The Great 50 Days - 50 Day Devotional

the great

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the great 2020

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Week 1 ............................................................. 4-17 Week 2 .......................................................... 18-31 Week 3 ......................................................... 32-45 Week 4 .......................................................... 44-59 Week 5 .......................................................... 60-73 Week 6 .......................................................... 74-87 Week 7 .........................................................88-103

the great

days Historically, our church has made a real focus of the Season of Lent.

This year, we have continued our emphasis on Lent with the putting on of ashes on Ash Wednesday. We have asked people to carry the cork that was used to dispense the ashes in their pocket or purse and use it as a reminder to pray. Additionally, instead of our Lenten lunches, which we were unable to have due to the pandemic, we moved them to Wednesday night services with guest preachers.

This year we are adding an additional emphasis: The Great 50 Days.

The Great 50 Days are from Easter Sunday, April 4th, and the Resurrection of Christ Jesus to Pentecost, May 23rd, and the Ascension of Jesus Christ. We invited 50 people to write a devotion and a prayer to celebrate one of those 50 days. This devotion and prayer will be sent out over some form of social media each day.

Thanks to John Sease, the chairman of our Prayer Ministry, and his team composed of Nancy Moss, Nicky Armstrong. Leslie Bingham, Amy Cook, Helen Dunaway, Susie Strong Kicklighter, Caroline Klingler, and Sue Loftis for coordinating this project along with Susan Scott, the chairperson of our Sacred Arts Ministry, and her team composed of Carol Ballard, Adrian Bush, Josh Coble, Erma Head, Jack Horner, Liz Land, Carol Barksdale McGriff, Pam Paine, Mary Parker, Donna Pickens, Burton Pratt, Frank Randall, Susan Scott, Caroline Sease, John Sease, James Seay, Lynne Thrower, Denise Weisenfeld.

Thanks to each of these and those who wrote devotions and prayers for bringing to fruition these special worship experiences for each day.

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Day 1 HE IS RISEN! Luke 24:9-10 “When they came back from the tomb, they told all these things to the Eleven and to all the others. It was Mary Magdalene, Joanna, Mary the mother of James, and the others with them who told this to the apostles.”

He is Risen!! Perhaps the most powerful words in our Christian faith and they were announced by these women. God chose them to receive this world changing news from the angels and to report this joyous occasion. Jesus could have appeared to the disciples and revealed himself, but that was not God’s plan. Don’t you just love how God knows his people? If you want news to spread, what do you do? You tell a group of women!

After the horror and agony of witnessing the Crucifixion and the day of mourning, these women went to prepare Jesus’ body for burial and ended up announcing the miracle. What is the message we can learn from this short scripture?

It is easy to relate this event to what is happening today. We have all shared some of the terrible feelings of fear, isolation, depression, loss, or lack of trust this past year. As these women experienced the horrible suffering of the crucifixion, Easter happened! He is risen!

It is time for us to leave the empty tomb and spread the good news. Let the joy come back. God is in control.

Prayer: Today, my God, help me to hear your call through the negatives in the world and use me to bless others in ways I may never know simply because I responded to your call.

Jean Belt

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Artist: Trish Gober, oil

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Day 2 Early Morning Peace John 20:1 “Early on the first day of the week, while it was still dark, Mary Magdalene went to the tomb and saw that the stone had been removed from the entrance.”

Throughout my life, I remember the feeling of anticipation and hope that comes in the wee hours of early morning--birds singing just outside the window; a hush in the air when I walk out onto the porch; the occasional call from a lonely distant train. These are the moments of peace and serenity that engender a sense of hope and awe--the moments before life’s ongoing worries and fears rush back to occupy our hearts and minds.

I believe that it was in just such a moment that Mary Magdalene awoke on that incredible first Easter morning. Her heart was momentarily peaceful with the early morning darkness. But that moment quickly faded as she approached the tomb where Jesus was said to lie in death, her heart becoming heavier with sadness. Yet, there in the dark and still of morning, she witnessed a miracle—the stone had been removed from the entrance of the tomb. What a feeling of childlike wonderment and confusion must have swept over her.

What a morning! The Easter miracle was upon her. She would be the first human being to experience life through the risen Christ.

Let us always try to remember Mary Magdalene’s experience. When we rise in the morning, after the first wave of hope and peace is interrupted by our fears and tribulations, let us witness what Mary did. Let our heavy hearts be lifted in the presence of the risen Christ.

Prayer: Lord, help us to remember each morning that the tomb was empty; that we should feel at peace and experience with wonder the knowledge that Christ is risen.

Mary Hampton

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Artist: Cindy Yarbrough, oil

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Day 3 If Love Ruled the World John 20:11 “Mary had returned to the tomb and was standing outside crying and as she wept, she stooped and looked in.”

Jesus had removed seven demons from Mary. Mary and other men and women followed Jesus from Galilee to care for him and assist him in any way to change the world. This time of Roman rule was a time of extreme cruelty and self-interest. Christ demonstrated his divinity by healing the sick, feeding the masses, and even bringing some back to life.

Mary loved Jesus and her understanding of His vision of a new world order had been destroyed with his death. She could not help but show her grief. She witnessed his crucifixion and witnessed his body placed in the tomb.

Mary came to the tomb early and saw the stone at the entrance rolled away.

She found John and Peter and told them that the tomb was open. John and Peter ran to the tomb to see for themselves. Mary arrived at the tomb after John and Peter left.

Mary looked inside the tomb and the two angels inside the tomb asked her why she was crying. Mary replied that they had crucified her Lord and now had taken his body and she did not know where they had laid him.

Mary turned around and saw Jesus standing behind her. He asked her why she was weeping. Jesus called her Mary and she recognized him. Jesus told her to go tell his brethren that he is ascending to his Father and her Father and her God. What differences would it make if Christ’s love ruled the world?

Prayer: My Father who is in heaven, we realize that we live in a selfish self-centered community and world. You have given us the ability of free will. We pray that your spirit will enter our hearts and minds to open our eyes to the suffering of our neighbors and how we can follow you by witnessing to your love through service and care of our neighbors. We ask these things in Jesus Christ name.

Amen.

George Goodwyn

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Artist: John Sease, etching

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Day 4 Perfect Love Mark 12:25 “When the dead rise, they will neither marry nor be given in marriage; they will be like the angels in heaven.”

Through four disciple courses and numerous New Testament Bible Studies, I do not believe I have ever studied this verse nor remember a scripture reading in which it was incorporated for study. After our first reading, I was at a loss to its meaning and to where we might go with this devotional. I “googled” the verse and got pages of commentary about marriage in heaven. There was an article about Billy Graham’s belief that he would be with his wife in heaven.

Who would want to argue with Billy Graham’s interpretation of what the resurrection might be like? We then read the verse in context with the entire Chapter 12. Mark 12 contains The Parable of the Tenants in verses 1-12 and the lesson on the imperial tax to Caesar. Jesus also warned against the teachers of the law in verse 38 and offered the example of the “Widow’s Offering” in verses 41-44. But most important is The Greatest Commandment at verses 28-34.

Throughout Chapter 12, the “Teachers of the Law”, the Sadducees, Pharisees and Herodians, are trying to trick Jesus into saying something which could be interpreted as treason or heresy. All the while, Jesus is attempting to make us understand that the relationship between God and Man cannot be interpreted by earthly standards. In Genesis God created marriage in order to provide companionship during our mortal existence. Ephesians 5: 25-29 describes the marriage relationship instructing us to love one other as if the other is our own flesh. In Revelation, the relationship between Christ and the Church is that of a husband and bride.

The final phrase of Mark 12:25 says those resurrected in Christ, shall be “like angels in heaven.” We shall be incorporated within the spiritual body of Christ within heaven. Our human existence as well as our physical needs will cease. We will enter into a perfect relationship with God in which we will not know pain, loneliness, or rejection. As such, our physical and emotional need for companionship will cease. We will not need relationships other than the perfect union created with God. Any relationship we have shall be relative to our spiritual union with God and devoid of any physical or emotional need.

Does this mean that we will not see a beloved spouse, parent, child, or friend in heaven? I do not think so. I believe that our relationships with the ones we loved on earth will evolve to a level in which we can understand the true love and grace of God within his presence.

Prayer: Father, thank you for your perfect love. Thank you for the blessings of relationship. Help us to always be mindful that we should strive to achieve perfection in love, that is, to love others as you have chosen to love us. We pray that those we love that have preceded us to your care are experiencing your perfect love and we pray that one day we will join them in your presence. We pray all these things in Jesus name. Amen.

Mary Beth and Ed Reed

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Artist: Mary Parker, acrylic

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Day 5 Mary Meets the Resurrected Christ John 20:17 “Jesus said, “Do not hold on to me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father.

Go instead to my brothers and tell them, ‘I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.’” Mary Magdalene visited the tomb of Jesus before morning’s light and saw that the stone had been removed from the entrance. She left and reported this to two of Jesus’s disciples, Peter and John. The three of them returned to the tomb and after the two disciples examined the tomb, they left and returned to where they had been staying, leaving Mary.

