Lenten Devotions

Read Exodus 14:10-31

Moses had a problem with the Hebrew people. While they grumbled about life as slaves in Egypt, they were not sure they were willing to step out into the unknown with Moses to seek something better.  Even after all the signs and wonders that God displayed to help them in their Exodus, the Hebrews still grumbled and fussed all the way to the Promised Land.

I’m a lot like that, too. While I have raised complaining to a veritable art form (just ask my husband), I am too often not willing to take a risk to make things better.

Have you ever wondered what you would have done if you had been there on the Saturday following Jesus’ death? 

On Silent Saturday, would I have been organizing a candlelight vigil for Jesus, or organizing a service of remembrance?  Would I have invited friends over to tell stories of the wonderful things Jesus had said and done while he was with us?  Probably not. I likely would have been inside my house, cowering, with the doors locked…fearful that someone would find out that I was a closet follower of Jesus… afraid to speak out on His behalf, feigning neutrality about this Jesus person. I would most likely have been among the silent ones.

Dante (most famous for writing The Inferno), writing in the early 14th century, said that “The hottest places in hell are reserved for those who, in times of great moral crisis, maintain their neutrality.” I ask myself, am I guilty of maintaining neutrality when I am called to speak up?

Jesus literally put down his life for what he believed…for those whom he loved…us. How far am I willing to go for Him? For my faith? Do I believe my faith is worth dying for? And if it isn’t worth dying for, then is it worth living for? Do I take a public stand for my faith? Am I willing to put faith into action, even when it is not the popular thing to do? And if I am not willing to live by this faith, then do I really believe it?

On this Silent Saturday, I examine the dark cowardly corners of my own heart in the bright light of Christ’s love for me. And I am found wanting.

Rev. Rachel Moser


Read Isaiah 52:13-53:12

My favorite Bible verse from the New Testament is John 3:16. This is where Jesus says, "God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life." These words of assurance have given me faith and confidence to live as best I can a Christian life so that I may be given, by the grace of God, eternal life. Today we celebrate Good Friday, the day that God sacrificed His Son for all of our sins. Jesus' sacrifice is fore told in today's Old Testament scripture reading found in Isaiah 52:13 - 53:12. These astonishing words were revealed by God in the eighth century BC to the prophet Isaiah, many years before Jesus' crucifixion took place. It is God's word to His people that His servant would come and live among His people. His servant would suffer and endure great pain for us. Like the prophet Isaiah said, Jesus did suffer greatly. We must never forget Jesus was innocent when he was punished for our sins. Jesus sacrificed his life to make us acceptable to God. He saved us from ourselves and gave cause to establish a worldwide church in His name. Here at Swansboro United Methodist Church, we are truly blessed to be a part of God's plan to bring peace and good will to all people through the name of Jesus Christ. Good Friday is a timely day for us to pray and reflect on the mission God has planned for each of our lives.

Our Father, we thank you for your words to Isaiah that strengthen our appreciation of the Gospel. Let us look upon the cross as your fullest expression of love. We thank you for our daily blessings and the celebration of Good Friday. We thank you for nudging us to reach out to those people who are unchurched in our community. Above all, we thank you for giving us your Son as our redeemer and savior. Amen.

Hilton Peel


Read John 13:1-17, 31b-35
 
"As I have loved you, so you MUST love one another.  By this all men will know that you are my disciples, IF you love one another."
 
WOW! That is a big order. Does this mean I've gotta love people who are not nice?  How about people who don't like me - do I  have to love them? Is this love thing more than words?  I am overwhelmed by such a mandate; yet,  I really want to be a good disciple.
 
In Chuck Colson's book Loving God, he relates a story told about the early Christians. Aristides brought the following message to the Roman Emperor Hadrian (117-138 A.D.):
 
 
Can you see and feel the love of God through this description of those early Christians? Today, that same power of love is available for you and me. I love the way Dr. Ed stated John 3:16: "God so loved the world that He gave..."  Yes, He gave and gave and keeps right on giving.  He is the source for loving -  for He is  love.
 
I need to bask in this love which radiates from those who know him--this love which is contagious--this love which is a verb.  You and I are his vessels to share his  love. I, alone, cannot generate the love that He requires. It is virtually impossible for us humans who by nature love "self", to hold this  kind of love.  I know where to go to receive it, only when we surrender "self" --when we empty "self" from our being and ask God to fill us with His power to love, can it be so.
 
Dear God:  As Jesus Christ has loved us, fill us with your power to love one another.  We desire for all men to know that  we  are yours.  Amen
 
Janice Parker Bean


Read John 13:21-32

Our scripture starts with "Jesus was troubled in His spirit." It doesn't take long before we find out why. "One of you will betray me!" Jesus said. Before He broke the bread of fellowship He had to deal with sin, the sin of betrayal. "The disciples started looking at one another, uncertain which one He was speaking about". Here we have the dire indication that none of us knows what we might be capable of doing. There have been many suggestions as to Judas' motive for the betrayal: Love of money (remember John 12:6 "Judas was a thief") is one, or that Judas wanted to force Jesus' hand to bring about His earthly Kingdom NOW is another. Jesus knew what was in Judas' heart and mind, and still He tried to woo Judas back into His light. Judas was obviously reclining close to Jesus so that Jesus could give him the bread dipped in sauce...this in and of itself was a mark of friendship, something a host would do to the most honored guest, something only John himself understood. Judas not only accepted this token of esteem from Jesus, he was prepared to share the fellowship meal with the rest in sheer, bald-faced, cold-blooded hypocrisy. When Jesus told Judas "Whatever you are about to do, do it quickly" we can infer that the love of Jesus admitted defeat. There was no point in further delay.

