2024 Lenten Devotional 40 Days To Life

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3315 S. Bryan Rd. | Brandon, FL 33511 813.689.6849 | www.saumc.net Sunday Worship 8:15 + 9:45 + 11:15 a.m. | Live Stream at 9:45 + 11:15 a.m.

ISAIAH 58:6-9 NIV “IS NOT THIS THE KIND OF FASTING I HAVE CHOSEN: TO LOOSE THE CHAINS OF INJUSTICE AND UNTIE THE CORDS OF THE YOKE, TO SET THE OPPRESSED FREE AND BREAK EVERY YOKE? IS IT NOT TO SHARE YOUR FOOD WITH THE HUNGRY AND TO PROVIDE THE POOR WANDERER WITH SHELTER — WHEN YOU SEE THE NAKED, TO CLOTHE THEM, AND NOT TO TURN AWAY FROM YOUR OWN FLESH AND BLOOD? THEN YOUR LIGHT WILL BREAK FORTH LIKE THE DAWN, AND YOUR HEALING WILL QUICKLY APPEAR; THEN YOUR RIGHTEOUSNESS WILL GO BEFORE YOU, AND THE GLORY OF THE LORD WILL BE YOUR REAR GUARD. THEN YOU WILL CALL, AND THE LORD WILL ANSWER; YOU WILL CRY FOR HELP, AND HE WILL SAY: HERE AM I.”

40 Days to Life

Lenten Devotional

AN INVITATION TO JOURNEY WITH US The Christian season of Lent begins on Ash Wednesday, February 14. This year we are naming the Lenten season, 40 Days to Life: The Disciple’s Journey to Easter.

For this Lenten season, we will use the 40 days of Lent to spend time reading scripture in the Book of Mark as an intentional practice of discipleship. The ultimate purpose of Mark’s Gospel is to present and defend Jesus’ universal call to discipleship. For Mark, discipleship is essentially a relationship with Jesus.

Mark teaches us that a relationship includes trusting Jesus, confessing him, observing his conduct, and following his teaching. For each weekday, we will provide scriptural readings along with a short commentary that will take us through the book of Mark by Easter.

Pastors, Gary & Jayne Rideout www.saumc.net FOLLOW US ON SOCIALS @ St. Andrew’s UMC Brandon

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DISCIPLESHIP CHALLENGE 40 DAYS TO LIFE During the season of Lent, we are challenging ourselves to make a sacrifice. This is based on the teaching of Isaiah 58 when Israel complained to God that He did not appreciate their fasting. This passage speaks of the kind of fast that God finds pleasure in: “What I’m interested in seeing you do is: sharing your food with the hungry, inviting the homeless poor into your homes, putting clothes on the shivering ill-clad, being available to your own families.” Isaiah 58:6-9 Translation-The Message We are challenging ourselves during the season of Lent to give up one small pleasure each week and use the money you have saved to purchase a food item for the Food Pantry. Each week we will have a bin at the front of the church to collect your food items. Below is a list of the types of food the pantry accepts. Please no food with expired dates or perishable foods.

40 Days to Life

Lenten Devotional

THE SOAP METHOD

of journaling

Journaling is an excellent way to both record and process what God has spoken to us.

It's also a useful tool to use later to reflect on and review some of the "gems" that you have received. Without writing these down, you may forget those blessings and some very important lessons! While journaling is a very personal time with the Lord, you may want to share some of your daily devotions with your small group or mentors. Through discussion, you may be able to look deeper into what God is speaking to you, gain new insights and even encourage others. The SOAP method of journaling is a way to organize your daily thoughts and insights through Scripture reading.

S for Scripture | Read the Scripture reading of the day. Take time reading and allow God to speak to you. When you are done, look for a verse that particularly spoke to you that day, and write it in your journal.

O for Observation | What do you think God is saying to you in this scripture? Ask the Holy Spirit to teach you and reveal Jesus to you. Paraphrase and write this Scripture down in your own words in your journal. Add any observations of what God is saying through the Scripture.

A for Application | Personalize what you have read, by asking yourself how it applies to your life right now. Perhaps it is instruction, encouragement, revelation of a new promise, or corrections for a particular area of your life. Write how this Scripture can apply to you today.

P for Prayer | This can be as simple as asking God to help you use this Scripture, or it may be a greater insight on what God may be revealing to you. Remember, prayer is a two-way conversation, so be sure to listen to what God has to say! Now, write it out.

[Adapted from The Life Journal by Wayne Cordero]

40 Days to Life

Lenten Devotional

TYPES OF PRAYER Prayer is how we communicate with God to share our hearts and also pause to listen for wisdom and guidance. Prayer can be intimidating, and utilizing a model can make us more comfortable in prayer or invigorate our prayer life. Below are a few types of prayers. Check out more online at umc.org/en/content/re-energizeyour-prayer-life-with-a-new-practice

+ Breath Prayer The ancient practice of breath prayer ties a short, rhythmic prayer to our breathing. It's a simple and meaningful way to practice mindfulness. Begin by answering, “What do you need from God?” Then chose a comfortable name for God. Let those two words form your prayer spoken internally through your breath. [example inhale “peace,” ... exhale “Jesus.”] Learn more online at umc.org/en/content/breath-prayer

+ Walking Prayer By going on a prayer walk, we open ourselves up to God's guidance and transformation for the community, and for ourselves as God's hands and feet to those we meet. As you walk, pray either aloud in a quiet, conversational voice or silently and offer prayers of comfort, peace or blessing as you encounter different spaces and people in your environment. Learn more online at umc.org/en/content/praying-with-our-feet

+ Centering Prayer Centering prayer is a form of contemplative meditation that has ancient roots in Christianity. Chose a sacred word to be a symbol of your intent to focus on God. Find a quiet place to sit comfortably but engaged. Close your eyes and introduce the word gently, repeating it if necessary. If your mind wanders, return to your word. End with a short prayer of thanks. Set a length goal (and a timer if you want). If you are new to this method, aim for 1-2 minutes of centering time and work your way up to 20 minutes. Learn more online at umc.org/en/content/centered-and-present-today

40 Days to Life

Lenten Devotional

Lenten Devotional S t .