Mary was in great despair as she contemplated Jesus’s body being removed from the tomb. But she then saw two angels and a man who she did not initially recognize who asked her why she was crying. After she asked the man if he had taken the body, he said “Mary.” Her despair turned to great exultation as she recognized Jesus and clung to him. Jesus lovingly asked her to not hold on to him, as he had not yet ascended to the Father. He further instructed Mary to go to “my brothers and tell them I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.” As the verse tells us, when Mary recognized Jesus, she immediately clung to him. Mary’s reaction was motivated, possibly, by several things. One is her loving devotion to the Lord. Mary is overwhelmed by the events of the morning, and as her grief turns to joy, she naturally embraces Jesus. Another motivation is Mary’s desire to restore the fellowship that death had broken.

She had lost him once, and she was going to make sure she did not lose him again—she wanted to keep Jesus with her always. Also, Mary may have been thinking that this was the fulfillment of Jesus’s promise to return, in which he would take her, and all believers, with him to heaven.

However, it was not Jesus’s plan to stay in this world always and his resurrection was not to be seen as his promised return. That is why he tells Mary of the ascension. His plan was to ascend to the Father and then send the Holy Spirit. Fellowship with Jesus would continue, but it would be a spiritual communion, not a physical presence. Mary needed enough faith to let Jesus go and loosen her grip. The resurrected Christ gave her the faith she needed.

Prayer: Father, thank you for the gift of your Son. Thank you that he died to pay the price for my sins and thank you that he rose so that I might have his abundant, resurrected life within me in the person of the indwelling Holy Spirit. Amen.

Burton Crenshaw

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Artist: Judy Pratt, mixed medium

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Day 6 One Rule John 20:14 “At this she turned around and saw Jesus standing there but did not know him.”

Are we to believe Mary Magdalene did not recognize Jesus; except maybe we have seen him and not known who he was?

Christ is alive and among us even if we look him in the eye and do not see his face. It is hard to recognize him if we see through him or look the other way.

The masks we wear of late only make it harder to see the faces and needs of others. Six feet has become a mile and it is easy to understand how God’s people need to be hugged.

Easter is over and Christ has risen. Ordinary time returns, and it is a struggle not to become blind to the grace and forgiveness that has been given us without rules but one. Do not keep it to ourselves, but “love thy neighbor as thyself.”

Prayer: Lord, open our eyes to see Jesus in ourselves and in the faces of others.

That our faith will be seen and recognized by those who see us. Amen.

John Beck

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Artist: Matthew Butts, photography

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Day 7 From Darkness to Light Mark 16:2 “Very early on the first day of the week, just after sunrise, they were on their way to the tomb.”

Mary Magdalene and the other women arose in the dark and set out to anoint the body of Christ. It was a dark day following another dark day, a continuance of the gloom from the previous day. They set out very early in the morning, so that the sun was rising by the time they got to the sepulcher. These women were about Christ’s business, seeking to show respect and love for the Messiah by preparing his body for burial. Along the way, a new day dawned, and instead of preparing for death, a new life began. They came away with the Resurrection, a new beginning. Grief was exchanged for joy. When the Sabbath was over, the first day of the week began; the first day of a new world began; the world’s first Easter began.

As Christians, let us be about Christ’s business early in the day, the first day of the week, as well as every other one. Let us begin each week with affection for Jesus and a sharing of his love with all those in our contact.

By doing this, we, just like Mary Magdalene and the other two women, will be making an effort to anoint Jesus.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, help us to celebrate the Resurrection and our love for you with joyful obedience by sharing this love to all with whom we come in contact. Give us the ability to provide comfort and peace to those who experience grief and pain and fear so that they may feel your love. Amen.

Robin Hardwhich

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Artist: Mary Parker, acrylic

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Day 8 It is the Lord John 21:7 “Then the disciple whom Jesus loved said to Peter, “It is the Lord!” As soon as Simon Peter heard him say, “It is the Lord”, he wrapped his outer garment around him (for he had taken it off) and jumped into the water.”

The book of John is all about resurrection! This verse is about Peter rushing to the risen Lord as dawn showed its first light on him. Peter, Thomas, Nathanael, the sons of Zebedee (James and John), and two other disciples had fished all night without any results. It was early in the morning. Jesus was standing on the shore, but the disciples did not realize it was Jesus.

He asked them, “Friends, haven’t you any fish?” They answered no. Jesus said, “Throw your net on the right side of the boat and you will find some.”

They did so and caught so many they could not haul in the net.

When Jesus spoke, John (the disciple whom Jesus loved) turned to Peter and said, “It is the Lord!” Have you had those moments when you felt “It is the Lord!” Precious moments in which the Lord has revealed himself to us individually. It may have been through Prayer or Scripture, the voice of a pastor or a friend, a view of a majestic mountain, or holding a sweet new baby! Sometimes it is just a quiet, still moment. We love the words of the old hymn “In the Garden”: “And he walks with me, and he talks with me, and he tells me I am his own.”

We spend some of our days at the farmhouse in south Alabama and one of our favorite things to do is sit on the sun porch and watch dawn break over the fields. It will be pitch black at first, then a tiny indication of the coming dawn is seen, and finally the sun races to light our world! One can only imagine John, the beloved disciple, watching the light creep over the dark sea and then suddenly recognizing Jesus! He would have to shout!

“Peter, it is the Lord!” And impulsive Peter immediately wrapped his outer garment around him and leapt into the waters of the Sea of Galilee. He had to see Jesus! Peter swam and waded to the shore to greet his risen Lord!

Some of us have lost loved ones or friends during the pandemic. It is a reassuring thought to envision our friends, our relatives, or ourselves at our death rushing toward the dawn and finding Jesus, our resurrected Lord, waiting with open arms of love! The disciples went on to proclaim with joy the news of the resurrected Jesus! We, too, are to spread that good news about Jesus and his resurrection to those along our way. What a privilege it is to share the good news of our risen Savior!

Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank you for loving us so much that you lay down your life for us. Help us to take the good news of your resurrection and great love to all we meet! In your name we pray. Amen.

Helen and Bill Dunaway

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Artist: Kate Wheaton, watercolor

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Day 9 Denial Luke 22:59-62 “About an hour later another asserted, “Certainly this fellow was with him, for he is a Galilean.” Peter replied, “Man, I don’t know what you’re talking about!” Just as he was speaking, the rooster crowed. The Lord turned and looked straight at Peter. Then Peter remembered the word the Lord had spoken to him: “Before the rooster crows today, you will disown me three times.”

And he went outside and wept bitterly.”

After the Last Supper Jesus and his disciples went to the Mount of Olives.

There Jesus was betrayed and arrested. Peter followed those arresting Jesus to the house of the high priest. The altitude of Jerusalem contributed to the cool nights. In the courtyard, a fire had been built to warm the soldiers and servants. Peter waited there near the fire. As a few hours passed, three times onlookers recognized Peter. Each confronted him, accusing Peter of being a follower of Jesus. One onlooker even noticed that Peter talked with the accent of a Galilean. Each time he was accused, Peter denied being a follower. As the last accusation of Peter was being made, Jesus was being moved through the courtyard to a new location. Peter was denying that he was a disciple as a rooster crowed three times. Jesus then looked at Peter.

Peter was full of shame and wept after denying the relationship with Jesus, his dear friend. His promise to go to prison or death with Jesus did not even stand up for 12 hours. Peter failed then as a disciple, but Christ can use those who recognize their failures. Peter learned from his experience and became a leader in supporting the new church established by Jesus.

We, who are not perfect, find peace in knowing that we are forgiven for our many failures. God can also use us for good. Praise God! Prayer: Dear Father, thank you for your forgiveness. How fortunate we are to have direction provided through the Bible. Direct us and use us to spread your Word and to provide for the needs of others. Amen.

Susan Harrison

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Artist: Ron Lazenby, mixed medium

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Day 10 Feed My Lambs John 21:15 “When they had finished eating, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon Son of John do you truly love me more than these?”

“Yes, Lord,” he said, “you know that I love you. Jesus said, “Feed my lambs.”

Jesus said, if you love me, pass that on to others - “feed my lambs,” help those who need help and caring, say a prayer for them, feed them, hug when needed. Know others are hurting and in need of your love and attention! Our church is so good at following Jesus in his words to Peter: Providing food for MACOA and Valiant Cross and front-line workers. The Respite Ministry started by Daphne Johnston at this church has been a great savior for so many needing help and care, socializing with others, especially in this dreadful year of need!

Prayer: Dear God, please guide us as we “feed your lambs” and bring others to you in this difficult time in our world today. God bless you and yours!

Amen.

Carol Ballard

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Artist: Brenda Stegall, oil

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Day 11 Jesus Calls Us Matthew 4:19-19 “As Jesus was walking beside the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon called Peter and his brother Andrew. They were casting a net into the lake, for they were fishermen. “Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will send you out to fish for people.” At once they left their nets and followed him.”

These simple fishermen who had no formal education, credentials or resumes, heard the call, and immediately left their nets and followed Jesus.

He chose these ordinary men to provide extraordinary service in spreading the Gospel to all who would have “ears to hear.” The disciple Matthew also heard the call and took Christ’s message to both the Galilean Jews and eventually to the Gentiles.

We must get our lives in order, for the Kingdom of God is approaching.

Only those who submit to God’s reign in advance will be ready. It matters not what our education level or job title is, Jesus’ call to us today is just as real and important as 2,000 years ago. We must answer the call personally.

How gracious of God to invite us to be a part of His important work. God called Moses at the burning bush. He called the Apostle Paul on the road to Damascus. Where were you when he called you? How did you respond?

