The Secret Chamber | A Digital Devotional April 2025 Edition
The Secret Chamber, the Department of Church Growth and Development’s daily devotional guide, is herein recognized as an aid to worship; it is also made an official periodical of the Church and listed in The Doctrine and Discipline of the African Methodist Episcopal Church in the annual report of the pastor on periodicals.
Bishop Wilfred J. Messiah, Senior Bishop, African Methodist Episcopal Church
Bishop Erika D. Crawford, Commission Chair
The Reverend Dr. Marcellus A. Norris, Executive Director
African Methodist Episcopal Church Department of Church Growth and Development
The Reverend Dr. Susan Hillary Buckson, Copy Editor
The Reverend Jarrett Britton Washington, Graphic Editor
With the onset of growing Artificial Intelligence (AI) research, this edition provides a “ChatGPT Experience” to demonstrate how you might use AI as a resource to share encouragement with others. While AI programming provides a great shell, we recognize that nothing replaces our voice in writing. An actual person enhanced each Open AI ChatGPT experience included to fit the context of this edition. Visit https://openai.com to explore the possibilities.
Tuesday | April 1, 2025
1 Corinthians 10:13
No testing has overtaken you that is not common to everyone. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tested beyond your strength, but with the testing he will also provide the way out so that you may be able to endure it.
Yield Not
Temp·ta·tion /tem(p)ˈtāSH(ə)n/ noun the desire to do something, especially something wrong or unwise:
Temptation has been around since the beginning of time. Ask Adam and Eve if temptation doesn’t show up when you least expect it. And they were not the only two. All through the bible, we see temptation raising its ugly head: Job (1:6-12), David (1 Chronicles 21:1), Joshua (Zechariah 3:15), Peter (Luke22:31), Ananias & Sapphira (Acts 5:10-3), and Paul (2 Corinthians 12:7). Why would we ever think we would be exempt from temptation when our Lord and savior Jesus Christ was also tempted. The temptation of Christ is described in the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke. According to scripture, after being baptized by John the Baptist, Jesus fasted for 40 days and nights in the Judaean. Desert. During this time, Satan appeared to Jesus and attempted to tempt him towards sin. Jesus, having refused each temptation, the devil then departed, and Jesus returned to Galilee to begin his ministry. Satan tempted Jesus with physical desire, pride, and worldly power.
Satan constantly tempts us today to sin against God. In fact, the bible says that the devil “prowls around like a roaring lion seeking whom he may devour.’ It is so sad the number of people Satan has tempted since the pandemic. Before the pandemic, many Christians got up every Sunday and went to God’s house and worshipped and praised. Before the pandemic, God’s houses were full of people in love with the Lord and showing it. Christians were not just worshipping but they were faithfully serving. Since the pandemic our churches are empty and many lay in bed on Sundays and surf the internet. Many are no longer supporting their church home with their finances. The devil has tempted so many Christians to leave the Lord or place him on the back burner. I want to suggest that all who no longer attend the house of the Lord or serve God evaluate their reasons why and please consider returning to God’s house in person as soon as possible.
Pray: Lord, help me be mindful of temptations and to remain focused on pleasing God.
Reverend Dr. Marietta Ramsey Bethlehem AME Church Baltimore, Maryland ramseyetta1@gmail.com
Wednesday | April 2, 2025
Matthew 16:24-26
24 Then Jesus told his disciples, “If any wish to come after me, let them deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. 25 For those who want to save their life will lose it, and those who lose their life for my sake will find it. 26 For what will it profit them if they gain the whole world but forfeit their life? Or what will they give in return for their life?
Walking With Jesus
What a blessing it is to know that we have an opportunity to walk with Jesus each day, and what a joy divine it is to know that the same power and peace that Jesus had to handle the journey is available to us.
It is challenging to take up your cross it is a symbol of pain and of death but Jesus calls us to more than the devastation of the cross; he calls us to embrace it for its redemptive, restorative, and resurrecting power.
Let’s stay focused on this journey toward Resurrection Sunday.
Pray: Lord, help me commit to you.
Reverend Dr. Susan H. Buckson Allen Temple AME Church www.allentempleatlanta.org pastor@allentempleatlanta.org
Thursday | April 3, 2025
Luke 5:27-32
27 After this he went out and saw a tax collector named Levi sitting at the tax-collection station, and he said to him, “Follow me.” 28 And he got up, left everything, and followed him. 29 Then Levi gave a great banquet for him in his house, and there was a large crowd of tax collectors and others reclining at the table with them. 30 The Pharisees and their scribes were complaining to his disciples, saying, “Why do you eat and drink with tax collectors and sinners?” 31 Jesus answered them, “Those who are well have no need of a physician but those who are sick; 32 I have not come to call the righteous but sinners to repentance.”
Thank You For My Next
What would make someone leave a lucrative life for the unknown? Levi (Matthew) did. I did as well. I have always been taught that, regarding employment, you should always have a job ready before you leave the one you have. Yet, one day, as I sat in my classroom at Lake Clifton Eastern High School in Baltimore City, I heard the Lord say, “Go tell Dr. Barnes (my principal) that you are leaving.” It was a strange request, and I had no clue what was happening, but I knew the instruction was crystal clear. I followed the directive, and Dr. Barnes asked where I was going. I responded, “I don’t know, but the Lord told me to leave. Dr. Barnes was a man of faith who immediately understood and supported me.
I know the fear and apprehension of leaving what has been so familiar and comfortable. However, I also know the peace (and, in hindsight, the blessings) that come from doing so at God's call. Too often, we want a shift to come in our lives, but we are not open to hearing and heeding God’s directives. For you (and me) to get to what God has in store for your next, you must be willing, like Levi, to get up, leave everything, and follow Jesus.
Again, why would you leave without knowing where? The answer is simple for disciples of Christ because Jesus doesn’t just know the way; he is the way. Trust God in the unknown.
Pray: God, help me to trust you for my next.