It is easy to become enraged or shocked by what Judas did; yet professing commitment to Christ and then denying Him with one's life is also betraying Him. It is denying Christ's love to disobey Him. It is denying His truth to distrust Him; it is denying His deity to reject His authority. Do your words and actions match? If not..... "Judas went out immediately. And it was night." It was night for the day was late; but there is another night there. It is always night when a man or woman goes from Christ to follow his own or the world's purposes. It is always night when a man or woman listens to the call of evil rather than the summons of good. It is alway night when hate puts out the light of love. It is always night when a man turns his back on Jesus. If we submit ourselves to Christ, we walk in the light.

Almight God, we thank you for the inestimable gift of your Son, Jesus Christ, and we pray that through the power of the Holy Spirit we are able to walk with Him in the light and truth, the truth of His teachings and His suffering, death and resurrection, and the light of His love. Amen

Gisela Fehr


Read John 12:20-36

John tells us that there were some Greeks who went up to worship at the Feast. While they were there, they approached Philip, one of Jesus’ disciples and asked if they could see Jesus. Philip and Andrew came to Jesus and told him what the Greeks had requested. Instead of telling the disciples to let the men come back to see him he said, “The hour has come for the Son of Man to be glorified. Unless a kernel of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains only a single seed; but if it dies, it produces many seeds.” He tells them that those who love their life must lose it and those who hate their life in this world will keep it for eternity. Jesus says that whoever serves him must follow him. Our Heavenly Father will honor those who serve him.
Jesus speaks aloud so those around him can hear and he says that his heart is troubled and should he ask his Father to save him from His death that is to come? Jesus answers his own question with a resounding “No, it was for this very reason I came to this hour. Father, glorify your name!” He is saying he is ready to carry out his Father’s will and lose his life in order for us to have eternal life as his children. Those around Jesus heard these words “I have glorified it and I will glorify it again.” Some believe it was just thunder and others say that it was an angel that spoke to Jesus. Jesus told them that the voice had come for their benefit, not his. The world is about to be judged and when Jesus is lifted up from the earth (crucified) all people will be drawn to him. By saying this, Jesus predicts his death. The crowd, who was around him, said that they had heard through the Law that the Messiah, the Christ remains forever. What was he talking about, “being lifted up?” Who is this “Son of Man?” Jesus tells them that they should walk in the light while the light is still with them, so darkness won’t overtake them. When we walk in the darkness, we don’t know where we are going. Jesus is the light of the world and we must believe in that light if we are to become the children of light. After Jesus finished speaking, he left and hid himself from them.

Father, forgive us for our unbelief and help us to follow your example to serve others in every part of our lives. Jesus, you gave the ultimate sacrifice so that we may have life and have it more abundantly. Lord, give us ears to hear and understand what you say to us; hands to serve others and give sacrificially; hearts to feel compassion and a spirit of love that reflects you in all that we do. All these things, we ask in the precious and holy name of Jesus. Amen

Marie Hurst


Read John 12:1-11

During this time of reflection on our faith and wanting to make changes in our lives so we cn be closer to Jesus, we must evaluate ourselves of where we are. We have to put Jesus first in our lives like Mary, who put perfume on Jesus' feet. Her act of pure faith and love for HIM is an example for us to follow. She put Jesus above all earthly things as well as herself, and she worshipped HIM with all she had even though he didn't demand of her gesture. She wanted to do it with all her heart. As we know and self-profess, Jesus gave his all for us and we should do the same for him. By following his word and doing as he taught his disciples really shows our undying, selfless love for HIM. Like he said to his Father in the garden, "Not my will but yours will be done." when his body was weak from the anguish he was experiencing in the knowledge of the events to come. He did this because of HIS and GOD's love for us. Lent is a time for change; Jesus gave his life for us, so what are we going to give in order to follow HIS teachings for HIM?

Dear Lord,
You are so holy and deserve our all, but we fail in giving all you deserve from us. Your ultimate gift to us, Jesus Christ, is our only Savior from all evil around us. We need to praise you daily and look toward your love for us. Your forgiveness toward our misdoings is the greatest of all and nothing else surpasses it on this earth. With your guidance and power, we will lay aside all obstacles that get in the way of our love and connectedness with you through Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior.
Amen

Margaret Lloyd


Read Mark 11:1-11

In this passage of scripture we see our Lord and Savior entering into the city that would soon crucify Him. He rode in as their king, once again confusing their human ideals of a king by riding into Jerusalem on a donkey, as a humble servant.

I wonder what He thought as He approached this crowd; singing "Hosanna" and laying their cloaks before Him. Did He enjoy the moment or feel distress and sadness, knowing these sheep who rejoiced at His arrival would soon become the wolves that would yell "Crucify Him" in only 5 days? I assume it was a little of both, as He passed through that crowd I imagine Him forgiving each one, as He knew their mere mortal minds could not foresee or comprehend what they were about to do.
One thing I know about the character of Christ, He gave all honor and glory back to His heavenly Father. Do we?

Dear Father God, thank you for the greatest gift ever given, your Son, Jesus Christ. As we watch Him fulfill prophecy after prophecy, knowing His love for us was a love worth dying for, may we too humble ourselves, giving all glory and honor unto you, no matter what our earthly circumstances entail. May we too hold our heads up high, considering it a true honor to share the Good News of Christ while enduring our pains and persecution here on earth. Amen

Joanne F. Scholl


Read Psalm 118:15-18, 26-29

Victory. From an early age we hear about victory. We play soccer, basketball, baseball, Pop Warner football, or any sport, with the hope of victory. We enter a spelling bee or cooking contest with the hope of victory. The fascination with victory makes high school, college and pro sports a dominant part of our world.

We also hear about victories in battle. In Psalm 118, a desperate battle has ensued and the Lord has delivered the victory. The leader gives thanksgiving and praise to the Lord, trusting in Him to save his life.

