Lenten Reader 2014

Lenten Reader 2014 A compilation of reflections on Scripture for the season of Lent from members of the Evangelical Covenant Church of Canada.

This Lenten Reader is a gift to the Church and therefore may be used free of charge.

All artwork is referenced in the Bibliography.

Please give credit where due when reproducing or quoting from the Lenten Reader. Š 2014 Evangelical Covenant Church of Canada Winnipeg, Manitoba Editors: Julia Sandstrom & Allison Friesen Cover art by Julia Sandstrom.

A Brief Introduction to Lent In my mind winter equals drudgery. The snow, the cold, the ice, the layers of clothing, I find it all rather obnoxious. Every winter I hear myself and others ask, “Why do we live here in this frozen wasteland?”

The undertone to that question is, “Why do we chose this for ourselves?”

Lent is the church’s winter wasteland. The forty days are in fact a reminder of Jesus’ forty days in the wilderness which harkens back to Israel’s forty years of wandering in the desert. However, the question remains, “Why do we do this to ourselves?”

It is a good question. Why do we do strange things like put ashes on our foreheads? Why do we fast? Why do we bother with devotionals like this one? We do it because in these practices we find life. It may be difficult to give something up for Lent, but in doing so you might make more room for God. It may be a new and challenging habit to read Scripture every day, but in doing so you might hear from God. Winter is rough in Canada and this has been an especially tough year, but always there is life. Putting ourselves in the wilderness of Lent gives us a clearer dependence on God. It is tempting to rush through these weeks of Lent toward Easter, just as it is tempting to rush toward Spring. But I encourage you to sit in the wilderness, read these passages of Scripture, learn from your brothers and sisters who have blessed us with their reflections.

Our journey this year begins with Genesis and walks us through the story of Israel. It is difficult to capture the entire story in only forty readings so we mostly hit the high and low points. The hope is that the narrative of Israel helps us better know the need for Christ’s life, death, and resurrection.

While Lent itself is forty days, the Sundays within the season are not counted as part of that forty. Traditions that fast from something during Lent often do not fast on Sunday. It is in this vein that we do not have a devotional written for each Sunday. Instead there is a work of art depicting an event from Scripture.

Contributions for this project came from people all over the Evangelical Covenant Church of Canada. Thank you to all who wrote for us this year.

Special thanks to Allison Friesen for her help in editing the Reader.

May God bless you as you journey through Lent, to the cross, and experience the joy of His glorious resurrection gift.

~Julia Sandstrom Editor

First Day of Lent Ash Wednesday

March 5, 2014 Genesis 2:15-17, 3:1-7

The brokenness of the world we live in found its beginning in the first woman and man. The great lie that made the opening for Eve and Adam’s fatal choice was simply this: “Maybe God is really not that good.” They lived in an idyllic place of great peace, abundance and purpose. But the possibility that God didn’t have their best in mind, that God might not love them all that well, that God would withhold good from them turned everything sour. Or should I say, Eve and Adam’s choice to believe the lie turned everything sour?

Notice that the serpent did not come out and ‘announce’ a lie - saying, “God is not good.” They/we wouldn’t fall for that. Rather, the serpent used distorted truths. Notice how close (and yet how far) the statements are from each other: "Did God really say....?" With enough twisted truth, a lie is formed - and even more powerfully than with a pronouncement. Adam and Eve decided in their hearts that God might not be ‘for them.’ Eve saw that the fruit would be desirable for gaining wisdom. She believed she had better start taking care of herself since God might not be that good.

We live in our ancestors’ legacy. We tend to live with a basic assumption that we better take care of ourselves since God might not be willing to do so. And so we enter the season of Lent. It is a season of self-examination and repentance (turning and going the opposite direction). The only way to repent - to move toward God and His goodness (rather than moving away from Him in self-reliance) is through God’s Spirit. Romans 8 paints a mind boggling picture of Truth rooted deep in our hearts - that we would know by God’s Spirit within, that He is ‘Abba’, that there is no condemnation for those in Christ and that, “If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare His own Son, but gave Him up for us all—how will He not also, along with Him, graciously give us all things?” (vs. 31-32).

Lord Jesus, the One who journeyed through the cross to death itself for our sakes, will you rescue us once again from our fear that you are not good - that you are not truly for us.

Free us to run toward you, instead, with hope and trust. Amen.

Kirsten Waldschmidt College Park Covenant Church Saskatoon, SK

Second Day of Lent

March 6, 2014 Genesis 3:8-24

In the well-known story of Adam and Eve’s fruit-stealing incident, we see the remarkable differences between human behaviour and God’s nature.

1. We are prone to willful disobedience, resulting in shame. We hide from God, we lose our desire for divine interaction (v 8).

2. We desperately want to be absolved of responsibilityour own sins. In v 12, Adam blamed Eve for tempting him, then blamed God who gave her to him. By blaming,kept himself from being responsible for his actions. Like me, Adam found it difficult to say, “I deliberately chose to do something I shouldn’t have.”

3. We are easily led astray. Eve’s better judgment was overcome and she succumbed to the “advertising”, the “peer pressure”, the sweet-talking cajolery of a being that had no interest in her wellness (v 4).

BUT this passage also reminds us of the unending love of God. Although God’s justice demanded that there be consequences to sin, God continued to nurture His own.

1. God longed for reconnection. Even though Adam and Eve were ashamed and hiding from God, He looked for His own (v 9). He initiated relationship through reconciliation.

2. God never gave up on His people. Although God cursed the serpent (v 14) and cursed the ground (v 17), He never cursed Adam and Eve. God stood by His people though they would now have to navigate the erratic and dangerous ways of the earth.

3. God was a protector (v 21). He made sure His people were clothed and cared for before He sent them from the garden.

One of the consequences of willful disobedience in the Garden was being barred from the Tree of Life, cherubim standing guard. However, many generations later, a carpenter’s son from Nazareth braved the terror of the “flaming sword that flashed back and forth.” He faced the pain, the ill repute, even the abandonment of the Father. He made His way back to the Tree of Life; He died on it.

The remarkable truth is that us disobedient, susceptible, irresponsible humans are God’s image-bearers. Thomas Merton, in New Seeds of Contemplation, writes, "To say that I am made in the image of God is to say that love is the reason for my existence, for God is love.

Love is my true identity. Selflessness is my true self. Love is my true character. Love is my name."

Amen.

Renita Hamm Rosebud Church Rosebud, AB

Third Day of Lent

March 7, 2014 Genesis 7:6-24

Our text begins after Noah, “who did exactly as God commanded him to do” (Genesis 6:22, 7:5), built an ark according to the dimensions laid out for him by God. He and his wife, their sons and their daughters-in-law went aboard the boat to escape the coming floodwaters. Joining them were male and female birds, flying insects and large and small animals of every kind.

Then, in compassion and mercy, the Lord shut the door. A week later, underground waters burst forth on the earth and rain began to fall in mighty torrents from the sky and continued for forty days and nights. Finally, the water covered even the mountains to a depth of twenty-two feet above the highest peaks. All living things on earth died; all living things on the boat survived.

When looking at Noah’s life, I notice that he did not obey God’s instructions simply to impress his neighbours or friends. It is doubtful that building a large boat impressed those whom God called wicked, totally evil, corrupt, and violent. We, on the other hand, often try to please or impress the people around us. “Did that person of influence hear what I had to say?” “I will leave my new car on the driveway so my friends can see it.” “I wonder if he noticed I was wearing my new suit today.” Have you found by keeping yourself on the treadmill of busyness and telling others about it, you feel empty? People's flattery often leaves us feeling hollow and trying to look good takes a lot of energy.

Why is it so difficult to please only our God? Looking at the example of Noah, I ask myself a question. Can it be said of me that I do exactly what God asks me to do? If not, why not? During this Lenten season let us own our disobedience and pledge to implicitly obey Him. O God, Your heart was broken over the sinfulness of the people You created. But Noah, who enjoyed a close relationship with You, consistently followed Your will. Help me to invest time and effort in developing my relationship with You so I can recognize Your voice and have the courage to do what You ask me to do. Amen.

Carol Wall Rosebud Church Rosebud, AB

Fourth Day of Lent

March 8, 2014 Genesis 8:6-12, 9:8-17

What a couple of joyful passages we find here in Genesis. Sure, they come as the result of something terrible, a flood that destroys all life on earth apart from Noah, his family, and the animals he has on the Ark. But in that first reading, chapter 8, verses 6-12, I can just picture myself in Noah’s shoes, so sick and tired of being stuck on a boat, so weary of not knowing when he and his family would be able to set foot on solid ground again, and probably pretty sick of all of the animal smells! And he thinks, “I’m going to send out this dove and find out what’s going on.” The first time it comes back empty beaked. The second time it comes back with an olive branch in its beak. And the third time, oh the third time is the best! The dove doesn’t come back at all. Noah must have been ecstatic! There is a place for that dove to go, to live to make a home, to settle. That must mean Noah could find that, too.

In this second reading we see God establishing a covenant with Noah. But what I think is pretty striking is that God establishes this covenant with all living creatures. God is making it clear that He cares about all life on earth. If it wasn’t clear enough through the creation accounts in Genesis 1 & 2, it sure is now… life is precious.

There is something here that resonates with the new covenant established in Jesus Christ. Jesus continues to fulfill this truth, that all life is precious.

As we give thanks for the covenant God established with Noah and all of creation with the sign of the rainbow, we, in this season of Lent, can also give thanks for the work of Jesus on the Cross and the new covenant that was established between creation and God through Jesus’ death and resurrection. What a blessing it is to know how much God loves us.