Reverend Dr. Susan H. Buckson Allen Temple AME Church www.allentempleatlanta.org pastor@allentempleatlanta.org
Friday | April 4, 2025
Romans 5:15-16
15 But the free gift is not like the trespass. For if the many died through the one man’s trespass, much more surely have the grace of God and the gift in the grace of the one man, Jesus Christ, abounded for the many. 16 And the gift is not like the effect of the one man’s sin. For the judgment following one trespass brought condemnation, but the gift following many trespasses brings justification.
AFree Gift
Have you ever truly reflected on the fact that as a historical figure a man who walked this earth Jesus was a follower? During this Lenten season, while we focus on Jesus’ calling to his disciples (you and me) to follow him, I hope we recognize that Jesus himself was a follower. Indeed, Jesus is Emmanuel the incarnate the very presence of God in the flesh. Yet, it is essential for the practicality of our walk with Christ that we understand that as a human being, Jesus followed God’s leading in all things. Did you see him in the Garden of Gethsemane exclaiming, “Not my will, but your will be done?” (Luke 22:42) Or, how about when he tells Judas and the disciples that he “does what the Father requires of him” (John 14:31). Perhaps you recall Jesus healing the lame man and proclaiming that he “does only what he sees the Father doing. Whatever the Father does, the Son also does.” (John 5:19). There are other examples, but I trust the point has been made. Jesus was also a follower. Every great leader is also a follower.
You have a choice to make today. Will you be a leader whose life demonstrates that you belong to the world, or will you be a leader whose life demonstrates righteousness following a great leader whose one act of righteousness brings a right relationship with God and new life for everyone?
I do not intend to imply that you are Christ, but I do contend that as a follower of Christ, your walk has a significant impact on those around you. Adam’s walk brought condemnation, but Jesus’ brought new life. How will your walk today demonstrate your gratitude for the gift of salvation new life in Christ?
Pray: God, thank you for the free gift of salvation. Help me to stay aware of the price Christ paid for my salvation.
Reverend Dr. Susan H. Buckson Allen Temple AME Church
1 The Lord spoke to Moses, saying: 2 “Speak to all the congregation of the Israelites and say to them: You shall be holy, for I the Lord your God am holy.
The Commandments: It IsAbout Living Them, Not Knowing Them
As a classroom educator, I started the year by giving my students strategies for success in my class. I never wanted students to have to figure out what success looked like. Sure, there were times when students had to wrestle with their standards of success. Still, as the teacher, my responsibility was to always provide a rubric that outlined my expectations of excellence.
I used to administer a vocabulary quiz every Friday. The structure was simple: My students had to “spell it, define it, and use it.” I never deviated from this structure. Therefore, I would tell the students, “You can practice the test all week to ensure you will do well.” Invariably, some students took this advice, but there were still those who did not. The latter usually did not fare well. The former would see “Well Done” written on their test.
Our text reminds me that God has given us the ways and means of living a life that is holy, pleasing, and acceptable unto God (Romans 12:1). In his instructions to Moses, God commands that you “must be holy because I, the Lord your God, am holy.” This is God's standard of excellence, and the text provides the rubric for meeting it.
Like my students, who waited until the last minute to take the test, we will eventually find it too late to “pass the test.” There will come a day when God will say, “Depart from me I did not know you.” (Matthew 7:23)
Today, I encourage you to follow God's commands in your daily life consistently. If you choose to do so, you will hear “Well done.”
Pray: God, help me to live your commandments.
Reverend Dr. Susan H. Buckson Allen Temple AME Church
7 “When you are praying, do not heap up empty phrases as the gentiles do, for they think that they will be heard because of their many words. 8 Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him. 9 “Pray, then, in this way: Our Father in heaven, may your name be revered as holy. 10 May your kingdom come. May your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. 11 Give us today our daily bread. 12 And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. 13 And do not bring us to the time of trial, but rescue us from the evil one. 14 “For if you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you, 15 but if you do not forgive others, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.
Release It
Grudge /ɡrəj/ noun
a persistent feeling of ill will or resentment resulting from a past insult or injury "She held a grudge against her former boss."
I have defined grudge so that you will be very clear on what to call that feeling you are harboring toward a person or even from an experience you have had. It is holding you back from receiving what God has for you in this season of your life.
We would like to believe that we live a life free of grudges, that we are evolved enough not to allow people “to get under our skin." However, when it comes to the nuances of life, we each have that one person (or maybe several) who, let’s face it, “gets on our last name.” Go on free yourself call their name(s). It is not the point whether or not their negative engagement with you is intentional. Your release of the resentment is.
Likewise, there have been situations in our lives that continue to bring us angst. These experiences may linger in our spirit and show up when we are faced with the same mix of circumstances (i.e. walking to the podium to speak, going home for the holidays, returning for (or refusing to return for) a reunion, not agreeing to participate because you did not get the recognition that you deserved, refusing to allow yourself to be loved because of past relationships it is a long list). We tend not to think of grudges in this way, but the truth is that past hurts, particularly those that come from experiences not brought on by any particular person, haunt our future.
During this Lenten season, be encouraged to know that Jesus has provided a focus for us to release ourselves, others, and our circumstances from ill will and resentment resulting from a past insult or injury. Christ has so much more for you if you would but follow him to forgiveness.
Pray: God, help me to forgive as you have forgiven me.