This is an Easter Psalm. God is once more victorious, in His greatest Victory, sending His Son to conquer death and remove our sins. We should praise and exalt Him in all ways.

"You are my God, and I will give thanks to you; you are my God, I will extol you. O give thanks to the Lord, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever."

Dear God,
You are to be praised for delivering the battle...for saving your children by giving your Son, Jesus, to die for us and thus ensure our victory. Amen.

Rosemary Whaley


Read Mark 11:11, 15-18

Being a fairly easy going type of guy, I rarely get really upset, so that I show my emotions. But I can easily think of a few times over the years when I just "lost it". It usually wasn't one single thing that prompted the explosion, but many hidden frustrations that I kept inside until one moment that something just caught me the wrong way at the wrong time and BOOM. We all have done it. We are human.

This scripture of Jesus entering the temple and finding the money changers buying and selling their wares reminds me of such a time. After all, Jesus was human, and devine. His love and respect for His Holy Father and the sanctity of the temple must have saddened Jesus as the Son of God, but as man and human, he began to drive out those who were selling and buying in the temple and even overturned their tables. That must have seemed out of character for Jesus. Let us remember at this season of Lent that Jesus suffered on His way to the cross and felt the pain, both physically and emotionally, as any human would, and He did all this for us.

Gracious Lord, I am unworthy of your sacrifice, and I am so thankful that you loved me enough to suffer and give your life so that I, too, may have eternal life. Amen

Tim Whaley


Read Psalm 118:19-25


Over the years I've been a serious student of the Bible, but this scripture causes me to think deeply to find its meaning. I have pondered over the word "righteousness". Noah was a righteous blameless man for his generation. Moses walked with God. Abraham was a righteous man chosen by God to walk with him and represent God on earth. I have grown to understand that the righteous walk and represent God.

When the gates of the Lord are open the righteous are allowed the right to worship, walk and give thanks to the Lord God. There is a gate that God has prepared for those who decide to walk with him and enter heaven which is a majestic gate.

We should thank and praise God everyday for our salvation. God made the supreme sacrifice by giving us his Son for our salvation that we may live with Jesus forever.

Now, let's look at Matt 21:42-46 because in this scripture Jesus quotes Psalm 118: 22-23 verbatim, when he confronts the Pharisees. 


He reminds them that it was the Jews who rejected the stone. He tells them that the stone the builder's rejected now is the cornerstone and that he, Jesus, is that cornerstone.


Jesus became the cornerstone or as it is sometimes called the capstone. That was the Lord's doing and it is still amazing in our eyes.

Now, Jesus continues to talk to the Pharisees, giving them the reason for the rejection:


Jesus knew that his arrest, crucifixion, death and resurrection was soon at hand. Salvation from God through Jesus now is offered to the Jews and gentiles.  We all have the opportunity to chose eternal life through faith in Jesus, the Christ.


Prayer: We asked to be saved for the Lord and we beg for the success we need at this Easter season and all times. Amen.

Carmonlene Anderson


Read Psalm 118:1-2  (shown below)


When I think of giving thanks to the Lord...a blessing for food comes to my mind. This scripture from Psalms gives two different reasons for being thankful, and food has nothing to do with it. We need to take a closer look.

We are to be thankful because:
1- the Lord is good and 2- his love endures forever.

First, Do you think about God as being good all the time? If you don't, you should. Our holy God can only be good. He cannot be bad. As the creator of the universe and ruler of heaven and earth God has complete control. In the beginning of creation He said that everything he created was good and so it was. Our good God is still creating today and yes, everything is still good, especially our God.
Let us give thanks. Why? For he is good.

Secondly, do you believe his love endures forever? Maybe we are more likely to believe that God's love will endure forever because we were born 2000 years after the life, death and resurrection of Christ. God's gift of his son proves how much God loves each of us. The fact that he gave his only son, Jesus, to die on the cross for our sins shows the ultimate sacrifice and supreme gift of love God has for each of us. Christ's resurrection from the dead is proof there is eternal life with him for all who believe. The early Hebrews needed to be reminded of this love from God often. The psalmist tells Israel to say: "His love endures forever." They had a habit of turning away from God when things didn't go just the way they wanted it to. Unfortunately, we seem to fall into this category all too often.

Maybe the psalmist is also telling us to say:
"His love endures forever."

So what about you and me? Do we remember to give thanks to the Lord for he is good? Do we remember that his love endures forever?
Let's commit this short scripture- Psalm 118:1-2 to memory...lest we forget.

Prayer:
Dear heavenly Father, we do give thanks for you are good and we give thanks because your love endures forever. Amen.

Lynn Rouse


Read Mark 11:8-11

Jesus' plan just amazes me. Many people prepared for him in such an elaborate way; with palms, cloaks and hosannas. Jesus was going to enter Jerusalem and the crowd was preparing to welcome a King. The King who would lead them to freedom from political bondage would soon be coming into the city. The people did not realize what they were saying. "Hosanna" is a Hebrew word meaning "save". However, it was not from politics that this King was coming to save. He would save instead their sin. A white stallion would have matched the grandiose welcome that the people were preparing to give. But Jesus did not ride on a white stallion; instead he chose a lowly donkey. What a truly amazing and humble King we have. If I could be one thing that Jesus was, it would be humble.

Lord, please make me humble today. Amen.

Wendie Kidwell For Steve Wheaton


Read John 12:27-33

Jesus is explaining to Philip and Andrew why He must die. We may wonder why Jesus is troubled, since as God's son He could have been invincible. But He said "it is for this reason that I have come." He wanted to glorify His Father. The crowd wanted a political, earthly kingdom and a Messiah who would never die.

Heavenly Father ~~ please help us to be obedient to you in this holy season of Lent.

anonymous


Read John 12:20-26

Jesus did not come to save just the Jews; He came to save the world, and yes, that includes you and me. He had to suffer and sacrifice His life for this to happen. We only have to accept his love and gift of grace.