Eric Hedberg Emmanuel ECC Surrey, BC

First Sunday of Lent

March 9, 2014

James Tissot The Animals Enter the Ark 1 1896-1902

Fifth Day of Lent

March 10, 2014 Genesis 15:1-17

Even as the Lenten season is a journey through the wilderness—a time where the focus is on repentance and fasting—it is also a season steeped in God’s promises. We walk this wilderness journey with Christ, reflecting on His life and ministry, ever looking ahead to the great Promise that culminates with Easter Sunday.

In this passage, we find Abram in his own sort of wilderness. He is rich in livestock and land and yet he is having trouble holding on to the promise that God made to him back in chapter 12. God told him that he would be the father of a great nation, yet he remained childless and he and Sarai weren’t getting any younger. Doubt seems natural if you look at his situation through a practical lens. When you are living in the midst of your own spiritual wilderness, God’s promises can seem distant. With your mind steeped in the practicalities of life, it takes the Word to tell you, “Do not be afraid.” God reminds Abram of His promise – the promise that his descendants would outnumber the stars, that he would father a land and a people. God doesn’t promise that all will be perfect. There will be oppression and suffering in that future promise, but they will be His people and they will be a blessing to all nations. And it will come to pass not through Abram’s power, but through God’s power and Abram’s obedience.

Lent reminds us that God is reaching out to us in the same way. The same God who was the initiator of this covenant relationship with Abram is actively pursuing a relationship with us. He is pursuing us with His unrelenting love and His endless grace for His redeeming purpose. Lent is a season of opportunity to cast away the burdens and practicalities that we carry that can make Christ’s promises seem so distant. In the midst of the wilderness, we hear the voice of God reminding us to not be afraid. Even as the outcomes can seem impossible, or the wilderness of life seems like a vast wasteland at the moment, Abram’s story reminds us of the character of the One who makes and keeps promises.

Sally Carlson Leadership Board

Sixth Day of Lent

March 11, 2014 Genesis 21:1-7

Before Father Abraham, “had many sons, and many sons had Father Abraham,” there was just a sad and lonely old couple rocking on their porch, dreaming about what could have, or rather, should have been. Ok, so maybe it was sitting cross-legged and crying at the edge of the tent, but you get the idea. The story doesn’t end here. Sarah: “God has brought laughter to me… Who would have ever said to us that we would nurse children? Yet now (by God’s grace), I have borne old geezer Abe a son!”

Something from nothing. Barrenness to a belly full of blessing!

This last August, my wife gave birth to our son Isaac. We had our son Gus five years earlier.

We had experienced much disappointment in our journey to a second child. The first blush of hope was always dashed with ash. And yet, again by God’s grace - little chubby, ever drooling, perma-smiling Isaac came into our life as pure gift. Maybe you sit on your porch or your couch or at the edge of your bed questioning God’s goodness. Why barrenness and hopelessness? Why so much promise Lord and so little fulfillment?

It has been said that Israel’s core testimony is that of God’s grace and goodness. This is the same for us who have come to know Jesus. This is the context of our lives and our ministry.

And yet, the counter-testimony is what we experience as a people who live in the gap between how things are and how things are supposed to be in God’s good world.

The counter-testimony is perhaps how we feel more days than not. “God, why are you so unfair?” We lament. This is nothing new. The backbone and most common prayer in the Psalms is the lament. This is Scripture. God invites us to lament. However, the trajectory of lament is to carry us to a place of praise (doxology).

Now be clear, I say this not just because things, “worked out” for Kris and I, but because whether it is today or tomorrow or at the resurrection and re-creation of all things, God will eliminate the gap between how things are as we experience them now and how things ought to be according to God’s good promise.

As we catch up with Jesus and journey further into this desert wandering we call Lent, my hope is that you lament about the places in life where you experience the gap between how things are as you experience them today, and how things are to be in God’s good created world. But be forewarned, for there is One who is able to turn those many cries into an unstoppable chorus of laughter. Thanks be to God!

Erik Anderson Faith Covenant Church Winnipeg, MB

Seventh Day of Lent

March 12, 2014 Genesis 27:1-29

Before going deeper into this story, it is important to first understand the meaning behind the blessing of which this passage speaks. This was not just a nice thing to receive, it was a promise honoured by God ensuring a good, prosperous life. The promise was that the receiver would live a blessed life and would be served and honoured by both his brothers and the nations.

Jacob and Esau were twins. Esau was his father’s favourite son, and Jacob was his mother’s favourite. Esau has sold his birthright to Jacob for a bowl of stew (Genesis 25:29-24). However, Isaac wanted to bestow his blessing upon his favourite son. So he went to Esau in secret (it was meant to be a family affair), asking him to prepare a meal and to receive the blessing. Rebekah, Isaac’s wife, was listening in and wanting to advocate for Jacob, decided to take matters into her own hands. To resolve the problem, Rebekah and Jacob tricked Isaac into placing the blessing upon its rightful receiver.

There are a few elements of this story that I would like to highlight. I would firstly like to point out that Isaac was sinning. He planned to disobey God by blessing his favourite son instead of the son that God intended (Genesis 25:23). However, Rebekah and Jacob were also sinning, deceiving Isaac into giving the blessing to Jacob. Although their intentions were to fulfill the prophecy, their actions did not reflect a godly lifestyle. They did not once go to God for help; instead, they decided to work things out on their own. Yet the prophecy was still fulfilled.

Why is this? Since Jacob sinned against God, why should he be blessed? I think that the truth behind this passage is that God orchestrates good things always. I believe that God can make beautiful things out of all situations, even sinful ones. Even though we, like Jacob, are sinners, God is still faithful. It is in situations like these where we see the proof of God’s grace. He always keeps His promises and wants the best for us. We are, after all, His children.

Alannah DeJong Lighthouse Community Church Sarnia, ON

Eighth Day of Lent

March 13, 2014 Genesis 32:22-32

Jacob had always been a fighter – scrappy and resourceful right from the start. When his mother Rebekah carried him and his twin brother Esau in her womb, she thought she might die because of the way the two boys tumbled around and wrestled within her. When they were born, scrappy lil’ Jacob was grabbing at the heel of his brother. Years later, Jacob found a way to wrestle the birthright away from his brother; not through catch-as-catch-can, but through scheming, chicanery, and swindle. Jacob had similarly wrestled most of his father-in-law’s wealth away from him as well, getting rich at the expense of old Laban.

Jacob’s fighting ways had made him wealthy, but also paranoid. As he sat on the shore of the Jabbok River, he awaited, what he must have imagined to be, an impending hostile reunion with his brother, Esau. He had caught wind that, in fact, Esau was on the way to meet him… and Esau was with a small army of 400 men. Jacob had made an effort to assuage the angry bitterness of his big brother by sending peace-offerings on ahead, but now he could only wait alone in the dark.

The text here is scant on details but tells the reader that a mysterious stranger – “a man” – jumped Jacob in the night and the two wrestled until morning. It was not the assailant Jacob anticipated. The “man” struck Jacob on the hip, dislocating it, but Jacob refuses to let go. Instead, he demanded that the “man” bless him.

Before the blessing came, the “man” asked for Jacob’s name, and then changed his name. It is clear in Jacob’s mind that the mysterious grappler is God, or some representative of God. Afterall, who else could understand Jacob’s history and character so well, and speak with such authority, to pronounce such a profoundly true new name on the patriarch? No longer would he be known as Jacob; his name would now be called Israel – “God-Wrestler.”

This mysterious God of grace knew exactly who Jacob was; and He blessed him anyway, and preserved him.

Oftentimes, we too are scheming and self-seeking, like Jacob, fighting to get what we want for ourselves. But the God of Israel is the one who finds and engages us as we are, who knows our history and names it, who also blesses and preserves us.

Gavin Jensen Holy Community Covenant Church Winnipeg, MB

Ninth Day of Lent

March 14, 2014 Genesis 37:1-24

Genesis 37:1-24 reveals a theme that runs throughout the Old Testament - rejection and envy of God’s chosen. Joseph was not only chosen by his Heavenly Father but by his earthly father as well. His brothers despised him as it was evident Israel favoured Joseph over the rest of his sons.

I suspect Joseph felt like an outsider in his own family. Even though his father favoured him it must have been hard to be rejected by his brothers. The ultimate betrayal was for them to strip him of his robe and leave him in an empty pit. God however, had a different plan for Joseph.

When I read this section of Genesis, I could not help recalling an assignment from one of my seminary courses. The course brought to light several of the challenges common to pastors and general misconceptions congregants have regarding their pastors. It was surprising to learn of the great sense of loneliness that tends to permeate those in ministry. Like Joseph, we are chosen or called to be active participants in fulfilling God’s plan. The journey can be long and lonely as our “brothers” reject us.

I would like to believe Joseph was comforted and encouraged through the messages God sent in his dreams. At the very least Joseph would likely wonder how his dreams would materialize for others to bow down to him. As a prison chaplain I often wonder how God wants to use my ministry within His plan. My own dreams and conversations with God led me to prison ministry in spite of questions and skepticism from some.

I liken the empty pit into which Joseph was thrown to the emptiness some in ministry feel. Isolation and despair may be inevitable in the short term but God has a way of making us stronger through our experiences. While this particular section of reading ends with Joseph in the pit we know that is not where his story ends. The same is true for those in ministry. Though there may be times we feel we are in a “pit” our faith in God, coupled with the realization of His plan, will move us past those empty times.

Deana Verge Faith Covenant Church Breton, AB

Tenth Day of Lent

March 15, 2014 Genesis 45:1-15

The first verse of this passage begins with a portrait of Joseph weeping aloud. The last verse of this section ends with Joseph in tears. Joseph is one of my favorite characters in the Bible. He is destined to lead and save Israel, he is full of compassion and solid in character.

