(Tuesday)
 
Nants ingonyama bagithi Baba Sithi uhm ingonyama. While you may not be familiar with the written African words, you cannot help but recognize them when they are sung.
 
Picture this: The sun rises slowly over the African dessert as those powerful Zulu words call to the animals. Herds and flocks begin their trek across the dusty land and great plains. From ants to elephants, each instinctually feels the beckoning and shifts the day’s activities to move toward a great happening. A child has been born – a child who will live and learn, and will grow into their new king. Yes, it’s the opening scene to the movie The Lion King, and those calling words are the initial phrases from the Elton John classic The Circle of Life.
 
As the song moves into English, my heart is swept into the lyrics: It's the circle of life, and it moves us all through despair and hope, through faith and love, 'til we find our place on the path unwinding in the circle – the circle of life. Neither the movie nor the song is specifically intended to drive our Christian faith journey, but (as is the case with so many pieces of our world) I cannot help but find Jesus in the midst of the scene.
 
I have actually used several of the scenes from The Lion King in classes and studies. I think the last time I watched a part of the movie was during a confirmation class. There I find symbolism to be captured which lends itself to discussions of baptism and Jesus’ birth. My favorite scene is when the lion cub begins to recognize the reflection of his great father within himself. What a wonderful visual helping us to remember the light of Christ that is reflected in us for the world to see – a glorious example of the circle of life.
 
The circle of life is a beautiful description of our existence. As I contemplate life these days, I am particularly drawn to the sequence in Genesis as God covenants with Abraham over and over. The promises are gifts which are given to Abraham at no cost. God simply loves Abraham unconditionally and provides for him with no required action on Abraham’s part.
 
However, Abraham responds to God’s grace with obedience to the Creator. That freely-given obedient reaction results in an additional blessing. “All the nations of the earth will be blessed because of your descendants, because you obeyed me.” It’s a circle of blessing – a circle of life with Almighty God.
 
As Lent continues, my goal is to be contemplative, introspective and repentant. More importantly, I will be grateful for the circle of life which flows through me and my journey.
 
Obediently,
Pastor Beth
 
 PRAYER FROM PSALM 105
God, we praise you! When we gather together to worship you, we remember the goodness and unfailing love you have shown toward us, your people. Time after time, you have come to our rescue. Your love has sustained us through good times and bad. No matter what we faced – whether accident, illness, disappointment or death – You were there, encouraging, strengthening, and blessing. Even when we turned our back on you, you didn’t abandon us, but waited patiently for us to return, ready to welcome us with open arms.   Because we have known your love in the past,
we look to the days ahead without fear. No matter how uncertain the future may seem, we will continue to trust in your unfailing love, confident that you will guide us in the days ahead as you have guided us in the past. Amen.
 
KEY VERSES FROM TODAY’S SCRIPTURE READINGS
Psalm 105 – Give praise to God’s holy name! Let the hearts rejoice of all those seeking the Lord!
Genesis 22 – I will bless you richly and I will give you countless descendants, as many as the stars in the sky and as the grains of sand on the seashore. They will conquer their enemies’ cities. All the nations of the earth will be blessed because of your descendants, because you obeyed me.”
Hebrews 11 – Faith is the reality of what we hope for, the proof of what we don’t see.
 
For today’s full scripture readings, click here… https://www.divinestreet.org/lent-scripture.html
 
 

(Monday)
 
The woods are lovely, dark and deep,   
But I have promises to keep,   
And miles to go before I sleep,   
And miles to go before I sleep.
 
The familiar words of Robert Frost’s poem* indicate that the traveler is drawn in by the beauty of the forest. Woods are before him – woods where no responsibilities are waiting, and he could simply pause to be enveloped by the serenity of the night snowfall. He chooses, however, to continue his journey and return to his hard-working life before he can rest. Whether he means physical sleep or eternal sleep remains in the mind of the reader, but his promises are valuable enough to him that he urges his little horse on toward the tasks that lie ahead. He travels alone so no one is near to question his decision. He simply gives voice to his intention, and we believe he will live into his commitment.
 
Do you promise? Why is that an automatic sequel question at my house? If I say I will do something, I should follow through on that. If you say you will, you should. That should be the end of the conversation, but at our house the spontaneous follow-up query is never far behind. Do you promise? While growing up, my children were masters at the after-inquiry. I may give voice to my intention, but believing I will keep my commitment required a more clear guarantee.
 
Could you bring me a surprise from your trip? Of course! Do you promise?
Will you be home early today? Yes, I will. Do you promise?
Can we have pizza for supper? 'May' we, and absolutely. Do you promise?
 
Oftentimes, even fears were expressed in that question-and-promise formula. When will you die? Not for a very long time. Do you promise?
 
Children as young as four and five years of age are well acquainted with seeking promises. While they may not have the cognitive skills to fully grasp how to keep a promise, they are certainly experts at requesting them. For a child, a promise represents an assurance, a commitment, a feeling of security. For adults… not much changes.
 