What happens if we drop a kernel of wheat on the ground? It remains a single seed. What happens if we bury a kernel of wheat in the ground? It will become a blade of wheat producing many more seeds. Christ gave up His life to save us. In return, we must be willing to release control of our lives in order to freely serve Him. We must not only bury our old lives to gain eternal life, but we must live according to his word as witnesses to those around us.

He came to save the Jews, the Gentiles, and you!

Prayer: Dear Lord, we are eternally grateful that you sacrificed your life in order to save ours. May we live in such a way as to glorify you. Amen.

Lane & Lloyd Harris


Read Heb. 5:5-10

The concept of ‘Salvation’ in the Bible has a broader perspective than strictly ‘What happens to me when I die’. We can get some clues to the broader meaning by looking at some words with the same root. ‘Salve’ for example points to a means of healing. ‘Salvage’ redeems what is broken into something that is useful again. When Jesus becomes the source of our ‘salvation’, we are healed and made whole, rescued and redeemed from the junk yard, and transformed into a life in His kingdom. Jesus exemplifies this style of living in this passage from Hebrews. He does not glorify himself; He offers prayers and supplications; He reverently submits; He learns obedience through suffering; And, Jesus is made perfect, the source of eternal salvation. What ‘salve’ do I need from God to heal my brokenness and be made whole? How can I align with God’s love and grace, so my life can be ‘salvaged’ for His glory?

Lord, make us instruments of your love. Amen.

Dave Johnson


Read Psalm 51: 7-12

Our scripture today highlights David’s pleas for forgiveness of his sins. He earnestly seeks the Lord’s guidance, help, and presence. He's asking the Lord to not see his sins and give him a pure heart, a strong spirit, and a lasting presence testify to his contrition. Like most of us, David wants the joy of salvation and a willing spirit—a spirit strong enough to keep him out of sin and strong enough to make him feel good about himself.

For me, this is where faith comes to play in shoring me up, in giving me strength, vision, and trust in the Lord. Of course, being filled and fulfilled with the Holy Spirit—and knowing you are—makes all the difference. With this knowledge, I now look forward to each new day, because I know it will be better than the last, yet not as awesome as the next.

I call this the Bill Murray syndrome played out in the comedy movie, “Groundhog Day.” Bill wakes up each day to find out he can relive the day he just lived. It doesn’t take him long to realize that what he learned on each, successive day could be most beneficial in bringing joy and achievement in the next day. Armed with this knowledge and insight, he wooed and won the affections of his dream girl.

Armed with knowledge and insight into our God, we can find and accept His ultimate and unlimited love. His love is already and forever there—we just need to accept and embrace it. In this regard, we may be like Bill—our todays are helping us to become better and better and….

Prayer: Oh God, help us to trust in you, hope in the future, and use our pure heart and strong spirit to seek and serve your people; as we worship and glorify YOU!

Frank Cizerle


Read Psalm 51:1-6

The story of King David and his adulterous affair with Bathsheba is well known. In an attempt to cover up his sin, David conspires to have her husband killed on the battle field and takes her for his wife. Just as everything seemed to be going as planned, David is confronted by the prophet Nathan, who delivers God's judgement upon David's house. The words of Psalm 51:1-6 introduces us to David's response to God. Eugene Peterson, in his contemporary language paraphrase of this Psalm renders it as follows.

"Generous in love, God, Give me grace! Huge in mercy, wipe out my bad record. Scrub away my guilt, soak out my sins in your laundry. I know how bad I've been, my sins are always staring me down.

You are the one I have violated, you have seen it all, you have seen the full extent of my evil. You have all the facts before you; whatever you decide about me is fair. I've been out of step with you for a long time, in the wrong since before I was born. What you're after is truth from the inside out. Come now into my secret heart, and conceive a new true life."

As we observe this season of penitence let us once again search our secret hearts and confess any sins that may be hidden there. Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayers. Amen.

Harold Fulp


Read Jer. 31:31-34

"The time is coming," declares the Lord, "when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel...". God promised that man will not teach his neighbor or brother because we will already know Him in our hearts. He, the Lord, will forgive our wickedness and remember our sins no more.

Dear Lord, From the bottom of my heart, I love you. I thank you for your forgiveness and care all the days of my life.

Anonymous


Read Eph. 2:8-10

With this scripture I am immediately brought to think about the hymn "Amazing Grace". Amazing Grace certainly did save a wretch like me. I am so truly grateful for this gift that I can never repay. I know Jesus, and therefore am led by Him to desire to do good deeds. I believe these good deeds are actually done by Him, and not by me. May I never be confused about this, and think that works may grant me entrance to the Kingdom. I will be brought to the Kingdom by the works of Jesus. In His name may I learn to do these good "works" anonymously, without anyone finding out. It is in this way that I may become closer to being like Him.

Dear Lord, Mold me, make me, and use me to do your works today. Amen.

Wendie Kidwell for Pat Wheaton


Read Eph. 2:1-7

Paul reminds the Ephesians of the reality of personal sin. Like them, we must never forget our past, the condition from which Jesus saved us. Those memories are the best fuel for our gratitude to Christ for all he has done on our behalf. But our past must not keep us from going forward, either. Paul said in Phillipians Chapter 3:13-14, "Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, 14 I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. " (NIV). Here Paul emphasizes that we do not need to live any longer under sin's power. The penalty of sin and its power were miraculously destroyed by Christ on the cross. Through faith in Christ we stand acquitted, or not guilty before God. In Romans Chapter 3:22, "This righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference. " (NIV). God does not take us out of the world. The difference is that before we became Christians, we were dead in sin and were slaves to our sinful nature. But now we are alive with Christ. Paul said in Galatians Chapter 2:20. "I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life in live in the body, I live by the faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me." (NIV). Because of Christ's resurrection, we know that our bodies will also be raised from the dead. In the resurrection, Christ was victorious over Satan and his power, even though Satan is the temporary ruler of the part of the world that chooses to follow him. Paul describes Satan, the devil, as "the ruler of the kingdom of the air." Therefore, Jesus is the permanent ruler of the whole world and our eternal life with Christ is certain because we are united in his powerful victory.