He is truly a type of Jesus.

In this Lent season we need constant reminders of who Jesus is, and Joseph is that reminder in the story of Israel. Jesus is a servant leader of his people (Mark 10:45), Jesus saves (Luke 19:1), Jesus weeps (John 11:35), and He is compassionate (Mark 1:41). I want to draw special attention to a subtle and sublime aspect of both the Joseph and Jesus story.

Previous to chapter 45 of Genesis, Joseph’s identity is concealed from his brothers. Joseph knows his purpose and calling; sent ahead to preserve his brothers and all Israel, just as Jesus was (John 20:21). When he meets them, he puts them to the test, seeing what their character is made of. He gave them opportunities to lie, cheat and steal, at the same time, they were opportunities not to lie, cheat and steal. This is the first time Joseph reveals his true identity as their saviour, forgiver, brother and benefactor. There was specific timing and meaning to the concealing and revealing of his identity, just as with Jesus (John 2:24).

When Joseph reveals his identity to his brothers, he reveals himself and initiates forgiveness. At one point in the Gospels, Jesus also reveals His true identity, and never more than at the cross, where He weeps for His brothers and initiates forgiveness, even though His brothers did evil toward him (Luke 23:34).

This is true vulnerability, which means exposing all and risking rejection. Jesus was rejected but secure in His Father’s love. In order to be vulnerable, you have to lay down your pride and thrive on humility. When Joseph and Jesus exposed themselves, they created a safe place for others to trust them. Jesus now invites us into His trust, asking us to do the same to others. If people sin against us, if they reject us, we are to forgive them and love them in return. This is easier said than done. Think about an example in your own family, whether a sibling has wronged you, or you feel hurt from your spouse. This is where the rubber of the gospel meets the road of life. The hurt feelings we have are real, but if we believe Jesus has swallowed up our death and given us life, then we swallow the death arrows flung at us in the death of Jesus, and give back to that person the forgiveness and love that we have in the life of Jesus. May we also be like Joseph and Jesus: humble, loving, compassionate and forgiving, even when others wrong us.

Basil McLaren Junction Covenant Church Junction, BC

Second Sunday of Lent

March 16, 2014

Marc Chagall Joseph has Been Recognized by his Brothers 2 1931

Eleventh Day of Lent

March 17, 2014 Exodus 3:1-15

It has been said concerning Moses, “Moses spent the first 40 years of his life in Pharaoh’s court learning to be a somebody, the next 40 years of his life on the back side of the desert learning to be a nobody and the last 40 years of his life showing the world what God can do with a nobody”. After 40 years of herding Jethro’s sheep Moses was an 80 year old man with very little self esteem. His curiosity was aroused when he saw a bush on fire, but not burning up. As he drew near he heard his name called and he answered, “Here I am”. He was then told to remove his sandals because he was in God’s presence. He fell on his face and God called him to do a great and impossible feat, to lead the children of Israel out of Egypt. Moses began to make excuses, “I am not adequate”, “I am not equipped”, “I am not eloquent”. God assured Moses of His presence and His power. And God said, “I will be with you. And this will be the sign to you that it is I who have sent you: When you have brought the people out of Egypt, you will worship God on this mountain.” For God the work was already accomplished.

We may feel very insignificant and ill prepared to serve God. He calls us to serve not because of who or how great we are, but in order that He will receive glory by doing great things through us. Be open to God’s call and in obedience do great exploits resting on His promises and basking in His presence.

Murray Carter Minnedosa ECC Minnedosa, MB

Twelfth Day of Lent

March 18, 2014 Exodus 6:1-13

Waiting is hard. Especially, I think, for children. I don't know how many times my children heard, “Wait! Just wait a minute!” as I tried to finish something.

All too often the “minute” became too many minutes and frustration and despair overtook the waiting one as patience was expended.

The Children of Israel had been waiting for a long time. It had been hundreds of years since their ancestor Joseph had brought salvation for them and invited them to move from the famine ravaged land of Canaan to the sanctuary of Egypt. During their time in Egypt they had prospered and become such a strong nation-within-a-nation, that the new powers that be saw them as a potential threat and turned sanctuary into slavery. Into this misery and hopeless despair God brings Moses.

When Moses arrived in Egypt with God's message of hope and the promise of deliverance, the Israelites were moved to worship (Ex. 4:31). God had not forgotten them! God remembered His promises.

How devastating, then, that their fragile hope was crushed by a fresh wave of hardship as Pharaoh responded harshly to Moses' request of a three day pass to worship God in the wilderness. The people became so discouraged by the brutality of their slavery that they refused to listen to Moses anymore.

When the situation looked its bleakest, God began an amazing process that eventually ended in freedom for His people and confirmation of His sovereignty as their God. Waiting is hard.

It doesn't matter what you're waiting for or how long you have been waiting.

It's hard to be patient and trust God to do what needs to be done. It's hard to keep hope alive when you feel oppressed on every side. It's hard to keep faith when those you love need rescuing and redemption. It's difficult to wait for God's amazing processes to be complete.

Waiting is hard, but if we can take God's promises and hold them close, there is hope for us. We will find freedom from our oppression. We will be rescued from our slavery. We will be redeemed. He will acknowledge us and claim us as His own. Waiting is hard, but God is God and He is faithful, even when we are discouraged to the point of being faithless.

Waiting is hard, but if we can wait - for ourselves and those we love - God will be God for us. He will carry us through the Red Sea of our despair to solid ground and freedom on the other side.

Lauralea Friesen Malmo Mission Covenant Church Malmo, AB

Thirteenth Day of Lent

March 19, 2014 Exodus 12:21-28

The bitter herbs (horseradish) were particularly strong the year a boy from my mom’s confirmation class arrived late to our Passover Seder. We had already remembered the tears and anguish of the people under Pharaoh by tasting the bitter herbs. So when he sat down at the table his friends encouraged him to take a really big scoop for his Matzo. He was immediately overwhelmed by the spice in his mouth and began to turn red. Tears even came to his eyes. The bitter herbs (and some goading from his friends) had done their job.

It was always a gift to grow up in a home that celebrated Passover. As I grew into a better understanding of the Seder and its connection to the Last Supper, I appreciated it even more. The Passover commemorates God’s salvific work to move Israel out of slavery, into freedom. Jesus uses the opportunity of Passover to draw a clear connection that He rescues us from our bondage to sin and brings us into freedom.

The sacrifice of the lamb for Passover and the sacrifice of the Lamb on Good Friday are salvific acts. Blood is shed, flesh is torn, and reconciliation is made possible. There is no salvation without death. We see that in the Passover, in the life of Jesus, and in our own lives. Lent is a time to experience small deaths. Deaths to self that only silence, solitude, and fasting can accomplish.

Jesus has made the ultimate sacrifice so that we do not have to die an eternal death, but we are called to our own participation in sanctification by “throwing off the sin that hinders” (Hebrews 12:1) and “putting to death the things of the flesh” (Romans 8:13).

The bitter herbs of Passover are a reminder of the old life, the life that was full of suffering in the land of slavery. Lent is a season that reminds us that we must continue to throw off the old life, the life of sin. Christ has made a way out of slavery to sin and a way forward to new life in Him. That way forward requires not a one-time confession of our need for grace, but a continual transformation. May we allow Lent to refine our lives (1 Peter 1:7).

Julia Sandstrom Holy Community Covenant Church Winnipeg, MB

Fourteenth Day of Lent

March 20, 2014 Exodus 14:5-25

“The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.” Exodus 14:14 Imagine the scene of Exodus 14 as the people of God are let loose from slavery in Egypt; a parade of joy, life, and liberty headed in the direction of the Promised Land. But what started as a heavenly miracle of divine intervention quickly turned into a no-win nightmare. Pharaoh, with his mighty armies was in hot pursuit and it seemed as though the party was about to end, and violently.

With a people in full panic, doubt, and quickly giving in to the strong urge to give up or scatter, Moses offers these words of security: “you need only to be still.”

Our culture places a particularly high value on security. We build security into our homes, we buy it from the bank, and we carry cell phones with an app for every potential problem. We are motivated by scarcity and every commercial seems to darken our imagination with some new fear or impending disaster.

In the morning we may be confident of God’s goodness and provision, but by the afternoon we’re done - panicked and in full retreat.

As I write this my wife is five days overdue with our first child. Some days panic taunts me as I wonder if we will be secure enough, if the money will be there, if I’ll be a good parent, if my child will be healthy and choose to follow Jesus. Then I’m reminded that as God’s people we have a confidence that comes from a vision of God’s goodness and generosity. We don’t have to worry or be afraid, we have a Sustainer who sees all that is coming and welcomes us to enter God’s peace. As people who have been made free to live as citizens of the Kingdom of God we stand in a new place, with a new posture towards our insecurities.

Our instinct is to run, protect, and fight. God’s loving parental instinct is to hold us and remind us: You need only to be still - I got this.

Preston Pouteaux Lake Ridge Community Church Chestermere, AB

Fifteenth Day of Lent

March 21, 2014 Exodus 17:1-7

What phase of life are you in? Whether you are young, old, or somewhere in between, you may find yourself in a desert place. Life is dry and hard—it seems to stretch on without promise of a sweet, cool oasis. Perhaps you don’t even perceive the life you live as hard, and yet there are desires you have that are unmet; a spouse, a bigger home, physical well-being, the list goes on and on.

It is easy to follow the example of the Israelites in exile. They were fleeing the enemy towards hope, God before them. But it was hot, dry, and they were hungry. They dreamed of green pastures, full stomachs, and a shade tree to lounge under. God had given them everything they needed, but their lips held complaints and their hearts harboured discontent.