 “Honey, could we run to the craft store tomorrow?” Honey – that’s what I call Bill when I’m about to ask for something he won’t love. I know craft shopping is not his favorite way to spend his time, and I know the request means a couple of hours out of his full day. Bill, however, struggles to say no to a honey-appeal. “Sure,” he answers.
 
His answer is affirmative, but the word he chooses doesn’t feel binding. He sort of said yes, but I feel as though his “sure” stands for “Shopping Usually Requires Endurance.” That means he’ll do it, but perhaps begrudgingly. If I am to lock in his decision and rest with my assurance that this is really going to happen, I only have one course of action. “Do you promise?” I need the commitment. The look I usually get means I don’t have to ask. Bill is always one to keep his word.
 
Of the nearly 9000 promises in our Bible, over 7500 of them are promises to us made by God. From Genesis to Psalms to Hebrews and all the way into Revelation, God is consistent in making promises. The best part, though, is that God doesn’t require the after-question. God is faithful to fully keep every single commitment… and does! The same yesterday, today and tomorrow forever, scripture continually tells us that God remembers all covenants and keeps his promises. What’s more, God never “sort of” says yes, never begrudgingly follows through, and never warrants our questioning. We don’t have to ask; God is always one to keep his Word. That’s the best promise of all.
 
Miles to go before I sleep,
Pastor Beth
 
* Frost, Robert. “Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening.” The Poetry of Robert Frost. New York: Holt, Rinehart and Winston Inc., 1969.
 
PRAYER FROM PSALM 105
Lord, we give thanks to you as we call on your name. May we continually make your works known to all people! Our very lives move us to sing praises to you. As we seek you, our hearts rejoice! May we always pursue you and your strength, and may we seek your face forever. Amen.
 
KEY VERSES FROM TODAY’S SCRIPTURE READINGS
Psalm 105 – His justice is everywhere throughout the whole world. God remembers his covenant forever, the word he commanded to a thousand generations, which he made with Abraham, the solemn pledge he swore to Isaac.
Genesis 21 – The Lord was attentive to Sarah just as he had said, and the Lord carried out just what he had promised her.
Hebrews 1 – You, Lord, laid the earth’s foundations in the beginning, and the heavens are made by your hands. They will pass away, but you remain.
 
For today’s full scripture readings, click here… https://www.divinestreet.org/lent-scripture.html
 
 

(Saturday)
 
I believe there is a difference between truth and fact. During a recent Bible study, I entered into conversation about the primacy of Scripture. I do believe in the inerrant Word of God, but I also believe that the God-inspired writing of people can sometimes offer differences. I don’t think the truth changes; I just suppose that when two people record the same information, they may offer the details with their own flavoring.
 
A chief example would be the creation story which is told in chapters 1 and 2 of Genesis and is understood as coming from at least two different sources. Both stories relate how the world was created by God, but they offer different orders of the days. Were cows created before people or after? Reading the two chapters might initiate a bit of confusion when attempting to reconcile that detail. While I cannot definitively determine the facts surrounding the events, I can unequivocally state the truth: God created and it was good. Rather than getting bogged down in facts, I choose to concentrate on that truth – a truth worth claiming and telling.
 
If something is true, shouldn’t it be told? Why keep it to yourself? I painfully learned the answer to that question as a young child. I had anticipated my birthday for several days. Today was going to be filled with family and cake and presents! The surprises contained within those wrapped boxes were the best part of the day, and I loved holding them and shaking them as I tried to guess their contents. As my younger cousin entered my house that afternoon, she handed me a gift from her family, and proudly announced “Here’s your Barbie!” I felt the air swoosh out of my excitement as if I were a birthday balloon that had been pricked with a needle. In that moment, I knew that sometimes the truth needs to be kept quiet if only for a while.
 
Jesus understood that as well. While walking with his disciples, he asked them what the local folks were saying about him. He followed up by asking for their own discernment. What did his closest friends think about him? What were they saying?
 
Peter is the first to speak and the only one whom Jesus allows to name him. “You are the Christ.” Peter may have provided this answer as a matter of fact, but this is also his truth. Jesus is the Christ, the long-awaited Messiah, the Savior. Now that the truth has been named, we will shout it from the mountaintops, right?
 
Not so fast. Jesus has other plans and orders them to tell no one about him. Why would he do that? Shouldn’t everyone know who he is? Isn’t it important that as many people as possible be told the truth? No, sometimes the truth needs to kept quiet if only for a while.
 
If Jesus allows folks to talk openly about him and the work he is performing, the miracle-seeking crowds will grow rather than the faith of the people. The religious leaders will interfere. Many interruptions are possible and may make his path impossible. Jesus doesn’t want to detract from God’s salvific plan in any way, and so it becomes necessary to keep things quiet – if only for a while.
 
Even in the biblical narrative, though, Truth always has a way of shining through in the end. I love the certainty of that. During these next few weeks of internal reflection and sacrificial living, I feel blessed with the knowledge of Truth in our midst and in our future. We may not be shouting yet, but hang on, Easter is coming… and that’s the truth!
 