Dear Lord, may we never forget what you have accomplished at Calvary for us. We are seated in heavenly places in Christ Jesus. Please help us to remember who we are in Christ Jesus. You have given us authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm us. In Jesus name. Amen.

Kim Cherry


Read John 3:14-21

"For God So Loved the World"

Biblical scholars say that the message of the entire bible can be summed up in this one passage from the bible, John 3:16, "For God so loved the world..." But it was not the world that God loved, it was each one of us. This understanding of the God we worship and love, changed the whole world's understanding of God. Before this passage was written, we knew only of a God of judgement, a God of anger, a God of wrath, a jealous God. Now we learn that God is love. We obey God out of love, not out of fear. This God loved us so much that He gave His only son. What a sacrifice for us. As you continue to make your journey through Lent, think of God's love for you. We sacrifice for Lent out of love for God, not out of fear, or from guilt. This is the same love that took Jesus to the cross, and brought Jesus back from the grave. Lent is the season to celebrate God's love.

Dear God, as we make this journey through Lent, reminds of God's love for us. It is because of God's love who first loved us, that we can love others, and love ourselves. May we be a reflection of God's love as we make our sacrifice for Lent. A-men.

Dr. Ed Gunter


Read Psalm 107:1-3, 17-22

As a child, I was often reminded to say "thank you" when I received a kindness from someone. As a parent, I tried to instill this in my children, and many times they grumbled about having to write a note of thanks to grandparents and others. When my mother died, my sister, brother, and I had the joy of going through her things to decide what to keep and what to give away. In her treasures I found dozens of notes she had received from my children....many of them were just scribbled crayon marks from days before they could read or write. When they had written/colored their notes, they had no idea that their words or marks would be received with such delight.

I often think that God is pleased when we offer thanks - not just from deliverance from a major problem but in gratitude for the joys we take for granted.....welcoming a new baby, receiving a hug from a grandchild, the gift of life even when aging makes our movements difficult, feeling the sun on a cold day, having a friend who listens, sharing a meal with someone we love, watching new flowers find their way through the earth, the privilege of being able to read, and so on. The list is endless.

God's love is steadfast, and even when life is a challenge, he promises that we do not have to travel the road alone. Lent is the intentional time we set aside each year to be reminded of God's unconditional love through the gift of his son who showed and continues to show us how to love and, therefore, how to live fully. Thanks be to God.

Gracious God, thank you for loving us with wild abandon. May our gratitude for this undeserved gift translate into action in which others may feel and know your love. Amen.

Marilyn Boyce


Read Numbers 21:6-9

How important are symbols? Plenty, when we stop to think about them: real things like our flag, the cross and words, too. America, respect, courage describe some pretty significant priorities.

Not to mention medicine, too, and all the important ideas around it---health, physical care and modern medical technology.

This is where today’s scripture comes in. Think of all the troubles the Hebrews had in their desert exodus: hunger, thirst, battles with enemy tribes and here in the twentieth chapter of Numbers (21:6-9), the awful danger from poisonous snakes. Fortunately for the Hebrews, there was a remedy. Following God’s instructions, Moses constructed a bronze staff entwined with a snake. It became a literal symbol of God’s healing strength that saved those who were bitten.

This all reminds me of a modern symbol, called a “caduceus.” We’ve all seen it---an upright staff (with small wings at the top) that is entwined by two snakes---the symbol of the medical profession. Displayed on doctors’ white coats, nurses’ dresses, in advertisements for hospitals, the caduceus reminds us of the healing power of our Creator’s love.

Prayer for today:  In a world so devastated by illness, disease and infirmity, God, let’s be always aware of Your mercy and care.  Amen.

Jim Brewster

Read Numbers 21: 4-5 This is not an easy scripture as it falls close to home. The Hebrew people had been in the desert for 40 years. They had complained before and done many things against God. Now as they get in position for the next battle the word arrives telling them to go the long hard route to their objective. They were not trusting God so we’d overhear:  ”drats”,  “aw shucks”, “why God, us?” “If we are chosen, why do you make life so hard for us?”.   Like some of us they were complaining to God-just as they did to Moses. Ever go somewhere or see something that reminds you that God is ever present even when life is tough? Keep those in mind and in heart remem-bering we are so blessed. Here we see women carrying their heavy daily load without complaint so our SUMC missionaries can have a shower. Their trust in God is ever present in their courageous walk. Help us God to pray for those who trek each day for their basic needs; for those we cross paths with who long for friend or family; for a visitor to SUMC who wants a place to call home; for the child who’s never had someone to call Dad. Give us a heart for justice. Inspire us to pray and do for those who deserve to grumble. Give us a heart for those living the tough times and forgive me for grumbling. Allow me to share God’s grace today.  Adele Hyla-Brewster

Women and children the world over walk    miles each day to get clean water for the    basic necessities. These barefoot Haitian    women walked up and down hilly roads to    carry the water to the house above for our    SUMC missionaries' showers Nov. 2011.    Where do we see similar courage in our    community and how do we encourage    them?

Read John 2:13-17

Jesus now moves into the center of Israel's greatest festival, the Passover. Every adult male within a 15 mile radius was required by law to come and thousands of Jews scattered through the Roman Empire made the pilgrimage. As many as 2,250,000 Jews assembled to keep the Passover.