When the people were thirsty (17:2) they approached Moses with their complaint. Had they forgotten that God had already provided all the water and food they had needed on the journey (chapters 15-16)? Indeed, there seems to be a theme arising: God’s people wanted something, they grumbled, and God provided. The striking thing about the scene we enter in Chapter 17 is that they had experienced God’s mighty provision and still lived in doubt. Did God provide simply because they complained? On the contrary, He wanted to give them good things; He wants to give us good things. God was giving them opportunity to increase their faith, to grow in their trust in Him. Problems arose when the focus on God was lost and was instead turned toward self.

Today, are you like those wandering in the desert? Have you picked up the practice of complaint? Friend, God has gone before you (verse 6)! He knows your every need, your every longing. Let us pick up the practice of thanksgiving and anticipation this Lenten season. May you instead join in trusting that just as God was faithful to provide for the Israelites’ thirst in the desert, He will give you just what you need.

Tracy Ashley Balfour ECC Balfour, BC

Sixteenth Day of Lent

March 22, 2014 Deuteronomy 1:19-33

My wife and I have been greatly blessed as parents of three boys. Like many families, there have been challenges and blessings along the way as we grew up together as a family. I remember the times, with each son, of being involved in teaching them to do things for the first time. It was always something of an ordeal whether it was the first unsupported bike ride or swimming on their own or taking the wheel of the car. Each situation was difficult for them. In their eyes, they were facing huge risks - could they trust what Dad was telling them, could they make the leap of faith, would it all work out?

From their perspective, the fact that millions upon millions of other kids had previously mastered these things was completely irrelevant. All that mattered was what was in front of them personally at that particular moment.

I can only imagine how the Father felt as the events described in this passage of Scripture unfolded in front of Him. He was opening up a whole new wondrous experience for His people. He urged them on the basis of how they could trust Him, “…you saw how the LORD your God carried you, as a father carries his son, all the way…” Nevertheless, despite living in the presence of the Creator of the universe, despite His many previous acts of faithfulness, despite the glory and wonder of who He is, the Israelites could not bring themselves to make the leap of faith.

I remember those special moments of delightful joy when our sons would leave behind their fear and make the leap of faith; the look of confidence and accompanying celebration followed by the eventual peace of triumph; the realization that it had all worked out. Delight the LORD your God today, trust Him in some small thing or hey, go crazy and finally release some long standing fear and live into the day abundantly! You can do it because He can do it.

He did it all through Jesus and now Jesus waits to “carry you all the way.” Go ahead, do it, in Jesus’ name.

Rich Drinovz Emmanuel ECC Surrey, BC

Third Sunday of Lent

March 23, 2014

James Tissot The Taking of Jericho 3 1896-1902

Seventeenth Day of Lent

March 24, 2014 Joshua 6:1-24

The story of Jericho’s fall will forever remind me of Veggie Tales’ French peas launching purple slushies over the wall and down onto the Israelites. Despite the somewhat silliness of this memory, along with it comes an encouragement and an assurance of God’s strength and power.

Joshua and the Israelite’s exemplify an incredible trust and faith in God and His promise. The city of Jericho was a fortress! With barred gates and towering walls, conquering Jericho was a near impossible task from a human standpoint. Yet, it was this very city that stood in the way of the Israelites and their Promised Land. For six days they marched around the city knowing very little other than that God was with them and that God would deliver them. At daybreak on the seventh day, the Israelites were up and ready to go signifying a willing obedience to God and His plans. Trusting that God would do as He said, they marched on.

As with Joshua and the Israelites, I believe that we are called to enter into life with the same faith, the same obedience, and the same trust in God. Be encouraged and comforted in the fact that God is always with us. When situations arise that appear to be nearly impossible, remember the miraculous power of God and know that we are not alone. No matter how many “purple slushies” knock us down, God can make the biggest fortresses and barriers in our lives crumble. We can have faith in knowing that through God’s grace and power we too can march on.

Karl Johnson Faith Covenant Church Winnipeg, MB

Eighteenth Day of Lent

March 25, 2014 1 Samuel 3:1-18

As I read the familiar story “The LORD Calls Samuel” in 1 Samuel 3:1-18 I find myself being impressed by things that never stood out to me as a child. Right from the offset, we are informed in verse 1 that, "In those days the word of the LORD was rare..."a tragic commentary on the "believers" of that day! I am convinced that it was not God's wish to limit His communication (revelation).

Rather, it would seem from the context of Scripture that sinister reasons were to blame. Historically, Israel wasa vileness of human nature where "every man did that which was right in his own eyes" (Judges 17:6). A cycle of sin… punishment… repentance… and restoration… repeated itself over and over again.

There was wholesale immorality. Wickedness was rampant.

A generation of God’s people just prior to this time had not only heard God speak, but also observed Him perform countless miracles on their behalf.

Now, in the midst of complacency toward sin, spiritual apathy, wholesale wickedness and religious indifference, there was no reason for God to communicate. The people wouldn't "hear" Him anyways. What a travesty!

Are things any different today? I think not… Society has cast the Bible out of government, schools and homes. Most Christians are too “busy” to hear God speak. Many churches focus much of their energy on social issues with no interest in sound biblical teaching. Every day that goes by, the rarer God’s communication becomes.

Question: In this season of Lent, are you any different from the people of Samuel's time? Are you repeating the same sins that would keep God from communicating with you as well? Oh, that we would have hearts that are repulsed by sin, tender toward the Lord, and surrendered to hearing “the word of the LORD” when He speaks.

Amos 8:11 sums up these sentiments well: “'The days are coming,’ declares the Sovereign LORD, 'when I will send a famine through the land - not a famine of food or a thirst for water, but a famine of hearing the words of the LORD.’” Mercy Me has a song entitled “Word of God Speak” which articulates a message counter to this. May it be true of each of us! “The last thing I need is to be heard, but to hear what You would say. Word of God speak, would You pour down like rain, washing my eyes to see Your majesty. To be still and know that You’re in this place, please let me stay and rest in Your holiness. Word of God speak.”

Mark Mast Rainy River ECC Rainy River, ON

Nineteenth Day of Lent

March 26, 2014 1 Samuel 7:3-14

Samuel senses the true state of the hearts of the Israelite people. With God informing his leadership, Samuel calls this people back to what they were meant for: the worship of and devotion to the One True God. No longer should they be distracted or entrapped by the false gods they'd been introduced to. Samuel reminds them of this greater call.

'Determine to obey only the Lord;' then He will rescue you from the Philistines' Samuel says. The Israelites refocus their attention on God, in fasting and prayer, and while they still meet with struggle and difficulty in their attackers, the Philistines, the Israelite people are focused on the voice of God, and are able to hear His direction and instruction, guiding them through.

I find myself relating to this call to do away with false gods. I am aware of some ways that I have allowed false gods to distract me from the very thing that my Father God is calling me to – serving him faithfully and bringing glory to him. I am certain that I am not the only one on this journey though. We all, at various times in our lives, lose focus and become distracted or even obsessed with foreign or false gods. Whether an individual person, an activity that takes too much of our time, an item or object that monopolizes our finances or an ambition that isn't in line with what God wants for us – all of these things can distract us and entrap our attentions. What is it in your life that fits into these categories? What might God be asking you to do away with, or remove from your life, so that there is the proper space for him?

'Determine to obey only the Lord' is a resounding call for each of us.

While this invitation was not a promise of an easy life for the Israelites or for us today, I can't help but think how the trials we face in life appear different when our focus and devotion are fixed on the One True God who loves us, cares for us, and longs to be in relationship with us? While the evil one seeks to distract us, creating questions, doubts and fears in times of struggle, God seeks to draw us close, comfort us and assure us of His presence with us.

Corinne Stoter Holy Community Covenant Church Winnipeg, MB

Twentieth Day of Lent

March 27, 2014 1 Samuel 8

Lent is a time when we reflect first on the Journey of Jesus toward the cross but also the journey God has for each of us. In the text today we see the people of God in times gone by wrestling with some of the same issues that confront our lives in 2014.

The people of God were chosen during the life of Abraham. Moses was sent to lead those people from the tyranny of a foreign power. Joshua was sent to lead the people into the land. All along the intent is that Yahweh (the name by which God is known to His people – I am who I am or I will be who I will be) will be the true leader of His chosen people. After a series of judges, Samuel arises as the godly man that represents God to the people and the people to God. Unfortunately, the line of succession is not looking good; the sons of Samuel are self-centered and unjust.

The people do what is really very normal in human nature, they ask the simple question: “What works?” The answer is equally simple: “Get a king like every other country!”

Samuel probably goes through many emotions, hurt, anger, and disappointment among them. Yahweh makes it clear that the people are not rejecting Samuel but Yahweh. Samuel’s role now is to clarify the consequences of deviating from the plan that has been laid out for the people of God. Yes, they will have that person who stands on their behalf and leads and protects them. They will also have a huge cost in terms of their young people being taken to be cooks, soldiers and other cogs in the growing wheel of government. Taxes will be imposed in ways never before seen.

It would, however, be short sighted to simply say this is a lesson about avoiding those choices that lead to increased cost. The real cost is a transfer of trust. God’s people, then and today, are invited to a journey of total trust and reliance on a God that cares. Following a king was not a bad thing but it was not the best for the people of Yahweh. Following a regimen of financial or physical discipline is not a bad thing but if it erodes our primary relationship, if it deviates us from the journey, than it is not the best thing.

There is however a note of grace; Yahweh is not the spurned lover that turns His back. He continues His journey with His people in spite of their less than best choice. Probably everyone reading this needs to hear a word of grace because we have all chosen less than best at one time or another. Use this very human story to remind you of your invitation to the journey of walking with God who came in human form as Jesus and who has left us with His Spirit so we can walk day by day and decision by decision.

