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Lenten Devotional Readings 2014

Rise and Shine…

“Wake up, sleeper, rise from the dead, and

Christ will shine on you.” Ephesians 5:14

DuPage AME Church 4300 Yackley Avenue † Lisle, IL 60532 † 630-969-9800 † WWW.DUPAGEAMEC.ORG

WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/DUPAGEAMEC Rev. Dr. James F. Miller, Senior Pastor † Rev. Lana Parks Miller, Executive Pastor

March 2014 My Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ, I greet you with Jesus’ Joy during this Lenten Season! With each turn of the calendar year we are ready to face the New Year with a big list of resolutions. Lose ten pounds (or 25), do a juice fast, go back to school, clean the silverware drawer, watch less television, read more, travel often, the list goes on and on. Now, fast-forward to today, how far have you gotten? Have you accomplished what you set out to conquer this year? Whether you have or haven’t conquered your new year’s resolutions, fear not because it doesn’t matter! Yes, I said it; it doesn’t matter if your resolve lasted one day or one month, God is not interested in the ten pounds you lost (or didn’t) or the juice fast you stuck to (or the cheeseburger you ate instead). He wants to know you, to spend time with you! This Lenten season we should resolve to renew our relationships with God in His way and time, not ours. We need to allow ourselves this time for Jesus to create a clean heart with a right spirit in us. We need to spend time in prayer, meditation, reading the Bible, and most importantly, listening to what God is asking of us or saying to us. To the many members of our great church family that have taken the time to share their reflections in this devotional, I say…”Thank you for your willingness and faithfulness to share and witness!” My prayer is that these readings will bless, encourage and draw each of us nearer to the Cross during this Lenten season so that we might “Rise and Shine” anew! To God be the Glory! In God’s Service,

Rev. Marland Brazier Rev. Marland Brazier Christian Education Director DuPage AME Church

March 5, 2014 Jack Houston

Scripture Reading Enter ye in at the strait gate; for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat; Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it. Matthew 7:13 & 14 Reflection As we prepare for the Lenten season, we are reminded of Romans 12:1, 2 where scripture tells us “…we must present our bodies a living sacrifice, holy, and acceptable unto God which is our reasonable service.” This means taking on the character of God in all things; not that of the flesh, i.e., showing love and compassion one to another for God is love. The body is the temple of God, and as good stewards of God’s temple we must live a healthy life style, and keep our focus on Godly things because we have been set apart from the world. We have entered in at the strait gate; therefore, we are in the world, but not of the world. Know God’s word, study it daily, pray daily, and fast. Give God your reasonable service through praise, worship, and serving others. “Be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.” Prayer Oh merciful God, forgive us of our sins that we will delight in the things of God and listen to your voice as you speak to us. Direct us in your ways Oh God, be merciful unto us, and bless us, and cause your face to shine upon us. In Jesus’ Name, I pray. Amen.

March 6, 2014 Gloria Houston

Scripture Reading And he was withdrawn from them (his disciples) about a stone’s cast, and kneeled down, and prayed, Saying, Father, if thou be willing, remove this cup from me: nevertheless, not my will, but thine be done. Luke 22:41, 42 Reflection When we approach the Lenten season, our minds immediately fast forward to the crucifixion of Christ and what He suffered for our sins. It is a time for us to atone for our sins and prepare our hearts for His death and Resurrection. Jesus prayed to His father to remove the bitter cup from which he had to drink, i.e. the cup of death on the cross. There are many times in our lives when we too pray to our Father to remove circumstances from our lives such as illnesses, loss of loved ones, loss of a job, and many other challenges and adversities that confront us in this life. We must always pray like Jesus in the will of God. God does not always give us exactly what we request of Him, but be assured that if we are in His will, He will always give us the strength and ability to endure what is before us. You ask, how shall I know that I am in His will? You are in His will when you receive Him as Lord and Saviour, and live according to His instruction. Just as Jesus died for our sins and rose on the third day, our circumstances have a purpose and we too will come forth in His glory. I am often reminded of Job 13:15, who suffered much loss, and his conviction was “Though he slay me, yet will I trust I him…” Prayer Dear Heavenly Father, forgive us of our sins today, and grant us thy peace in all things, and we shall forever give you the praise, glory, and honor. In Jesus’ Name, I pray. Amen.

March 7, 2014

Stephanie Brown

Scripture Readings: Wait on the Lord; Be of good courage; And He shall strengthen your heart; Wait, I say, on the Lord! Psalm 27:14 But those who wait on the Lord Shall renew their strength; They shall mount up with wings like eagles, They shall run and not be weary, They shall walk and not faint. Isaiah 40:31 Reflection Waiting is contrary to our nature. We want it NOW! Slowing down our daily lives can cause a Suddenly to happen in… “The Waiting.” How would you know a Suddenly is happening? Peace shows up, Clarity emerges and Grace calls forth Mercy as Mercy passes the baton to Strength! Do you have need of a Suddenly in your life? Well if so, it usually only happens in… “The Waiting!”

Prayer Lord, teach me how to embrace “The Waiting” in my life where busyness comes to a halt and an attentive quietness propels me into a Suddenly. Then anticipation will breed expectation and in …”The Waiting,” I now will gain momentum as I prioritize my life for your purpose. In Jesus’ Name, I pray. Amen.

March 8, 2014

Sally Miles

Scripture Reading: Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see. Hebrews 11:1

Reflection Praise God from whom all blessing flow! A few years ago I was diagnosed with one of the most dreaded diseases known to mankind, the “Big C”…cancer. Although a lot of people diagnosed have beat cancer, some are still in the battle and others have succumbed to its deadly effect on the body and passed on. When the doctors approached me with sad faces and the bad news of my diagnosis, I first felt a spirit of fear, shock, and numbness. The cancer was in a place in my body where the survival rate was pretty low and not many survived long. The Spirit of God inside of me said, “Don’t you be sad and act as a person with no hope! You know who I am, I am your Lord and Savior Jesus Christ!” Jesus did not give me a spirit of fear, but of love, power and a sound mind! Jesus has given us power to tread over serpents, scorpions and all the power of the enemy; and nothing by any means shall harm me. The Spirit then said to me, “Tell everyone that you tell about your condition to start by thanking and praising God for your healing!” After receiving the news, the first person I called was my husband. During our conversation, I could tell by his voice that he was in shock and fear had come upon him. Thanks to God and the Holy Spirit, I was able to calm him down by telling him what the Spirit of God had told me. I said to him, “Honey, it will be all right; just start thanking and praising God for my healing!” As the family gathered around me that weekend to hear the news, I also shared with them what the Spirit had spoken to me and we had a glorious time in the Jesus thanking and praising Him for what he was about to do in my life! After going through chemotherapy, radiation and surgery, seven years later I am still here! I thank and praise God for what He has done, what He is doing and looking forward, with great expectation, to what He is going to do with my life. I have come this far by faith, leaning and depending on God for my future. For God said in His word it is our faith in Jesus and what He can perform in our lives that makes us whole. God is no ‘respecter of persons’. What God has done for me, He will do for you; God loves us all. He wants us to cast our cares on Him because He loves us. Put your faith in Jesus and start thanking and praising God for what He has done, is doing and is going to do in your life!