There was a yearly temple tax of a half-shekel (equivalent of two day's wages.) Since foreign currencies were considered unclean, money changers charged a commission for every half-shekel they changed. The wealth accrued was fantastic and the money changers made profits in the thousands. Then there was the cost of purchasing a sheep, ox or dove for the sacrifice. These came from temple herds or flocks outrageously overpriced. This loud marketing took place in the outer court of the temple, the place of Gentile worship--another example of religious exclusiveness.

How could anyone worship in this setting? Jesus came to this place of worship and found this selfish cynical money making at the expense of the poor. One senses His emotions--shame anger, and sorrow welling up in Him as He strikes out at all of it -- animals, tables, money and men. "Do not make my Father's house a house of merchandise!"

Jesus is bringing to an end a way of life and thought. The normal business of sacrifice will be unnecessary now that He has come. Jesus holy jealousy for the sanctity of His Father's house, His costly singleness of mind, brought Him finally to His death; and in that final redemptive act, He opened for us the way to the Father's heart.

Thank you, Jesus, that You are the new "place", the "house" in which the glory of the Lord will break forth. With Your coming there is no earthly building where God lives that we can hang on to. Only Jesus! The new day has come. Hallelujah! Amen.

Louise Wilkins

Read Psalm 19:11-14

“Let the words of my mouth,
and the meditation of my heart,
be acceptable in thy sight,
O Lord, my strength and my redeemer.”

We hear these words often in church but how do we apply them to our daily life?

I believe that my ‘calling’ to return to Haiti in mission speaks to my desire to please God through good works. Haiti has some of the most impoverished people I have ever seen and some of the most grateful, hospitable, friendly people I have ever met.

It was a pleasure to help them. Lynn, Adele, Rachel, Helen and I never heard complaining or angry words. We’d talk to bare-footed women with ill-fitting clothes who lived in dirt hovels but beamed with joy to get a bag of rice and beans with some cooking oil.

Whenever we help the least of us, we do so while smiling into the face of God.

I found a YOUTUBE video of Psalm 19. The words and photos are very spiritual. Click on this link if you wish to view it:
http://youtu.be/c9PcOpJQjso

Dear God, As we enjoy this beautiful day that you have given us, help us to see needs around us that might be ‘unburdened’ with our help. Surround us and energize us with the power of your Holy Spirit. Amen.

Deanna Scroggs


Read Psalm 19:1-10

In the late winter, early spring days, I take every moment I can to sit in the sun on my front porch. On these days it is usually warmer there than in my house. From my porch be it either late morning with coffee in hand or mid afternoon waiting for the school bus, I see the skies proclaim the work of God's hands. The sun is shining warm on me, reviving me.

In Psalm 19 it says, "the law of the Lord is perfect, reviving the soul." It goes on to tell us how God's law, the Ten Commandments, were given to us for our spiritual well-being. His laws are based on truth and His goodness. Through obeying God's law, I can be revived with His wisdom, joy, and light.

Father,
We thank you for the Bible and for your law that shows your great love for us. May we embrace your Word so that we can be revived and shine for you in all we do and say. Amen

Susan Fulp


Read 1 Cor. 1:18-25

"For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing but to us who are being saved it is the power of God."

My mother would often interrupt we three rambunctious Batten children with "what foolishness are y'all up to now?" Likewise, Paul in this letter to the gifted but quarrelsome members of the church at Corinth, reminds them through a juxtaposition of foolish and wise what God's message of the cross means.

God wants to reveal his steadfast love to the world so he sends his son Jesus, not to a king's palace, but to a stable where he is born as a helpless, vulnerable infant to Jewish teenagers. Foolish or wise?

Jesus begins his ministry, gradually revealing he is more than just a carpenter's son but God's own beloved son. The most fanatically religious people of the Jewish faith clamor to silence his teachings through execution on the cross. Jesus, rising from the dead declares God's message of love and salvation for all the ages. Foolish or wise?

In our own time, a small group of middle aged women travel from Swansboro, NC to Haiti bringing God's message of love, healing and hope. Abundant grace is present even amongst the rubble of earthquake shattered lives. Foolish or wise?

In t shirts and shorts, armed with hammers, shovels, smiling faces and confidence in their faith in God a small team of 14-18 year olds with their adult leaders journey to the devastatingly poor spine of America in Appalachia each summer. "God loves you and so do we" is their message to those who had felt forgotten by an America where the matrix of success is too oft determined by Wall Street. Foolish or wise?

"For God's foolishness is wiser than human wisdom, and God's weakness is stronger than human strength."

God, help us to see where what the world calls foolish is often the path of wisdom to those of us who follow you. What foolishness are you calling me to today?

Julia Batten Wax


Read Ex. 20:12-17

God has told us, through Moses, "the rules": Honor your father and mother; you shall not murder; you shall not commit adultry; you shall not steal; you shall not lie; you shall not covet another's possession. It is pretty clear. If we all would obey the Ten Commandments, there would be no problems in this world. If only we could!

Dear Lord--please help us to love you first and then our neighbor as our self. Always! Amen.

Anonymous


Read Ex. 20:1-11

Some of the early memories of my mom and dad gathering us in our den/kitchen/dining room were those of my parents having us learn The Ten Commandments. I was not quite sure what learning them actually meant but I knew they had to be important if they said so. The one commandment that seemed to rise above the rest was “Honor your father and mother,” Exodus 20:12. Mom and dad would emphasize the value of honoring them as a promise for a long life.

The Ten Commandments were given to the people of Israel. They were designed to lead the people of Israel to a holy lifestyle. The Ten Commandments were intended to give the people directions or guidance so that their needs were met in a loving and responsible way. The Ten Commandments were laws of love for His people. As we strive to live by them we will be living the way that God would have us to live. Consequently, as we obey The Ten Commandments we are therefore honoring our heavenly Father.

Father, I honor you today. I honor you because you gave everything in order for me to live, love, laugh, and play.