For those initial disciples there was no “shortly”, “maybe tomorrow”, or “I’m busy just now” response. As applied today, what nets do I need to leave in order to follow Jesus wholeheartedly? What obstacles, what material attachments, what comfort zones have wound themselves so tightly around me that I cannot get up and follow him? How we respond to his call is what makes up our lives. We are the product of our decisions and we have a friend in the Lord who wishes to guide us. It is a gift for each of us to follow the Lord in our own calling.

Our call by Jesus and response to it is marked by change. After our repentance for sins and being filled with the Holy Spirit, we begin the process of spiritual growth. We learn God’s ways by reading his Word and by prayer.

As we grow and change, we learn to trust God more, to share his Word, and to witness to others. Our lives are thus transformed, and Christ equips us to serve as “fishers of men” just as His first twelve disciples did.

I am reminded of the hymn, “Jesus Calls Us”: “Jesus calls us over the tumult of our life’s wild, restless sea day by day his sweet voice soundeth, saying, ‘Christian, follow me!’” When we “follow” each of us becomes a fisher: a witness, a prophet, an evangelizer, a healer, a communicator of the “Good News” of Jesus Christ.

Prayer: Our merciful and gracious God, we hear your call to daily “Follow Me!” Help us to respond immediately in ways that bring glory to your Holy name. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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Diane and Henry Chappell

Artist: Frank Randall, ceramic

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Day 12 Patience Luke 24:41-43 “While in their joy they were disbelieving and still wondering, He said to them, “Have you anything here to eat?” They gave him a piece of broiled fish, and he took it and ate in their presence.”

Imagine what it would have been like to be at the scene described in today’s verses. What greater teacher could there be than the Lord Jesus, who had just risen from the dead? How did his followers react when Jesus came and stood among them? Were they convinced that he was truly alive again? Just a few days earlier, Jesus’ disciples had run in fear, leaving him to face death alone. But now Jesus appeared to them, not to scold but to give his blessing. “Peace be with you.” Still, the disciples couldn’t believe it when Jesus appeared. They thought he was a ghost. Jesus said “It is I myself! Touch me and see.” He gave the doubtful disciples proof, letting them touch his wounds. Then he ate some fish with them.

Jesus understood the weakness of their faith, and he bent low to help them, as if they were small children struggling to learn an amazing truth.

They were finally convinced he was truly alive again. They believed he was the anointed Savior, the Messiah that God had promised. They received forgiveness and eternal life through Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection.

They were commissioned to be his witnesses and to spread the good news of the salvation God had accomplished. They now understood Jesus was not only the messenger but also the message from God. Today we are called to be patient with others, even as Jesus was patient with his disciples. We must love and strive to understand one another. We must share the “GOOD NEWS.” The primary way God desires us to use his word is to bring others to know, trust and follow Jesus Christ. Then our life as the Church will be nurturing to others and glorifying to God. Prayer: Loving God, thank you for your grace, which always gives us love and peace. Help us to know, follow, trust, and share your word. And to remain close to you. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

Danny and Mikki Reese

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Artist: Frank Randall, ceramic

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Day 13 Arise and Walk Acts 3:12 “When Peter saw this, he said to them, “Fellow Israelites, why does this surprise you? Why do you stare at us as if by our own power or godliness we had made this man walk?”

Peter and John were on their way to the temple to pray one afternoon when a lame beggar sitting by the temple gates asked them for money.

Peter said to him, “Silver and gold I do not have, but what I do have, I give you.” Peter reached for the man’s hand, helped him up and said, “In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk.” The man ran into the temple courts singing and praising God. How might people in today’s world respond to such an experience? Some would most certainly be amazed, and several might pull out their phones to get pictures for Facebook or Twitter. A short account might even appear on the six o’clock news. However, more than likely such an incident would ultimately be considered a hoax as more urgent, pressing news filled the media.

This is not so in this Biblical story. In fact, the Israelites were filled with wonder, believing surely that the lame man had been healed through the godliness of Peter and John. Peter quickly assured them that the healing powers were not his as he further explained and shared God’s love and grace. He reminded them that they had delivered the son of God, Jesus, to be killed. He went on to declare that God had since raised His son from the dead, and that faith in Jesus, the Prince of Life, is what made the lame man strong and in perfect soundness.

This Easter season we, like the beggar, often find ourselves feeling somewhat lame, threatened by a pandemic doing its best to cripple our world.

As we beg for answers, let us remember to reach out our hands to the One who has overcome this world, the One who has promised peace in the midst of turmoil. Through faith in our Jesus, let us find our healing and perfect strength.

Prayer: Dear Lord, in a world quick to offer promotions that promise emotional, physical, and financial solutions, help us not to lose our way. Lead us to Your timeless messages in the Bible that reflect the light to guide us each and every day. In Your Son’s name, Amen.

Suzanne and Larkin Nolen

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Artist: Kelly Rigsby, glass

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Day 14 Blessing to be a Blessing Luke 24:50-51 “Then he led them out as far as Bethany, and, lifting up his hands, he blessed them. While he was blessing them, he withdrew from them and was carried up into heaven.”

Blessing others is a repeated happening all through scripture and Jesus chooses to offer a blessing to his followers as his last earthly gesture. As believers, we are called to go and do likewise. What does that really mean?

Years ago, I took the Bethel Bible study, and the overall theme of this study was “blessed to be a blessing” which was God’s call to Abram found in Genesis 12. This is also our call as followers of Jesus.

We offer blessings not always with words but also through our prayers and our actions. It is impossible to live out the greatest commandment which is to love God with all our hearts and love others as we love ourselves without blessing others in our daily lives. We can pray for others to have spiritual, emotional, physical, and mental bread each day as we pray the Lord’s Prayer seeking daily bread. We can let others know we are lifting them up in prayer. We can be the hands and feet of Jesus by meeting needs other than our own.

I once belonged to a church where, after a baby’s baptism, the minister walked the infant down the center aisle letting congregants touch the baby’s head and offer a blessing. This was extremely meaningful to me.

Watching the babies being blessed led me to a strong awareness of God’s love for the baby and the congregation’s responsibility for its spiritual development.

I do not think most of us verbally bless others enough, and when we do, do we really think about the meaning of what we are saying? I am guilty of habitually saying the words, “God bless you,” without really thinking about what I am saying. When we seek God’s blessing for another, it is a powerful plea for God’s protection and an assurance of God’s faithfulness.

Our good words become a vessel of his grace in the lives of others. The words we use are powerful. I believe it is important to realize this and not mutter these words lightly. To bless others is to empower a person to thrive in all areas of their lives. It is a prayer lifting the recipient up to God for protection or a little gift from heaven.

Join me in reflecting on what it means to be blessed to be a blessing. We have all been blessed beyond what any of us deserve and we are told to live our lives blessing others. As believers we are called to imitate our Savior, and blessing others was his ministry!

Prayer: Thank you, Father, for blessing us each minute of each day. Lead us to bless others with our prayers, our presence, our words, our service and our resources.

Jan Pringle

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Artist: Betsy Hails, oil

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Day 15 Just as the Father has Sent Me John 20:21-22 “Jesus said to them again, ‘Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me; so, I send you.’ When he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, ‘Receive the Holy Spirit.’”

Following Jesus’s resurrection and his appearance to Mary Magdalene, Jesus tells her “not to hold on to him, because he has not ascended to his Father.” He next meets with the disciples, greets them, and commissions them just “as the Father has sent me.” He breathes the Holy Spirit on them. One noteworthy point is the relationship with his disciples that Jesus acknowledges. He implies that the promise that he has given, that of eternal life to all who believe in God, is the same one he is asking the disciples to carry out. In the same way God the Father sent Jesus, Jesus is sending his disciples to continue his work. If indeed God calls his son “his beloved,” so Jesus is calling his disciples the same, and in turn commissioning them/us to carry on his work of “making disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world” so that they/we might have eternal life.

Second, Jesus breathes on his disciples and says to them, “Receive the Holy Spirit.” Jesus’ action is reminiscent of God’s creation of man and his breathing the breath of life into Adam’s nostrils in Genesis. In doing so, God gave his very essence to man and commissioned him to be caretaker of all living things. And so, Jesus does the same with his disciples. He breathes the Holy Spirit onto them and charges them to carry on His work of teaching, healing, and baptizing people in the name of Jesus Christ.

Accepting the commission of God through Jesus Christ, we are “sent” to love God, love each other; take care of the poor, the orphans, the widows, and those who cannot take care of themselves, and care for our earth. The breath of God has been breathed on us as disciples of Jesus Christ, and as we strive to be the people God created us to be with the responsibility of all he gave us, we pray for his strength and guidance in fulfilling his desires for us.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, we ask for Your Holy Spirit to continue to inspire us to act in ways that glorify you. We pray for our families, our friends, our church, our ministers, and staff. We pray for those who are suffering illness and loss, but in the midst of the challenges of this past year, we celebrate the many blessings you have given us. Continue to breathe your Holy Spirit on each of us so that we may become the people you created us to be. Amen.

Linda McLemore

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Artist: Gay Curlin, pen and ink

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Day 16 Resurrection Power Luke 24:10-11 “It was Mary Magdalene, Joanna, Mary the mother of James, and the others with them who told this to the apostles. But they did not believe the women, because their words seemed to them like nonsense.”

The women who arrived at the tomb to anoint the body of Jesus had learned the incredible truth that Jesus was raised from the dead! And then the apostles did not believe their story! For them, the women were not reliable messengers, and the tale was preposterous! Shouldn’t we be careful that we, too, do not miss the resurrection experience?