Reverend Dr. Susan H. Buckson Allen Temple AME Church www.allentempleatlanta.org pastor@allentempleatlanta.org
Monday | April 7, 2025
Jonah 3:1-10
1 The word of the Lord came to Jonah a second time, saying, 2 “Get up, go to Nineveh, that great city, and proclaim to it the message that I tell you.” 3 So Jonah set out and went to Nineveh, according to the word of the Lord. Now Nineveh was an exceedingly large city, a three days’ walk across. 4 Jonah began to go into the city, going a day’s walk. And he cried out, “Forty days more, and Nineveh shall be overthrown!” 5 And the people of Nineveh believed God; they proclaimed a fast, and everyone, great and small, put on sackcloth. 6 When the news reached the king of Nineveh, he rose from his throne, removed his robe, covered himself with sackcloth, and sat in ashes. 7 Then he had a proclamation made in Nineveh: “By the decree of the king and his nobles: No human or animal, no herd or flock, shall taste anything. They shall not feed, nor shall they drink water. 8 Humans and animals shall be covered with sackcloth, and they shall cry mightily to God. All shall turn from their evil ways and from the violence that is in their hands. 9 Who knows? God may relent and change his mind; he may turn from his fierce anger, so that we do not perish.” 10 When God saw what they did, how they turned from their evil ways, God changed his mind about the calamity that he had said he would bring upon them, and he did not do it.
Don’t Run
Following God will often lead us into and through dreadfully uncomfortable experiences. Perhaps that is because we tend to shy away when we feel challenged. It is easier for us to turn away from the call of God on our lives. Jonah did. When God called him to go to Ninevah the first time, “Jonah got up and went in the opposite direction to get away from the Lord.” (Jonah 1:3)
The desire to serve the Lord is often overshadowed by our tendency to feel inadequate and our apprehension about the unknowns of what “may happen” if we do actually heed God’s command to “Go.” We run all the scenarios in our minds and fixate on the most negative ones. Sure, Jonah was walking into a hotbed of wickedness but look more closely at verse 4 of the text: Jonah only had to speak what God had had told him to say and the people believed.
Too often, we inflate the repercussions of what could be, instead of trusting that God has already prepared the heart of the people (or person) to receive what God has given us to say or do. Our obedience to God's will for our lives will undoubtedly be a blessing to our lives but imagine the blessing that it will be to so many others.
Pray God, help me to turn from ways that do not honor you.
Reverend Dr. Susan H. Buckson Allen Temple AME Church
7 “Ask, and it will be given to you; search, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened for you. 8 For everyone who asks receives, and everyone who searches finds, and for everyone who knocks, the door will be opened. 9 Is there anyone among you who, if your child asked for bread, would give a stone? 10 Or if the child asked for a fish, would give a snake? 11 If you, then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good things to those who ask him! 12 “In everything do to others as you would have them do to you, for this is the Law and the Prophets.
God Hears Us
As we grow in the grace and knowledge of God, our prayers do actually begin to change. When children grow up in a household where they are being taught to pray, they usually are taught a structured prayer like “Now I lay me down to sleep…” or the Lord’s Prayer. The structure is a necessary foundation. Yet, as they grow older and wiser, their prayers become fuller in scope. Why? Life happens.
When life happens, the scripture writer encourages us to “strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us” (Hebrews 12:1b ff) and to run the race, we need to know what Jesus is calling us to do. We need to hear God’s voice to handle the growing challenges of life. We may not have had many as a child, but as we mature in age and wisdom, we become much more aware of life. We “knock” differently.
Matthew teaches us that when we “knock,” we should do so with fervor and persistence. As we do, we hear God more clearly and, as our heavenly Father, God will hear our prayer.
Have a little talk with Jesus today.
Pray: God, help me to seek your will for my life. Silence the voices of others so I can hear from you.
Reverend Dr. Susan H. Buckson Allen Temple AME Church www.allentempleatlanta.org pastor@allentempleatlanta.org
Wednesday | April 9, 2025
Matthew 5:20-25
20 For I tell you, unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. 21 “You have heard that it was said to those of ancient times, ‘You shall not murder,’ and ‘whoever murders shall be liable to judgment.’ 22 But I say to you that if you are angry with a brother or sister, you will be liable to judgment, and if you insult a brother or sister, you will be liable to the council, and if you say, ‘You fool,’ you will be liable to the hell of fire. 23 So when you are offering your gift at the altar, if you remember that your brother or sister has something against you, 24 leave your gift there before the altar and go; first be reconciled to your brother or sister, and then come and offer your gift. 25 Come to terms quickly with your accuser while you are on the way to court with him, or your accuser may hand you over to the judge and the judge to the guard, and you will be thrown into prison.
God IsARestorer
So many people live their lives with unreconciled relationships. Whether those relationships are with biological family, friends, coworkers, church members, or our neighbors, many often allow ill will to fester. Maybe you have already thought about someone in particular. What if that person is you?
What if you are the person who has driven the wedge between you and others? While we often pay great attention to how people treat us, how often do you stop to think about how you have treated others, spoken words of damnation and not of encouragement, and allowed yourself to carry the weight of unforgiveness?
What will it take for you to “clear the air" so that you can stand before God with a free conscience? The enemy banks on your unwillingness to reach out. This fuel makes you stubborn and unwilling to make amends. It also feeds negativity and easily fuels bitterness and hatred in your heart.
Today, do the heart work of paying attention to how broken relationships affect your ability to move freely in your walk with Christ.
Pray: God, help me to mend broken relationships.
Reverend Dr. Susan H. Buckson Allen Temple AME Church www.allentempleatlanta.org pastor@allentempleatlanta.org
Thursday | April 10, 2025
Matthew 5:43-48
43 “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ 44 But I say to you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, 45 so that you may be children of your Father in heaven, for he makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good and sends rain on the righteous and on the unrighteous. 46 For if you love those who love you, what reward do you have? Do not even the tax collectors do the same? 47 And if you greet only your brothers and sisters, what more are you doing than others? Do not even the gentiles do the same? 48 Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.
Love Unconditional
The gospel according to Tina asks: “What’s love got to do with it?”
Our answer as sons and daughters of Christ: Everything!
It is no secret that the world functions through fear, intimidation, and hate. I dare not give a discourse on current politics (and I do not only mean US Politics, but around the world political leaders and factions functioning in this way The US is not by itself).