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WEEK ONE: FEBRUARY 19 READ MARK 1:1-20 (CEB) Commentary: Gary Rideout Here we are at the beginning of the Gospel of Mark. And it has a unique starting point. It does not start with the birth of Jesus, like the other Gospels. But Mark starts with the arrival of John the Baptist, the messenger who is sent ahead to announce the coming of the longawaited Messiah. The Lord is coming. The salvation of all humankind is on the brink of emerging. Their deliverance from the burdens of their broken and oppressed lives for which they have long awaited is imminent. Prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight. This is Mark’s way of saying, remember what Isaiah wrote? Well, it’s time.

Make ready your hearts and minds. Remove any obstacles in your life that would hinder receiving Christ’s message. Let us do the same as we embark on this journey through the Gospel of Mark.

40 Days to Life

Lenten Devotional

Reflection

DEVOTIONAL

SCRIPTURE Did you read the scripture that was listed?

INSIGHT Did the devotional of the scripture provide you with any new or valuable insights?

ACTION Should what you just read inspire you to take some kind of action? If so, what is it that you need to do?

PRAYER What does this devotion inspire you to pray about?

Is there... ...something to confess? ...a request to make? ...a reason to thank or praise God?

40 Days to Life

Lenten Devotional

WEEK ONE: FEBRUARY 20 READ MARK 1:21-45 (CEB) Commentary: Jayne Rideout This is a great passage that reveals the public Jesus who preaches, teaches, and heals constantly, meeting people in their brokenness and giving them just what they need. Yet we also see the private Jesus who goes off alone to recoup His strength, who asks those who are healed to not share their news, and who understands the reality of His ministry becoming more public. He is both fully human and fully divine. He is full of power and full of empathy for those He encounters.

40 Days to Life

Lenten Devotional

Reflection

DEVOTIONAL

SCRIPTURE Did you read the scripture that was listed?

INSIGHT Did the devotional of the scripture provide you with any new or valuable insights?

ACTION Should what you just read inspire you to take some kind of action? If so, what is it that you need to do?

PRAYER What does this devotion inspire you to pray about?

Is there... ...something to confess? ...a request to make? ...a reason to thank or praise God?

40 Days to Life

Lenten Devotional

WEEK ONE: FEBRUARY 21 READ MARK 2:1-17 (CEB) Commentary: Dick Bigelow Picture yourself as the paralyzed man in Mark 2. The prevailing belief was that the paralytic was being punished by God for either his own sins or a family member's sins. He had no hope of being cured ...

UNTIL Jesus took compassion on him. Our Lord forgives him his sins, which was THE HEALING that the man needed. The Pharisees and Scribes accused Him of blasphemy because only God could forgive sins, so Christ took it one step further and showed them that He had the power to forgive sins when He healed the man. In so doing, Jesus clearly let all know that He was the Son of God. Don't overlook something critically important about this miracle though. Once Christ had healed the man, He expected him to stand on his own two feet.

40 Days to Life

Lenten Devotional

Reflection

DEVOTIONAL

SCRIPTURE Did you read the scripture that was listed?

INSIGHT Did the devotional of the scripture provide you with any new or valuable insights?

ACTION Should what you just read inspire you to take some kind of action? If so, what is it that you need to do?

PRAYER What does this devotion inspire you to pray about?

Is there... ...something to confess? ...a request to make? ...a reason to thank or praise God?

40 Days to Life

Lenten Devotional

WEEK ONE: FEBRUARY 22 READ MARK 2:18-28 (CEB) Commentary: Susan Lewis One day, a group of people approached Jesus, including some of John the Baptist's disciples and the Pharisees. They questioned Jesus about why his disciples did not fast, unlike the followers of other religious leaders. Jesus, surrounded by his disciples, responded by likening their time with him to a joyous wedding feast, where fasting was not appropriate.

Many times, Jesus explained his teachings using analogies and metaphors. In this passage comparing them to new cloth that couldn't be patched onto old garments and new wine requiring new skins. This signified a fresh and transformative message incompatible with old legalistic traditions. Meanwhile, Jesus defended his disciples when they were accused of Sabbath-breaking for harvesting. He used examples, like the story of David and his men eating consecrated bread, highlighting the principle that the Sabbath was made for humanity.

40 Days to Life

Lenten Devotional

Reflection

DEVOTIONAL

SCRIPTURE Did you read the scripture that was listed?

INSIGHT Did the devotional of the scripture provide you with any new or valuable insights?

ACTION Should what you just read inspire you to take some kind of action? If so, what is it that you need to do?

PRAYER What does this devotion inspire you to pray about?

Is there... ...something to confess? ...a request to make? ...a reason to thank or praise God?

40 Days to Life

Lenten Devotional

WEEK ONE: FEBRUARY 23 READ MARK 3:1-19 (CEB) Commentary: Jayne Rideout There are two things happening in this passage. The religious authorities are getting angrier with Jesus and His miracles, and the crowds are growing larger. Amid it all, demons are recognizing who Jesus is and calling him the Son of God. Jesus commands them to be quiet. It is important to note that just because someone recognizes the hand of God, doesn’t mean they have good intentions. Jesus understood that their recognition of Him was not expanding the Kingdom of God.

40 Days to Life

Lenten Devotional

Reflection

DEVOTIONAL

SCRIPTURE Did you read the scripture that was listed?

INSIGHT Did the devotional of the scripture provide you with any new or valuable insights?

ACTION Should what you just read inspire you to take some kind of action? If so, what is it that you need to do?

PRAYER What does this devotion inspire you to pray about?

Is there... ...something to confess? ...a request to make? ...a reason to thank or praise God?

40 Days to Life

Lenten Devotional

WEEK TWO: FEBRUARY 26 READ MARK 3:20-35 (CEB) Commentary: Gary Rideout Both stories presented in today's gospel lesson push "hot buttons" for the reader. As the text opens, those who thought they had known Jesus the longest and the best -- his oldest friends and family -cannot comprehend all the stir and turmoil that now follows him.