Prayer Gracious Lord, touch all of us who are going through difficult times. Help us to know that we can lean and depend on You for help. Help us to know that it is our faith in You that will make us whole. Help us to know that we can begin by thanking and praising You for what You are about to do in our lives. Help us to remember that prayer is the key, but faith unlocks the door! In Jesus’ name I pray. In Jesus’ Name, I pray. Amen.

March 10, 2014

Intercessory Prayer Ministry

Scripture Reading: He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High Shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty, I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress; My God in Him I will trust. Psalm 91: 1-2 Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need. Hebrews 4:16 Reflection My daughter’s first steps were unsure, hesitant and fearful. The more time I spent lovingly encouraging her she began to courageously take confident steps. This may be synonymous with our first prayers. Let our loving Father encourage us to step into a vibrant praying relationship with Him that births trust, boldness and victory. Prayer Father sometimes my words may be unsure, I may hesitate and be fearful of saying the wrong words. Thank you for showing me that my first step is to trust you to give me a safe place where my words are met with unconditional love. In Jesus’ Name, I pray. Amen.

March 11, 2014


Scripture Reading: For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse… Romans 1:20 Reflection Again, this winter I saw that lone snow-lite conifer, evergreen in the middle of the prairie. All of the other trees were dormant. Most of the year, this conifer is hidden behind all of its competitors for sunlight, nutrients, water, etc. Peter wrote in 2 Corinthians 8:13 to the Macedonian churches, … “our desire is not that others might be relieved while you are hard pressed, but that there might be equality”. I remembered God is the great equalizer. Everything flourishes under God's sufficient grace. Prayer Lord who can accept the evidence of Your creation yet dispute your Son's truth. We pray for all in need of Your physical & spiritual nourishment. In Jesus’ Name, I pray. Amen.

March 12, 2014


Scripture Reading But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us. We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed; Always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our body. For we which live are always delivered unto death for Jesus' sake, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our mortal flesh. 2 Corinthians 4:7-11 Reflection This morning I arose with a heavy heart. I tried to muster up a prayer but the words didn’t flow freely. Last night’s concerns were still on my mind and even though it was the dawning of a new day, I was still troubled. I turned to scripture that reminded me that though the pressures of this world may weigh me down, the life of Jesus Christ has been made manifest in my mortal flesh and, being reminded of this, I am empowered through His grace and mercy. I have been reminded that I have a Comforter who soothes all doubts and calms all fears. I move and have my being in Him; and that’s more than enough. Prayer Lord, thank you that you walk with me and you talk with me, and that You keep me in the times of uncertainty and distress. I rest in knowing that nothing can happen today that You can’t handle. Thank you for surrounding me with unlimited favor and for keeping me in Your care. Thank you for the privilege of serving you this day with a renewed mind and heart. In Jesus’ Name, I pray. Amen.

March 13, 2014


Scripture Reading Then the Mother of Zebedee’s sons came to Him with her sons, kneeling down and asking something from Him. And He said to her, “What do you wish?” She said to Him, “Grant that these two sons of mine may sit, one on Your right hand and the other on the left, in Your kingdom.” But Jesus answered and said, “You do not know what you ask. Are you able to drink of the cup that I am about to drink, and be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with?” They said to Him, “we are able.” Matthew 20:20-22

Reflection More than ever before, we are living in the days of “give me!” We are exposed to, and have adequate access to desires such as wealth, power and privilege. Not only do we have access to things of the world, but God has also provided for abundant spiritual access. He has giving us spiritual wealth, spiritual power and spiritual privilege. However, regardless to whether we are speaking of earthly gifts or spiritual gifts, none of these come without a price, without responsibility. When we pray to be more like Jesus, are we really sure that what we are asking is what we really want? We ask God for many things, we pray for things that are tangible and intangible, but whatever we pray for, we have to be willing to accept all that may come with it—the good, the not so good, and yes, the unthinkable. When Jesus prayed, He prayed that God’s will be done, fully mindful that He would suffer, even until death. Being like Jesus can certainly set one up for a multitude of blessings, and by His grace may even align one with the path leading to Gods heavenly kingdom. Not only should Christians desire to be like Christ, we are called to be of one mind with Christ (Phil 2:5-7), taking on the characteristics of our Savior. Jesus who was equal to God left His throne, took on the form of a bondservant and walked the earth in the likeness of man. This mission was the ultimate act of downward mobility, a complete contradiction to what we aspire to do. Jesus walked the earth with the sole purpose of serving and saving. Ultimately, in doing so, Jesus humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death (Phil 2:8). Because Jesus loved us so much, he died for us. So, if we are to be of like-mind with Christ, isn’t it only fitting that we too make the same sacrifices? God does not require us to be sacrificed such as His Son was, but as sons and daughters of God, heirs to His throne, we are required to serve and sacrifice in terms of giving of our time, talents and even our finances. We are required to pray when we don’t feel like praying, to worship when we are tired, to love those who we may perceive as unlovable. No matter what good we may do, or what evil we resist, we are only saved by grace, However, God certainly honors our sacrifice. So, when praying for God’s glory, just remember that sacrifice comes before glory. Before Jesus ascended to His rightful place in Heaven where is resides as King of Kings, he served and suffered…suffering before Glory.

Prayer Father, we thank you for the opportunity to reflect on the many sacrifices you endured for us. Thank you for this allotted time of making sacrifices of our own, to Your glory. Lord, as we sacrifice and our flesh cries out, please give us strength; Lord we are more than conquerors. We ask You to let us not focus on the rituals of Lenten season, but let us really focus on spiritual growth. Let us quiet ourselves so that we may hear from You-- encouraging us so that we may continue to uplift Your Kingdom…drawing others to you. In Jesus’ Name, I pray. Amen.