What is no secret is that as sons and daughters of Christ, we are the solution. How we love others does make a difference. How we love those who are spiteful to us (The enemy is using them). How we love those whom people see as “other,” or “those people” makes a difference. How we love the earth over which God has given us charge makes a difference. How we love through our service to others and in our worship unto God makes a difference. How we love ourselves makes a difference.
This Lenten season, we cannot escape the hatred that the world presents (and presents so well), but we can remember what Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. said: “Hate cannot drive out hate, only love can do that.”
Follow Jesus’ model love unconditionally today.
Pray: God, help my heart to be more loving.
Reverend Dr. Susan H. Buckson Allen Temple AME Church www.allentempleatlanta.org pastor@allentempleatlanta.org
Friday | April 11, 2025
Genesis 12:1-4a
1 Now the Lord said to Abram, “Go from your country and your kindred and your father’s house to the land that I will show you. 2 I will make of you a great nation, and I will bless you and make your name great, so that you will be a blessing. 3 I will bless those who bless you, and the one who curses you I will curse, and in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed.” 4 So Abram went, as the Lord had told him, and Lot went with him. Abram was seventy-five years old when he departed from Haran.
Trust God For Your Living
Faith is an essential skill. Perhaps the word "skill" is a funny way to understand faith, but it is a skill. Like learning to shoot a free throw in basketball, faith requires learning how to do it, discipline to practice it, and a means of demonstrating that we can execute in tough times.
Have you ever been watching a big game that came down to whether or not this one player makes their free throw with little to no seconds on the clock? I have been in those situations many times. In fact, I have been that player (I made most but missed some). Yet, every day that God allows for our lives, each of us is “that player.” We are the ones who must be able to execute faith when we are facing trying situations.
Abram Abraham was one whose faith was put to the test in a mighty way. However, because he embraced opportunities to practice his faith to believe in God, “God counted him as righteous because of his faith.”
Faith in God’s plan for our lives requires knowing God has our best interests at heart. Our actions often dictate that we do not really know this (that our skill needs building) because we press on, not allowing God to teach us, not exercising discipline in prayer, reading of scripture, and meditation, and not standing steadfast when we are called to simply trust God. How about we stop doing all of this and follow Abraham’s faith walk: Get in the game today with the unwavering assurance that you will execute when the time comes.
Pray: God, strengthen my faith in the plan you have for my life.
Reverend Dr. Susan H. Buckson Allen Temple AME Church
www.allentempleatlanta.org
pastor@allentempleatlanta.org
Saturday | April 12, 2025
Luke 6:27-28
27 “But I say to you who are listening: Love your enemies; do good to those who hate you; 28 bless those who curse you; pray for those who mistreat you.
Strengthen My Faith
I will just say it outright: These commands of the Lord seem so unreasonable almost crazy. The Lord really requires that we “Do good to those who hate you. Bless those who curse you. Pray for those who hurt you.” The Lenten season is a great time to examine how much you understand that our sin makes us the enemy of God. (Ouch!). Don’t believe me; read Romans 5:10. I bet you never thought of yourself as God’s enemy, but you are we all are without the redemptive blood of Jesus that covers us each time we sin.
I am grateful that as we follow Christ, we are the recipients of his goodness, and of his blessings, and of his prayers. You may have never read this text before in this way because we often look at others before we check our own reflection in the mirror. God’s plan is for each of us to prosper. Let’s start with being a friend and not an enemy of God, and then Jesus says, “Your reward from heaven will be very great, and you will truly be acting as children of the Most High, for he is kind to those who are unthankful and wicked. (36)You must be compassionate, just as your Father is compassionate.”
Pray: God, strengthen my faith in the plan you have for my life.
Reverend Dr. Susan H. Buckson Allen Temple AME Church www.allentempleatlanta.org pastor@allentempleatlanta.org
Sunday | April 13, 2025 ӏ PALM SUNDAY
Matthew 21:6-11
The disciples went and did as Jesus had directed them; they brought the donkey and the colt and put their cloaks on them, and he sat on them. A very large crowd spread their cloaks on the road, and others cut branches from the trees and spread them on the road. The crowds that went ahead of him and that followed were shouting, ‘Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest heaven!’ When he entered Jerusalem, the whole city was in turmoil, asking, “Who is this?’ The crowds were saying, ‘This is the prophet Jesus from Nazareth in Galilee.”
Persistent Praise
Palm Sunday marks the beginning of Holy Week, a time when we remember Jesus' journey to the cross. The crowds welcomed Him with praise, shouting "Hosanna!" a word that means "Save us!" But within days, the same city that cheered for Jesus would call for His crucifixion.
How often do we, like the crowds, celebrate Jesus when He meets our expectations but turn away when His path challenges our desires? Palm Sunday reminds us that Christ's kingship is not about earthly power but about sacrificial love. Jesus enters Jerusalem not on a mighty horse, but on a humble donkey, fulfilling the prophecy of Zechariah 9:9. His kingdom is one of peace, humility, and salvation.
Are you following Jesus only when it is convenient, or are you willing to follow Jesus even when it leads to sacrifice? How can you surrender more fully to his lordship in your life? How can you live a life of praise, not just on Sundays but every day?
Monday | April 14, 2025
Exodus 12:13-14
13 The blood shall be a sign for you on the houses where you live: when I see the blood, I will pass over you, and no plague shall destroy you when I strike the land of Egypt. 14 “This day shall be a day of remembrance for you. You shall celebrate it as a festival to the Lord; throughout your generations you shall observe it as a perpetual ordinance.