Their conclusion is to diagnose Jesus as "out of his mind." The other “hot button” is the arrival of the religious leaders. Their rationalization for Jesus’ healings is that he is possessed by the devil. These claims continue their pursuit of attempting to invalidate him. They do so because Jesus is a threat to their authority. If we are truly to receive Christ in our lives, it will shake up our views on the source of true power, allegiances, and authority in our world.

40 Days to Life

Lenten Devotional

Reflection

DEVOTIONAL

SCRIPTURE Did you read the scripture that was listed?

INSIGHT Did the devotional of the scripture provide you with any new or valuable insights?

ACTION Should what you just read inspire you to take some kind of action? If so, what is it that you need to do?

PRAYER What does this devotion inspire you to pray about?

Is there... ...something to confess? ...a request to make? ...a reason to thank or praise God?

40 Days to Life

Lenten Devotional

WEEK TWO: FEBRUARY 27 READ MARK 4:1-20 (CEB) Commentary: Jayne Rideout This passage is a teaching moment from Jesus. Up to now, most of Jesus’ teachings come in statements that are a response to something that has happened. An event or the reaction of the crowds or religious leaders have led to teaching moments. Yet here there is no event. Jesus is simply teaching His followers using a parable. This was a common practice during ancient times because parables were about something that was familiar to everyone, like planting and growing. By using a parable about something that was familiar, it was easier to understand and grasp a new concept. As a result, Jesus was often called Rabbi, meaning He was a teacher of the people.

40 Days to Life

Lenten Devotional

Reflection

DEVOTIONAL

SCRIPTURE Did you read the scripture that was listed?

INSIGHT Did the devotional of the scripture provide you with any new or valuable insights?

ACTION Should what you just read inspire you to take some kind of action? If so, what is it that you need to do?

PRAYER What does this devotion inspire you to pray about?

Is there... ...something to confess? ...a request to make? ...a reason to thank or praise God?

40 Days to Life

Lenten Devotional

WEEK TWO: FEBRUARY 28 READ MARK 4:21-41 (CEB) Commentary: Leonard Henry Jesus taught using short parables with a hidden meaning. He said we don’t light a lamp to put it under a basket but that we put it on a lamp stand to light the whole room. The meaning is that we are to let our light shine in the world. We are not to be timid. Later Jesus and his disciples set sail across the Sea of Galilee. That night a storm arose terrifying the disciples, yet Jesus was asleep. They woke him afraid that they would drown. Jesus cried out “Quiet! Be still” and the storm calmed down. They were amazed at his power. The disciples were still learning who Jesus was – this man who could teach with authority, heal and now control nature. Jesus’ power can also calm and heal our lives.

40 Days to Life

Lenten Devotional

Reflection

DEVOTIONAL

SCRIPTURE Did you read the scripture that was listed?

INSIGHT Did the devotional of the scripture provide you with any new or valuable insights?

ACTION Should what you just read inspire you to take some kind of action? If so, what is it that you need to do?

PRAYER What does this devotion inspire you to pray about?

Is there... ...something to confess? ...a request to make? ...a reason to thank or praise God?

40 Days to Life

Lenten Devotional

WEEK TWO: FEBRUARY 29 READ MARK 5:1-20 (CEB) Commentary: Carrie Genter In this passage, Jesus meets a demon-possessed man who was living in a cave among tombs. He was so strong that chains could not contain him. But Jesus was stronger. This man was a danger to himself and others. When the man approached Jesus, the demons spoke and referred to Jesus as “Jesus, Son of the Most High God.” The demons begged Jesus for mercy because the knew his power. Jesus sent the demons from the man into a group of pigs nearby. The pigs raced off a cliff and drowned in the water below. Those tending the sheep spread the news of what Jesus had done, as did the man Jesus just saved. From this passage we learn that Jesus has authority over evil. When we are in dark places and filled with fear, we can call on God for his grace and mercy because nothing is more powerful than him.

40 Days to Life

Lenten Devotional

Reflection

DEVOTIONAL

SCRIPTURE Did you read the scripture that was listed?

INSIGHT Did the devotional of the scripture provide you with any new or valuable insights?

ACTION Should what you just read inspire you to take some kind of action? If so, what is it that you need to do?

PRAYER What does this devotion inspire you to pray about?

Is there... ...something to confess? ...a request to make? ...a reason to thank or praise God?

40 Days to Life

Lenten Devotional

WEEK TWO: MARCH 1 READ MARK 5:21-43 (CEB) Commentary: Jayne Rideout To best understand this passage, one must note all the things that could have blocked Jesus from healing. He is a long way away from Jairus’ home. When he finally arrives, she has already died. The crowd is grieving and wailing, with no hope. They even laugh at Jesus when he claims she is not dead, she is only sleeping. No faith, no hope. Yet Jesus heals. Within the other story of the woman who was bleeding, she is healed because of her faith. These two stories tell us that Jesus reads each situation individually and gives them what they need. He is not limited by their lack of faith. He has ultimate authority from God to bring healing.

40 Days to Life

Lenten Devotional

Reflection

DEVOTIONAL

SCRIPTURE Did you read the scripture that was listed?

INSIGHT Did the devotional of the scripture provide you with any new or valuable insights?

ACTION Should what you just read inspire you to take some kind of action? If so, what is it that you need to do?

PRAYER What does this devotion inspire you to pray about?

Is there... ...something to confess? ...a request to make? ...a reason to thank or praise God?

40 Days to Life

Lenten Devotional

WEEK THREE: MARCH 4 READ MARK 6:1-29 (CEB) Commentary: Gary Rideout Here we see Jesus returning to his hometown of Nazareth. But he doesn’t receive a warm and welcoming homecoming. In the previous chapter, Jesus has healed a man possessed by a demon healed a woman suffering from bleeding and raised a girl from the dead. They recognize Jesus as doing miraculous things, but they do not see them as exhibiting God’s presence nor do they recognize that God is the source of Jesus’ power and wisdom. His family was known to them.

He had grown up there. Their pride kept them from believing in and following Him. Jesus could not be a great prophet or even the Messiah since they knew all about Him. Even though at first, the hometown crowd was impressed by Jesus, they eventually rejected him.