God puts persons in our lives to affirm that Jesus died to save us from our sins and is indeed alive and that he gives us abundant life now and in the world to come! One way we experience God’s presence is through others.

God wants us to be open to what he wants to give us, and he wants to give us what we need and not what we deserve! Are we listening? Are we eager to hear and accept this amazing word for ourselves? Are we not called to respond to the risen Christ and his great love for us? Alleluia, Christ has risen!

Prayer: God, it is with amazement and profound gratitude that I claim your resurrection power. Thank you for not leaving me alone, and for raising me up to new life in Christ. Empower me to live in the peace, hope, and love that only you offer, and enable me to share the good news of Jesus with others. Amen.

Joan McLeod

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Artist: Mary Parker, oil

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Day 17 On the Road to Emmaus Luke 24:27 “Some followers were talking to Jesus after the tomb was found empty, but they were kept from recognizing him.”

Chapter 24:25-27: “He said to them, “How foolish you are, and how slow to believe all that the prophets have spoken! Did not the Messiah have to suffer these things and then enter his glory?” And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he explained to them what was said in all the scriptures concerning himself.”

Jesus explains from Moses forward the prophesies about himself that went back almost 1600 years! God demonstrates his desire to redeem his people through his Son, the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world.

It should give us comfort to know that God has a plan for our lives as well if we are willing to follow his will.

Prayer: Dear Lord help me to seek your will for my life. Help me to trust that you will bring me through the ups and downs of life and give me the strength to bear whatever burdens I must bear. May I find patience to discover your plan for my own life and be thankful for the grace that you offer. In Christ’s name. Amen.

Robert Gibbs Lee

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Artist: Kelly Rigsby, stained glass

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Day 18 Do Not Box Him In Luke 24:15 “As they talked and discussed these things with each other, Jesus himself came up and walked along with them.”

Have you ever noticed how who we think Jesus is gets in the way of who he really is? This short excerpt from Luke’s Gospel finds us walking on the road to Emmaus with two of Jesus’ disciples. Jesus, having just been crucified and buried three days earlier, has now “gone missing” from the tomb. The disciples have been told that Jesus has risen from the dead.

But no, these disciples “thought” Jesus was dead. How could they possibly think otherwise? They had witnessed his execution and burial. They could have no other conclusion. They thought it, therefore they believed it!

Their mission had ended. They had sold all they had, left it all behind, and for what? Jesus was dead. And yet, walking right beside them was Jesus -living fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy and of his very own words.

But the disciples did not think it could be possible as they tried to box the Messiah into the tomb, making him fit into their human mind’s ability to comprehend the incomprehensible. In their fear, their doubt, and their shattered dreams, “Jesus himself came near and went with them.” What sweeter words can we hear, but these?

St. John of the cross, Spanish mystic (1542–1591), refers to the “dark night of the soul.” I imagine that is what the disciples were experiencing about now. Saint John tells us this place of darkness frees us from our in adequate concepts of God. Saint Augustine reminds us “if you understand God, it is not God.” God is mystery, and we cannot wrap our finite little brains around him or fit him into who “we” think he is! I find that all the more reason to believe and to banish doubt, but how holy it is when I do doubt or question or think it utterly impossible. For then, there he is, walking along beside me, all the while.

Prayer: Oh, Holy One, We praise you for who you are. Forgive us when we box you into our human understanding. Thank you for walking on the road beside us. Help us to recognize you every step of the way, as you appear in everyone we meet.

Amen.

Leslie Bingham

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Artist: Donna Pickens, encaustic

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Day 19 The Resurrection and Marriage Luke 20:27-40 “Some of the Sadducees, who say there is no resurrection, came to Jesus with a question.“Teacher,” they said, “Moses wrote for us that if a man’s brother dies and leaves a wife but no children, the man must marry the widow and raise up offspring for his brother. Now there were seven brothers. The first one married a woman and died childless. The second and then the third married her, and in the same way the seven died, leaving no children. Finally, the woman died too. Now then, at the resurrection whose wife will she be, since the seven were married to her? Jesus replied, “The people of this age marry and are given in marriage. But those who are considered worthy of taking part in the age to come and in the resurrection from the dead will neither marry nor be given in marriage, and they can no longer die; for they are like the angels. They are God’s children, since they are children of the resurrection. But in the account of the burning bush, even Moses showed that the dead rise, for he calls the Lord ‘the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob.’ He is not the God of the dead, but of the living, for to him all are alive.” Some of the teachers of the law responded, “Well said, teacher!” And no one dared to ask him any more questions.”

A Sadducee says there is no resurrection.

It’s sad, you see, upon further inspection to think when you die it’s over and done, that death is the end of a race well-run.

I imagine the Sadducees thought it was absurd when three days later they received the word that Jesus no longer lay in the grave and to death no more mankind a slave.

Resurrection! New life! For us, a free gift!

And if that doesn’t give your spirit a lift, then think about God and what Jesus said: he’s the God of the living, not the dead!

Prayer: Risen Lord, thank you for the life we have in you. May we simply trust you, Lord Jesus. Amen.

Blair Bingham

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Artist: Pia Wheaton, watercolor

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Day 20 Do Not Be Alarmed Mark 16:6-7 “Do not be alarmed”, he said. “You are looking for Jesus the Nazarene, who was crucified. He has risen! He is not here. See the place where they laid him.

But go, tell his disciples and Peter, “He is going ahead of you into Galilee.

There you will see him, just as he told you.”

Can you imagine? You are struck with grief as you proceed to the tomb where your Messiah was laid after being crucified. You are taking spices to anoint the body as tradition dictated. When you arrive at the tomb, you not only see the heavy stone rolled away but a young man, dressed in white, sitting where our Savior’s body had been laid after his crucifixion.

Not only did they have to be shocked, but also, thoughts had to be running through their mind that Jesus’s body has been taken.

When the young man told them to not be alarmed or scared, he spoke about Jesus, the fact that he was a Nazarene and had been crucified, he had disciples and knew Peter by name! He was obviously well informed with what had been going on and the fact that Jesus had taught about resurrection.

To go from the lowest low of grief to the jubilation of being told Jesus had risen and was in Galilee as he had told them. What a joyous swing of emotions they had to feel as they rushed towards town to tell the disciples and Peter of the great news.

Prayer: Heavenly Father help us to remember that when we are feeling at our lowest, you are there, walking with us and will be with us forevermore. Forgive us as our humanly thoughts sometimes cloud what we know in our hearts. We will live with our Lord for all eternity. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

Debbie and Doug Irvin

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Artist: Leslie Bingham, photography

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Day 21 The Light Came On Luke 24:32 “They asked each other, “Were not our hearts burning within us while He talked with us on the road and opened the Scriptures to us?”

Have you ever read or heard something many times and suddenly you get it? The meaning of the message has just become clear. What a blessing and joy that is!

In today’s passage, two disciples, Cleopas and another whose name is not known, are walking on the road to Emmaus from Jerusalem. They witnessed Jesus’ crucifixion and heard the news that his tomb was empty and that angels had told the women that he was alive.

They were very sad when Jesus met them, but they did not know it was he.

That is interesting because he was with them most of the afternoon. They were just plain ole disciples, not Apostles. That proves that to Jesus there are not any plain ole people. We are as important to him as anyone and the time he spends with us is just as important as the time he spends with our ministers, Billy Sunday, or Billy Graham.

Jesus did a great job of drawing people out and helping them show their hearts and emotions. He already knows them, but oftentimes it is a great benefit to us, and to others, to express our emotions. That was a point well taken in a Bible study we did years ago. How many times has he shared with our spirit? That might be a sign to share that with others. We truly have so many opportunities to do that with and to our church family. As we walk through life and this season of Easter, we know that, at any time and in many ways, we may have a similar experience. Let us open our eyes and see the light come on!

Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, please open our eyes and hearts to you. Give us faith and strength to listen to you, learn from you and share with others. In your most Holy name we pray, Amen.

Ray Horn

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Artist: Susan Scott, oil

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Day 22 Never Forget the Primary Focus 1 Corinthians 15:3-6 “For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance[a]: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, 4 that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures, 5 and that he appeared to Peter,] and then to the Twelve. 6 After that, he appeared to more than five hundred of the brothers and sisters at the same time, most of whom are still living, though some have fallen asleep.”

In Verse 3 of this passage Paul points out to the members at Corinth the thing he told them that is of primary focus: they must never forget that Christ died for “our” sins. Note that he does not say “for your sins.” He is subtly admitting that he is also a sinner. This is important for all of us today. He also says that this was according to the Scriptures. If there were doubters, they could look to the Old Testament and find a reference in Isaiah 53:5: “But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities, the punishment that brought us peace was upon him, and by his wounds we are healed.”

There were obviously doubters then just as there are today. Paul goes on to remind them that the proof of Christ’s resurrection lies in the fact that there were many “eyeball” witnesses who actually saw him alive and spoke with him, including Peter and the other disciples.

Unfortunately, disbelief continues in the world and even in the church.

Like the Corinthians, we should never falter in our faith of the risen Christ.

When we begin to doubt, even in the tiniest way, we should don the “full armor of God” and reinforce ourselves by prayer and in the Word.

Prayer: Dear God, please help us to stay strong in the faith of Jesus and His resurrected life and to stand tall in the face of any disbelief. May this Lenten season be a period of peace, reflection, and renewal. Let our hearts be filled with both the sadness and ultimate joy of Holy Week.

