-13

A relationship is an arrangement made by God to give us the opportunity to reciprocate His love for us. As we care for a husband, wife or children, we gain the motivation to offer them the best of ourselves, even beyond what is necessary, because they belong to God. Swami Krishnapada

Most times, we give ourselves to others before we give ourselves to God. Could it be that we have this huge number of single women in this area because God wants us to Him/Herself? I remember hearing Minister Farrakhan on a Mother’s Day say that being a father of 10 children—most of whom are women—-that he could feel the yearnings of Black women for a good Black man but that the Supreme Lord was a “jealous” God and S/He wanted us first for Her/Himself. That some of us needed to learn to please God with all our hearts first.

In one of his prayers Thomas Merton says: I believe that the desire to please you does, in fact, please you. I hope I have that desire in everything I do. I hope I never do anything apart from that desire. And I know that if I do this you will lead me by the right road though I may know nothing about it at the time. Therefore, I will trust you always for though I may seem to be lost, and in the shadow of death, I will not be afraid because I know you will never leave me to face my troubles all alone. Amen.

Wednesday

Psalms 119:97-120 & 81, 82
Genesis 45:16-28
1 Corinthians 8:1-13
Mark 6:13-29

The Psalms reflect on the importance of God’s laws. The religious laws were the foundation of ancient Jewish society; almost every aspect of life was governed by the laws and sanctions for violations could be severe. But Jesus gave us a simpler set of laws. He was often criticized for eating with those who were ritually unclean, or healing on the Sabbath, violating the letter of the law. When asked by a lawyer among the Pharisees, “What is the greatest commandment?” he replied with two simple rules—you shall love the Lord thy God with all your heart and soul, and you shall love your neighbor as yourself. Joseph in Genesis is a great example of living by these simple laws of God. Joseph was threatened with death and sold by his brothers into slavery. Yet when, years later, they came to him, not knowing who he was, to ask for help, he did not call upon the law to punish them. Instead he welcomed them back and brought them to live with him. Love for his family outweighed all the injunctions of the law.

Thursday

Psalms [83] or 42, 43 & 85, 86
Genesis 46:1-7, 28-34
1 Corinthians 9:1-15
Mark 6:30-46

Mark 6:30-46 reminds me of a question I asked as a child: “How did Jesus feed so many people with so little?” Over time I resolved that much of the Bible gives us wonderful stories to help guide us as we try to live spiritual lives, or maybe there is no answer, just Divine Intervention.

As an adult, and as I grow into my faith, my beliefs are constantly evolving. I can remember praying for miracles when faced with crises and somehow having my prayers answered. Having my son and a friend survive a car accident without a scratch, although the car was totally demolished, was a miracle or Divine Intervention.

Like Paul in Corinthians 9:1-15 I do not always exercise rights that are within my reach; for example, saying no to filling in for an absent colleague or experiencing unjust criticism. I choose to let my actions speak in lieu of exercising my rights. This is always done prayerfully and many times asking for a miracle or Divine Intervention to guide me into a deeper sense of patience.

Perhaps the many questions we asked as children about Jesus and the stories in the Bible have no worldly answers. As we mature we grow into the belief that prayer and faith will eventually answer many questions and also lead to more questions.

Friday

Psalms 95 & 88 & 91, 92
Genesis 47:1-26
1 Corinthians 9:16-27
Mark 6:47-56
Mark 6:45-52

Confused? Yes. "Utterly astounded"? For sure. But "hardened"? That's a little harsh. And just because "they did not understand about the loaves"?

Before Jesus sent them off in a boat to cross the windy Sea of Galilee, the disciples had just seen 5000 folks miraculously fed with five loaves and two fish. When they encounter Jesus walking on the water, and when he stills the wind, the disciples are astounded. But this isn't the first time in Mark's gospel where Jesus calms a storm at sea (4:35-41). It's not the only time where thousands of people are fed with barely enough lunch for one person (8:1-10). And it's not the only time the disciples are described as having hardened hearts (8:14-21).

Later in Mark's gospel, Jesus feeds another multitude with seven loaves of bread and just a few fish. His detractors--the Pharisees--doubt his legitimacy and immediately begin to question him. But when Jesus tells his followers to "beware of the yeast of the Pharisees," again they do not get it. Jesus asks them, "Do you still not perceive or understand? Are your hearts hardened?"