March 14, 2014


Scripture Reading: Now behold, one came and said to Him, “Good Teacher, what good thing shall I do that I may have eternal life?” So He said to him, “Why do you call Me good? No one is good but One, that is, God. But if you want to enter into life, keep the commandments.” He said to Him, “Which ones?” Jesus said, “‘You shall not murder,’ ‘You shall not commit adultery,’ ‘You shall not steal,’ ‘You shall not bear false witness,’ ‘Honor your father and your mother,’ and, ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ ”The young man said to Him, “All these things I have kept from my youth. What do I still lack?” Jesus said to him, “If you want to be perfect, go, sell what you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow Me.” But when the young man heard that saying, he went away sorrowful, for he had great possessions. Matt. 19:16-22

Reflection After reading Matt. 19:16-22 concerning the rich ruler, I got a clearer understanding of how to enter by the narrow gate. The rich ruler wanted to know how to be saved (having eternal life). Jesus answered him by referring to Ten Commandments. These commandments in verses 18-19 refer to his relationship with others (his neighbors). But he was still lacking something. In verse 21, Jesus tells him to let go of his possessions and “…come follow Me.” Jesus knew that the man followed through on his relationship with others, but where he was lacking was in his relationship with God. He could not give up his possessions in order to follow Jesus. The narrow gate is indeed narrow and difficult but it does lead to life (Matt.7:14). We must narrow our interests and focus so that we see only Jesus. The blessings and riches of God can get in the way if we put them first. Our children, our careers, our opinions, our time, even our service in the ministry can make for a wide load, which cannot all fit through the narrow entrance. The wide gate allows for everything, all options and all things, and leads to destruction (Matt.7:13).

Prayer Lord, help us to daily to narrow our attention in a way that puts You first-You ahead of our riches and blessings, our toys and even our service. In Jesus’ Name, I pray. Amen.

March 15, 2014

Carol Allen

Scripture Reading: I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. Romans 12:1-2

Reflection During the civil rights struggle of the 1960s, protest marchers would sing, “Ain’t gonna let nobody turn me ‘round.” Their steadfast commitment led to the end of legal segregation in America. The same kind of firm resolve and unwavering devotion they exhibited is necessary for our own sanctification as well. As Christians we must be focused and intentional about maintaining and nurturing our faith. The experience of being “born again” is only the initial phase of personal transformation. Sanctification is a continuing process. Spiritual maturity is the result – our thoughts and behavior reflect the character of God. Our goal and ambition is to be Christ-like. In order to mature in our faith, we cannot be apathetic to the truth and teachings of Scriptures. We cannot be lax in prayer, Bible study, worship, fellowship, and acts of kindness and service. If we neglect these disciplines, we eventually drift away from communion with our Lord. We must be careful and attentive to nurture our relationship with God, so that we avoid being indifferent or unresponsive to His commands, warnings, advice, and invitations. The blessings that are ours in Jesus Christ are far superior to anything that this world has to offer. Drifting away has disastrous consequences – a life and eternity apart from God. We have all to lose by drifting and all to gain by being steadfast. So, my friend, don’t let nobody – or anything – “turn you ‘round.” (Meditation from “The African American Devotional Bible” – KJV)

Prayer Heavenly Father, help us to keep our hearts and minds stayed on thee. In Jesus’ Name, I pray. Amen.

March 17, 2014 Dr. Deborah Hammond-Watts

Scripture Reading: Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving. Colossians 3:23-24 Reflection How often do we decide not to get involved with a task or event because we do not care for a particular person or what we perceive they stand for? If we remember that the work we do is for God and not about how we feel about a person, we can continue our task with love. After all, they too are one of God’s creatures… We do the work we do in God’s house for God. We must remember as we reflect on why we don’t want to continue the task that the work is for God, not for us, or the person that we wish to not be around! Prayer Dear Heavenly Father, soften our hearts towards those that make us want to work elsewhere. Touch us, Lord, to remind us that the work we do is for only you and give us the resolve to more fully embrace that work. Help us to act in ways that are pleasing to you and that help draw others to the Kingdom. In Jesus’ Name, I pray. Amen.

March 18, 2014 Evelyn Wiley

Scripture Reading: Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know the suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us. Romans 5:3-5 Reflection “Wisdom is nothing more than living with skill-it is the ability to apply the knowledge of God’s Word in our daily life-and nothing less. It involves using knowledge in the right way to select the proper ends and to achieve those ends in a proper fashion. It involves the application of God’s truth to human experience. Properly mastered, it can lead to a happy and successful life. There are many choices, alternatives, and options in the world. It is so difficult sometimes to choose between them. Thanks be to God that through the Holy Spirit we can have the skill in living life, and discernment to chose between the alternatives we face.”

Benny Hinn, Welcome Holy Spirit, 1995, pgs. 104-105

Prayer Lord God, My Father…It is my pleasure and joy to give you thanks and praise for your mercy and grace. Please continue to extend your forgiveness, support, favor and love to me. I ask for the fruits of Holy Spirit: compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience in all that I am and in what I do. In Jesus’ Name, I pray. Amen.

March 19, 2014 Patricia Mathis

Scripture Reading: But now, this what the Lord says , he who created you, Jacob, he who formed you, Israel, Fear not, for I have redeemed you, I have summoned you by name, you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you and when you pass through the rivers they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire you will not be burned, the flames will not set you ablaze. For I am the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior; I give Egypt for your ransom, Cush and Seba in your stead. Since you are precious and honored in my sight, and because I love you, I will give people in exchange for you, nations in exchange for your life. Isaiah 43: 1- 4

Reflection 2013 was not a bad year, but it was a very, very hard year for me. I can’t really put it into words, but it was a year of personal struggle mentally and spiritually. I was really glad to see 2013 go! Although most people didn’t know, I was just plain worn out – physically and most disturbing to me spiritually. I was in unfamiliar territory, a place that I’d never been before. A dry place, an empty place; and I felt very much alone. I was tired of waiting, but didn’t know what I was waiting for. I was sick and tired of being sick and tired. It was difficult to pray – to read the Word and sometimes to get to Church, but I did –more out of habit than anything else. I know that the Lord always speaks to us, and when I started listening I started coming out of the slump. Most importantly I realized that He was right there with me while I was going through and He took me back to the scripture I share here. It had helped me in the past during an extremely difficult time and once again it helped carry me through. I thank God for my Church that keeps me grounded and the saints who encourage and help keep me going even when they don’t know that they do, but most of all I thank God for Jesus. No matter what happens, what I go through or what the enemy may try to throw at me, I know without a doubt that God’s not only got it, but He’s got me too. This scripture reminds me that He loved me enough to pay the ultimate price for my salvation and me.