The Boldness of the Blood
“When I see the blood I will pass over you...” I pray that this resonates in your spirit. Can the plague of death see the blood of Christ on you? Can temptation see the blood of Christ on you? Can your most vindictive coworkers see the blood of Christ on you? Can your hurtful family members see the blood of Christ on you? There is only one shield that a Christian needs and that is the blood of Jesus and there is only one way to get it...accept Jesus as your Lord and savior. Again, I am not crazy enough to believe that everyone participating in this fast has accepted Jesus as Lord of his/her life. I mean, we are good at perpetrating. We are good at the habits of church and excellent at convincing ourselves that if we are just good people, we have Jesus not true. In order to have the kind of protection that Moses writes of in this scripture, we have to have accepted the son of God, Jesus, who was the final and perfect sacrifice who died a criminal’s death so that we might be reconciled to God. You can do that right now. It doesn’t take an organ, a preacher or a specific “prayer of salvation;” it simply takes your repentant heart and sincere acceptance of Jesus.
For those who have accepted Jesus, believe that our text today speaks to our daily walk with Jesus. It speaks to the protection and security that says, “no weapon formed against you shall prosper.” It announces that the Lord is your light and your salvation...so whom shall you fear.” It confirms that we are more than conquerors because the blood of Jesus covers us. It covers our homes. It covers our cars. It covers our finances. It covers our workplace. It covers our marriages. It covers our children. It covers our ministry. It covers our physical bodies. It covers our present. It covers our future. So be assured that today is a day to speak peace to crazy. God has already called it into order.
Reverend Dr. Susan H. Buckson
The Lenten Experience: a 40 Day Revival, 2017 Allen Temple AME Church Atlanta, Georgia www.susanhilaryllc.com
Tuesday | April 15, 2025
Isaiah 1:2-4, 16-20
2 Hear, O heavens, and listen, O earth, for the Lord has spoken: I reared children and brought them up, but they have rebelled against me. 3 The ox knows its owner and the donkey its master’s crib, but Israel does not know; my people do not understand. 4 Woe, sinful nation, people laden with iniquity, offspring who do evil, children who act corruptly, who have forsaken the Lord, who have despised the Holy One of Israel, [[who are utterly estranged!]]
16 Wash yourselves; make yourselves clean; remove your evil deeds from before my eyes; cease to do evil; 17 learn to do good; seek justice; rescue the oppressed; defend the orphan; plead for the widow. 18 Come now, let us argue it out, says the Lord: If your sins are like scarlet, will they become like snow? If they are red like crimson, will they become like wool? 19 If you are willing and obedient, you shall eat the good of the land, 20 but if you refuse and rebel, you shall be devoured by the sword, for the mouth of the Lord has spoken.
Intentional Examination
Re·pent /rəˈpent/ verb
Feel or express sincere regret or remorse about one's wrongdoing or sin
We have often been told to live life without regret. It is an encouragement to live fully, to create and embrace experiences, to try a new hobby, to say what we have been holding in…, and to ask the person we have admired on a date. We do not want to have to say that we missed out because of our apprehensions and fears. That is what it means when we hear live life without regret. And when we do, we can look back and see how we have been blessed through experience.
Yet, during this Lenten season, our intentional purpose is to examine our hearts and minds, our actions, and our proclivities for those behaviors (and thoughts) that are unpleasing to God and to repent to express sincere regret or remorse. This season is about us searching for moments when we do not recognize that God has cared for us and that we have turned our backs on God, opting to lean to our own understanding instead of acknowledging God’s sovereignty.
I am so grateful, as I hope you are, that God gives us a lifetime to wash ourselves clean of our sins because God loves us. But God abhors our sin. Verse 16 reminds us of this. God’s command is to “Get your sin out of my sight.” God wants us to wash ourselves to repent of our sins. It is difficult, but that is why God sent Jesus to follow as an example of what it means “to do good.”
Pray: God help me to purge myself of my sins that I knowingly commit. Remove my rebellious ways.
Reverend Dr. Susan H. Buckson Allen Temple AME Church
www.allentempleatlanta.org
pastor@allentempleatlanta.org
Wednesday | April 16, 2025
Luke 16:19-31
19 “There was a rich man who was dressed in purple and fine linen and who feasted sumptuously every day. 20 And at his gate lay a poor man named Lazarus, covered with sores, 21 who longed to satisfy his hunger with what fell from the rich man’s table; even the dogs would come and lick his sores. 22 The poor man died and was carried away by the angels to be with Abraham. The rich man also died and was buried. 23 In Hades, where he was being tormented, he lifted up his eyes and saw Abraham far away with Lazarus by his side. 24 He called out, ‘Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus to dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue, for I am in agony in these flames.’ 25 But Abraham said, ‘Child, remember that during your lifetime you received your good things and Lazarus in like manner evil things, but now he is comforted here, and you are in agony. 26 Besides all this, between you and us a great chasm has been fixed, so that those who might want to pass from here to you cannot do so, and no one can cross from there to us.’ 27 He said, ‘Then I beg you, father, to send him to my father’s house 28 for I have five brothers that he may warn them, so that they will not also come into this place of torment.’ 29 Abraham replied, ‘They have Moses and the prophets; they should listen to them.’ 30 He said, ‘No, father Abraham, but if someone from the dead goes to them, they will repent.’ 31 He said to him, ‘If they do not listen to Moses and the prophets, neither will they be convinced even if someone rises from the dead.’ ”
Hear from God
Hearing God’s voice takes a willingness a desire to hear God speak. We must also discern that God's speaking is often a metaphorical experience. What does this mean? It means that God speaks in many ways. God speaks through our reading of scripture, through others, through our body’s response (those hairs standing up on the back of your next that is God), and through dayto-day experiences.
In our text, Jesus shares a parable about a rich man who has died and gone to the place of the dead. God consistently told this rich man to be compassionate and show love to others, especially those in need. Wait, you do not see that in the text? Look closer; God did not say it, per se, but God did speak it through Lazarus, the poor man who was covered with sores lying at the gate.
Can you imagine the nose-up-in-the-air attitude the rich man had to have to walk boldly by Lazarus every day and not hear Jesus’ command for him to feed the hungry, give drink to the thirsty, invite the stranger in, clothe the naked, and care for the sick, and visit those in prison? (Matthew 25:35-36). Likewise, we are called to hear God in what we see each day.