Jeff Anderson Faith Covenant Church Winnipeg, MB

Twenty-First Day of Lent

March 28, 2014 1 Samuel 9:15-26

At a church where I was serving as an intern, one of the pastors resigned a week before I arrived. There were so many stories travelling around the congregation about what "really happened" that I didn't know what to believe.

Certain families were leaving the church over the decision. Others were vocally upset and complained about the decision. Others were silently rejoicing over the departure of this pastor. In short, it was an absolute mess that revealed to me that the people of God are incredible sinners. The question I was faced with is how do we respond when the people of God have done something wrong?

The prophet Samuel knew this rebellious people. They had rejected their true King because they desired to be like the nations around them. In spite of all this, Samuel looks to serve the people of God. Samuel, by the command of God, invites this "king-in-waiting" to both a sacrifice and a celebration feast.

In this home, Saul is given the place of honour, the best of the food and a place to sleep. And in the following chapter Samuel anoints him king over Israel saying, "Has not the Lord anointed you to be prince over His people Israel?"

Samuel does not grumble. Instead, he serves.

When you and I are grieved by the church and her sin, how do we respond?

Many of us are willing to start an argument or to simply leave the community itself. It is easier sometimes to leave the church than love the church. Even though Samuel was grieved by the decision, it did not change his commitment to the people of God. Samuel reflected God’s commitment to us. God was grieved by the decision as well but it did not change His commitment toward His children. God, in His mercy, provided a king who would save the Israelites from the hand of the Philistines (1 Sam 9:16, 1 Sam 15:47-48). God did not abandon His people but sent them one to deliver them. Although Saul would ultimately fail in his calling, God would not fail. God was not going to leave His nation, He was going to love her. God would love so deeply that He would send us His Son who would die for us while we were still sinners. God does not leave us, rather He loves us. May we reflect that same love.

Andy Gilkinson Minnedosa ECC Minnedosa, MB

Twenty-Second Day of Lent

March 29, 2014 1 Samuel 15:10-23

“Does the LORDin burnt offerings and sacrifices much as in obeying the LORD? To obey is better than sacrifice, to heed is better than the fat of rams.” (I Sam 15:22, NIV) It seems like an “I told you so” moment for the LORD when Saul’s disobedience removes His blessing as king. Israel was fairly warned about the outcome of the monarchy, and Saul is the first king to prove that outcome.

His first transgression as king comes in the heat of a Philistine battle (1 Samuel 13:1-15). When things look bleak and it appears Samuel won’t be showing up on time, Saul takes matters into his own hands and offers the burnt sacrifice. This faithless moment marked the beginning of the end for Saul.

Today’s passage reveals a piece of God’s character in His regret for making Saul king after his second transgression. Instead of “I told you so”, the LORD owns the outcome. What a declaration of God’s place as the true King! Israel rejected God’s kingship when they asked for the monarchy, but He remained faithful to Israel in the midst of Saul’s failure.

The New Testament account of Ananias and Sapphira (Acts 5:1-11) came to mind during this reading. The couple attempt to deceive the apostles after selling their property and holding back a portion of the profits. Tragically, they each fall dead once their sin is revealed.

I’m challenged to consider the moments I’ve resembled the disobedience of King Saul. Saul’s transgressions were moments where the LORD was taken off the throne and replaced by “the self”. 1 Samuel reveals both a moment of desperation as well as a moment of triumph where Saul disobeyed. How often have I taken God off the throne and relied upon my own ideas of faithfulness?

In my moments of desperation, am I patient enough to wait for God? When I triumph, do I honour God in my celebration?

I cry out like the tax collector of Luke 18, “God, have mercy on me, a sinner.”

God is King!

Marc Lantz Faith Covenant Church Breton, AB

Fourth Sunday of Lent

Alexander Ivanov Samuel Anoints David to the Kingdom 4

March 30, 2014

Twenty-Third Day of Lent

March 31, 2014 1 Samuel 16:1-13

Sadly (to some), I am one of those persons who loves to know “how the story ends” before it even begins. I love seeing how a writer or filmmaker or storyteller develops the plot to move to its climax. From time to time, this compulsion actually leads me to read the last chapter of a book before the first. My wife thinks this is a joke and an abomination. “Can’t you just enjoy the journey of the story?”

I wonder if this isn’t something of Samuel’s experience in this text - a longing to know how this chapter of the story will end even before it begins. Out of the grief, loss, disappointment, (guilt?), of what’s just taken place with Saul, Samuel is invited to start again. Understandably, the current situation and what’s just happened produce some fear, angst, anxiety and maybe the impulse towards control. I identify with the written and perceived questions of Samuel’s experience: “what will Saul do?”; “is this the One?”; “what if I don’t get this right?”

In spite of these questions, I wonder if Samuel doesn’t offer an example of a broken, “long obedience in the same direction” (Eugene Peterson). Samuel brokenly faces his fear and anxiety of “what will Saul do?” - God gives him a cover story. Samuel overcomes his initial impressions and perceptions of Jesse’s sons - he remains open to listening and pursuing God’s will. Even when all the visible options were gone, Samuel asks, “Is this all?”… “Is this the end?”

At the heart of this text is this truth: “People look at the outward appearance, but God looks at the heart”. Am I willing to submit my expectations, thoughts, hopes, and perceptions of how the journey will end (and the desire to control it) to the moment by moment, “day in day out” expressions of faithfully living into God’s redemptive and renewing story? We actually know where this Lenten journey ends - death and resurrection. Even in this season of Lent, am I (we) willing to surrender my knowledge and awareness of “how this journey ends” to the faithful pursuit of God’s best in this day?

Glenn Peterson Hope Community Covenant Church Strathmore, AB

Twenty-Fourth Day of Lent

April 1, 2014 2 Samuel 7

Wait a minute!

David sees such a tiny part of the big picture.

David is coming off the high of battles won, enemies defeated and the Ark of God returned to Jerusalem. There has been dancing in ecstasy, praise from the people and David has his heart set on pleasing God. He looks around at the beautiful palace where he lives in luxury; a great house befitting a king, made of the finest cedar. This palace displays his importance and kingliness. He begins to wonder, what does it mean to house the Ark of God in a tent tabernacle? He should do something. Money is no object; he wants to do something big. How can he show his thanks for God’s provision and presence among the people he rules? Aha! A marvelous permanent temple for God. “Go ahead,” says his spiritual advisor Nathan. “Surely God has been with you and has given you this idea.”

But wait a minute! God really has other plans. God’s building plans aren’t about wood and stone but are about building a people faithful to himself. And David, being a “man after God’s own heart” is someone God intends to build upon. If David’s descendants follow God they will also become rocks in the wall of God’s house. Generations later when hope for a king seems impossible in the face of the Roman political machine, when David’s descendants are just a poor couple from Nazareth, God will provide the cornerstone. The one of “the lineage of David,” God’s own incarnate son, obedient even to death is that stone on which God plans to build his temple. It will not be limited to a palatial building of earthly materials but will be built of living stones.

God had plans which David could never have imagined. This covenant God made thousands of years ago He continues to build on. “The plans I have for you are good,” God states later to His prophet Jeremiah (Jer. 29:11). God continues to invite us to become part of these good plans for the building He is creating. God rejoices to dwell with His people; with those who by faith in Christ the Cornerstone are being built into a holy temple not made with human hands.

“How great you are, O Sovereign Lord! There is no one like you.” (2 Sam. 7:22, NLT)

Linea Lanoie Gateway Covenant Church Prince Albert, SK

Twenty-Fifth Day of Lent

April 2, 2014 2 Samuel 12:1-15

King David saw Bathsheba bathing, and then took her for his own. When he couldn’t cover up the story with lies, he had Bathsheba's husband, Uriah, killed on the front lines of battle. The sins of David pile up quickly and we can look at this horrible story and ask, “how is this even possible?” Hear me on this: if David, a man after God’s own heart, the greatest king in Israel’s history is not too “great” to fall into sin, than neither are we.

Today’s scripture is not about David’s fall, but about God’s grace and discipline. Confronted by God through the prophet Nathan, David is questioned, “And if all this had been too little, I would have given you even more. Why did you despise the word of the LORD by doing what is evil in his eyes?” (v 89).

David responds by sincerely turning from sin toward God. But the discipline still comes and is deeply painful. First, the child born to Bathsheba dies. Then, Absalom, David’s son, sleeps with David’s concubines in broad daylight (2 Sam 16:22) and also leads a revolt (2 Sam 18) against the King!

Like David we are too weak to turn from sin on our own. Only after Nathan confronted David did he confess, admitting his sin and showing his repentant heart. To think we are strong enough to defeat sin on our own is foolish. It is Christ who has defeated sin and we need Christian friends who will lead us to the cross to lay our sin down. How often do we sin in secret, confess in secret and then fall into the same sinful habits?

Who is your Nathan, who will confront you when they see your sin? Who can you confess to? Who will lead you to the cross and journey with you in repentance? We all need a Nathan - who is yours?

Jon Drebert Faith Covenant Church Breton, AB

Twenty-Sixth Day of Lent

April 3, 2014 1 Kings 3:1-15

Our scripture today tells us that Solomon showed his love for the Lord by walking according to the instructions given him by his father David. He was drawn to God and hungry for a life-giving relationship with Him. Solomon seemed to be making good choices about serving and loving God in humble obedience. It seemed to have been a most blessed time in his life, especially since we know it didn’t end well.

His desire even grew to the place where when God offered to give him anything he requested, his petition was for wisdom. He was making decisions to follow after the Lord through his everyday choices, even in his dreams. In making that one choice he learned that those who seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, would receive all these temporary things as well.