The disciples are not the only ones who are astounded in these stories. Jesus himself is amazed. One concordance suggests that the specific Greek word translated here as "understand" implies knowledge based on familiarity or relationship. So when Jesus voices his own amazement that his disciples do not understand about the loaves, he is really saying to them, "don't you know me better than that?"

Perhaps in our storms, just maybe in our confusion and amazement, Jesus is asking us to recognize him as the one who feeds us with the bread of compassion, to soften our fearful hearts and accept him as the one who sustains us with his love.

Saturday

Psalms 87, 90 & 136
Genesis 47:27—48:7
1 Corinthians 10:1-13
Mark 7:1-23

And the bitter chill of winter slowly gives way to the gentle thaw of spring, which surrounds our everyday sights and senses. For months we have been trapped by the elements that are so beautiful in many ways but paralyze in others. The delays…the closings…the potholes!!! Sometimes I would chastise my car for having a slow-to-work heater…only to remember the man on the street corner with no more warmth then the tattered clothes on his back. But what keeps us all going during a time that is so physically unbearable? It is the rock that we can all lean against during our most trying times-“and that rock was Christ.” (1 Corinthians 10:4) This rock will never let us fall and is more comfortable then a bed of clouds. Forever the warmth of spring in all of our hearts, Christ will be our sunshine.

Week of 4 Lent

Sunday

Psalms 66, 67 & 19, 46
Genesis 48:8-22
Romans 8:11-25
John 6:27-40

Over the past few weeks, I have found myself being much more focused on my conversations with God…my prayers. So as I reflected on the scripture readings for today, I felt drawn to Psalm 66 and specifically to verse 19: “But truly God has listened; he has given heed to the words of my prayer.”

Why? Well, quite frankly, there are times during my prayers when I feel that God is distant. I particularly feel God’s absence during those times when I am desperately seeking answers or when I need relief from the trials and tribulations of this world. During these times, I find myself reiterating a prayer that Jesus said to God while Jesus was on the cross: “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?”

Yet, as Jesus was not forsaken by God on the cross, neither are we. Like our brother Jesus, if we allow ourselves to be faithful and to be patient servants of God, we know that no matter what we may feel, the reality is that God never ever abandons us. God is in tune to every conversation we have, and God is giving heed to the words of our prayers!

Monday

Psalms 89:1-18 & 89:19-52
Genesis 49:1-28
1 Corinthians 10:14—11:1
Mark 7:24-37

What phrase or idea in today’s readings inspires you most?

Tuesday

Psalms 97, 99, [100] & 94, [95]
Genesis 49:29—50:14
1 Corinthians 11:17-34
Mark 8:1-10

It took me awhile to see the common thread or theme that was running through all of these passages; finally this morning it came to me—compassion. What a power-filled word! It can move even the most hardened of cynics to rethink ideas and motives and maybe even resurrect a tear. It can move people to do extra-ordinary deeds for others. Compassion allows us to take a moment and move outside of ourselves and move toward our neighbors and our earth. It gives us an opportunity to look inside ourselves at our feelings, to ask “when was the last time we actually felt something?” Compassion moves us to action; action that sometimes surprises even us.

In Genesis, Pharaoh was moved to compassion as he granted the request of Joseph to go bury his father Jacob. In Mark, Jesus was moved by compassion to feed the four thousand who had been gathered with him for three days. And my favorite passage of the three, I Corinthians 11, in Paul’s exhortation to these Christians, he is moved by compassion to help them remember the power of the Body and Blood of Christ and the attitude we ought to have as we approach this sacrament.

Compassion—what a power-filled word!

In what ways is compassion moving in our lives today?

Wednesday

Psalms 101, 109:1-4(5-19)20-30 & 119:121-144
Genesis 50:15-26
1 Corinthians 12:1-11 Mark 8:11-26

I was impressed with the beautiful example of God's intervention and Joseph's cooperation in the final outcome of an important event. Joseph's brothers asked for forgiveness and Joseph assured them of it in Genesis Chapter 50 verses 19 and 20 - "But Joseph replied to them: Have no fear. Can I take the place of God? Even though you meant harm to me, God meant it for good, to achieve his present end, the survival of many people." Isn't that how God often works in our lives as well? Something that seems difficult, even unbearable, is turned into a greater good. We must remember that God sees the whole picture in our lives. Our part is to wait patiently with faith that God is indeed working out the details.