Prayer Father, my Father, I thank you for loving me even when I don’t love myself. I thank You God for seeing something in me that is worth saving. Thank You for being mindful of me. Lord my desire is to please You and to serve You. Use me for Your purpose. You said that You would never leave me, and I know that’s true. Thank You for being a God I can go to anytime and any place. Thank You for reassuring me when I doubt, for comforting me when I’m sad and feel alone. Help me to lift my eyes to the hills and to remember that You are my strength. Help me to praise You for truly You are worthy of all the praise. When I feel down, help me to remember all of the blessings that You have given me – my family, my health, my job, my friends, my Church family and most of salvation. I love You Lord and praise You and honor You and just thank You for everything that You are doing in my life! Help me to be who and what You want me to be. In Jesus’ Name, I pray. Amen.

March 20, 2014 Rev. Dr. Shirley Brummell

Scripture Reading: Ephesians 6:12-13 NIV Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen; I will be exalted in the earth. Psalm 46:10 Reflection In our busy lives we serve in many roles and are anxious to achieve all the tasks that accompany these roles. God speaks to us when we put ourselves in a position to hear Him. His scripture commands us to “be still” and take time to be present to Him by releasing and letting go of actions and behaviors in order to have a spiritual state of mind. We “know” God in developing our relationship with Him by meeting and spending time with Him. Are you able to regularly submit to this invitation for God time? He wants us to halt the chaotic pace, and daily look to Him because He is God Almighty. He is in control of everything! Prayer Dear Lord, I come to you seeking to let go of the stresses and cares in my life, that my mind and heart will be present to you. Create a sacred space within me that I may hear and savor your awesome power. In Jesus’ Name, I pray. Amen.

March 21, 2014 Rev. Lana Parks Miller

Scripture Reading: I appeal to you therefore, brothers and sisters, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your minds, so that you may discern what is the will of God—what is good and acceptable and perfect. Romans 12:1-2 Reflection Remembering the sacrifice that Jesus made for each of us by dying a sinner’s death, we are better able to offer our bodies also as a sacrifice as we prepare to receive his gift on Resurrection Sunday. It is a time of thoughtful reflection and heartfelt cleansing of our minds, bodies and souls. It is a time to find our true worship and get our praise on! Each of us has our own. Going inside and finding our unique connection and knowing of God is how we renew our minds and are better able to discern God speaking to us in our daily walk. We are able to recognize the HOLY and see God in things that are happening. We are able to get on and to stay on God’s path for us. Prayer Thank you Lord, for your sacrifice. Help me to get ready to accept your sacred gift of new life into my life this Easter. I am praying and I am fasting to get ready for this sacred change. I want to live your teachings and ask that you renew my mind and my heart each day. In Jesus’ Name, I pray. Amen.

March 22, 2014 Cerise Akins

Scripture Reading Trust God from the bottom of your heart; don’t try to figure out everything on your own. Listen to God’s voice in everything you do, everywhere you go; he’s the one who will keep you on track. Proverbs 3:5-6 Reflection These verses have so much power. They let us know that God is in control. Sometimes we may not understand what is going on but always remember He is in control. If we are quiet we will hear His voice, and know what to do. We live such busy lives that it causes us to miss His voice. When you feel frustrated or don’t understand, remember to be quiet so you can hear His voice and know what to do. He is always there for us. What an awesome God we serve. Prayer Please allow us a quiet moment to hear your voice. This will allow us to follow your will for our lives. Thank you for always being there for us. In Jesus’ Name, I pray. Amen.

March 24, 2014 Rev. Lana Parks Miller

Scripture Reading: You are the light of the world. A city built on a hill cannot be hid. No one after lighting a lamp puts it under the bushel basket, but on the lampstand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven. Matthew 5: 14-16 Reflection So much of Jesus’ teaching is an effort to help us navigate on a spiritual plane rather than just on a physical one. It is easy to think the “day to day” of our busy lives is what is most important such that spiritual realities don’t seem to exist. Jesus calls each of us back to the reality of the spiritual by telling us that we are the light of the world! I must take ownership of it. I must wake up to the important role I have in God’s plan for the salvation of the world. Jesus wants each of us to see and feel our own light for what it is and can be in this world. We each have a light that is God-given and can make a powerful difference for good--even our own good. We are the ones who decide to either hide our light or to let it shine bright. God already made the choice by giving God’s light to each of us. This scripture is to encourage us to let our lights shine brightly so that God’s purpose--God’s goodness and mercy and love can be made manifest before others--even ourselves. To God be the glory! Prayer Lord, help me to see and feel my own light in the midst of the sometimes overwhelming darkness of this world Help me to not be afraid. I know you are able to do all things... Help me to live out your truth, in my life, that my light--your light in me--shines brighter for you and your glory. In Jesus’ Name, I pray. Amen.

March 25, 2014 Eugene Madison

Scripture Reading This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success. Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the Lord thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest. Joshua 1:8-9 Reflection I remember when the storms of my life cause me to feel longsome, rejected, anger at the world and God; I just felt worthless, lonely, and a big failure in all of my efforts. The storms of my life were flooded with bills, no job, repeat layoffs, sickness, no food to eat for days, no friends, and being a long way from home; I just felt that nobody really care about me. Sometimes I felt as though I were in the midst of tornadoes alone surrounded by an atmosphere of problems after problems, compound failures after failures, repeated rejection from others, and I just felt that there was no way out of my storm of life circumstances. Prayer Our heavenly Father I thank you for your words, the seeds of life that we can mediate on them day and night. Your words are alive, that speaks to our spirits with truth and power to get through any circumstances that we are facing. Give me the strength to be obedient to thy word as a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path; meditating on them day and night. In Jesus’ Name, I pray. Amen.

March 26, 2014 Mavis Hawkes

Scripture Reading Then Jesus said to his host “when you give a luncheon or dinner, do not invite your friends, your brothers or relatives, or your rich neighbors; if you do, they may invite you back and so you will be repaid. But when you give a banquet, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind, and you will be blessed. Although they cannot repay you, you will be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous”. Luke 14:12-14 Reflection We live in a world where we often ask ourselves “what is in it for me”. If it’s not convenient for our busy schedules, advancing our personal agendas or allow for immediate gratification, we may not consider it worthwhile to do. However, in Luke 14:12-14 Jesus tells us that the act of giving should have unselfish motives. We need to give willingly whenever we see a need and should not expect anything in return from the recipient. Our giving can take any form; the important thing is that it be from the heart because the Lord sees our heart and intentions. It is the Lord who will pour His blessings on us in due time. Let us all look around today and see how we can quietly do something good or give a gift to someone else, especially someone who is in no position to return the favor. Prayer Dear Lord, open my eyes so that I can see Each gift and talent I have received from thee Show me how to humbly share them today To help someone less fortunate along their way In Jesus’ Name I pray. Amen.