That’s the thing about being a Jesus follower isn’t it? A life of faith and following is made up of a hundred million daily decisions that either move us closer to God, or they move us away from Him. They help foster a relationship of love, or they let the love grow cold.

Perhaps today is a good time to reflect on our movement towards or away from God. Life is movement.

On any given day, with any given decision we are moving towards God or we are moving away from God. With our thoughts and our time with our choices and our money with our energy and our resources we are moving towards God or we are moving away from God. And some days we might ask where is the choice? where is the decision to move in either direction?

But it’s in the subtle small affairs of the heart it’s in the choice to listen, or in the choice to drown out it’s in the choice to serve the one close to you

or the choice to serve oneself it’s in the willingness to call out for help or the hearts desire to suffer alone We all move closer to Christ or we move away from Him. Towards the cross or away from it, rejecting its hope And in that daily movement we either push away the life and grace and freedom and confidence or we receive them all, as gifts we could not create ourselves because in the humility of being needy we are able to receive them all Life is movement On any given day Which direction will you move today?

Randall Friesen Malmo Mission Covenant Church Malmo, AB

Twenty-Seventh Day of Lent

April 4, 2014 1 Kings 6:1-23

God gives Solomon rules on how to build a temple. Solomon is sure to follow these rules that have been commanded of him. This makes me think of how we are all temples of God. God intricately designed and made us; “You made all the delicate, inner parts of my body and knit me together in my mother’s womb. Thank you for making me so wonderfully complex! Your workmanship is marvelous—how well I know it. You watched me as I was being formed in utter seclusion, as I was woven together in the dark of the womb” (Psalm 139:13-15 NLT). God created us perfectly and for a purpose. God paid attention to detail when He created us, just like Solomon paid attention to the details God commanded Solomon to include in the building of the temple.

“Concerning this Temple you are building, if you keep all my decrees and regulations and obey all my commands, I will fulfill through you the promise I made to your father, David. I will live among the Israelites and will never abandon my people Israel” (1 Kings 6:12-13 NLT). As temples of God we are asked to follow the rules that God has placed before us in His word, the Bible.

We are called to fill our minds with pure things, things that will keep God’s temple clean. A temple is a place where we can come to worship God, but if a temple is filled with idols would this truly be a place to worship God? No, these things would be obstacles and distractions that prevent us from being with God. “A good person produces good things from the treasury of a good heart, and an evil person produces evil things from the treasury of an evil heart.

What you say flows from what is in your heart” (Luke 6:45 NLT). So, if we fill our minds (our temples) with TV shows, books, and words that aren’t wholesome that is what we speak about and portray. We fill our minds (our temples) with idols and obstacles that prevent us from truly worshipping God. Rather than our temples reflecting God, our temples will reflect the ugliness of this world and false idols.

Yet, through all of this God says He will not abandon us. We just need to clear away all the clutter, all the false idols from our temples and He will fulfill His promises to us. We build up a wall of idols around God and these things distract us from seeing Him, but He remains there. It is time to start tearing down those walls and let God renovate!

April Hamm Faith Covenant Church Winnipeg, MB

Twenty-Eighth Day of Lent

April 5, 2014 1 Kings 11:1-13

As we reflect in this Lenten season on the death and resurrection of Jesus, we are reminded again and again of the faithfulness of God to us and the obedience of Jesus to His Father despite the consequences to Him personally. Jesus was like us I am sure, wanting to be satisfied and comfortable in life. But He was tenacious in His faithfulness to His Father, to obedience no matter what the cost. He knew what God wanted and was faithful to it. In opposition to the faithfulness of Christ is the faithlessness of King Solomon. Read the story in I Kings 11:1-13. Although renowned for his wisdom, he allowed his personal desire (obsession) to overrule the gift of wisdom that God had blessed him with.

We read in this passage that God had twice appeared personally to him and so clearly given him His commands. He heard the message but refused to be obedient.

King Solomon had an obsession with women. Pharaoh’s daughter was only the first of many foreign women he loved (v 1). God had clearly warned Israel, “You must not marry them; they’ll seduce you into infatuations with their gods” (v 2 MSG). Solomon, in knowing disobedience to Jehovah God, continued to refuse to give up this obsession and eventually had 1,000 wives and concubines (v 3). This did not happen in one day, but over time. In verses 4-6 of this passage it says “as he grew older” he turned to their gods and openly defiled God by building shrines to these false gods and polluting the land. He surrounded himself with people that had no love for Jehovah. What he probably never imagined would happen in his young life, happened. Little by little, step by step he made decisions that took him away from God and soon he was surrounded by these 1,000 wives and children that lived without Jehovah.

How sad. His choices had consequences that not only affected him, but his son, his family and his Kingdom. I wonder how much misery could have been avoided if he had obeyed?

In contrast to this sad, sad story of Solomon is the story of Christ and His faithfulness to His Father, which brought Him to the cross in sacrifice for our sin. Instead of a story of division and loss, it is a story of salvation. This Lenten Season, join in faithful obedience to God as you celebrate the faithfulness of Christ and those around you who have been faithfully obedient to the Father.

Judy Drebert Hart Faith Covenant Church Breton, AB

Fifth Sunday of Lent

James Tissot Solomon Dedicates the Temple at Jerusalem 5 1896-1902

April 6, 2014

Twenty-Ninth Day of Lent

April 7, 2014 2 Kings 25:8-21

In Mark Twain’s novel, A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur’s Court, a regular man of the late 1800’s sustains a head injury from a crow bar “crusher” of a fellow worker and wakes underneath an oak tree in Camelot. Dropped into this other world he can only make sense of his new surroundings through the lens of his own experience. Retaining his knowledge of history, religion, politics and machinery he attempts to move backwards Camelot through changes toward democracy, capitalism and Protestantism. He cannot relate to their world because he believes their world is headed to a much better place. That is not the way they experience it.

In today’s devotional we “drop in” on a different era as our Bible story takes us to the looting of the temple and the end of earthly Davidic rule. Because we read this from our own religious experience, we know that this is not the end.

We know that God is still in charge. We know that the God who led Israel out of slavery in Egypt will lead His people out of exile. We know that the God who is executing judgment through the Babylonians will provide redemption through His own Son. We know that the Davidic line is restored in the Kingdom of God. Through our lens that is a much better place, but this is not the way it would have been experienced.

Imagine yourself as an Israelite watching this event unfold. This is not only the dismantling of your homeland, it is the dismantling of your God. Religious identity and covenantal promise is being destroyed; everything that you had been taught is crashing down around you. While Christians see these events as the machinations of God toward a greater day and a greater way of being the people of God, you would perceive this as the end and a failure of the covenant. Judgment had come and God had left your people.

Admittedly, this is a strange place to “drop in” for devotions. There is spiritual significance in this event, but we need to experience it from a different vantage point. We cannot just look and say, “This is what 'backward Israel' needed. Jesus is coming!” We need to feel the loss, the death, the end that is present in the text. It is the way of Lent and the way of the cross.

Andy Sebanc Green Timbers ECC Surrey, BC

Thirtieth Day of Lent

April 8, 2014 Daniel 3:8-30

This is the familiar story of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego being thrown into the fiery furnace by King Nebuchadnezzar. The part of this story that catches my attention is their response to the King when he demands they bow down. They said, “We do not need to defend ourselves before you in this matter. If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God we serve is able to save us from it, and He will rescue us from your hand, O king. But even if He does not, we want you to know, O king that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up” (v. 16-18).

How often do we feel that we have to defend ourselves to others? Or that we have to justify our actions and choices? It is a good reminder that we are accountable to God first. Our job is to do what is pleasing and obedient to Him, not others. Pleasing co-workers, bosses, friends and neighbors can sometimes cloud over what God may be asking from us and may cause us to compromise our faith and values.

I also like the fact that Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego willing go into the furnace knowing that God is capable and able to save them, but also knowing that He may choose not to. In life, we can have confidence that God’s timing is perfect, and His will for us is perfect.

His plan for our life is exactly what we need. He knows the big picture. Life may not go as we hope or expect, and lousy things will happen to all of us. It is a challenge not to blame God for it. Rather, we need to stand with faith and confidence that when we put God first and honour Him, the results are up to Him. He might save us out of our situations or let us endure them a little longer, but His plan is perfect. It seems easy to say on paper, but trusting God confidently when life throws us curve balls is difficult, and it is a daily choice to trust and rely on Him. Praise the Lord for His faithfulness to us in our weaknesses.

Jocelyn Beehler

Valley ECC Durban, MB

Thirty-First Day of Lent

April 9, 2014 Isaiah 43

Quite often I find myself looking back and wishing I had invested in some stock that is worth millions today. I wish I had bought a house in Winnipeg ten years earlier than I did, but hindsight is always 20/20-so they say. “If only…” is one of my favourite past times. “If only I had saved more money.” “If only I hadn’t made that mistake.”

“If only I spent more time practicing guitar.” “If only I had studied more in school.” However, thinking in if onlys causes us to miss the new thing that God is doing.

Verse 18 tells us not to remember the former things. At first this seemed strange to me because God is reminding Israel of the former things in the same passage. As I thought about it more I realized God doesn’t want Israel to forget about His work, but to forget about the if only. “If only we had obeyed.” “If only we hadn’t gone astray.”

“If only we had trusted God.” God himself says in verse 25 that He will blot out their transgressions and remember their sin no more. He wants them to focus on the new thing. He doesn’t want their attention on their past, but on the future God is bringing into existence. In this season of Lent, while we are called to repentance, we are also called to walk forward in hope believing that God is in fact doing a new thing.