This bible passage in Genesis also spoke to me concerning the importance of forgiveness. God's work would have been severely restricted had Joseph not forgiven his brothers. What a perfect example of how our Creator works in partnership with his creatures. In our present culture it is considered important to exercise total control over our lives. As difficult as it may be to surrender a proportion of this control, it is vital to our spiritual growth. After careful reflection of the mistakes I've made in this regard, I am delighted to be relieved of the great burden of going it alone.

Thursday

Psalms 69:1-23(24-30)31-38 & 73
Exodus 1:6-22
1 Corinthians 12:12-26
Mark 8:27—9:1

Write your own reflection on today’s readings.

Friday

Psalms 95 & 102 & 107:1-32
Exodus 2:1-22
1 Corinthians 12:27—13:3
Mark 9:2-13

Meditate on today’s readings. Do you feel any different than you did before you began your meditation?

Saturday

Psalms 107:33-43, 108:1-6(7-13) & 33
Exodus 2:23—3:15
1 Corinthians 13:1-13
Mark 9:14-29

...I believe, help my unbelief! Mark 9:24

I do believe. I try, and try, to sustain that belief in the midst of troubles, terrorism, and the petty, petty trials that chase me down the paths of each day. I count myself as a believer. I do believe. But what if... what if...oh, I can hardly say it, what if that which I say I believe in, is the wrong thing? Or what if my belief is too weak? What if my belief is not enough to sustain me through these times? I do believe, yet my unbelief haunts me and forces me to face that which I fear. I do believe, and that act—that act of faith—of accepting that which we cannot know in this life—is enough. I do believe. Help me, oh Lord, in my unbelief. Forgive my unbelief. Be with me, for I believe. Amen.

Week of 5 Lent

Sunday

Psalms 118 & 145
Exodus 3:16—4:12
Romans 12:1-21
John 8:46-59

Just before I started writing this reflection, I came from an interview where one of the questions was "how have you handled a situation where you have had to deal with a difficult person?" This is a standard interview question and I should have been prepared with an answer, but I wasn't. I couldn't think of a satisfactory answer because this is an area where I still struggle so much.

Before I joined the church it was easier—I just hated them and did what I could to make their life as difficult as they made mine (not that I would say that in an interview!). But Romans 12:19-21 tells me: "Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God's wrath...on the contrary, if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head." For me, this is one of the most difficult commands in the Scriptures. I want to protect and defend my family and friends, and I am not satisfied with waiting to see if the person is "repaid" by God. My attempts to develop my Christian character war with my rage and resentment, and each take turns dominating my behavior. My prayer is that my desire to grow in Christian love will eventually win.

Monday

Psalms 31 & 35
Exodus 4:10-20(21-26)27-31
1 Corinthians 14:1-19
Mark 9:30-41

In the Lord I have put my trust, let me be never confused.  And deliver me in thy righteousness.

Tuesday

Psalms [120], 121, 122, 123 & 124, 125, 126, [127]
Exodus 5:1—6:1
1 Corinthians 14:20-33a, 39-40
Mark 9:42-50

Share your thoughts on today’s readings with a loved one. Listen to their perspective.

Wednesday

Psalms 119:145-176 & 128, 129, 130
Exodus 7:8-24
2 Corinthians 2:14—3:6
Mark 10:1-16

Read one of today’s Psalms aloud, to yourself or someone else.

Thursday

Psalms 131, 132, [133] & 140, 142
Exodus 7:25—8:19
2 Corinthians 3:7-18
Mark 10:17-31

I know the Lord will secure justice for the needy, rights for the poor. Psalm 140:13
Jesus, looking at [the man who had observed all of the 10 commandments] loved him, and said to him, “You are lacking in one thing. Go, sell what you have, and give to the poor and you will have treasure in heaven; then come, follow me.” At that statement his face fell, and he went away sad, for he had many possessions. Jesus looked around and said to his disciples…”It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of God.” Mark 10:21-25

After two and a half millennia of Judaism, two millennia of Christianity, and 1500 years of Islam, we still have not learned the basic principle that the poor will inherit the earth, and the rich will have a rough Judgment Day. Why do most of us fail to take this simple lesson to heart? Why are the poor still hungry, dispossessed, and dying in anguish, as they were when Christ’s sandals trod Judea’s dusty roads? Why do we still pursue the golden idol? The man whose face fell and walked away is most of us; he probably had fewer possessions than I and most Americans today. Have we learned nothing? Is Christ’s charge to us so antithetical to everything we experience in our society that we cannot hear His call? Are we spiritually tone deaf? The lesson is simple, but the actions it demands, we tell ourselves, are next to impossible. Perhaps rather than ignoring the lesson and retreating into my shell, I can begin by giving away more of my gifts, more of my time, more of my possessions, and sharing them with the poor. The more I give away, the more I will have in my heart.