Phillip Saunders

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Artist: Margaret Chandler, photography

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Day 23 Open the Eyes of My Heart Ephesians 1:17-20 “I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in his holy people.”

It was easy for me to select Ephesians 1:18 from the list of verses in which to write for this Easter devotional. The grouping of Ephesians 1:17-20 has frequently been a prayer and source of meditation. However, I was tasked to look at Paul’s prayer so that “the eyes of your heart may be enlightened.” At that point, I started singing the Paul Balochi worship song, “Open the eyes of my heart.” It was not long until my thoughts went to the 1895 hymn to “open mine eyes that I may see.” A prayer for illumination of God’s truth and the ability to share it with others.

Until that time, worries and sorrows come. Still looking to God, I know that h is limitless power is provided to me so that I may step bravely each day in his love knowing he has me in his care. All these things are mine because of his love that sent his Son, to take my sins, to redeem me and to restore me into the child that I am to be in his sight.

Prayer: Oh God, open the eyes of my heart so I may know the hope to which He has called me. Knowledge - I will not be abandoned. Knowledge - he will give me my daily bread. The knowledge - that he is God, and I am not. A rich hope to share with others. A hope shared in a song for the ages, Jesus Loves Me, This I Know. In Christ name, Amen.

Pamela Roth

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Artist: Leah Grace Borders, photography

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Day 24 Freedom in Discipline 1 Corinthians 15:31-32 “I face death every day-yes, just as surely as I boast about you in Christ Jesus our LORD. If I fought wild beasts in Ephesus with no more than human hopes, what have I gained? If the dead are not raised, “Let us eat and drink, for tomorrow we die.”

The trouble and hardships experienced by the Apostles while proclaiming their faith and joy in Jesus is amazing. They stayed faithful and joyful as they faced death every day. They were constantly despised and threatened by those they sought to help and lead to Christ. They understood that eternal life and hope in Jesus is the only hope. Human hopes have no power if they are about the material world. Hope in Christ is eternal and all that matters. They believed this with their mind, hearts, and souls.

Understanding their unshaken expression of faith and willingness to die for their belief in Christ is transforming.

Prayer: Dear Lord, provide us the strength and courage to stay faithful. May we hear your guidance, allow you to reign over our fears, heal our hearts and share your joy and our faith with others. Let our hope be in you, our Lord and Savior and not in our human hopes. We pray for your love, joy, and peace in our lives. Amen.

Patricia Gober

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Artist: Trish Gober, oil

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Day 25 Plant and Water 1 Corinthians 3:7 “So, neither the one who plants or the one who waters is anything, but only God who gives the growth.”

This scripture, Lord, gives us another beautiful reason to inhale faith and exhale fear. I am grateful that you, and not us, are in charge of the world around us. You ask us to do our part in sharing our faith and our knowledge of you, to “plant and water.” You ask us to care for those around us, to encourage those you have placed in our lives, and to be a light in the darkness.

You are the Light of the World. Your truth is the good news that we share.

You are the one who heals the sick, who brings rest to the weary and gives comfort to the grieving. We are asked to do our part, to be the ones who carry your good news and your hope. The world needs your light. You are counting on us to share your light and your hope with those around us.

Prayer: We are grateful during this Easter season, Lord, that you have equipped us to share your good news, to “plant and water” the seeds of hope with a world that truly needs them. Amen.

Carol Barksdale

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Artist: Carol Barksdale McGriff, acrylic

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Day 26 Dirty Glass to Clearer Image 1 Corinthians 13:12 “We do not yet see things clearly. We are squinting in a fog, peering through a mist. But it will not be long before the weather clears, and the sun shines bright! We will see it all then, see it all as clearly as God sees us, knowing him directly just as he knows us!”

Our knowledge of God is as incomplete as the reflected image in a low quality mirror or an image seen through cloudy or dirty glass. The promise remains for after Christ comes and the church is mature. Nothing will interfere with our vision. We will see the complete image, no shadows or indistinct edges. Likewise, our understanding of God will no longer be partial, but we will know Him fully as He already knows us. Until then, we can remember the witness of Love in Christ’s resurrection and seek to reflect that image in our day-to-day actions.

Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, we thank you for the grace and mercy you readily supply us. Show us our failures and let us seek your forgiveness. Please guide our steps and thoughts to live as a reflection of your love in this world.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Allison Gore

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Artist: Pam Paine, scupted Alabama marble

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Day 27 Live Joyfully Philippians 1:27 “Whatever happens conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel.”

In prison, Paul wrote this verse to the Philippians. How encouraging is this not only to all that are standing with us as Christians but more importantly, how nonbelievers observe our actions and reactions to circumstances.

The words in the previous verse “your joy in Jesus Christ will overflow on account of me,” reminds us to live joyfully.

This Easter season, as we celebrate the most sacred Christian celebration, the Resurrection of Jesus Christ, may we live in a joyful manner worthy of His sacrifice.

Prayer: Father, thank you that we have footsteps to follow and that we leave footsteps for others. May we conduct ourselves in a manner worthy of you.

Make us always mindful of the many who may not know you personally but do know us. Let our life overflow with joy. We humbly ask in the name of Christ the Lord.

Susan Jemison

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Artist: Will Chandler, photography

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Day 28 Everything is a New Creation Galatians 6:15 “For neither circumcision nor uncircumcision is anything; but a new creation is everything!”

Paul’s letter to the Galatians is during a critical moment defining the Christian mission. Paul founded the churches of Galatia but was challenged by Jewish-Christian teachers who urged the converts to continue circumcision and observe some of the Jewish laws and religious practices.

Paul knows this is threatening to the truth of the gospel of Christ.

Christ on the cross offers salvation for us all. Christ on the cross offers a new creation - a reconciliation between Jews and Gentiles and between both groups and God (Eph 2:15-16) Christ on the cross offers forgiveness, and everything becomes new!

Prayer: Lord, thank you for accepting me as I am. Wash me by your grace. Fill me with your spirit. Renew my soul. I pray that I might live as your child today and honor you in all that I do. In your precious name, Amen.

Amy Cook

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Artist: Jerry Gantt, photography

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Day 29 Read and Heed Revelation 1:3 “Blessed is the one who reads aloud the words of the prophecy and blessed are those who hear and keep what is written in it, for the time is near.”

As we read these words from Revelation, we are reminded how important it is for us to read the Bible and read it aloud. The Hebrew people were used to hearing scripture recited since there were no printing presses and most folks could not read anyway. How blessed we are for the privilege of reading the Bible daily.

During these next 50 days we can use the lectionary or whatever devotional each of us chooses, but it is important to READ – and afterward, we need to HEED! It is true that what the Bible said to readers in the past may be understood a bit differently than how we understand it today, but one thing is sure – God loves us and wants us to let him be our guide every day.

Prayer: Dear Lord, thank you for giving us the written word so that we can learn about you and your plans for us. Thank you for the prophets who were brave enough to preach your word even when it was dangerous. They have given us an example to follow and to share with others. The Hebrew people thought that God was going to rescue them from this life. We know that God rescues us every day and sent Jesus to tell us.

We confess that we have not always said and done your will. Please help us to do better so that we may be a light to ourselves and to others. We are so blessed to have a loving and caring staff to help us stay committed and connected to you and your plans for us especially during these days of pandemic.

May we always remember that you are our constant companion, and we must listen for your help. During these next 50 days, please give us the strength and courage to follow you.

Liz and Pete Land

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Artist: Frank Randall, ceramic

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Day 30 Our Unlimited God Revelation 1:8 “I am the Alpha and Omega,” says the Lord God, who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty.”

Our perception of time can vary greatly, influenced by the circumstances of our lives. Sometimes, our days pass quickly, full of loved ones, events, rewarding work, beloved pastimes, joy, and love. We look around and ask ourselves how the years could have passed so quickly. Other times the hours drag. We endure uncertainty, illness, the death of a loved one, loneliness, separation, and even boredom. We question our ability to persevere through these challenging times.

In the midst of these contrasting perceptions, we are creatures of time.

We count minutes, hours, days, and years. And we have a beginning and an end.

Our triune God has no such limit in time. The Almighty is Alpha and Omega, the First and the Last. Our God was present when time began and will go on when our time ends. Our lives are fragile as leaves of grass, but our Rock is present throughout our fragile lives, our fortress and sanctuary throughout time.

May we pray the words of Isaac Watts: O God, our help in ages past, our hope for years to come, our shelter from the stormy blast, and our eternal home. Under the shadow of thy throne, still may we dwell secure; sufficient is thine arm alone, and our defense is sure. Before the hills in order stood, or earth received her frame, from everlasting, thou art God, to endless years the same. A thousand ages, in thy sight, are like an evening gone; short as the watch that ends the night, before the rising sun. Time, like an ever- rolling stream, bears all who breathe away; they fly forgotten, as a dream dies at the opening day.

O God, our help in ages past, our hope for years to come; be thou our guide while life shall last, and our eternal home! Amen.

Ellen Haulman

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Artist: Betsy Hails, oil

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Day 31 Something to Hold On To Revelation 7:9 “After this I looked, and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people, and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb. They were wearing white robes and were holding palm branches in their hands.”