Lord, help me overcome the temptation to live in the land of if only. Help me to live in the present and expectantly await the new thing you are doing.

Amen.

Bryan Sandstrom Holy Community Covenant Church Winnipeg, MB

Thirty-Second Day of Lent

April 10, 2014 Isaiah 52:1-12

Today’s text continues the message of hope that began in Chapter 7 of Isaiah. It is a hope for the promised comfort of the Lord’s salvation to a believing Remnant. Their restoration and renewal was imminent, but this new beginning was only a foretaste of what God would do redemptively at the ‘end of the age’. We see the hope of this Gospel message spelled out in the prophecy of the passion and crucifixion of God’s Suffering Servant, Jesus Christ, in Isaiah 53. This was going to be the act that would purchase the emancipation and salvation of the Remnant from their captivity to their sin nature.

A spiritual cesspool of sin is no place for a believer to take a spiritual swim (cf. Isaiah 52:11). In other words, the scripture calls for those who are saved to separate themselves from sinful lifestyles. Isaiah shows us a picture of God’s people heading back to their home in order to renew their spiritual service to the Lord. The prophet Isaiah calls our attention to three aspects of hope as we look back on the faithfulness of God through a believing remnant and as we look ahead to His future salvation in the death of His Son (Jesus Christ).

1. Hope through the knowledge of His name – Isaiah 52:1-6 The metaphors of arousal from sleep and release from captivity are used to call the Remnant from spiritual slumber to righteousness and from spiritual bondage to emancipation.

His people, the Remnant, know the very character of their Lord by the fulfillment of the salvation they progressively experienced.

2. Hope through the knowledge of His message – Isaiah 52:7-10 The “Good News” promises healing from our woundedness, relief from our loneliness, freedom from sin’s captivity, God’s merciful care, and just reward at the final judgment. These are promised to all who put their trust in Jesus to be their Lord and Saviour as revealed in Scripture; the divine community of God symbolized by the terms Zion and Jerusalem.

3. Hope through the preservation of His presence – Isaiah 52:11-12 Those who have seen His salvation work in their lives are commanded to turn aside from the uncleanness around them. Rather than even touching it or dwelling in it, they are to go out and be cleansed by God while using their gifts to serve Him as they live in the centre of His will.

As we journey to the cross this Lent with Christ, I pray that we will hear Isaiah’s call in a fresh way calling us who are in bondage to sin to leave our bondage because the LORD offers us redemption and deliverance. The destination of Zion here in Isaiah becomes a symbol of the ultimate fulfillment of the promises. This great salvation coming to us in the person of His Christ is good news and the basis for praise. The news of the Gospel announces salvation; it is entered by faith now and realized fully at the end of the age. Those of us who have responded by faith to the call of God have begun our pilgrimage to the holy city and are bearers of the good news.

Ira Carty Avenue Community Covenant Church Toronto, ON

Thirty-Third Day of Lent

April 11, 2014 Isaiah 52:12-53:12

On this day - just one week - before we solemnly remember our Lord's crucifixion upon the cross we find ourselves in a passage that undoubtedly points to Jesus as the Messiah, the one whom the Jews had been patiently waiting for. Within these verses we observe the fourth and final Servant Song in Isaiah that not only describes the Messiah but also enlightens the reader to how the Messiah can bless sinful people. Isaiah clearly reveals humankind's reaction to the Messiah in 53:3 and this reaction is so different today as people continually seek worldly systems and religions to appease the burden of their heart.

As we reflect on our lives in the midst of God's holiness, we again focus and concentrate on God's amazing mercy and grace lavished upon us, and this passage describes clearly how God brings His creation back into fellowship with Himself. In 53:10 Isaiah deals clearly with a divine purpose overlaying the human oppression of the Servant as it discusses how it is the Lord's will that the Messiah should suffer and become a guilt offering. However, this passage also reveals that not only will the Messiah suffer but the Messiah will receive glory and be satisfied in accomplishing God's will for His life. As Christians today are we satisfied with accomplishing God's will for our lives, or are we fearful of the world's reaction to us if we live out God's will for our lives?

The guilt offering's description in Leviticus 5:15-17 outlines instructions for those who have wandered from the faith or have intentionally or unintentionally sinned against God. In 53:12, we note, "He bore the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors." Christ is the one who took the guilt of us all upon Himself and as we contemplate today the condition of our souls in the light of God's revealing Word and the Holy Spirit's leading are we again trusting in Christ's work on the cross? Our encouragement today is to look to the author and perfector of our faith, trust in God's leading and directing for our lives and to rely on nothing but Jesus Christ, the only begotten Son of God's redeeming work on the cross for our salvation.

Kors Pater Rainy River ECC Rainy River, ON

Thirty-Fourth Day of Lent

April 12, 2014 Psalm 118:1-2, 19-29

The journey through this Lenten season has been reflective and good. It is easy for us to take the journey in this century because two millennia ago someone walked before us with purposeful intent, so as we continue may we remember the One whose footsteps we follow. It doesn't seem fair because His was a high calling that is unmatched, unprecedented and yes, hard. To reflect upon such a sacrifice beckons an earnest response, but what kind of response?

Psalm 118:1-2; 19-29 suggests a response. It begins and ends with: "Give thanks to the Lord for He is Good; His Love endures forever."

This is the appropriate response!

The passage portrays a picture of a building within a secure enclosure whose entrance has gates through which only the righteous may enter. Passing through these gates brings us to a building built strong and sure on a foundation held together by a familiar stone. That stone when it was quarried did not seem to have the features required for the builders and was always passed over, rejected. Yet here is the stone perfectly placed as the cornerstone for the building. A closer look at the stone reveals that it has been marked by countless attempts to make it fit. Hammer and chisel scars show that it had been tried and tested but didn't fit. In this new place the building has been made to fit the cornerstone. This is no ordinary building - it is a Temple, a place of common gathering for worship. There is a procession heading inside toward the altar, and leading the procession is the Sacrificial Lamb. This is strange, yet familiar.

Jesus, the familiar feature in this passage, has gone ahead of us to prepare a place for us and has given us His Spirit making us righteous, to prepare us for that place.

Give thanks to the Lord for He is Good; His Love endures Forever.

Snowy Noble Edmonton, AB

Sixth Sunday of Lent Palm Sunday

April 13, 2014

Gustave Dore Entry of Jesus into Jerusalem 6

Thirty-Fifth Day of Lent

April 14, 2014 John 17:1-26

“Holy Father, guard them as they pursue this life that you conferred as a gift through me, so they can be one heart and mind as we are one heart and mind.” (v 11, The Message) We enter John 17 with Jesus having essentially just said goodbye to His beloved disciples. We assume their grief and fear (and definite confusion) as Jesus says, “in a little while you will see me no more, and then after a little while you will see me.” But then in John 17, we get a small glimpse into just how much Jesus loves His disciples, present and future, as He petitions God to “protect”, unify, and sanctify them. What a blessing it is to read this final public prayer of Jesus. It is complex and profound and at the same time, simple and obvious - a declaration of the call on His life and ours, as followers of Christ.

Over the last year, I have been reflecting and learning about what it truly means to be a disciple of Jesus.We are called to be followers, to be pupils of Jesus, living how He lived, striving to build as close a relationship with our Heavenly Father as He had. Reading John 17 reminds me so much of this: union with God. Jesus ends His ministry on earth, His example to His disciples, by speaking to God. The perfect display of relationship: communication.

In the midst of Lent and now as we’re nearing the end of Holy Week, it’s easy to get caught up in the sadness and fear of Christ’s death. For me at this time of the church year, it’s often hard to look past the darkness of Good Friday to the joy and glory of the resurrection; but as I read this prayer, I am filled with hope. I read Jesus’ prayer as a blessing and a benediction. It is a constant reminder that Jesus is alive and is continuing His work through His disciples.

And it is a reminder that my pursuit of discipleship and communion with God is a gift through Christ Jesus.

Erikka Hedberg Emmanuel ECC Surrey, BC

Thirty-Sixth Day of Lent

April 15, 2014 John 18:1-11

In light of being asked to share my reflections, my first thought when reading this passage was: “I have been there.”

I pulled out my travel journal and flipped through the pages until I found the entry in question. That day I rode a camel, and took that picture of the cross with the Dome of the Rock on the other side of the valley (you know the one, it’s some sort of mandatory tourist photo). Then, I headed down the Mount of Olives into the Kidron Valley to the Garden of Gethsemane.

Eight gnarled, ancient olive trees stood in a fenced off “green space.” These trees are old enough that people believe they were actually there when Jesus prayed and was arrested. Due to this fact the trees have been protected from the public, who were stripping them bare of their branches and taking “tokens”. As I walked the perimeter of the Garden a woman begged one of the Franciscan monks inside the fence for an olive branch to heal her sick daughter. She desperately wanted that branch, and desperately believed it would bring healing.

Tokens, relics, liturgy and symbolism are not a huge part of my Evangelical Protestant life over here in North America. My life as a nurse is also kind of an “anti-healing olive branch” as I watch people come and go, get well and pass away all outside the realm of my understanding. I feel like I can relate to Simon Peter when he cut off the servant's ear. He did not understand what was happening or why, and so he fought back; sometimes I fight and cry and pray and bargain for a patient to live, and I would chop off someone’s ear to take control and stop what I don’t understand from taking place. In fact, if my life was mapped out “footprints in the sand” style there would probably also be ears randomly strewn across the path as I try to take control.

In the Garden, written on a stone is a quote which ends with, “In love and gratitude I want to say in times of fear and distress, ‘My Father, I do not understand You, but I trust You.’” This Lenten season I want to lay down my sword, stop chopping off ears, and trust. And I want to be open to healing olive branches.