March 27, 2014 Carolyn Wilson

Scripture Reading The Lord is my shepherd; I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures,he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake. Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies.You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely your goodness and love will follow meall the days of my life,and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever. Psalm 23:1-6 Reflection Why is it hard for some of us to “walk by faith and not by sight”? As a result we do not trust God with the next step on our life’s journey if we cannot detect what is around the corner or down the road. We fret because we cannot make since of God’s plan. Our anxious feelings then become a priority and soon doubt may incubate in our spirit at a time when it is better to elevate our faith. If we only had the mindset of a sheep in the pasture that solely trusts his shepherd then surely we would have peace about taking the next step. Throughout Psalm 23 David exalts God’s covering as our Shepherd to supply all that we will ever need, “The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want”. We are reminded that our Heavenly Father leads us through every possible circumstance: “beside the still waters”, “in the paths of righteousness for His name’s sake” and “through the valley of the shadow of death”. We can rest assured the Lord knows where we are at all times and He exercises wisdom and authority to restore our souls along the way. By faith we can trust God to lead every step. Prayer Lord, please help me to remember that you are my loving shepherd and to entrust my steps to your omnipotent guidance each day. In Jesus’ Name, I pray. Amen.

March 28, 2014 Anonymous

Scripture Reading Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit left the Jordan and was led by the Spirit into the wilderness, where for forty days he was tempted by the devil. He ate nothing during those days, and at the end of them he was hungry. The devil said to him, “If you are the Son of God, tell this stone to become bread.” Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone.” Luke 4:1-4 Reflection Jesus answered Satan the way he did because he knew that even if the human body needs food to survive it also has a spirit that must be satisfied, a spirit that instinctively needs to connect with its Creator. If that happens, everything else falls into place and makes sense even in adverse circumstances, but if the vital connection through God’s word is ignored or flawed by distractions, there’s a spiritual imbalance that can lead to cynicism and doubt – not a healthy situation. An individual can have an abundance of goods and gadgets, but if that person cannot love God and love other people, a lot of financially poorer people who can are richer in the things that count. Living by every word of God brings on a lot of good things like inclusiveness, fairness, democracy, and creativity as well as lasting friendships and happy families. If something goes wrong, God’s Word is the foundation for the healing process. We can live by bread alone and just exist, or we can be fully alive when we live by every word of God. God loves everyone unconditionally. If we accept God’s word and live by it, we can’t lose… everybody wins! Prayer God, guide us with your words to care for each other and to bring about hope, peace, joy and love for all. Amen. In Jesus’ Name, I pray. Amen.

March 29, 2014 Rev. Marland Brazier

Scripture Reading The wife of a man from the company of the prophets cried out to Elisha, “Your servant my husband is dead, and you know that he revered the Lord. But now his creditor is coming to take my two boys as his slaves.” Elisha replied to her, “How can I help you? Tell me, what do you have in your house?” “Your servant has nothing there at all,” she said, “except a small jar of olive oil.” Elisha said: “Go around and ask all your neighbors for empty jars. Don’t ask for just a few. Then go inside and shut the door behind you and your sons. Pour oil into all the jars, and as each is filled, put it to one side.” She left him and shut the door behind her and her sons. They brought the jars to her and she kept pouring. When all the jars were full, she said to her son, “Bring me another one.” But he replied, “There is not a jar left.” Then the oil stopped flowing. She went and told the man of God, and he said, “Go, sell the oil and pay your debts. You and your sons can live on what is left.” 2 Kings 4:1-7

Reflection In this passage of Elisha wanted to know, what the widow had in her house that she could bring to the table in this situation, that God could work with and multiply? And because she is so caught up and can’t see the forest for the trees, she say’s “Nothing at all, except a flask of olive oil!” Some translations say “Nothing much, except a little oil!” This is where the miracle begins! I am so happy today that we serve a God that specializes in exceptions and is exceptional in all works! Obviously this widow missed the bible study on I Kings 17:8-16 where Elijah had a similar encounter with another widow who had reached her wits end too and was ready to throw in the towel also (check out the story when you have an extra moment) and we know the story of how God the Son multiplied a little boy’s lunch so it fed thousands with remnants to spare in John 6:1-14! The widow didn’t realize that although her situation looked dismal, God had heard her cries late in midnight hour and she was on the verge of a breakthrough! She was only looking at her situation in the natural and was about to discount THE OIL!!

Prayer Dear Lord…Release the pouring in my life today! Help me to see Your presence in even the seemingly ‘little places’ in my life! Give me new perspective that I would not just see this world and my surroundings in the natural, but would perceive and operate with supernatural vision. In Jesus’ Name, I pray. Amen.

March 31, 2014 Anonymous

Scripture Reading May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had, so that with one mind and one voice you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. Romans 15:5-6 Reflection Living a life that pleases God isn’t always easy or popular. Speaking valiantly for Christ and courageously living a righteous life requires living out our commitments and convictions as faithful people. Standing tall for what’s right, despite the opposition we might face, carries a high price; in fact, because of our stance, we are sure to face war (spiritually). The only way we can prepare for the battle ahead is to spend time with Jesus – the unshakeable source of our courage and strength. Prayer Dear Heavenly God…please give me the strength and courage to stand firm in times when the ‘right thing’ might not be the ‘popular thing’ so that You might be glorified. In Jesus’ Name, I pray. Amen.

April 1, 2014 Anonymous

Scripture Reading By faith Abraham, when God tested him, offered Isaac as a sacrifice. He who had embraced the promises was about to sacrifice his one and only son, even though God had said to him, “It is through Isaac that your offspring will be reckoned.” Abraham reasoned that God could even raise the dead, and so in a manner of speaking he did receive Isaac back from death. Hebrews 11:17-19 Reflection The reality is that we don’t truly possess what we have in this life: our jobs, our homes or our ‘toys’. In this same vain, our spouses, children, families and friends are only entrusted to us for a time, and it is up to us to influence them towards following God while we have the opportunity to do so. It is then essential to our faith journey that we follow Abraham’s example, holding our possessions and relationships loosely, to be regarded and ‘used’ as God intends. Prayer God, cultivate in me a heart of proper stewardship over the blessings You have given me, that my life might be a reflection of You whom I serve. In Jesus’ Name, I pray. Amen.