40 Days to Life

Lenten Devotional

Reflection

DEVOTIONAL

SCRIPTURE Did you read the scripture that was listed?

INSIGHT Did the devotional of the scripture provide you with any new or valuable insights?

ACTION Should what you just read inspire you to take some kind of action? If so, what is it that you need to do?

PRAYER What does this devotion inspire you to pray about?

Is there... ...something to confess? ...a request to make? ...a reason to thank or praise God?

40 Days to Life

Lenten Devotional

WEEK THREE: MARCH 5 READ MARK 6:30-56 (CEB) Commentary: Jayne Rideout This is a great example of the empathy of Jesus. The people are hungry. That matters to Him. So, He instructs His disciples, do what you can. Figure out what resources they do have and be the means by which the crowd is fed. When they do this and Jesus blesses their work, there is more than enough. The second story reminds us that Jesus does not pass us by. Instead, when we cry out to Him, He not only encourages us, but climbs into the boat with us so we are not alone.

40 Days to Life

Lenten Devotional

Reflection

DEVOTIONAL

SCRIPTURE Did you read the scripture that was listed?

INSIGHT Did the devotional of the scripture provide you with any new or valuable insights?

ACTION Should what you just read inspire you to take some kind of action? If so, what is it that you need to do?

PRAYER What does this devotion inspire you to pray about?

Is there... ...something to confess? ...a request to make? ...a reason to thank or praise God?

40 Days to Life

Lenten Devotional

WEEK THREE: MARCH 6 READ MARK 7:1-23 (CEB) Commentary: David Moscrip In Mark 7:1-23, Jesus confronts the Pharisees' for elevating their own teachings and traditions, while ignoring the commands of God. They were more concerned about the external appearance of faith, rather than internal transformation. This passage invites us to examine our own hearts and ask ourselves “Am I putting on a show of religion or truly seeking to follow Jesus and his teachings?” Our desire should be to align our hearts and our motivations with God’s will, while laying aside our own. As we reflect on this scripture, let us seek a heart transformation, not just outward compliance. May we embrace humility, acknowledging our need for God's grace to purify our hearts as we continue in this season of Lent.

40 Days to Life

Lenten Devotional

Reflection

DEVOTIONAL

SCRIPTURE Did you read the scripture that was listed?

INSIGHT Did the devotional of the scripture provide you with any new or valuable insights?

ACTION Should what you just read inspire you to take some kind of action? If so, what is it that you need to do?

PRAYER What does this devotion inspire you to pray about?

Is there... ...something to confess? ...a request to make? ...a reason to thank or praise God?

40 Days to Life

Lenten Devotional

WEEK THREE: MARCH 7 READ MARK 7:24-37 (CEB) Commentary: Laura Whelan After the Jewish leaders opposed Jesus, he traveled into Gentile territory. Jesus could not keep his presence secret. People, amazed at his miracles and teachings, could not stop talking about him. Many believed. A Greek woman came to Jesus begging him to heal her daughter. Jesus initially rebuffed her request using a metaphor indicating his first priority was teaching his Jewish disciples (giving bread to the children). Her witty reply indicated understanding, but that she also believed in Him (“but even the dogs under the table eat the children’s crumbs”). She believed! And Jesus healed her child. This woman and the deaf and mute man and his friends from the other story, represent Gentiles who accepted the gospel. Jesus began his ministry among the Jews but Jesus came for All of us! Thank you, Jesus!

40 Days to Life

Lenten Devotional

Reflection

DEVOTIONAL

SCRIPTURE Did you read the scripture that was listed?

INSIGHT Did the devotional of the scripture provide you with any new or valuable insights?

ACTION Should what you just read inspire you to take some kind of action? If so, what is it that you need to do?

PRAYER What does this devotion inspire you to pray about?

Is there... ...something to confess? ...a request to make? ...a reason to thank or praise God?

40 Days to Life

Lenten Devotional

WEEK THREE: MARCH 8 READ MARK 8:1-21 (CEB) Commentary: David Craig In these verses, our Lord performs one of many miracles witnessed by those around Him during His time on earth. In His compassion and love for those earnestly seeking to hear His teaching, He instructs His disciples to feed them bread and fish. He knows that if those that seek Him are not fed, when they leave Him they will not make it home. Despite having only seven loaves and a few fish, a crowd of four thousand took, ate, and was satisfied. Through this miracle, our Lord demonstrates He is the Bread of Life (John 6:25-59). He is the only nourishment in this world that can give life to human beings who are dead in their sins and unable to come to God on their own.

He is the only food that can sustain us to live forever with Him and we see this every time we eat the body of our Lord in the celebration of the Lord’s Supper. In our faith and in this sacrament, we are spiritually fed by the Bread of Life, our Lord Jesus Christ.

40 Days to Life

Lenten Devotional

Reflection

DEVOTIONAL

SCRIPTURE Did you read the scripture that was listed?

INSIGHT Did the devotional of the scripture provide you with any new or valuable insights?

ACTION Should what you just read inspire you to take some kind of action? If so, what is it that you need to do?

PRAYER What does this devotion inspire you to pray about?

Is there... ...something to confess? ...a request to make? ...a reason to thank or praise God?

40 Days to Life

Lenten Devotional

WEEK FOUR: MARCH 11 READ MARK 8:22-38 (CEB) Commentary: Gary Rideout This is a pivotal point in the narrative of the Gospel. Throughout the Gospel, Jesus is straining for the disciples to understand who He really is. The long-awaited Messiah. The disciples see Jesus as a conqueror, but not a conqueror over sin and death. But a political conqueror, to vanquish their enemies, specifically the Romans. To bring the Hebrew people back to their glory day – the “good ole days” during the time of King David, when the Jewish nation was feared and respected. Jesus point blank asks Peter “who do you say that I am.”

And for the first time in the Gospel, a disciple gets it right. Peter says, “You are the Christ.” But this recognition and insight by Peter is shortlived. Jesus enlightens Peter on what kind of Messiah he is to be. One that is sacrificial and lays down his life for others. Peter cannot accept that. He correctly recognizes that Jesus is the long-awaited One. But there is still a journey to take before he understands what that entails.