So today, see what God is saying to you through your experience. Pay close attention to how you hear the Lord in your heart giving you direction particularly as it relates to moments of gratitude for all the Lord has done.
Pray God, help me to listen. Help me to repent. Help me to appreciate my life.
Reverend Dr. Susan H. Buckson Allen Temple AME Church www.allentempleatlanta.org pastor@allentempleatlanta.org
Thursday | April 17, 2025 ӏ Maundy Thursday
John 13:34
I give you a new commandment, that you love one another. Just as I have loved you, you also should love one another
Grace and Humility
Today we remember Jesus’ final night with His disciples, the Last Supper, and the commandment he gave them to love as he loved. Love was not just a word to Jesus; it was an act. He knelt and washed their feet, showing humility. He broke the bread and shared the cup, foreshadowing his sacrifice.
As we reflect, are we loving as Jesus commanded? Do we serve humbly, forgive freely, and care selflessly? Love requires action, even when it is difficult. Jesus loved even Judas, who would betray him.
Tonight, let us pause and receive Christ’s love anew. Let his example shape how we love others through service, sacrifice, and grace. As we prepare our hearts for Good Friday, may we embrace the depth of his love and share it with the world.
Prayer: Lord, teach me to serve with humility and give with a selfless heart.
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Friday | April 18, 2025 ӏ Good Friday
1 Peter 2:24
He himself bore our sins in his body on the cross, so that, having died to sins, we might live for righteousness; by his wounds you have been healed.
The Hope in Sacrifice
Good Friday is a solemn day of remembrance, a day when we stand in the shadow of the cross and contemplate the depth of Christ’s sacrifice. Jesus, the sinless Lamb of God, willingly bore the weight of our sins so that we might be reconciled to God. His suffering was not just physical but spiritual, as he took upon himself the burden of the world’s brokenness.
At the cross, love and justice met. Jesus’ outstretched arms testify to a love so deep that He endured betrayal, mockery, and agony for our redemption. As we reflect today, let us not turn away from the pain of the cross but see in it the ultimate expression of grace. His wounds bring healing, His death brings life, and Christ’s sacrifice offers us hope.
What does the cross mean to you? Does it remind you of the cost of sin and the price of love? May we respond to this love with gratitude, repentance, and a renewed commitment to live for Christ.
Pray: Jesus, help me to never take your sacrifice for granted.
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Saturday | April 19, 2025 ӏ Holy (Silent) Saturday
Matthew 6:7-15
7 “When you are praying, do not heap up empty phrases as the gentiles do, for they think that they will be heard because of their many words. 8 Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him. 9 “Pray, then, in this way: Our Father in heaven, may your name be revered as holy. 10 May your kingdom come. May your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. 11 Give us today our daily bread. 12 And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. 13 And do not bring us to the time of trial, but rescue us from the evil one. 14 “For if you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you, 15 but if you do not forgive others, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.
Release It
Grudge /ɡrəj/ noun
a persistent feeling of ill will or resentment resulting from a past insult or injury "She held a grudge against her former boss."
I have defined grudge so that you will be very clear on what to call that feeling you are harboring toward a person or even from an experience you have had. It is holding you back from receiving what God has for you in this season of your life.
We would like to believe that we live a life free of grudges, that we are evolved enough not to allow people “to get under our skin." However, when it comes to the nuances of life, we each have that one person (or maybe several) who, let’s face it, “gets on our last name.” Go on free yourself call their name(s). It is not the point whether or not their negative engagement with you is intentional. Your release of the resentment is.
Likewise, there have been situations in our lives that continue to bring us angst. These experiences may linger in our spirit and show up when we are faced with the same mix of circumstances (i.e. walking to the podium to speak, going home for the holidays, returning for (or refusing to return for) a reunion, not agreeing to participate because you did not get the recognition that you deserved, refusing to allow yourself to be loved because of past relationships it is a long list). We tend not to think of grudges in this way, but the truth is that past hurts, particularly those that come from experiences not brought on by any particular person, haunt our future.
During this Passion Week, be encouraged to know that Jesus has provided a focus for us to release ourselves, others, and our circumstances from ill will and resentment resulting from a past insult or injury. Christ has so much more for you if you would but follow him to forgiveness.
Pray: God, help me to forgive as you have forgiven me.
Reverend Dr. Susan H. Buckson Allen Temple AME Church www.allentempleatlanta.org pastor@allentempleatlanta.org
Sunday | April 20, 2025
Matthew 28:6
He is not here, for he has been raised, just as he said. Come, see the place where he lay.
There isAlways Hope in Jesus
Today commemorates the triumphant declaration that Jesus Christ is alive! The grave could not hold him, and death was defeated. With Jesus’ resurrection, he proved that sin and darkness do not have the final word life and hope reign forever.
For the disciples, the empty tomb was first met with fear and confusion, but soon, joy and amazement replaced their sorrow. The risen Christ met them where they were, speaking peace and commissioning them to share the good news. Today, he meets us too, offering new life, restored hope, and victory over sin.
What does the resurrection mean for you? It means that no matter how broken, lost, or weary you feel, there is always hope in Jesus. The same power that raised Jesus from the dead is at work in our lives, transforming hearts and calling us to walk in his light.
Let us celebrate with joy Christ is risen! And because Jesus lives, we, too, have the promise of eternal life.
Pray: Risen Lord, fill my heart with the joy of your resurrection and help me to live as a witness to your love and power.
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Monday | April 21, 2025
John 20:21
Jesus said to them again, ‘Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, so I send you.
An Invitation to Transformation
The joy of Resurrection morning is still fresh, but what happens the day after? The resurrection was not just a one-day celebration; it was the beginning of a new way of life. Jesus’ victory over death changes everything not just for yesterday, but for today and every day to come.
After rising from the grave, Jesus appeared to His disciples, speaking peace into their fears and sending them out with a mission. He calls us, too, to live in the power of the resurrection. The question is: How will we respond? Will we go back to life as usual, or will we walk forward in faith, sharing his love and living as his disciples?