Scripture Reading Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7 Reflection Have you ever found yourself troubled with a stressful situation at work, a dispute with a fellow church member, a disagreement with a close friend, or a struggle within your family? In response, you seek out a place that will give you a moment or two of peace and stability, only to find that the emotional and spiritual load you have been carrying has settled solely on you. Rather than drawing nearer to the One that can provide real comfort, you find yourself making the situation worse by dwelling and giving energy to the burden; letting worry and angst get the best of you. In these times, we have put everything aside, reach out to God and hold on to Him with everything in us! The only way we can really escape the burden of sin and guilt is by embracing the only One who every successfully defeated these burdens and even cheated death. Prayer Lord…I thank You for this quiet time You have provided today for me to draw closer and hear a word from You that it is sure to fuel me for the day that lies ahead; my ‘secret place’ is where ever You are and You are with me! In Jesus’ Name, I pray. Amen.


Scripture Reading But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. Matthew 6:33-34 Reflection Many of us are currently in positions of “arrested development” in our personal and spiritual lives because of our past. It is important for us to know that our past is nothing more than the story of how we got to where we are, and dwelling on it causes us to become stagnant and unsatisfied. It is very difficult for us to find God through worrying about the past or day-dreaming about the future either, because that only makes us want to control whatever lies ahead even more. I know it is seemingly natural that we have concerns, hopes and dreams for the future, but for maximum impact, we can only live out our relationship with God in the present. God longs for us to trust him every hour and every minute of today. Prayer Lord…today I release any preoccupations that keep me from being open to Your fullness, love and power! Those strongholds that once held me captive in thought, word or deed; I rebuke, bind up and cast away! In Jesus’ Name, I pray. Amen.

April 4, 2014 Inzafaye Scott

Scripture Reading “‘If you can’?” said Jesus. “Everything is possible for one who believes. Mark 9:23 Reflection We must always be mindful to expect Great things from God. Why is that? Because with God it’s not a few things, some things, but All Things are Possible. However, we must believe, perceive, and receive in our hearts and minds that with God we can. We must take action and WORK towards the outcome that we are expecting. Ask God! Yes. Expect God’s Favor and Power. To change our way of thinking takes courage. We can achieve whatever WE decide…if we desire it bad enough. Believing that I Can, I Can, I Can! God gives us choices everyday all day to be POSITIVE or not. Let’s keep our thoughts on God’s Promises. Being grateful no matter the circumstances. Praise God always. Ask God to transform your mind, heart, and being. As a man thinks in his heart, so is he. Proverbs 23:7 Prayer God, thank you for the opportunity to spend this time with you. Lord you have blessed me with gifts and seeds of greatness. Transform my mind and heart to seek them through you. Change me into the person that you have created me to be. I know that you are working in me right now because I have come to you. I am willing to serve you Lord. Believing, praying, working, claiming that it’s done. In Jesus’ Name, I pray. Amen.


Scripture Reading Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, left the Jordan and was led by the Spirit into the wilderness, where for forty days he was tempted by the devil. He ate nothing during those days, and at the end of them he was hungry. The devil said to him, “If you are the Son of God, tell this stone to become bread.” Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone.’” Luke 4:1-4 Reflection Jesus answered Satan the way he did because he knew that even if the human body needs food to survive it also has a spirit which must be satisfies, a spirit that instinctively needs to connect with its Creator. If that happens, everything else falls into place and makes sense even in adverse circumstances, but if the vital connection through God’s word is ignored or flawed by distractions, there’s a spiritual imbalance that can lead to cynicism and doubt – not a healthy situation. An individual can have an abundance of goods and gadgets, but if that person cannot love God and love other people, a lot of financially poorer people who can are richer in the things that count. Living by every word of God brings on a lot of good things like inclusiveness, fairness, democracy, and creativity as well as lasting friendships and happy families. If something goes wrong, God’s word is the foundation for the healing process. We can live by bread alone and just exist, or we can be fully alive when we live by every word of God. God loves everyone unconditionally. If we accept God’s word and love by it, we can’t lose… everybody wins! Prayer Dear Lord, guide us with Your words to care for each other and to bring about hope, peace, joy and love for all. In Jesus’ Name, I pray. Amen.


Scripture Reading The devil led him to Jerusalem and had him stand on the highest point of the temple. “If you are the Son of God,” he said, “throw yourself down from here. For it is written: “‘He will command his angels concerning you to guard you carefully; they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.’” Jesus answered, “It is said: ‘Do not put the Lord your God to the test.’” When the devil had finished all this tempting, he left him until an opportune time.

Reflection "God, if you're real, prove it by making that guy fall in love with me." "God, if you can hear me, tell me the winning lottery numbers!" "God, if you love me, you'll help me find a close parking spot at the grocery store." It's so much easier for us, as flawed human beings, to want to test instead of trust. Faith is easy when things are going our way, but the above scenarios are all too familiar when the going gets tough. The Devil must have known that: why else would he have tempted Jesus? He must have thought it would be easy; the rest of us are only too eager to shout out promises and "if/then" scenarios in hopes of exchanging our knowledge for what we want. The proof, as they say, is in the pudding. Jesus knew, however, that God had nothing to prove: His love and existence surround us every day, from a stranger's kind smile to a warm summer's breeze. We simply have to trust, as Jesus did. That doesn't mean the Devil won't be back; after all, Luke says he departed only until a more opportune time. There will always be doubts and temptations and complete failures, but if we give ourselves over to faith, we can persevere against our human weakness with the knowledge that God loves us. Isn't that much more of a blessing than a close parking spot at the grocery store?

Prayer God, give us strength in our faith. Help us to trust that You are almighty, and that Your hand is in all things. Let us stand strong in our resolve against temptation, and help us to steer clear of that which we know to be harmful. Thank you for all the confirmations of your love that you give to us every day, and help us to notice, appreciate, and be thankful for them. In Jesus’ Name, I pray. Amen.


Scripture Reading Join together in following my example, brothers and sisters, and just as you have us as a model, keep your eyes on those who live as we do. For, as I have often told you before and now tell you again even with tears, many live as enemies of the cross of Christ. Their destiny is destruction, their god is their stomach, and their glory is in their shame. Their mind is set on earthly things. But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, who, by the power that enables him to bring everything under his control, will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body. Therefore, my brothers and sisters, you whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, stand firm in the Lord in this way, dear friends! Philippians 3: 17- 4:1 Reflection It has been said that the reason most Americans aren’t comfortable in their own skin is because they spend their whole lives trying to be someone else. We try to be the next Barack, or Michelle or, instead of aspiring to be the next ‘me.’ Why do we spend our lives trying to live up to those expectations instead of living up to Gods? There are so many examples the world sets forth for how to live. (Though a lot of them tend to be examples on how not to.) And I don’t know about you, but for a long time the way I acted depended on who I was with. Each circle of friends I conformed to their personalities. I was still me, I just brought out what I thought they expected of me, instead of being who God expects me to be. But God says be in this world, but not of the world. Jesus sets the right example, though it’s not an easy one to follow. We should be an example to our friends instead of following theirs. “We are citizens of Heaven”, the Scripture continues. “They are proud of what they should be ashamed of, and they think only of things that belong to this world. Stand firm in your life in the Lord.” It’s easy to preach, harder to live. And it’s easy to sound preachy, talking about what we should and should not do. Ultimately God knows your conscience, what example He calls you to set. How will you be a model to others today?