40 Days to Life

Lenten Devotional

Reflection

DEVOTIONAL

SCRIPTURE Did you read the scripture that was listed?

INSIGHT Did the devotional of the scripture provide you with any new or valuable insights?

ACTION Should what you just read inspire you to take some kind of action? If so, what is it that you need to do?

PRAYER What does this devotion inspire you to pray about?

Is there... ...something to confess? ...a request to make? ...a reason to thank or praise God?

40 Days to Life

Lenten Devotional

WEEK FOUR: MARCH 12 READ MARK 9:1-32 (CEB) Commentary: Jayne Rideout Through these two stories we see a contrast of a mountain top experience and the reality of a real day to day issue of suffering. The experience on the mountain defies complete understanding of what is happening. Yet there is no doubt of the divinity of Jesus. Later, the story of the boy who most likely has epilepsy, is no less miraculous.

Here the power and the divinity of Jesus are equally evident as Jesus brings him healing.

40 Days to Life

Lenten Devotional

Reflection

DEVOTIONAL

SCRIPTURE Did you read the scripture that was listed?

INSIGHT Did the devotional of the scripture provide you with any new or valuable insights?

ACTION Should what you just read inspire you to take some kind of action? If so, what is it that you need to do?

PRAYER What does this devotion inspire you to pray about?

Is there... ...something to confess? ...a request to make? ...a reason to thank or praise God?

40 Days to Life

Lenten Devotional

WEEK FOUR: MARCH 13 READ MARK 9:33-50 (CEB) Commentary: Charisse Jones Sit around a big screen tv on any given Sunday during football season and you may find yourself entangled in a debate over which team or football player is the greatest. Whether it’s sports, music, movies, or who is the best cook at Thanksgiving, many of us have declared who or what is the greatest.

But, what does it really mean to be great? While this passage of Mark may appear as a series of isolated sayings, there is a powerful thread that runs through it if we hear it as a continuous exchange between Jesus and his disciples. This passage begins with a dispute over who is the greatest (9:33) and ends with Jesus’ call to live in peace with each other (9:50).

On their way to Capernaum, the disciples argue over the question “who was the greatest?” Jesus understood what the fuss was about—who is first? How will each of them rank in the kingdom of God? The back and forth between them is rooted in their own pride, envy, and power. When no one answers what the argument is about, Jesus sat down and called the twelve together for a teachable moment. He then shares the bottom line that will run through the rest of their conversation “Whoever wants to be first must be least of all and the servant of all.” Jesus places a child in the middle of the twelve and wraps the child in his arms to remind them of their mission, how others are the center of attention rather than themselves, and how they are to welcome others. This must have flipped all of the disciples’ wigs because for them, being in the kingdom meant rulership and first-person status. But, the disciples are reminded that their ministry is not about self, wealth, or power but to welcome others with the gospel.

John interrupts Jesus to announce how the disciples stood up for Him by hindering the ministry of another—someone who was exorcizing demons in the name of Jesus—“because he did not follow us” a privilege with Jesus, they thought, that belonged only to them. Jesus’ response is “don’t stop him! ” He clearly sees it is their pride and power-seeking that scandalizes one of Jesus’ “little ones”—someone doing good in the name of Jesus. This approach, Jesus said, leads to destruction. The better way is to remove all obstacles to authentic kingdom life than to live comfortably that leads to hell, which Jesus illustrates by saying, “It is better to enter the kingdom of God with one eye than to have two eyes and be thrown into hell.” Bottom line: Do you wanna be great? Then, you must become a servant and live in peace with all.

40 Days to Life

Lenten Devotional

Reflection

DEVOTIONAL

SCRIPTURE Did you read the scripture that was listed?

INSIGHT Did the devotional of the scripture provide you with any new or valuable insights?

ACTION Should what you just read inspire you to take some kind of action? If so, what is it that you need to do?

PRAYER What does this devotion inspire you to pray about?

Is there... ...something to confess? ...a request to make? ...a reason to thank or praise God?

40 Days to Life

Lenten Devotional

WEEK FOUR: MARCH 14 READ MARK 10:1-31 (CEB) Commentary: Jayne Rideout The teaching in these passages is not the ordinary understanding of how faith plays out in the lives of people living in the first century.

Jesus is presenting an alternative way of viewing faith. While there is a decree that gives men the ability to divorce their wives on a whim, Jesus challenges this understanding. He understands that in a patriarchal society, women need protection from their husbands. He narrows the parameters for divorce, teaching the men that women deserve their love and respect. He then uses the children as a teaching moment to help those around Him begin to better understand the role of faith in our lives. Our faith should be innocent and trusting. Finally, He addresses the question of the rich young man, reframing his understanding of the practice of faith. More obedience to the law will not guarantee a spiritual life, rather more sacrifice of self is the key to eternal life.

40 Days to Life

Lenten Devotional

Reflection

DEVOTIONAL

SCRIPTURE Did you read the scripture that was listed?

INSIGHT Did the devotional of the scripture provide you with any new or valuable insights?

ACTION Should what you just read inspire you to take some kind of action? If so, what is it that you need to do?

PRAYER What does this devotion inspire you to pray about?

Is there... ...something to confess? ...a request to make? ...a reason to thank or praise God?

40 Days to Life

Lenten Devotional

WEEK FOUR: MARCH 15 READ MARK 10:32-52 (CEB) Commentary: Jessica Adams While leading His followers into Jerusalem, Jesus tells His disciples again what events are to follow. Jesus will be condemned to death and rise on the third day. Two disciples, seeking power, ask Jesus if they can sit next to Him on the throne. Jesus knows they don’t understand the magnitude of God’s plan, and their request goes against His teachings and example. He tells the disciples that earthly kingdoms are about flaunting authority, but His kingdom is about being humble and serving others.

Later, a blind beggar named Bartimaeus cries out to Jesus for mercy despite the crowd trying to silence him. When called by Jesus, Bartimaeus throws his coat (probably his only possession), jumps up and comes forward. Bartimaeus tells Jesus he wants to see. Jesus replies, “Your faith has healed you,” and Bartimaeus chooses to follow Jesus.

40 Days to Life

Lenten Devotional

Reflection

DEVOTIONAL

SCRIPTURE Did you read the scripture that was listed?