Friday

Psalms 95 & 22 & 141, 143:1-11(12)
Exodus 9:13-35
2 Corinthians 4:1-12
Mark 10:32-45

What messages can you find in today’s readings that apply to your own life?

Saturday

Psalms 137:1-6(7-9), 144 & 42, 43
Exodus 10:21—11:8
2 Corinthians 4:13-18
Mark 10:46-52

They came to Jericho; and as he was leaving the town, with his disciples and a large crowd, Bartimaeus (that is, son of Timaeus), a blind beggar, was seated at the roadside. Hearing that it was Jesus of Nazareth, he began to shout, ‘Son of David, Jesus, have pity on me!’ Many of the people told him to hold his tongue; but he shouted all the more, ‘Son of David, have pity on me.’
Jesus stopped and said, ‘Call him’; so they called the blind man: ‘Take heart,’ they said. ‘Get up; he is calling you.’ At that he threw off his cloak, jumped to his feet, and came to Jesus. Jesus said to him, ‘Go; your faith has healed you.’ And at once he recovered his sight and followed him on the road.’ Mark 10:46-52

The thought of encountering Jesus with his disciples and a large crowd in tow is easy to visualize when they look, in my mind, as portrayed in Hollywood movies over the years. But what if Jesus came today with his disciples and a large crowd in tow? Would we recognize him in blue jeans or a Brooks Brothers’ suit? How could we tell the difference from pop stars and professional athletes with their entourages and groupies in tow? How could we distinguish Jesus Christ from the mere charismatic?

Perhaps the difference would be in the results, as in Mark where Jesus pronounced the blind man healed by his own faith. Perhaps Jesus would perform a miracle to prove his identity. The bottom line to these musings is that, notwithstanding the details about which I wonder, the important point is that I have faith—faith that Jesus lived, that he died, that he arose, and that he will come again. I will know him when I see him; I just know I will.

Holy Week

Palm Sunday

Psalms 24, 29 & 103
Zechariah 9:9-12
1 Timothy 6:12-16
Zechariah 12:9-11; 13:1, 7-9
Luke 19:41-48

Relax, breathe deeply, and meditate on today’s readings.

Monday

Psalms 51:1-18(19-20) & 69:1-23
Lamentations 1:1-2, 6-12
2 Corinthians 1:1-7
Mark 11:12-25

Tuesday

Psalms 6, 12 & 94
Lamentations 1:17-22
2 Corinthians 1:8-22
Mark 11:27-33

In the Washington, DC, area we live in a constant state of bombardment. Negative political discourse, economic downturns, reports of American soldiers being killed in Iraq, and warnings or alerts are the daily rule. For many, tuning out the messages provides a sense of security, some live in fear, and others pray.

The selected passages reveal that people in Biblical times also experienced war and destructive events. They were saddened and often filled with despair just as we are today.

Through it all, we have a choice of how we will respond to the bombardment.

If we recognize that that no matter what the ways of the world, God is a constant in our lives collectively and personally, we can learn to surrender our fears and concerns, to trust and to pray faithfully for one another. By God’s Grace, God will deliver us.

Wednesday

Psalms 55 & 74
Lamentations 2:1-9
2 Corinthians 1:23—2:11
Mark 12:1-11

The verses for this day are sad, yet full of hope. Lamentations is said to be “probably the saddest book in the Bible... made up of entirely sad songs.” Jerusalem is crying over her loss, feels that she is being punished for her sins, and she cries out to the Lord in her suffering. In the Corinthians passage, there is also a reference to sadness, and yet, the message is one of forgiveness and love. Indeed, Paul notes that the sinner should not be punished but rather comforted and forgiven, as the sinner is already sad. The story in Mark is one of Jesus’ parables about a son being sent to his father’s property only to be killed by those living on that land. Here, as in Corinthians, there is a glimmer of hope and forgiveness as a cornerstone reads, “The Lord did this, and it is wonderful to us.”