The resurrection is an invitation to transformation. Christ has conquered sin and death, and He calls us to live as people of hope. Let us carry Easter’s joy beyond the empty tomb and into our daily lives, sharing His peace and proclaiming His name.
Pray: Risen Lord, fill me with your peace, and send me into the world to share your love.
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Tuesday | April 22, 2025
Luke 15:31-32
31 Then the father said to him, ‘Son, you are always with me, and all that is mine is yours. 32 But we had to celebrate and rejoice, because this brother of yours was dead and has come to life; he was lost and has been found.’ ”
You Have Everything You Need
When is enough enough?
The question is really about recognizing how God has blessed you. While our scripture reading would have us believe that the question is about being content with what we have, the psychology behind Jesus’ parable reaches far beyond what we have to a deeper place of self-awareness to appreciate who we are.
We have been conditioned, particularly in the capitalistic U.S. context, to believe that having refers to material possessions. The more we have, the greater we are. The more we own, the more powerful we become. However, the kingdom of God is very contrary to this. God’s kingdom demands that we leave our nets behind and follow Jesus. God’s kingdom declares that we are to deny ourselves (Luke 9:23). God’s kingdom requires that we give up to gain. (Luke 18: 18-30 et al)
Embracing the concept that you have everything you will ever need is challenging. Could it be that we do not believe that God gives us God’s best every day? In sunshine or rain, through heartache and pain, God gives us everything let’s say that again together: “God gives us everything” we need to do what we do and say what we say. Like the older son, we too must learn to walk in Christ and dwell in God’s presence (when we “stay with God”), and we lack nothing (everything God has is ours.) Well, at least that is what the father says to the older son, who feels like he has been shortchanged his entire life.
God makes provision for you every day, and today is no different. You are a child of God (saved or not). God is not only watching and waiting for you from a distance when you have lost your way, but also, God has already given you every good thing look around and thank God for life and more.
Pray God, help me to recognize the wealth that you have already given me and never let me squander it.
Reverend Dr. Susan H. Buckson Allen Temple AME Church
www.allentempleatlanta.org
pastor@allentempleatlanta.org
Wednesday | April 23, 2025
Exodus 17:3-7
3 But the people thirsted there for water, and the people complained against Moses and said, “Why did you bring us out of Egypt, to kill us and our children and livestock with thirst?” 4 So Moses cried out to the Lord, “What shall I do for this people? They are almost ready to stone me.” 5 The Lord said to Moses, “Go on ahead of the people and take some of the elders of Israel with you; take in your hand the staff with which you struck the Nile and go. 6 I will be standing there in front of you on the rock at Horeb. Strike the rock, and water will come out of it, so that the people may drink.” Moses did so, in the sight of the elders of Israel. 7 He called the place Massah and Meribah because the Israelites quarreled and tested the Lord, saying, “Is the Lord among us or not?”
Dealing WithAdjustments
I am sure by now we have each had to deal with our own adjustments, tests and trials. That is certainly understandable. As we read each of our scriptures for today, we realize that such tests have come throughout biblical history. So much so, that Moses saw the need to name a place after it Massah! Now that’s deep. You know now, the fast is becoming less about what we eat physically and more about what we are feeding on spiritually. If we or those around us can see now difference in us spiritually if the fruits of the spirit are not plumping up for harvest, then something is wrong and we have just been going through the motions because we heard about Lent and we know that “traditionally” we are supposed to “give up something for Lent.” For that matter, we could just do the Easter gleaner and give up a quarter a day. Just tellin’ it like it is. There must be a change! There must be an awakening...and it comes through Massah! Begin to recognize your Massahs and call them what they are only a test! Remember, even Jesus was tested...and thank God that he chose to endure it. That has given us the blessed assurance that we can also endure. And thanks be to God that when we fall (as we surely will), we are not condemned for falling, but shepherded to our feet to stand tall. Praise the Lord!
Reverend Dr. Susan H. Buckson Allen Temple AME Church
38 Now as they went on their way, he entered a certain village where a woman named Martha welcomed him.39 She had a sister named Mary, who sat at Jesus’ s feet and listened to what he was saying. 40 But Martha was distracted by her many tasks, so she came to him and asked, “Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to do all the work by myself? Tell her, then, to help me.” 41 But the Lord answered her, “Martha, Martha, you are worried and distracted by many things, 42 but few things are needed indeed only one. Mary has chosen the better part, which will not be taken away from her.”
The Right Choice
Our text reveals a time when Jesus Christ wanted to demonstrate what is important in our lives because he knew that most people prioritize material things.
That was clearly seen when he arrived at Martha's home where he was welcomed and make him sit on the chair without giving him more time instead, she was busy preparing food for Him which is material thing, thinking that that was the best thing ever. This is what we do nowadays we don't give Jesus Christ enough time; rather, we give more time to other material things that we can temporarily benefit from. We should focus on paying more attention to Jesus Christ and listening to him first. When we do this, all the good things will follow us, and we will have internal life.
And it was good that Mary realized that it is good to be close to Jesus Christ. It frustrated Martha that her sister Martha was not working, and she reported this to Jesus Christ, thinking that she was doing better than her sister. Jesus clearly stated that Mary has chosen the best thing that cannot be taken away from her. Mary did the right thing because she knew that It is good to follow Jesus Christ.
It is good to be close to Jesus because what we can receive from him cannot be taken away. So let's choose the best thing; let's choose to grow closer to Jesus Christ, who is our Savior.
Mrs. Safira Clara Kambanizithe Christ Our Redeemer AME Church Zomba District, Malawi South Conference safiragulule@yahoo.com
Friday | April 25, 2025
John 8:31-32
Then Jesus said to the Jews who had believed in him, “If you continue in my word, you are truly my disciples, 32 and you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free.”