INSIGHT Did the devotional of the scripture provide you with any new or valuable insights?

ACTION Should what you just read inspire you to take some kind of action? If so, what is it that you need to do?

PRAYER What does this devotion inspire you to pray about?

Is there... ...something to confess? ...a request to make? ...a reason to thank or praise God?

40 Days to Life

Lenten Devotional

WEEK FIVE: MARCH 18 READ MARK 11:1-33 (CEB) Commentary: Gary Rideout The beginning of this passage relates the events of Palm Sunday.

Jesus triumphantly rides into Jerusalem on a donkey. Those gathered threw their garments down and palm branches to make way for this king. The crowds shout “Hosanna.” But what is interesting about this passage is that it describes what happens the next day, on Monday.

What happened on Monday set the wheels in motion for what would happen the rest of the week, the road to the cross. Because on Monday, Jesus visited the temple. And what he saw made him angry.

His response was an act of defiance – he made a statement, an intentional statement knowing that it was going to rub people, especially the high and mighty ones, the wrong way. He shouts to all those gathered, that they have turned this place into a den of robbers. A den of robbers being a place to which robbers run when they want to hide. People were using the temple and its religious services to “cover up” their sin and hypocrisy. The religious authorities knew where Jesus was pointing his finger. At them. And this did not go over well with them.

40 Days to Life

Lenten Devotional

Reflection

DEVOTIONAL

SCRIPTURE Did you read the scripture that was listed?

INSIGHT Did the devotional of the scripture provide you with any new or valuable insights?

ACTION Should what you just read inspire you to take some kind of action? If so, what is it that you need to do?

PRAYER What does this devotion inspire you to pray about?

Is there... ...something to confess? ...a request to make? ...a reason to thank or praise God?

40 Days to Life

L eL ne tnet ne nD e D veov toi toi no an la l

WEEK FIVE: MARCH 19 READ MARK 12:1-27 (CEB) Commentary: Jayne Rideout Jesus is preparing the crowds for what will happen to him as he nears Jerusalem. He is using the teaching method of parable, and this incites the religious leaders because they understand they are the tenants in the story. This incident is followed by another group of religious leaders that are attempting to entrap Jesus. They are using a topic that is hotly debated. Jesus sees beyond their question into their intent. He is able to answer in a way that incites no one. Finally, we read about a third group of leaders that are trying to trip up Jesus.

Jesus replies that we will not always be limited by space and time and our earthy perceptions of relationship. We will one day live in a new dimension of life, a heavenly one.

40 Days to Life

Lenten Devotional

Reflection

DEVOTIONAL

SCRIPTURE Did you read the scripture that was listed?

INSIGHT Did the devotional of the scripture provide you with any new or valuable insights?

ACTION Should what you just read inspire you to take some kind of action? If so, what is it that you need to do?

PRAYER What does this devotion inspire you to pray about?

Is there... ...something to confess? ...a request to make? ...a reason to thank or praise God?

40 Days to Life

Lenten Devotional

WEEK FIVE: MARCH 20 READ MARK 12:28-44 (CEB) Commentary: Parker Keen The Jewish leaders began throwing questions at Jesus, trying to trip Him up and get Him to say something that might be considered blasphemy. In verses 28- 40, Jesus first establishes His relationship with His Heavenly Father, and how we His children are to truly worship only One God. And through that relationship, we are to have His Spirit that we might be able to fully love our neighbors. Not from our strength but through His strength. To live this out in our everyday life we should not be boastful about what we have done, showing off our prestige, but to care for others even when no one is watching.

Jesus closes this lesson reminding us that we are to give back to His ministry, not from our surplus, but from our first fruits, not for others to see, but to share our blessings with God for His glory.

40 Days to Life

Lenten Devotional

Reflection

DEVOTIONAL

SCRIPTURE Did you read the scripture that was listed?

INSIGHT Did the devotional of the scripture provide you with any new or valuable insights?

ACTION Should what you just read inspire you to take some kind of action? If so, what is it that you need to do?

PRAYER What does this devotion inspire you to pray about?

Is there... ...something to confess? ...a request to make? ...a reason to thank or praise God?

40 Days to Life

Lenten Devotional

WEEK FIVE: MARCH 21 READ MARK 13:1-37 (CEB) Commentary: Christine Werner In this passage Jesus is talking to his disciples after arriving in Jerusalem. He is describing many hardships that have taken place in the past as well as what is to come. He describes how there will be earthquakes, wars, famine, relationship strife and suffering faced by all of his disciples. It is amazing how timeless scripture is because looking at history and the news today much of what Jesus was warning his disciples about has been happening throughout human history and it continues to happen. This passage describes so much hardship but Jesus in his love for us gives us instructions, he tells us to keep watch. The question becomes how should we keep watch?

There is no better way than to keep watch with a community of disciples learning together through studying scripture, praying for one another, joining God in the work that he is doing around us, reminding one another of what is true and good. So let us keep watch together on this journey through Lent.

40 Days to Life

Lenten Devotional

Reflection

DEVOTIONAL

SCRIPTURE Did you read the scripture that was listed?

INSIGHT Did the devotional of the scripture provide you with any new or valuable insights?

ACTION Should what you just read inspire you to take some kind of action? If so, what is it that you need to do?

PRAYER What does this devotion inspire you to pray about?

Is there... ...something to confess? ...a request to make? ...a reason to thank or praise God?

40 Days to Life

Lenten Devotional

WEEK FIVE: MARCH 22 READ MARK 14:1-11 (CEB) Commentary: David Craig In these verses, our Lord, while at the home of a leper, was visited by a woman who used a very expensive ointment to anoint Jesus’ head.

She made the decision that this ointment, despite its exceedingly large monetary value, would be best spent in an act that honors Jesus. The disciples admonish her for this, feeling that it would have been better if she had sold the ointment and used the proceeds to support the poor. We also see Judas Iscariot strike a deal for the betrayal of Jesus in exchange for money. In this context, we find a striking contrast between the woman’s focus on humbling herself to honor and glorify our Lord and the focus of the disciples and Judas – physical concerns of the world and financial gain. Jesus recognizes the woman’s actions as an act of faithful devotion. He instructs the disciples to be silent and to recognize that this act was significant enough that it will be remembered alongside any proclamation of the Gospel.