Katie Swan Holy Community Covenant Church Winnipeg, MB

Thirty-Seventh Day of Lent

April 16, 2014 John 18:12-40

What controls us? Do we need one more dollar? Do we need just a little more time in front of the mirror before we head out the door? Do we need to have everything just right in our home? What controls us?

These are difficult questions, because we are good at justifying our possessions and habits. And most of the time our justifications are rational. We don’t spend frivolously. We are good stewards of what we have. Our habits don’t control us. We balance our time. We have thought about these matters in light of Scripture and we have even discussed these important questions with our spouses or our families or maybe even our pastors. And all of this ... is good.

Yet deep down we still ask the question. What controls us?

Then Pilate entered the headquarters, summoned Jesus, and asked him, ‘Are you the King of the Jews?’answered, ‘Do you ask this on your own, or did others tell you about me?’ ... ‘Everyone who belongs to the truth listens to my voice.’

Pontius Pilate, the Roman official, is always moving. He goes out. He enters his headquarters. He goes out again. He enters again. He goes out again. On and on, Pilate is trying to solve the mystery of Jesus, and he is trying to find the right place to stand, he is trying to position himself in relation to Jesus. He wants to know that he has done the right thing. He hopes he can justify his actions to the higher ups. He is afraid. He doesn’t know where to stand on the Jesus issue, and so he is moving back and forth, hoping to find safe ground.

Jesus doesn’t answer his questions, at least not in any satisfying way for Pilate.

Pilate must decide, he must stop moving and find a place to stand. In the end the place he chooses to stand is crucifixion.

What controls us? Are you the King? We ask the same questions as Pilate. It feels as if we are rushing back and forth looking for a safe place to stand.

What controls us?

But, God invites us to lay down our questions, invites us to let go and be free of all the other kings in our life, invites us to stop moving, and invites us to listen to His Son. Steve Menshenfriend Blackstrap Covenant Church Dundurn, SK

Thirty-Eighth Day of Lent Maundy Thursday

April 17, 2014 John 19:1-16

Lent is an opportunity to reflect on how we live out our daily walk of emulating Jesus. It’s a time to ponder our daily decisions and how we express them in our behaviours, our relationships and our everyday life. Is every decision we make through each day a mirror of His example to us?

In the scripture today, we read about Jesus’ final moments before Pilate. We can imagine the noise, the crush of people and the mass emotion. In our mind's eye, we watch the crown of thorns, the horrific flogging, the physical and psychological torture, then our Lord being sentenced to treason and crucifixion. It’s difficult to breathe through the pain in our hearts.

But, how did He respond? When berated and mocked, He responded either with silence or with a simple statement that glorified God rather than defending Himself. His deep understanding of this walk on Earth gave Him grace and courage. For us, these responses are truly astonishing!

Silence? Can we emulate Jesus’ silence in today’s world? Can we practice intentional stillness and quietude in our day? Without the radio, the iPod, the cellphone buzzing with e-mail and Facebook contacts, we may begin to face our anxieties, our true longings, ourselves. Conversation with God deepens.

We simply pray more.

So often, I’m reminded how busy our lives are. Our hands are so full that there is no room to embrace someone new, to welcome a fresh spiritual discipline into our lives, to simply go for a walk in creation within our day. What if, as part of our Lenten time, we empty our hands and our lives of activity, knowing and trusting in our Lord’s provision? With empty hands, perhaps we can take time to embrace someone or attend to the sound and sight of a bird who migrates through our valley. What if we stop, be still and attend to His nudges?

Time seems to expand with silence, providing a refreshed soul, a rested body and a listening heart. Jesus’ gifts to us are so many. His walk through Easter is His ultimate gift to humanity. Despite the enormity of His gift, He gives us choice, extending to us the freedom to decide how we follow Him. May we choose to respond with silence, soul rest and gratitude in His gift.

Joanne Galius Erickson ECC Erickson, BC

Thirty-Ninth Day of Lent Good Friday

April 18, 2014 John 19:17-42

On the way to church one Good Friday, my then 4-year-old daughter, Mia asked me, “Why did Jesus have to die on the cross and why is it good?” Dozens of things went through my mind as to how I would share the Gospel message with my eldest child. I thought, “Well, it’s because of the wickedness of human sin and the horrors of its consequences.” But that wouldn’t work for a 4-year-old. “Well because Judas betrayed Him, an angry mob demanded His death, then Pontus Pilate ordered it, the soldiers followed through and it was a fulfillment of a promise and a prophecy.” Umm, too complicated.

It was that dirty cup of sin that we served up to Him and sent with Him to the cross. In one of Jesus’ last acts before the crucifixion, He fell on His face and prayed, “My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will” (Matthew 26:39). But there was no other way. He had to drink that nasty bitter cup so that you and I wouldn’t have to. That’s why Jesus had to die: for all of this and more. But we didn’t ask Him, we didn’t send Him, we didn’t choose Him. God did.

Sin is that powerful, for it sent Jesus to the cross and only one thing is more powerful, the love of God (1 Corinthians 1:18). That’s why Jesus had to die.

Way too much for a four year old and to tell you the truth maybe too much for a 30 year old or a 60 year old. I needed something simpler.

Why did Jesus have to die on the cross?

“Mia,” I asked, “How much do you love me?”

She stretched her arms out wide and replied, “This much.”

I stretched my arms as far to the east and west as I could and said, “When Jesus died on the cross Mia, He was saying to the world, ‘I love you this much.’

Why is it good? Because in this act he is telling me and you and the rest of the world that God loves us that much. It’s good because He loves you.”

The truth is always simple! The Gospel message is that simple. Let’s not forget it.

John Cho Avenue Community Church Toronto, ON

Fortieth Day of Lent Holy Saturday

April 19, 2014 Romans 5:12-21

This day between the cross and Jesus' resurrection, when His first followers cowered in uncertain grief, we can easily overlook in our longing for the celebration of Easter Sunday. Who enjoys a waiting room?

But this is where we live, in the liminal space, the borderlands of these last days, the overlap of God's kingdom that is already come and not yet fully here. As Van Morrison sings, “I'm a dweller on the threshold / And I'm waiting at the door / And I'm standing in the darkness / I don't want to wait no more.” Death has already been defeated, but we find brokenness wherever we look. The Spirit who raised Jesus is alive and on the move, within and among us, but we find injustice, greed and loneliness everywhere. Sometimes all we can do is to join the creation in painful groaning and pray, “Come, Lord Jesus,” and “Let your kingdom come.”

How do we wait with integrity, with intention and faithfulness to our King?

And how might we join God in His work of redemption while living at the threshold? These questions are alive for me in coming to our text from Romans 5. I must confess that I am tempted to live in my head as I read Paul's legal expressions and over the top hyperbole in the passage. His sweeping comparisons of Adam and Jesus feel somehow foreign and I can let that unfamiliarity distract me from Paul's passion for his Lord and his invitation to my heart.

Verse 15 calls me to “just think what God's gift poured through one man, Jesus Christ, will do.” Verse 17 asks, “can you imagine the breathtaking recovery life makes, sovereign life, in those who grasp with both hands this wildly extravagant life-gift, this grand setting-everything-right, that the one man Jesus Christ provides?” Perhaps by fixing my eyes on God's loving gift of life, by setting my mind on what He is up to. I can contemplate, day-dream and meditate on God's unfolding redemption. I can grab hold of Jesus ʻwith both hands', be fully engaged with longing for and seeking the kingdom of the One who provides everything.

Verse 20 reminds us that sin and death “doesn't have a chance in competition with the aggressive forgiveness we call grace.” Verse 21 declares that, “because God is putting everything together again through the Messiah,” God's grace “invites us into life—a life that goes on and on and on, world without end.”

May we RSVP to that invitation now and each day, relying on Jesus and His aggressive grace to live the kind of lives right now that embody His beautiful kingdom yet to come.

Steve Waldschmidt College Park Covenant Church Saskatoon, SK

Easter Sunday

April 20, 2014

He is Risen!

He is Risen Indeed!

Alleluia!

Opposite page: Titian The Ressurection 7 1542-1544

Artistic Bibliography

1 Tissot, James. The Animals Enter the Ark. 1896-1902 WikiPaintings. Web. 18 February 2014. <www.wikipaintings.org>.

This artwork is in the public domain.

2 Chagall, Marc. Joseph has been recognized by his brothers. 1931. MusĂŠe national Message Biblique Marc Chagall, Nice, France WikiPaintings. Web. 18 February 2014. <www.wikipaintings.org>.

3 Tissot, James. The Taking of Jericho. 1896-1902.

WikiPaintings. Web. 18 February 2014. <www.wikipaintings.org>.

This artwork is in the public domain.

4 Ivanov, Alexander. Samuel Anoints David to the Kingdom. Unknown.

WikiPaintings. Web. 18 February 2014. <www.wikipaintings.org>.

This artwork is in the public domain.

5 Tissot, James. Solomon Dedicates the Temple at Jerusalem. 1896-1902 WikiPaintings. Web. 18 February 2014. <www.wikipaintings.org>.

This artwork is in the public domain.

6 Dore, Gustave. Entry of Jesus into Jerusalem. Unknown WikiPaintings. Web. 18 February 2014. <www.wikipaintings.org>.

This artwork is in the public domain.

7 Titian. The Ressurection. 1542-1544.

WikiPaintings. Web. 18 February 2014. <www.wikipaintings.org>.

This artwork is in the public domain.

PO Box 34025 | RPO Fort Richmond | Winnipeg, MB R3T 5T5 Ph. 204-269-3437 Fx. 204-269-3584 Editors: Julia Sandstrom Allison Friesen