As we look back over the past year, we have had so many tribulations – not only physical with the pandemic but also mental with isolation and emotional with political issues and racism. It has placed us in a season of perpetual denial – in a wilderness of sorts. Our world around us became something we had never experienced. It was as if time stood still for a moment. We had nowhere to turn for healing. Or did we? I found myself in need of a Savior, in need of something to hold on to, to believe in, and to gain strength from. I found myself in a moment of suspension in which I learned the only way to survive my emotional hopelessness was to cling to my faith and my Savior. As I clung to him, I grew deeper in love – not only with Christ but also his word. I began to truly believe in, and feel the call of, his greatest commandment – love God with all our being and to love our neighbor as ourselves.

The multitude worshiping our Lord in Revelation 7:9 was from every nation, tribe, and people. Not only were they God’s “chosen people,” they were from all nations, races, and backgrounds. We are not to judge our neighbors but to love them as God does. All people are precious to God and no race, ethnicity, or background is exempt from his love. The multitudes are adorned in white robes depicting the character of the saints, washed in the blood of the Lamb. Their robes became white through a miracle of grace. The palm branches they carry represent victory – the victory of spirit over flesh. Victory signals the end to a conflict or competition. As we look hopefully toward the end of our current conflict, let us strive to be victorious.

2 Chronicles 7:14 says, “if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.” When we pray the Lord’s prayer, we pray “Your will be done on earth as it is in Heaven.” As we come closer to the end of this conflict, let us continue to pray for his will to be done on earth. Let us be washed whiter than snow waving palm branches declaring victory. Let our victory be in Jesus, not in our political party, material possessions, or accomplishments. Let us not look right or left but up.

Most Gracious Heavenly Father, we come to you today with thanksgiving for who you are and who you created us to be. Father wash us whiter than snow.

Create in us a new heart – a heart filled with love and compassion for your people. Guide us in Your way to be the multitude filled with joy and peace until we stand at your feet crying “Holy, Holy, Holy.” In the name of Jesus. Amen.

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Kaki Austin

Artist: Susan Scott, oil

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Day 32 Sing A New Song Revelation 5:9-10 “And they sang a new song, saying: “You are worthy to take the scroll and to open its seals, because you were slain, and with your blood you purchased for God persons from every tribe and language and people and nation. You have made them to be a kingdom and priests to serve our God, and they will reign on the earth.”

This new song is a song of redemption recognizing that Jesus shed his blood for all of mankind and created a kingdom here on Earth. Jesus shed his blood for “persons from every tribe and language and people and nation.” The scripture’s reference to “persons” is deliberately specific and inclusive. Our kingdom here on Earth is inclusive not exclusive with one focus, which is to serve God. Although we all may differ in opinion, temperament, appearance, and background, we all are here to serve. Let service to God be our focus, and our differences should not and will not matter, or better yet be celebrated.

This scripture reminds me of Charles Wesley’s hymn “Rejoice, the Lord is King” with its refrain, “lift up your heart; Lift up your voice.” Let us all lift up our hearts and voices in unity to serve God and “rejoice, the Lord is King.”

Prayer: Dear God, Thank you for including me in your kingdom. Please guide me through my days with focus and purpose in serving you. Please make me a blessing to others. May we remember that we are all in this kingdom together.

Amen.

Jo Moore

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Artist: Sadie Sease, photography

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Day 33 An Open Door Revelation 3:8 “I know your deeds. See, I have placed before you an open door that no one can shut. I know that you have little strength, yet you have kept my word and not denied my name.”

As is often the case, there are parts of this verse that are plain and straightforward, and parts that invite contemplation and interpretation.

For example, it is clear that God knows exactly what has been going on in the Philadelphia church, for he directly, reminds them that he “knows their deeds” and was aware that they had “kept my word and not denied my name.” Another way of expressing these last phrases is that the Philadelphia Christians had lived in a way that “held fast to what Christ had taught them” and did not “contradict Christ’s character” in their lives.

And evidently, they had not done this on their own—for in themselves they had “little strength,” but with the help of the Holy Spirit, they had pleased God in a time and place where such faith could cost them dearly. In recognition of their faithfulness, God “placed before them an open door that no one can shut.” The original Greek suggests two interesting things about this door. First, it is a gift from God—the word translated here as “place before” designates this as a gift, something presented as a reward or prize. Secondly, the door is already open when they receive it, and the original text assures the reader that it cannot be shut; not by man, not by woman, not by anything. The gift that God has given them is theirs to enjoy until and unless God himself takes it from them.

Through the years, scholars have given several different interpretations as to what this door represents. Because Philadelphia was located on a busy Roman post road crowded with travelers, merchants, military, and governmental officials, opportunities for the Philadelphia Christians to spread the Gospel in their world were, indeed, almost unlimited. Others have interpreted the door as assurance of a continuation of access to God and the strength he gave, something that the Philadelphia church obviously treasured greatly. John Wesley thought it was a reminder to the church that they were a part of God’s Kingdom and an invitation to enter into “the joy of the Lord,” both now and for eternity. Still others have seen in the words a promise that God would deliver his people in Philadelphia during times of trial and persecution, a view that might refer to verses 9 and 10 later in the passage.

No matter which of the interpretations you favor, the message to the Christians of Philadelphia, and to us today, is clear. God uses those who are faithful to his character. He gives his followers the strength to hold fast to his teachings. And he gives his rich blessings to those who follow him faithfully.

Prayer: Our Father, we thank you for the doors you have opened for us. Help us to recognize and use them, so that we honor you with our lives.

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Stuart and Donna Manson

Artist: Donna Pickens, encaustic

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Day 34 Your True Identity Revelation 13:16 “Also, it causes all, both small and great, both rich and poor, both free and slave, to be marked on the right hand or the forehead.”

How do you identify yourself? Do you ever feel like your sin, your history, and your failings are written all over you? How can God look upon me when I am struggling?

John of Patmos speaks of those who worship the beast as being “marked on the right hand or the forehead.” We who seek Christ have no visible mark, no sign written on our skin. And yet, we want to be marked for Christ, to be his forever. Oh, but the sin that weighs so heavily upon our conscience. How can we even look to heaven?

Indeed, we are marked and with the greatest gift, God with us.

Ephesians 1:13 says, “And you also were included in Christ when you heard the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation. When you believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit.”

Marked by God, we are his own forever.

Prayer: Come Holy Spirit. Mark us today and every day. May our identity be found in you. Amen.

Heidi Lee

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Artist: Joe Pace, oil

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Day 35 You Are Invited Revelation 19:9 “And the angel said to me, “Write this: Blessed are those who are invited to the marriage supper of the Lamb.” And he said to me, “These are the true words of God.”

Jesus the Lamb always considered marriage feasts (remember reference Cana) a great blessing and celebration, so his own must be something extra special. Anytime Jesus “invites” us to join him, we must attend, but sorrowfully, we often turn aside and are too busy or uncaring. This Easter journey must be an exception, and we must find time to listen and join in the preparation for his mission on the cross. The emphasis on the “true words of God” only serves to say this is no idle blessing but an invitation to travel with him and sacrifice our lives to be his light in the world and to carry on his work.

Prayer: Lord, let us join Christ as he teaches us how to serve his children and our brothers in this world and beyond. Lord be in us and among us. Amen.

Susie Strong Kicklighter

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Artist: Ann Amsler, oil

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Day 36 Resurrection Means Eternal Life 1 Corinthians 15:7 “Then he appeared to James, then to all the apostles.”

Imagine what it must have been like for Paul and other early Christians who were sharing the resurrection story of Christ in the 1st Century.

There were many who witnessed the physical presence of the risen Savior during the forty days. Paul was able to speak to and hear from those whohad seen, heard, and even touched the hands and feet of Jesus. And Paul also had his own experience on his way to Damascus. These first-hand accounts were powerful testimonies and evidence to the resurrected body of Jesus. It was evidence that was critical to the early and successful sharing of the “good news.” To believe in the resurrection has never required “evidence free” faith, and that is important. Otherwise, it would simply be a blind faith. Paul understood this all too well as he wrote his letter to the early Church in Corinth that was debating, struggling, and dividing itself over how could the physical body of Jesus die and then come back to life?

More importantly, Paul wanted the Corinthians and us to remember that the resurrection means an eternal life for those who do more than blindly accept a story. For Christians, natural death on earth is not the end of life.

Death will be defeated for good. So, Paul presents his evidence from the accounts of those who encountered the risen Savior. Yes, there is a little bit of name dropping, and we are easily able to calculate exponentially from the Twelve, to the more than five hundred, and to fill-in-the blank billions today. It is all part of our covenant with God, and through all of us today as the body of Christ, the Church, the message of “good news” continues to go viral. We may not be able to sit down with those eyewitnesses, but we have the power of the Holy Spirit to be witnesses to the world. We are saved from the sin of the world by a risen Savior, Jesus Christ! “Then he appeared to James, then to all the apostles,” and through you and me, the power of a risen Jesus will continue to be revealed to the world!

How exciting it is to have the season of Easter to remember that we are saved by the power of resurrection! It is a time of hope and a time to be reenergized to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world! The congregational response when someone joins the church says its best. “We renew our covenant faithfully to participate in the ministries of the church by our prayers, our presence, our gifts, our service and our witness, that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ.”

Prayer: Loving and gracious God, as we celebrate these 50 days of Easter, we give thanks to you for the power of resurrection and the hope you give us through Christ. We are so grateful for the early witnesses who from their experiences kept the message of the “Good News” alive for the world. May we be witnesses to others so that they may know Jesus and the power of a risen Savior. Amen.