40 Days to Life

Lenten Devotional

Reflection

DEVOTIONAL

SCRIPTURE Did you read the scripture that was listed?

INSIGHT Did the devotional of the scripture provide you with any new or valuable insights?

ACTION Should what you just read inspire you to take some kind of action? If so, what is it that you need to do?

PRAYER What does this devotion inspire you to pray about?

Is there... ...something to confess? ...a request to make? ...a reason to thank or praise God?

40 Days to Life

Lenten Devotional

WEEK SIX: MARCH 25 READ MARK 14:12:31 (CEB) Commentary: Gary Rideout This section of Scripture recounts the events of the Thursday before Easter Sunday, known as Maundy Thursday or Holy Thursday. The focus of the passage is on the Last Supper, the final meal of Jesus Christ and his 12 disciples before his arrest and crucifixion. They were meeting together in Jerusalem for their annual Passover dinner. A dinner with many rituals itself that commemorated the exodus of the Hebrew people from Egypt and how God had delivered them. Yet soon the disciples were taken for a jolt as Jesus went off script for the Passover meal. He began talking about how they would all scatter and that one of them would betray him. After the meal, the events start to unravel very quickly. But they have one more meal together, a meal that will transcend to our time. Jesus took the bread, blessed it, broke it, and gave it to them, and said, “Take; this is my body.” He took a cup, gave thanks, and gave it to them, and they all drank from it. He said to them, “This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many.” These words would live on through the liturgy of communion over the centuries to be repeated and lived out. Shared by those who have gone before us, by those all around the world today, and by those who are not yet born. It is something that binds and will bind Christians together to the end of the age.

40 Days to Life

Lenten Devotional

Reflection

DEVOTIONAL

SCRIPTURE Did you read the scripture that was listed?

INSIGHT Did the devotional of the scripture provide you with any new or valuable insights?

ACTION Should what you just read inspire you to take some kind of action? If so, what is it that you need to do?

PRAYER What does this devotion inspire you to pray about?

Is there... ...something to confess? ...a request to make? ...a reason to thank or praise God?

40 Days to Life

Lenten Devotional

WEEK SIX: MARCH 26 READ MARK 14:32-72 (CEB) Commentary: Jayne Rideout Jesus is overwhelmed with horror and anguish in the garden of Gethsemane. He may have even collapsed from the emotions He was feeling. Yet His friends could not stay awake. He is fully alone. Jesus turns to His father in honest desperation. Judas suddenly appears with the entire governing body of Jewish religious community. Judas greets Jesus as Rabbi, a title of respect, yet he is about to betray Him with a kiss. The detail of the young man that flees naked is only in the book of Mark, and why it is included is not clear. Jesus is taken before the Sanhedrin and false witnesses accuse him of crimes. Yet it is his own admission to being the Christ that seals His fate. Peter is still outside lingering when he moves closer to the fire to ward off the chill of the evening. It is there he is recognized as a follower of Jesus.

As the crowd begins to accuse him, he denies over and over any knowledge of Jesus. When he hears the cock crow, he remembers and begins to weep.

40 Days to Life

Lenten Devotional

Reflection

DEVOTIONAL

SCRIPTURE Did you read the scripture that was listed?

INSIGHT Did the devotional of the scripture provide you with any new or valuable insights?

ACTION Should what you just read inspire you to take some kind of action? If so, what is it that you need to do?

PRAYER What does this devotion inspire you to pray about?

Is there... ...something to confess? ...a request to make? ...a reason to thank or praise God?

40 Days to Life

Lenten Devotional

WEEK SIX: MARCH 27 READ MARK 15:1-41 (CEB) Commentary: Christine Schneidman The passage begins with leaders delivering Jesus into the custody of Pilate and persuading the crowd to choose Barabbas, a murderer, to be released.

Jesus, standing before Pilate, willingly accepts condemnation without offering a defense. They incite the crowd to demand Jesus' crucifixion, against his better judgement, Pilate yields to the crowd's demands. All while assaulting Him, soldiers mock Jesus by draping a purple cloak over his shoulders and placing a crown of thorns on his head. He is then led to Golgotha, also known as the Place of the Skull, with Simon of Cyrene carrying the cross. Despite being offered wine mixed with myrrh, Jesus chooses to endure the pain and suffering with full consciousness.

On the cross, Jesus faces further mockery from the soldiers, ridicule from others, and taunts from scribes urging him to save himself. When Jesus cries out at the moment of his death, the temple's veil, which separated the holy place from the most holy, seen as the very dwelling place of God, is torn in two from top to bottom. This act of God signifying Jesus' atoning death on the cross has opened the way into God's presence. The symbolic event was so apparent even the Roman centurion understood the significance and declared Jesus as the Son of God. This scripture reading vividly portrays Jesus' agony, his silent sacrifice, the fulfillment of prophecy, the reactions of those present, and most importantly, provides us with reflection on the profound significance of his sacrificial death.

40 Days to Life

Lenten Devotional

Reflection

DEVOTIONAL

SCRIPTURE Did you read the scripture that was listed?

INSIGHT Did the devotional of the scripture provide you with any new or valuable insights?

ACTION Should what you just read inspire you to take some kind of action? If so, what is it that you need to do?

PRAYER What does this devotion inspire you to pray about?

Is there... ...something to confess? ...a request to make? ...a reason to thank or praise God?

40 Days to Life

L eL ne tnet ne nD e D veov toi toi no an la l

WEEK SIX: MARCH 28 READ MARK 15:42-47 (CEB) Commentary: Dawn Wagner Jesus had willingly given up His spirit and now His body hung lifeless from the cross. Jewish law said that a body must not be left to hang overnight, although the Romans would often leave bodies to hang as a warning to others. Joseph of Arimathea had been a secret follower of Jesus. Now he boldly asked Pilate for the body of Jesus, taking a risk to publicly give his Lord a proper burial. When asked for the body of Jesus, Pilate confirmed with his own official that Jesus was indeed dead. Joseph did not have much time. The evening of the Sabbath was approaching, and it was against Jewish law to do physical work on the Sabbath. Joseph took Jesus’ body, wrapped Him in linen cloth, and placed Him in a tomb. Women looked on as Joseph rolled a stone across the entrance of the tomb.