Michael Taylor


Read Gen. 17:1-7, 15-16

This past year, Merle and I celebrated our Fortieth wedding anniversary. On September 5, 1971, Merle and I made a covenant with one another, promising to be each other’s companion as long we both would live. We sealed this promise by exchanging rings, and as a result of that day 40 years ago, I was no longer called Cheryl Bardo; my name became Cheryl Epperson. Along with the promises and the rings, I received a new name.

Genesis 17 records a covenant God made with Abram, not unlike a wedding. God promised that Abram and his wife Sarai would become the parents of many nations. Then God changed their names. Abram became Abraham and Sarai became Sarah as God put his own name, JAHweh, into the names of the couple who were to be the parents of his chosen people: AbrAHam and SarAH.

As Christians, God has also made a covenant with each of us through his son, Jesus Christ. When we accept Jesus as our Lord and Savior, he gives each of us a new name: Christian, which means “little Christ.” And as his children we become heirs to the same promises given to Abraham and Sarah long ago.

Lord Jesus, thank you for giving me a new name in Christ Jesus, so like Abraham and Sarah of old, I too am an heir to your covenant.

Cheryl Epperson


Read Mark 8:34-38

Randy Innes, a former SUMC pastor, was doing a wedding rehearsal and noticed a young man around 19-20 years old was wandering around the sanctuary acting strangely. Later he found out that his young man had never been in a church before and was “taking it all in.” We have new members join frequently and seem to be “busting at the seams” in many areas of our church plant. However, statistics show that 80% of church growth is “church hopping,”---people who have been members of other churches changing their membership (including large mega-churches). Other figures show that for last 30 years, there has not been a net growth in church membership in any county in the US. As people join the church, their circle of friends begins to be church people and they distance themselves from their non church friends. Within 2 years, most of their friends attend church. Other statistics show that 80% of people who join a church, come because a friend invited them. We as Christians need to intentionally join civic groups which have a predominately a non Christian membership to make friends, pray for them so God can a open door in their hearts, and draw them to SUMC. There are thousands of people like this young man who need a relationship with Christ. We have been sent to go to the “lost sheep” in our area instead of expecting them to come to us. Most non church goers will never come to us. We need to go to them.

Lord, help us deny ourselves the security of our own circle of friends, to get to know those who need your healing Love.

Merle Epperson


Read Psalm 22:23-26

Psalms 22:23 - 26 is a call for praise for "He has not despised the the afflicted nor hid His face from him". As I read these verses I was reminded of all the reasons God will never turn his face from his children. His words are true.
God said:

Father God, I thank you that you have chosen to be my father. My praise shall be of you in the congregation, because of you my heart will live for ever. I am thankful that your words are written to instruct and comfort. Your promises are life. I remember you and your words especially during this this season of celebrating your firstborn Son, my Savior.

Cindy Canipe


Read Mark 8:31-33

Jesus taught his followers that He would be rejected by His leaders and He would be ordered to death. When Jesus returned to His people, Peter took Him aside. Jesus turned away and objected to what Peter said. Jesus said "Get out of my way, Satan!" You aren't thinking the way God thinks, but the way humans think.

Lord, on you I call for help against my blind and senseless torment, since you alone can renew inwardly and outwardly my mind, my will, and my strength, which are weak.

Peter & Sharon Gant


Read Rom. 4:13-25

Against all Hope

When I was very young, our country was just emerging from THE GREAT DEPRESSION and money was very tight in our home. There were two of us kids then, plus Mama and Daddy -- 4 mouths to feed on one paycheck. We kids did not realize we were “economically” distressed. My Mama always had three meals on the table with spare for anyone who came “Hungry”, and we kids played all over our neighborhood, innocent and free. We were young and our hopes were high!

As Christmas time grew close each year, we grew more and more excited in anticipation of what we would find under the tree on Christmas Eve. If Mama or Daddy sometimes looked worried or became cross at our many questions about what Santa would bring, we figured it was just all the extra work at the Post Office or the long hours Mama spent baking and making candy as gifts for all our friends and relatives. We were not worried—we knew Santa’s bag would be full of all kinds of goodies for us. We knew Mama and Daddy would keep their promise: “If you are good, Santa will put lots of presents under the tree and fill your stockings full to the top.” We children had faith in Mama’s promises. We waited in great expectation secure in that PROMISE.

In Sunday School one year, we learned about a man named Abraham who lived a long, long time ago. He worshiped a God he could not see but Who talked to him. Abraham had faith in God and obeyed Him in everything. God made Abraham a promise: “I will make you the father of many nations.” Abraham, knowing that he was long past the age of siring children, did not know how this could be, but, in faith, he believed. Year after year passed, and sure enough Abraham and his wife became too old to have children. Yet his faith did not waver and he fully believed that God had the power to do what He had promised. “And this was credited to him as righteousness.”

We children had a childlike faith in our parents and their ability to fulfill their promises to us. We as mature adults know that earthly promises can be broken. But we know also that we have a Heavenly Father whose promises are true and trustworthy. Abraham’s faith was accounted to him as righteousness. We Christians, today share in that promise because of our belief in Christ, the Son of God, who was raised from the dead. He “was handed over to death for our trespasses and was raised for our justification.” Thanks be to God who is faithful to us, children of Abraham by adoption.

May God through His Holy Spirit teach you to cherish the unfathomable mystery of His love. The glory of God in heaven is that everything He wills and does is good…His promises are sure and faithful. Amen.

Sue Redfearn


Read Gen. 17:1-7

What's In A Name?

At the advanced age of ninety-nine years old, Abram was invited into a covenant with God. His reward would be that through him, many mighty nations would be born. A name change was also required so that all would know he was the father of all these newborn mighty nations which will include more than a few kings. He would have millions of descendants! The offspring of this man Abraham and God resulted in a people who would always have God Almighty with them and an earthly and heavenly home as well. So, whether you are 9 or 99, God can and will come along and perhaps has asked something of you. Did you make a covenant with God? Did you say yes? What is your new name?