Prayer Dear Lord, help us to follow in Your footsteps, in Your example. Lead us to conform our way of life to Yours. May we be Your light in this world. In Jesus’ Name, I pray. Amen.


Scripture Reading At that time some Pharisees came to Jesus and said to him, “Leave this place and go somewhere else. Herod wants to kill you.” He replied, “Go tell that fox, ‘I will keep on driving out demons and healing people today and tomorrow, and on the third day I will reach my goal.’ Luke 13:31-32 Reflection This verse tells us that Jesus will complete His Ministry in his own time. No authority from the outside world could thwart His work or harm Him. Jesus was sent to earth to accomplish His ministry that had been promised by God. His Ministry was to be the perfect sacrifice of the penalty of sin and death. Through His forgiveness we can be reconciled back to God. He came for our salvation, healing, deliverance, sanctification and baptism in the Holy Spirit so we can do like He did, to make disciples and grow the kingdom of God. Prayer Loving and Gracious God, Make me into the image and likeness of Christ, so that I can have eternal life, healing, deliverance and the Holy Spirit to grow the Kingdom of God. Keep me faithful to complete the work you have sent me to do. In Jesus’ Name, I pray. Amen.


Scripture Reading In any case, I must press on today and tomorrow and the next day—for surely no prophet can die outside Jerusalem! “Jerusalem, Jerusalem, you who kill the prophets and stone those sent to you, how often I have longed to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, and you were not willing. 35 Look, your house is left to you desolate. I tell you, you will not see me again until you say, ‘Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.’” Luke 13: 33-35 Reflection Someone said something recently that really stuck: "Stay open to what you don't yet know." It's easy (especially as we age, I think), to develop a "been there, done that" attitude -- in our personal relationships, in our professional lives, and even in our spiritual lives. But if we're remotely wise enough to know how truly ill-informed we are, and how little we know in the grand scheme of things, we have a beautiful opportunity for life-affirming, ongoing personal and spiritual evolution. When you read this passage, you think of those Jesus addressed as folks who had long since decided they had all the answers. And their inability to hear, to grow, to adapt and change, to challenge their own thinking, made them dangerous. We, too, are on dangerous ground when we stop welcoming the new into our lives -- new people, new ideas, new challenges, and, most importantly, new understandings of ourselves and others and God. Prayer Dear God, give me the willingness to be open to what I don't yet know, and thank you for the blessings I have not yet received. In Jesus’ Name, I pray. Amen.


Scripture Reading You, God, are my God, earnestly I seek you; I thirst for you, my whole being longs for you, in a dry and parched land where there is no water. I have seen you in the sanctuary and beheld your power and your glory. Because your love is better than life, my lips will glorify you. I will praise you as long as I live, and in your name I will lift up my hands. I will be fully satisfied as with the richest of foods; with singing lips my mouth will praise you. On my bed I remember you; I think of you through the watches of the night. Because you are my help, I sing in the shadow of your wings. I cling to you; your right hand upholds me.

Reflection “Steadfast” is such an extraordinary word. Some of the definitions and synonyms the dictionary gives this word are: steady; firm; stable; constant; immovable. It was also described as resolutely or dutifully firm and unwavering. So in this Psalm, David put God’s unwavering loyalty to him above life itself. This was something I grappled with at first reading. I questioned: “without life, where is love?” I then reasoned that of all the things life is: changing, unsure, unstable, trying (certainly not steadfast); however, God’s love will always be there, and is not subject to change. For David, or any person of faith, what a beautiful thing to have and know! Life is pretty wonderful, even with all of its perplexities and incongruities, but to know that you are one with the steadfastness of God’s love must have given overwhelming cause to sing songs of praise to our Creator!

Prayer Precious God…let us bathe in the wonder and beauty of Your love, and as trying and as difficult as life can sometimes be, let us always remember that Your steadfast love never wavers. In Jesus’ Name, I pray. Amen.


Scripture Reading For I do not want you to be ignorant of the fact, brothers and sisters, that our ancestors were all under the cloud and that they all passed through the sea. They were all baptized into Moses in the cloud and in the sea. They all ate the same spiritual food and drank the same spiritual drink; for they drank from the spiritual rock that accompanied them, and that rock was Christ. Nevertheless, God was not pleased with most of them; their bodies were scattered in the wilderness. Now these things occurred as examples to keep us from setting our hearts on evil things as they did. Do not be idolaters, as some of them were; as it is written: “The people sat down to eat and drink and got up to indulge in revelry.” We should not commit sexual immorality, as some of them did—and in one day, twenty-three thousand of them died. We should not test Christ, as some of them did—and were killed by snakes. And do not grumble, as some of them did—and were killed by the destroying angel. These things happened to them as examples and were written down as warnings for us, on whom the culmination of the ages has come. Reflection “…and all drank the same drink from the spiritual rock, and the rock was Christ” It’s easy to look around and point out all of our differences. But if you look closely, there are so many more similarities that bind us together. We all come from the same place, the same spirit, the same God. Take comfort in this today and know that you are not alone! Prayer Lord, so often we focus on the ways we are different from others, the things that separate us from one another. Help us to look at each other with new eyes and remember that through your love, we are indeed all one people. Help us to come together as that one people to live in love and peace with one another. In Jesus’ Name, I pray. Amen.


Scripture Reading So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don’t fall! No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it. I Corinthians 10: 12-13

Reflection Watch it! Be Careful! LOOK OUT!!!! We are all bound to an unspoken code of conduct when driving. There is a vast code of unwritten rules that one must follow in order to get from point A to point B safely. For instance, when approaching a four-way stop, do not continue until it’s clear of pedestrians that pretend not to see you and other drivers who think they have a more urgent need to get where they’re going than you do, despite when it’s legally your turn to go. What Paul writes in this verse obviously is not intended as a cautionary warning on how to drive, but a spiritual warning to us. He is warning us as Christians, to not be spiritually over-confident. He wasn’t writing to warn you that if you fly through that four-way stop it would end in disaster, he is warning us on a spiritual level. I’ve lost track of how many spiritual people have fallen recently, caught in the act of something sinful and then exposed in the media. I could single out any sin you can think of, gambling, lust, slander, revenge, greed, adultery, materialism, etc., but we should realize that it’s when we least expect it, when we think we are solid, when we are not being careful, that’s when we are tempted, then slip and fall. Paul was writing to the Corinthians, a church he help to found, speaking Christian to Christian. The human ego is a powerful thing, and if it’s left unharnessed, pride, conceit, and self-centeredness prevail; and these are all foes of our own spiritual growth. Why? It is because these things lead you into placing more confidence in yourself, than in God. Paul is reminding us that as Christians we need to be especially cautious. In being careful and humble, you become closer to Christ and living as he would. Thinking of others before yourself, doing for others before yourself, and thankful for what you have and can share with others; this is the path set before us by Christ to follow.