40 Days to Life

Lenten Devotional

Reflection

DEVOTIONAL

SCRIPTURE Did you read the scripture that was listed?

INSIGHT Did the devotional of the scripture provide you with any new or valuable insights?

ACTION Should what you just read inspire you to take some kind of action? If so, what is it that you need to do?

PRAYER What does this devotion inspire you to pray about?

Is there... ...something to confess? ...a request to make? ...a reason to thank or praise God?

40 Days to Life

L eL ne tnet ne nD e D veov toi toi no an la l

WEEK SIX: MARCH 29 READ MARK 16:1-20 (CEB) Commentary: Gary Rideout This passage is the end of Mark’s Gospel. It is Easter Sunday morning, and we read that three women went to the tomb where Jesus was buried, only to find that the stone had been rolled away.

Inside the tomb was a young man dressed all in white, whom we assume is an angel. He tells them that Jesus is not here, he is raised. Then overcome with fear and dread they fled, not telling anyone.

Some of your Bible translations may say that the earliest manuscripts for Mark’s gospel, ends right here. At verse 8. That verses 9-20 were added at a much later by a different author to smooth over our discomfort with a missing Jesus. Here is the biggest day of the Christian year and what we read in the book of Mark leaves us a bit perplexed. The tomb of Jesus is empty, and then what happens?

Maybe this is what the author Mark was aiming for when he seems to so abruptly end the resurrection narrative.

Firstly, maybe the question that Mark demands of us, in his version of the resurrection story, is “What about the empty tomb?” “What does the empty tomb mean to you, to me?” Secondly, maybe it is telling us that the Easter story is not for those who have everything figured out. It is for those of us who are constantly seeking and searching, growing and learning, building faith and trust. Easter isn't for the "have-it-all-together-life-is-good" people. No, Easter is for empty people. The vast majority of us have a sense of emptiness in our lives whether it is the loss of a loved one, health issues, or struggles with life. We all know what it feels like to be empty. However, because Jesus is risen from the dead, it means death is not the end! It means a kingdom is coming that will bring an end to all war. It means poverty will someday cease, and everyone will have a seat at the table. It means sickness will be destroyed and there will be no more need for cancer centers or children's hospitals. It means that we won’t be overburdened with our sin. Emptiness in your life simply means you're the one Jesus rose for, and that you're ready to receive all that he has to give.

He is Risen, Risen indeed.

40 Days to Life

Lenten Devotional

Reflection

DEVOTIONAL

SCRIPTURE Did you read the scripture that was listed?

INSIGHT Did the devotional of the scripture provide you with any new or valuable insights?

ACTION Should what you just read inspire you to take some kind of action? If so, what is it that you need to do?

PRAYER What does this devotion inspire you to pray about?

Is there... ...something to confess? ...a request to make? ...a reason to thank or praise God?

40 Days to Life

Lenten Devotional

Worship MAR

24

Palm Sunday Services 8:15, 9:45* & 11:15* a.m. | Sanctuary

Palm Sunday commemorates the entry of Jesus into Jerusalem and begins the series of observances focusing on the events of Holy Week.

Our children’s choir will be singing at the 9:45 and 11:15 a.m. services.

MAR

28

Holy Thursday Worship Night 7 p.m. | Sanctuary Holy Thursday is the day in Holy Week on which we remember the Last Supper Jesus and the institution of the Lord’s Supper. This event will include worship and the sacrament of Holy Communion.

MAR

29

Good Friday Service 7 p.m. | Sanctuary On Good Friday we remember the crucifixion of Jesus and focus upon prayer and reflection of the death of Christ.

This will be a Tenebrae service.

MAR

31

Sunrise Service 6:30 a.m. | Church Lawn Experience an intimate outdoor celebration of our resurrected Christ.

Bring chairs or a blanket for our sunrise service on the church lawn.

MAR

31

Easter Sunday Services 8:15, 9:45* & 11:15* a.m. | Sanctuary Come proclaim with us that Christ has risen! Bring flowers to add to our flower cross located by the entrance to the Sanctuary. There will not be Kids Worship for K-5th grade on Easter Sunday. Activity bags will be available for kids and can be picked up on the way into service.

Our nursery and preschool classrooms will be open during the 9:45 and 11:15 a.m. services.

40 Days to Life

*Livestream available at saumc.net

Lenten Devotional

Events MAR

6

SPARK (Kids Ministry) Countdown to Easter In-Person at 6:30 p.m. | Children’s Center (N-PK), Powell Hall (K-5), Virtual at 6:30 p.m. | Zoom

Have fun, make friends, and grow in God’s wisdom with our Lenten series, Countdown to Easter. Series schedule: March 6: In-person | March 13: Virtual | March 22: Virtual | March 27: Virtual

MAR

6

Community Dinner 5:30 p.m. | Family Life Center (FLC) During Lent, we want to focus on breaking bread together as a community. We invite you to join us for our Lenten Community Dinner.

Adult meals are $8 each and child meals are $5 each. Reservations must be made by noon on the Monday before dinner at saumc.life.

MAR

16

Spring Work Day 8 a.m. - 1 p.m. | St. Andrew’s Campus Help freshen up our campus for Easter including landscaping around our FLC and the Children’s Center. Lunch will be served after the event.

Registration begins February 23. Register to volunteer at saumc.life.

MAR

24

Egg Hunt 9:45 and 11:15 a.m. | Church Lawn Join us for a wonderful morning of worship and family fun. We invite you to attend the worship service of your choice (9:45 and 11:15 a.m.), then join us on the church lawn for an egg hunt, crafts, food and photo stops. Registration begins March 1. Register at saumc.life.

40 Days to Life

Lenten Devotional

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A n d r e w ’ s

U n i t e d

2 0 2 4

A l l

M e t h o d i s t R i g h t s

C h u r c h -

R e s e r v e d .

B r a n d o n