Almighty God,
Grant me the ears to hear and the heart to answer whatever it might be you ask of me this day. Grant me the strength of the Holy Spirit and the courage of Christ to keep my promise to you and know the blessings you have for my life. Amen.

Bren Feutz


Read Mark 1:9-15

It is not by accident that Lent is the forty days, not counting Sundays, before the resurrection. Christ also went into the wilderness forty days after being baptized and before beginning his ministry. Moses, Elijah, David, and even Paul spent time in the wilderness before returning to do great things. I think most of us at some time in our lives have been in the wilderness. That time in our lives when we are filled with that barren and empty feeling, not really knowing what our purpose in life is. We all have gone through the wilderness of life. It can be very exhausting and draining. It deprives us of all the comforts that we usually enjoy. It will test our deepest convictions, thoughts, and our hearts. During these times of testing, we need to put our complete TRUST in God! No matter how bad things may seem, we must trust God. Understand he loves us so much he gave his only son to suffer and die, so you and I may be forgiven of our sins and have eternal life. Trust in God and believe his word.
During Lent many of the faithful will fast or give up certain luxuries as a form of penitence. I think Lent could also be a time of giving back. Maybe some time for helping the needy, or volunteering at the church, or anything where we can give back just a little of the blessings we have received. We could give back some of the time God has given us by setting aside some time for prayer and studying the Bible. Whether we decide to give up or give during Lent, let us do it to honor God, who gave his only son to save us from our sins.

Lord, thank you for all the blessings we have received. May we go out into the wilderness and preach your word and make disciples of all who will listen. Amen

Greg Meadows


Read 1 Peter 3:18-22

Have you ever been blamed for something you did not do? As a child, it might have been when something disappeared or was broken. As an adult, it might have been when you were misquoted of when something was taken out of context. Usually you are indignant, knowing you are taking the blame that belongs to someone else.

Or, how about when the shoe was on the other foot, so to speak. This time you are guilty (or as we often say "guilty as sin"), and you wait, full of dread and anticipation for your just and deserved punishment. But wait, imagine that you are standing in the line of the guilty and the convicted. The names are read off and one by one those in front of you are taken away to suffer their deserved fates. The tension builds as the line shortens. Suddenly, you are at the front of the line - overwhelming fear grips you. Then, just at the last moment, someone, Christ, steps in and says "step aside, I'm here to take your place." You know full well that you are guilty and deserving of punishment but Christ says, "No, not today, not any day. I'm taking your punishment and then I am taking you home. Our Father awaits us." This is the kind of loving Savior and God we have. Fall on your knees and praise Christ for suffering in our places and Almighty God for accepting us into His presence forever.

Lord, we come before you as sinners deserving of a cruel fate, but we accept the merciful love of Jesus who was willing to take our punishment so that we can come into your presence. Help us we pray to show others the kind of love that Jesus has shown unto us. Amen.

Jim Craig


Read Psalm 25:1-10

In this day of modern technology, of GPS’s and mapquest, it is still possible to be lost, to take the wrong roads. Of course, the basic question is where are we going? What is our destination in this life? And where do we want to stop, to pause and make a difference. So many folks are going at a break-neck speed, but have lost their sense of direction.
There are too many voices in our society, telling us what we should do, go, buy, or join. Television advertising alone places hundreds of options before us. Add to that the dozens of decisions we must make concerning our job, our family, our money, our society and we become desperate for someone to show us the right way.

Psalm 25: 4 – 5a says, “Show me your ways, O Lord, and teach me your paths; guide me in your truth and teach me.” What a welcomed rest stop on the congested highway of life. That such a request reaches the ears of a loving and wise God is often beyond our comprehension. The Psalmist continues in verse 9 with a wonderful promise. “He guides the humble in what is right and teaches them his way.”

Humility is not exactly a prized commodity in this world’s economy. We seem to value much more the independent thinker, the self-made individual who is in charge. God, however, delights in the humble, the one who knows he needs direction, the one who depends on the Almighty for his marching orders.

For those of us who are speeding along at break-neck speed but not sure of where we are going or why, slow down. Put away the GPS and even the old-fashioned map, and pull out the Bible. For it in, God will show us not only what road to take but also how to travel that road.

O, Lord, help each of us to slow down and look to You and Your Word for direction and purpose this day. Amen

Lois Craig


Read Matt. 6:1-6, 16-21

The Lenten season is a special time of year when we have an opportunity to honor our Father in Heaven by giving up something for 40 days in remembrance of the great sacrifice our Lord made when He endured 40 days in the desert being tempted by the devil. It's human nature to want to tell others what sacrifices we are making. After all, we are pleased with our actions and want to share that joy with others. But God emphasizes humility throughout the Bible. We are tempted to tell our family and friends when we help others – either financially, or by other means. But Jesus said in Matthew 6:1-6 "When you give alms, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your alms may be done in secret; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you." In Matthew 6:16-21, Jesus emphasizes that if we fast, we should not disfigure our faces so that others will notice, but we should fast in secret. It's natural to want praise; that's the way we were raised. As children, our parents praised us when we did well, and later in life our teachers and supervisors praised us for our accomplishments. To do good deeds in secret goes against everything we were taught; it goes against our instincts. But we must continually remind ourselves not to seek praise and rewards here on Earth, but to seek the Lord's favor. For the most glorious reward of all – eternal life – is given by our Father in heaven.

Dear Lord. Help us to always reach out to others in humility, not for praise or rewards, but to honor you. Thank you for offering us the most blessed gift of all – your son and our Lord and Savior – Jesus Christ. Amen.

Terry Proper