Seth Gowan

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Artist: Debbie Payne, watercolor

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Day 37 An Impossible Law Galatians 1:9 “As we have said before so now I repeat, if anyone proclaims to you a gospel contrary to what you received, let that one be accursed.”

Have you ever felt like if you do not do this or that for God you won’t be saved…that you may even be punished? When the church was first formed, Jewish Christians were trying to reintroduce certain aspects of the law to the newly saved Gentiles. In a strongly written letter to the Galatians, Paul rebuked them, reminding them that no human had ever been able to follow the law, and those who tried to earn their salvation with acts and failed, would be accursed by that same law.

Think about that. The law was then and is now impossible to follow. The creator of the universe needs nothing from us, and here we are spinning and toiling, trying to earn our way into heaven.

So, perhaps the next time I am seeking human approval for my piety, I should remember this letter from Paul and simply honor Christ, who died for my sins, with my love, repentance, and a sincere request for his mercy.

Prayer: Oh God, help us remember we cannot earn our salvation. Salvation comes through your grace and mercy. Open our hearts to fully receive you as our Savior and Lord. In Christ’s name we pray. Amen.

Jerome Moore

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Artist: Carlson Hayes, photograph

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Day 38 Be Doers of the Word James 1:21-24 “Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you. Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like someone who looks at his face in a mirror and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like.”

In this passage, James exhorts us to rid our lives of sin and to be doers of the word. How Wesleyan of him! Striving for holiness and seeking to live lives in imitation of Christ have been hallmark virtues throughout the Methodist movement. During the Lenten season, we reflected on our own sin and mortality: what sin did you find in your life, and what steps have you taken to rid yourself of it? As James says famously a few verses later, “So faith by itself, if it has no works, is dead” (2:17). James is known for using everyday experiences as metaphors for Christian discipleship, and in this passage, he compares people who hear God’s word but do not act to those who look in the mirror and then forget what they look like. Now, during this Easter season, we celebrate the resurrection—God’s victory over sin and death—and we are sent into the world to act, to be Christ’s agents of truth and peace and reconciliation. John Wesley described the Christian life with two words: pardon and power. Christ’s death reveals our pardon, and the resurrection of Christ reveals God’s power at work in us. Brothers and sisters, flee from sin, and get to work serving Christ.

This Easter season, how will you be a Doer of the Word?

Prayer: Almighty God, we do not want to look in the mirror only to forget our own reflection, and we do not want to look at Christ only to forget that we are called to imitate him. Forgive us for the times when we hear your word but do not act. By your Holy Spirit, you raised Christ from the dead, so by this same Spirit cleanse our lives of sin and inspire us to action. Your eternal Word became flesh in order to do your will; make us alive with Christ so that we, too, may be doers of your will. In the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Amen.

Stephen Sours

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Artist: Ruth Russell, oil

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Day 39 Secondary Questions John 14:5 “Thomas said to him, “Lord, we don’t know where you are going, so how can we know the way?”

Don’t you love the honesty and frustration that the disciples express in the Gospel accounts?! God’s Word gives me comfort, especially Thomas’ statement and question, because there are many days when I feel like that! “Lord, what is going on? What are you up to? What am I supposed to be doing? Where am I supposed to be heading?” Do you ask those questions, too?

The good news is that Jesus answered Thomas! He stated the famous I Am – “I am the way and the truth and the life.” That is the answer that Thomas needed, the disciples needed, I need, and you need to hear – Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life.

Questions about focus and direction do not go away when we listen to Jesus, but those questions become secondary because we focus on the Risen Lord, Jesus the Christ.

Prayer: Dear Lord, thank you for showing us the way! Help us to focus on Jesus every moment, drawing closer to Christ who is the way, the truth, and the life. Amen.

John Sease

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Artist: Leah Grace Borders, photography

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Day 40 Cloudy, but Clearing Acts 1:9 “After he said this, he was taken up before their very eyes, and a cloud hid him from their sight.”

“Out of sight, out of mind,” the old saying goes. Aren’t we all glad the Disciples that saw Jesus ascend to heaven did not just turn around and go back to their new normal?

The seasons of Lent and Easter have always been a time of renewal for me -- a touchstone in time to re-examine where I am in relation to where I thought I was, or would like to be, something of a Christian New Year. Unfortunately, last year’s Lent and Easter were usurped by fear and isolation, and the cloud of anxiety often hid Jesus from my sight.

Like many people last year, church got lost in the New Normal of my life.

After all, they said I should not go to church, right? I found myself growing accustomed to the absence of a time set aside for worship, a time I had taken for granted all of my life. And the cloud of complacency hid Jesus from my sight.

It has taken the new seasons of Lent and Easter coming again to make this sleeper wake up and realize that a year has passed in this aimless state of being. While it has only been recently that my family and I have ventured back to worship, I know that we have been called from anxiety to trust and from complacency to discipline.

As Glenda and Renée teach the children of our church every year, we should “fix our eyes not on what is seen, but what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.” (2 Corinthians 4:18) Prayer: Heavenly Father, Jesus, Holy Spirit, lift my eyes from the churn and shuffle of the mundane to the sky to await your glorious return. Clear the clouds in my spirit, so that I may see what is unseen and fix my eyes on you.

Amen.

Karl Franklin

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Artist: Leslie Bingham, oil

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Day 41 Peace be with You John 20:19 “On the evening of that first day of the week, when the doors were locked, where the disciples were, for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood in their midst and said to them, “Peace be with you.”

Who among us has not been fearful over the past year? In this year of the COVID-19 pandemic, we have been afraid of the known and unknown.

Fear of people and things. Fear of our inability to control our jobs or our family security or safety. The disciples were feeling all these feelings and more, even after being an eyewitness to the most incredible 3 years in all of man’s history! Watching Jesus teach with authority, give life to the dead, cast out demons, and heal countless illnesses, they were still scared!

In their eyes, everything came to a crashing halt when Jesus was crucified. Jesus changes everything with his first words to his disciples, “Peace be with you” or in Hebrew, “Shalom.” That is not just peace Jesus is announcing - Shalom is being revealed as the reconciliation of all things to God through the work of Jesus Christ. It is compete well-being: physical, psychological, social, and spiritual. It is all things being resurrected and made right by Christ’s sacrifice on the cross! It is exactly what they needed to hear in that moment. It is exactly what we need to hear right now in our own situation.

Prayer: Father in Heaven, I come before you in love and thanksgiving, with love for you and thanksgiving for all you provide. I thank you for your sacrifice for my sins. I thank you for the peace you give me in knowing that ultimate victory has been won. Lord, I ask that your peace be given to all that need it during this pandemic, giving healing to the sick and offering shalom to those of us looking for peace. In Jesus Christ holy name I pray. Amen.

David Lieux

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Artist: Cindy Yarbrough, oil

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Day 42 Transform Us John 20:25 “So the other disciples told him, “We have seen the Lord!” But he said to them, “Unless I see the nail marks in his hands and put my finger where the nails were, and put my hand into his side, I will not believe.”

Most of us are very familiar with this verse because we can easily relate to Thomas even though we are separated by 2,000 years. It is in our nature to doubt, to want more information, to see to believe. Thomas is well known for this story, but how many remember Thomas from the story of Lazarus? Jesus decided to return to Judea to “awaken” Lazarus, but the journey was dangerous as many Jews there wanted to stone him. The disciples questioned his decision, yet it was Thomas that said, “Let’s also go, so that we may die with him!” It was Thomas that after he saw the resurrected Christ famously said, “My Lord and my God!” The Gospel writers often capture the apostles in their times of weakness only to show how beautifully God transforms that weakness into the image of Christ. We learn that through God’s gift of holiness, we can be transformed into Christ’s image of courage, trust, and love. We must simply accept his gift and believe.

Prayer: Father, thank you for Thomas’ courage. Thank you for the Gospel writers and the wonderful examples of transformation they tell us. Thank you for your gift of holiness and with it, I ask you to transform me into the image of Christ. Grant me the courage to believe. Amen.

Patrick Albrecht

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Artist: Sarah Beth Carol, photograph

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Day 43 Breath Afresh on Me John 20:22-23 “And when he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, “Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven them; if you withhold forgiveness from any, it is withheld.”

The celebration of Easter fills my heart with such joy & hope—an empty tomb, a risen Lord, a living Savior who overcame death and promised his followers eternal life. I want to shout, “He Is Risen!”

But, God, this is my perspective on this side of the New Testament. On the first Easter morning the disciples had a different perspective. They were hiding in a locked room—afraid, defeated and disillusioned. They did not even believe the women who came to tell them Jesus had risen. They had forgotten that Jesus had told them about the necessity of his death and his promise that he would not leave them alone. Then Jesus appeared to them in their locked room, saying to them, “Peace be with you. As the Father has sent Me, I am now sending you.” Then he breathed on them and said, “Receive the Holy Spirit”—God’s indwelling Presence. This indwelling Spirit gave the disciples joy, hope, and peace. With this power and presence, these disciples bravely went out to change the world by preaching the Good News of a living Christ who overcame death, forgave sins and offered eternal life to all who believed in him.

Jesus also promised that God through his Holy Spirit would continue to be at work with his followers. This Power and Presence is available to us today. That is what Easter promises as we worship and celebrate a living Savior.

May Jesus breathe on us afresh. May his Holy Spirit teach us to listen for the guidance of the Holy Spirit and grant us the power and courage to tell others of his love and invite them to follow you.

Prayer: God, refresh us with the living, loving Spirit of your Son Jesus Christ.