Prayer Lord, today we ask Your help in relying on you to guide our steps. We know you are always there if we happen to slip and fall, even if those slips are made when we ignore your directions. We thank you for being our constant inner GPS and always guiding us back toward the right path. In Jesus’ Name, I pray. Amen.


Scripture Reading Jesus continued: “There was a man who had two sons. The younger one said to his father, ‘Father, give me my share of the estate.’ So he divided his property between them. “Not long after that, the younger son got together all he had, set off for a distant country and there squandered his wealth in wild living. After he had spent everything, there was a severe famine in that whole country, and he began to be in need. So he went and hired himself out to a citizen of that country, who sent him to his fields to feed pigs. He longed to fill his stomach with the pods that the pigs were eating, but no one gave him anything. Luke 15: 11-16 Reflection It can be easy to be distracted by the appeal of instant gratification. Rather than having an appreciation for what is already in front of us, we can grow restless. We leave behind our support and community in order to pursue what we think will satisfy this urge for something better. Such decisions can sometimes come at a price. While we should strive to improve our environment for the betterment of our community, we must also remain mindful of the costs of our actions. The appeal to chase after what feels good without any concern for the repercussions is great but in the long run it isn’t sustainable. Such a life can often lead to loneliness and isolation, cutting us off from the loving community that God would have us to cultivate. Prayer Lord, help us to remember that what we think we want is not always what we truly need. Help us to be mindful of our thoughts and actions that we may continually prosper in grace, love and understanding. In Jesus’ Name, I pray. Amen.


Scripture Reading So from now on we regard no one from a worldly point of view. Though we once regarded Christ in this way, we do so no longer. Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here! All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation. Reflection This passage tells us that God sent Jesus to make us right with him. God forgives everything that we need him to, no questions asked. God is not holding a grudge against us for the day he can hold it over our heads. It is forgotten, gone, never to be remembered again. Unfortunately, the person we often need to forgive is the one person we can’t, ourselves. As we live our lives day in and day out, we are the constant reminder of our past mistakes, holding it over our own heads, making us miserable. God knows our lives are too precious to dwell on the past, which is why he sent Jesus. He needs us to be at our best everyday to show others what his love and forgiveness can do for them. We are so blessed to know the love that Christ showed us on the cross; we need to share it with others. To forgive and forget is not easy, but start with yourself and discover just how free you will be to share God’s love and message with others. Prayer Loving God, help me to forgive myself first, so that I may truly forgive others. Help me to become the person you want me to be. In Jesus’ Name, I pray. Amen.

April 17, 2014

Trena Brannon

Scripture Reading: For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Ephesians 6:12-13 Reflection We cannot control all the situations and experiences that come our way, however we can control how we respond to them. I feel when I am centered in my faith… when I pray in conversation with the Lord… when I have read scriptures; I am ready and can manage the joys and the challenges that happen to me. I try to thank God for those challenges that make me grow, as much as I thank Him for all the smiles I get to have. I ask Him to remind me that it’s not all about me. Sometimes, I do get caught up and I have to say in my mind, “breath,” - I pray, and then I respond. Prayer Dear Lord, please walk with me and lead me in the way you that you want me to respond and handle myself throughout the day, throughout my life. Please help to remember that every situation is not about me. In Jesus’ Name, I pray. Amen.

April 18, 2014 Rev. Marland Brazier

“It Is Finished!”

Scripture Reading A jar of wine vinegar was there, so they soaked a sponge in it, put the sponge on a stalk of the hyssop plant, and lifted it to Jesus’ lips. When he had received the drink, Jesus said, “It is finished.” With that, he bowed his head and gave up his spirit. John 19:29-30 Reflection In the scripture that was just read, we find Jesus on the cusp of making the ‘final payment’ for all our sins and transgressions, a payment that would ‘make good’ or ‘reconcile’ us unto God forever! It is critical in reading the text to know that in the Greek, Jesus’ cry from the cross, "It is finished!" is derived from a term often used in accounting transactions of the day, “tetelestai”, which meant that a debt…had been ‘paid in full’! Justice had been satisfied by full payment of its penalty, and thus God could "be just, and the justifier of anyone who made the choice to believe in Jesus.” When Jesus uttered these words on cross, we received the gift of eternal life that had, at least up until that moment, seemly been ‘laid away’, though prophesied it would indeed come to pass. When Jesus utter these words…Jesus was declaring that there is no need for us to crucify ourselves any longer for things we did in past, but to look forward to our future in Him because the best has yet to be revealed! Prayer Dear Lord, I thank You for the price You paid with Your life on the cross at Calvary for me! I know that I can never repay you for what you have done, but I give myself away so You can use me as light for Your presence in a world that needs a Savior! In Jesus’ Name, I pray. Amen.

April 19, 2014

Tracey A. Kenney

Scripture Readings: But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. James 3-17 If you say, 'The LORD is my refuge,' and you make the Most High your dwelling, no harm will overtake you, no disaster will come near your tent. For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways Psalm 91:9-11

Reflection "In The Midst of It All", sung by Yolanda Adams, is one of my favorite songs. When trials come, billows roll and all hell seems to be breaking loose, the lyrics of this song ring so true for me. When I get so caught up thinking about the SIZE of my problems, I have to stop, center my spirit and remind myself that our Lord and Savior is bigger and badder than any earthly problem. When you know, that you know, that you know, when the peace of Jesus fills your heart, wisdom comes. Answers to any and every problem come - we have to be patient enough to wait on HIM! We live in an "instant" world and God's timing isn't always instantaneous! Submission to His will and understanding His plans always provide hope for our future; this is the key to maintaining joy in our hearts - despite our earthly circumstances! Through every storm, God is ever present; He will never forsake us; we just have to see things through divine and not earthly eyes! Prayer Father, I thank You for this opportunity to share this devotional You have placed on my heart with others. May the scripture and words provide healing to those with broken spirits. Lord, let us be ever mindful of Your ultimate sacrifice this Lenten season and be sure to give You the honor, glory and praise You richly deserve. In Jesus’ Name, I pray. Amen.