The season of Lent is one of intense reflection as well as anticipation. Some of us ponder what we might give up for Lent, which can be easy these days, given our lives of excess. Other may simply reflect on the passing of winter while we await the gifts of Easter and spring. It is a message of penitence and of reward, the simple gift of unconditional love.

Maundy Thursday

Psalms 102 & 142, 143 Lamentations 2:10-18 1 Corinthians 10:14-17; 11:27-32 Mark 14:12-25

On this occasion, Jesus prepared with his disciples the Seder Meal at Passover, the remembrance of the Exodus by the Hebrew slaves from Egypt. Here was the seminal event of freedom, which the Jews not only recalled but relived, reexperienced. In Mark 14:12-25 Jesus prepares his followers for another freedom event: the transformation of the Exodus from Egypt into the transformation of the depressed and weeping self into the promised land of joy in the human fulfillment of becoming one with God: "I and the Father are One," and to those who follow after the promise of an expanded covenant is made: the bread and the wine are the promise of wholeness, through the discipline of following Jesus.

We in Grace Church celebrate this Seder meal, too, to recall our fellowship and oneness with the Rabbi Jesus, the disciples and followers, the Hebrew people, and our oneness with all human life. We are one body, one loaf, St. Paul tells us in I Corinthians 10:14-17. The blessing we receive through the Seder meal at Passover is the realization that the symbols of the bread and the wine bring us all together into the loaf and body of a shared humanity. Jesus set a new table, a new Jerusalem, quite apart from the geographic location, inviting each of us into the shared humanity of the bread, one loaf, and the wine, one wine, the oneness of care, God's presence for each of us in which we proclaim: "I and Yahweh (the Ground of all Being) are One."

Good Friday

Psalms 95 & 22 & 40:1-14(15-19), 54
Lamentations 3:1-9, 19-33
1 Peter 1:10-20
John 13:36-38
John 19:38-42

Chapter 19 of the Gospel according to John chronicles the writer's recollection of the Crucifixion of Christ. Since the Crucifixion took place on the eve of the Sabbath, the Jews, according to this account, were anxious that the bodies be taken down from the crosses. Verse 38 follows: "After that, Joseph of Arimathaea, a disciple of Jesus, but a secret disciple for fear of the Jews, asked Pilate for permission to remove the body of Jesus. He consented; so Joseph came and removed the body."

How many of us are secret disciples? We may not be so secret on Sunday mornings at 10:30 am, but what about afterward, at work or at play? My personal theology does not require one to necessarily loudly pronounce one's belief in Jesus Christ at every opportunity, but it does require an effort at living a life in accordance with the teachings of Jesus Christ. It requires forgiveness and charity and love and respect for the rights of others. It requires a respect for the environment and the universe we occupy.

Joseph may have been a secret disciple because of a fear of the government under which he lived, and, thankfully, we do not live under such a system. Others may be secret disciples because they fear ridicule from friends and relatives. Whether you choose to be a vociferous or a quiet disciple of Christ, in my view, does not really matter a whole lot—what matters is the degree to which you live a Christ-like life.

Holy Saturday

Psalms 95 & 88 & 27
Lamentations 3:37-58
Hebrews 4:1-16
Romans 8:1-11

So then, a Sabbath rest still remains for the people of God; for those who enter God’s rest also cease from their labors as God did from his. Let us therefore make every effort to enter that rest. Hebrews 4: 9-11

Today we find ourselves between the darkness of Good Friday and the new light and joy of Easter. Today we find ourselves between the gruesome activity of the crucifixion and the beautiful activity of the resurrection. What are we to do? The author of Hebrews reminds us that keeping the Sabbath is a commandment and its observance may be seen as obedience and as a gift. Today we are called to embrace the Sabbath. We are called to rest in the abundance of God’s unending and unconditional love. Keeping the Sabbath reminds us that we can do nothing to earn or to deserve God’s grace and mercy. Doing nothing requires humility and the suspension of our desire to be productive and to be busy as the world suggests these are merits of success. On this day, success is not measured by our extraordinary efforts, rather success is measured in the humility of Jesus Christ who rests in the arms of God the Father for the sake of all of humanity.

What are we to do? Rest in the arms of a loving God who has known you since you were in the womb and who calls you by name. Give this day to God in thanksgiving for the redeeming work he has done. Pray, enjoy your family and friends, keep life simple and join us tonight for the Great Vigil of Easter. This ancient liturgy draws us into the saving history of God and culminates in the beauty of the Easter celebration—a celebration fitting for the Sabbath.