Let us know Christ as a vibrant indwelling presence working within us and through us. In the name of your Son and our Savior, Jesus Christ, Amen.

Harriet Allison

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Artist: Walton Skelley, acrylic

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Day 44 Our Heritage Luke 11:2 “He said to them, “When you pray, say: ‘Father, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come.’”

In response to a request by his disciples, Jesus began to teach them to pray. Jesus lays down once and for all that the relationship between God and man is that of father and child. Now we all know perfectly well that parents nearly always do the best they can for their children. Speaking of the same truth elsewhere, Jesus said: “If you, who are so full of evil, nevertheless do your best for your children, how much more so will God, who is altogether good, do for you.” So, he begins his prayer by establishing the character of God as that of the perfect Father dealing with his children.

This opening sentence which fixes the nature of God at the same time fixes the nature of man. Because if man is the offspring of God, man must be filled with the nature of God. The nature of the offspring is invariably like that of the parent. Therefore, we should love our brothers and sisters who are also made in the image of God. Prayer: Gracious Father, Holy are you and greatly to be praised. Great is our love for all your children. Your majesty and glory are far greater than anything we mortals can imagine. To you we owe all faith, gratitude, honor, and glory. Your forgiveness and mercy overwhelm us and leave us humbled and awed in your presence.

Father, your kingdom has come and lives in our hearts, helping us to live as you would have us to live. Open our hearts and minds to live as you command us and to live godly lives following your guidance and your will. Help us, Lord, to love one another, to let your kingdom shine through us for others to see your glory. Change us to be loving, generous, faithful Christians, living in your image in all that we do.

Father open our hearts to always choose your kingdom life so that we honor you in every facet of our lives, and so that our lives might be wholly and completely lived for you. In your name, Lord. Amen.

Pat and Paula Mathis

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Artist: Barbara Davis, oil

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Day 45 LET HIM John 1:1-4 “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made. In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind.”

Do you ever find yourself overthinking something, going down and getting so caught up with the “what if’s” that you end up feeling overwhelmed and frustrated with no resolution? I can assure you I am guilty as charged, most of the time. We can make life so complicated for not only ourselves but others too, when in reality, there is such an easy answer.

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God. I know that if I allow myself to slow down long enough to let God begin to lead me, to LET HIM be my Word, I can feel a lot more at peace and see things more clearly. I just need to remember to loosen my reins, and that can be hard.

It goes back to the beginning with God. If we begin each and every day with God, who gave us life and continues to be our life, each breath we take should be a comforting reminder to LET HIM lead us. LET HIM walk beside us. LET HIM be our faith. Simply, LET HIM. Prayer: Heavenly Father, Each day is a new day. A new beginning to simplify my life and take each step with you. Help me to remember that you created me and my very unique self. I pray that I can push aside and give to you all of the weight I went to sleep with last night and woke up with this morning. I also pray you constantly remind me that all I need is to slip my hand into yours knowing that you are the Word and all I need in the beginning and the end of my day. In your Son’s name I pray this. Amen.

Katherine Crum

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Artist: Margaret Chandler, photography

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Day 46 Be Prepared John 20:22 “And with that he breathed on them and said, “Receive the Holy Spirit.”

Everything was confirmed. We would be taking a 112-mile backpacking trek at Philmont Scout Ranch, Cimarron, NM. I considered myself a backpacking veteran having done much of it as Scout and later as Scoutmaster.

112 miles in 7 days was going to be a challenge for both the 9 Scouts and other adults making the trek; we would be tested. “Be Prepared” is not just a motto in scouting, but a worthy admonition for life.

The disciples were huddled in the upper room, fearing the uncertainty of the future. In John 20:22 we read that Jesus appeared among them and reassured them of his ministry. He then did something strange, he breathed on them and said, “receive the Holy Spirit.” He gave them what they would need to “Be Prepared” for what would come. Jesus sent us the Holy Spirit so that we too may “Be Prepared” to face and conquer whatever lies in our path. The Holy Spirit equipped the disciples for the coming days as they carried out the great commission. Reliance on the Holy Spirit keeps us prepared for our life’s journey.

Prayer: Father, while we may not know the fear felt by the disciples that day in the upper room, we have our own fears. We ask for guidance and perseverance in our journey and we are confident that with you, all things are possible. Let us be intentional and “Be Prepared,” comforted with the knowledge that you have breathed on us the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Skip Dotherow

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Artist: Margaret Chandler, photography

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Day 47 Always Present 2 Peter 1:17 “We saw majestic splendor with our own eyes when he received honor and glory from God the Father. The voice from the majestic glory of God said to him, “This is my dearly loved Son, who brings me great joy.”

Jesus Christ - our Lord and Savior, God in human form, living among the people he created - willingly, went through such agony and suffering on the cross for the express purpose of forgiving mankind of our sins and making us right with our Father God. God showed us such love - such grace and mercy. Grace is when God gives us what we do not deserve.

Mercy is when God does not give us what we do deserve. We all sin and deserve punishment, yet God pardons us by forgiving us through Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross - that is mercy.

God is with us all the time. Just as God was with Jesus through his most difficult times, God will see us through our difficult times (believe me, I know) and he will fill our lives with his goodness and mercy. There is no room for fear.

Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, Please help each of us to really know in our hearts and souls that Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior, is our only way. There is no other way to receive your forgiveness and the gift of eternal life with you.

In Jesus’ blessed name. Amen.

Frank Randall

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Artist: Caro Louise Jehle, mixed medium

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Day 48 Use Your Gifts Matthew 28:19 “Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.”

Having grown up in First United Methodist Church, I have always felt that Easter Sunday was special. There was always a great celebration of life on Easter Sunday. We attended the church services which ended with the singing of the Hallelujah Chorus accompanied by an orchestra. What a joyous sound it was. Even when I no longer sang in the choir, I would sing along in the pew. Our pews have always been filled to capacity and additional chairs placed in the isles for both of the services. In fact, years later a third service was added during the Sunday School hour to help with those who could not attend one of the other services. When we were younger, we would have family and friends gather for fellowship and have lunch at the farm after church. My parents had a gift of hospitality.

When someone is dying or saying goodbye, his or her last words are very important. Jesus’ last words to his disciples were to go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. So, how can we do that? The Great Commission was a command given to his disciples. What does that mean to us today?

We are all supposed to follow this command. We are not all evangelists in the formal sense, but we have all received gifts that we can use to help fulfill the Great Commission. Sometimes, we know what our gifts are and sometimes we struggle to discover our gifts/talents. As we try to obey the command, we have comfort in the knowledge that God is always with us.

How special it has been to be a part of this congregation. Sharing the love of Christ through missions has been a large part of my life. No matter how small my contribution is as long as it is given in love, God knows.

Prayer: Dear Father, please help us do your will. Guide us and show us how you can use our gifts even if we are not sure what they are. Amen.

Gayle Auman

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Artist: Barbara Davis, oil

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Day 49 What Is Truth John 4:23 “But the time is coming and is already here when true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and in truth. The Father is looking for anyone who will worship Him that way.”

“Worshiping the Father in spirit and in truth.” There are many definitions of spirit and truth. Jesus said that the spirit is like the wind in that one cannot see it, but one can see its effects.

Many years ago, I wondered why some people had a certain (hard to describe) glow about them. You could say they were happy, positive, or friendly when their life circumstances normally would not reflect that state. I now recognize the Holy Spirit.

Truth is not an accurate recording of events but an accurate understanding of events. When Pilate was questioning Jesus, Jesus said, “and I came to bring truth to the world.” Pilate asked, “what is truth?”; he did not know God. The truth is God and God is the truth.

Prayer: Dear Lord, Thank you for all you have done for us; help us to be better Christians; fill our hearts with your holy spirit. Help us to love one another and to follow the path you want us to take. Amen.

Carol Kline

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Artist: Jerry Gantt, photography

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Day 50 Fill Us Anew Acts 2:1-4 “When the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place.

Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting. They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them. All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them.”

Having been through Palm Sunday, with Jesus riding triumphantly into a cheering city, the betrayal, crucifixion and glorious resurrection of our Lord and Savior, we now find ourselves at Pentecost. Before Jesus ascended to heaven, he told his disciples to wait in Jerusalem to receive the Holy Spirit. As they waited, the breath of God descended upon them, flames like fire melted their hearts, and set their souls on fire for the gospel. Then and there, they were filled with the Holy Spirit. In doing so he gave them the power to be his witnesses, something their human efforts could not accomplish.

The Holy Spirit transforms members and their communities into spaces that change people’s life directions. It is not about the preservation or prestige of a community or its individuals. What is important is that the change on the inside of the community, with all its diverse members being empowered by God - impacts and infects the world outside it.

So, let us as individuals and as a congregation open our hearts anew to God’s Holy Spirit within us, then we can continue the work those first disciples began - harvesting souls for the kingdom of God. In doing so, remember that the Holy Spirit does not always work the way we think he should. Sometimes he is a rushing mighty wind, and sometimes a soft gentle breeze. But however he comes, the results of his visit are always the same, people will turn their hearts to God. Prayer: Lord, fill us anew with your Holy Spirit. Whether it is a mighty wind or a gentle breeze, fill us we pray. Fill us, our congregation, and our communities so that our hearts may burn with hope and love. Amen.

Susan Scott

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Artist: Susan Scott, oil

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Artist: Barbara Davis, oil

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Artist: Frances Durr, needlepoint

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Artist: Dan Haulman, mosaic

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