The Truth Shall Set You Free
In John 8:31-32, Jesus speaks about a firm freedom that only God can provide, which is given only to those who believe and are faithful to his truth. The surrounding verses clarify that Christ talks about freedom from guilt and the enslaving power of sinful behavior patterns. Jesus, the great liberator, sets the believer free from the bondage of sin, self-glorification, death, and destruction. He breaks the strong chains of sin that bind and blind us.
For Jesus to save us, we must confess with our mouths that Jesus is Lord and believe in our hearts that God raised Him from the dead, and we should be saved. For with the heart, one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth, confession is made unto salvation. Do not conform to the pattern of this world but be transformed by renewing your mind. Then, you can test and approve God's good, pleasing, and perfect will. God wants us to speak the truth because we have been redeemed, brought with a price when God’s Son Jesus died for our sins. Don't be afraid to talk about the truth; trust God, who will deliver you.
Pray: God deliver me from the fear of confession unto salvation.
Reverend James B. Oliver Shiloh AME Church Manning, South Carolina kayla6282003@yahoo.com
Saturday | April 26, 2025
Proverbs 65:8
Those who live at earth’s farthest bounds are awed by your signs; you make the gateways of the morning and the evening shout for joy.
Shout For Joy
My Creator is jealous for me and My Creator makes the gateways of the morning and the evening shout for joy. God loves us so much, and he created us to experience joy. Children seem to be so carefree and naturally know how to always experience joy. They take delight in the smallest of things. As adults, we sometimes take life too seriously. Amid our responsibilities, we may wonder where our joy has gone.
Then I remember how God loves me, and I know that joy is never lost. Sometimes we lose sight of it. After deciding to laugh and play, I returned to my natural state of joy. As I enjoy a nice walk on a pleasant day, sit inside reading a book, or listen to music on a not-so-pleasant day, I smile inside and outside. I remember how great our God is and my joy bubbles up and overflows.
Pray: God, thank you for providing joy unspeakable.
Reverend Joyce W. Yancy St. John AME Church Memphis, Tennessee stjohnamememphis@gmail.com
Sunday | April 27, 2025
Proverbs 4:7
The beginning of wisdom is this: get wisdom, and whatever else you get, get insight.
First Things First
Wisdom comes from You, and the Word says wisdom is the principal thing. As I begin my day, I seek Your wisdom and guidance. Before I get out of bed I pursue Your knowledge. James 1:5 (NKJV) says, “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him.” I come today as humbly as I know how asking for wisdom to operate my business. I ask for understanding to effectively balance running my business with maintaining my relationships (my relationship with my spouse, with my children, with my parents, with my friends, and with my employees).
I strive to begin and end each day with prayer and praise, to gain clarity on how to prepare and prioritize my day to maximize productivity and achieve optimal performance for Your glory and my good. Allow your wisdom to work through me to inspire, edify, and encourage every customer (client, congregant, reader, etc.) in my sphere of influence. As I daily follow these wisdom principle pairs of prayer and praise, preparation and prioritization, and productivity and performance, may goodness and mercy follow me. As I make the main thing the main thing, I trust that You, Lord, will make my way prosperous and give me good success (Joshua 1:8 NKJV).
Pray: Help me seek your face first in all things today.
Reverend Joyce W. Yancy St. John AME Church Memphis, Tennessee stjohnamememphis@gmail.com www.stjohnamememphis.org
Monday | April 28, 2025
Proverbs 3:5
Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not rely on your own insight.
In God We Trust
TRUST God to protect you every day. TRUST God to answer your prayers. TRUST God to provide all of your needs and, also, some of your wants. TRUST God to watch over you as you work, as you travel, and wherever you are no matter what you are doing. TRUST God to favor your loved ones around the world. Just lean on God, and TRUST God to deliver promises by His timeline and God’s will. Hallelujah!"
Mrs. Harmon Rowley
The New Allen Memorial AME Church-WMS Franktown, Virginia honeybea39@msn.com
Tuesday | April 29, 2025
2 Corinthians 12:9
9 but he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for power is made perfect in weakness.” So I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me.
Finding Strength in Weakness
In times of weakness, it’s natural to feel discouraged or overwhelmed. Yet, God reminds us that God’s strength shines most brightly when we feel weak. Our limitations are an opportunity for God to reveal God’s power and grace in our lives. When we surrender our struggles to God, we allow God’s strength to work through us, giving us the courage to keep moving forward. God has a plan for each of us, even when we can’t see it clearly. Sometimes, God’s timing doesn’t match our expectations, leading us to feel anxious or uncertain. But He invites us to trust in His perfect timing and God’s plans for our lives. When we surrender our timelines to God, we can find peace in knowing that God is in control and is working all things for our good.
Pray: Lord, thank you for your grace that sustains me.
Reverend Vernon H. Peters Allen Memorial AME Church Brooklyn, New York vpeters225@aol.com
Wednesday | April 30, 2025
Isaiah 55:6
Seek the Lord while he may be found; call on him while he is near.
AFlat Tire
As we drove home recently the car suddenly started bumping along… with so much stuff blowing around the road we thought we were dragging something - nope the tire was going flat… well, by God’s grace we made it to a gasoline station and changed to a spare… you know, that doughnut that makes me worry… There are specific instructions for that doughnut such as- don’t drive over x miles per hour and only travel 60 miles and get a new tire as soon as possible. As it was late, all we could do was pray
So why is it when we are in a jam we decide to pray and follow directions? Why is it when we determine that we know best - prayer is secondary and following directions is optional - but let something happen - then we talk to God- to which He could respond - I’ve been here all the time.
Isaiah 55:6 says, “Seek the Lord while he may be found; call on him while he is near.”
Do not wait until something happens, pray daily and listen for God to speak. Life will be much easier - even when challenges are present.
Pray: God help me to prepare for you have before me.
Reverend Terrilisa Durham Bauknight Bethel AME Church Boonton, New Jersey revtdb395@aol.com