Truly,
Pastor Beth
 
PRAYER FROM MARK 8
Jesus our Savior, people say many things about you. Even today some continue to say you are Elijah or one of the prophets, but I say you are the Christ, the Messiah, the Savior of the world. You are the one who came because you love me and died so that I would never have to face such a fate. Thank you for the gift of you and the gift of eternal life through you. Amen.
 
KEY VERSES FROM TODAY’S SCRIPTURE READINGS
Psalm 22 – All of you who revere the Lord – praise him! All of you who are Jacob’s descendants – honor him! All of you who are all Israel’s offspring – stand in awe of him!
Genesis 16 – The Lord’s messenger said to her, “You are now pregnant and will give birth to a son. You will name him Ishmael because the Lord has heard about your harsh treatment.
Mark 8 – “And what about you? Who do you say that I am?”
 
For today’s full scripture readings, click here… https://www.divinestreet.org/lent-scripture.html

(Friday)
 
When our son was three-years-old, he approached his father with an unusual request. We had made him an earlier promise that we intended to keep at a later date. At age three, though, he decided he was ready for a bold move; he felt he was too old to wait any longer. He wanted the training wheels removed from his bike. This was a bicycle that had been handed down through his older siblings, and we had watched his sisters struggle while learning to ride it. Even as five- and six-year-olds, the girls had endured many a spill on that bike. As parents, we were well aware that a child of three would be unlikely to master the art of balance well enough to ride without the leveling presence of those extra wheels.
 
In his persistence, however, Luke convinced his dad this was the right decision. His patience had grown thin as those two little wheels were slowing him down and getting in his way. He could no longer wait for us to act, and he felt he needed to be his own catalyst for change. Luke needed an adjustment he hadn’t considered until this time. It was a bold move, but he believed the time was ripe for the modification to our plan. As Bill removed the trainers and handed the bike over to our small child, I held my breath ready to run to the inevitable crash that was about to happen before my eyes. I wasn’t worried for skinned knees and elbows, but God please deliver that beautiful little face.
 
Luke smiled at his dad, climbed onto the seat, placed one foot on a pedal and pushed off with the other foot. As his second shoe hit the opposite pedal, he began to press down. His knees began to pump taking turns making the circle of boy power. In disbelief, I watched as my confident three-year-old son headed down the driveway and out across the yard without missing a beat. He had masterful control of his balance and was thrilled with his newfound freedom.
 
Sarai, Abram’s wife, had not been able to have children even though the Lord God had promised Abram many, many descendants. She had waited, but her patience had long grown thin. How could she, in her old age, bear Abram a child from whom all nations would come? Perhaps she needed to make a change herself and take an action she hadn’t considered until this time. So, in her ninetieth year, Sarai made a bold move. She believed she was too old to wait any longer so she stopped waiting and made a change. She gave her handmaid to Abram asking that he create his heir through this woman.
 
Was Sarai unfaithful? I’ve often considered that she was. She did not trust God to keep the covenant and provide offspring for her and her husband. Now, at ages 90 and 100, she didn’t want to wait for God any longer. She believed the fate of God’s people was her responsibility. A faithful woman would have continued to wait for God’s timing, I have reasoned. A woman whose husband was made a promise by the Almighty Creator should have realized that even on her death bed she could have given birth if that would be God’s will. Of course, Sarai reacted in an unfaithful way. How could I receive this story in any other way? She took matters into her own hands in an effort to do an end run around God.
 
However, as I read this story again today, my mind wanders to another option. What if Sarai had come to believe that the fulfilment of God’s covenant could only come if she were to make a personal sacrifice. What if Sarai gave up the idea that Abram would father many nations through her own womb? What if, in a selfless gift, she provided an alternative? What if she had convinced herself that this was the path God expected of her?
 
At once, I am able to receive Sarai’s role in a new and unanticipated way. Sarai is no longer the unfaithful but the one trying to be obedient – removing the training wheels of her situation and striking out in a new way. She is the one who is doing whatever she can to allow God to be at work by removing herself as the potential barrier to God’s plan.
 
We know from reading the rest of the story that, in the end, this was not a good move for her. Unlike Luke’s successful attempt to ride his bike, Sarai’s attempt did not result in a masterful command of her path. But, like Luke’s ride, Sarai was willing to try something new while searching for the best outcome.
 
I may not always take the appropriate path or completely understand how God is directing me, but my prayer is that I’m always ready and willing to try. Just as Sarai and Abram were blessed through the birth of their son Isaac even after their mistakes, may our lives be blessed as God provides for us and protects us even after ours.
 
Still training,
Pastor Beth
 
 
PRAYER FROM PSALM 22
I offer praise in the great congregation because of you, Lord; I will fulfill my promises in the presence of those who honor you. Let all those who are suffering eat and be full! Let all who seek you, Lord, praise you! Every part of the earth will remember and come back to you, Lord; every family among all the nations will worship you. Because the right to rule belongs to you, you rule all nations. Indeed, all the earth’s powerful will worship you; all who are descending to the dust will kneel before you; my being also lives for you. Amen.


KEY VERSES FROM TODAY’S SCRIPTURE READINGS
Psalm 22 – Let all who seek the Lord praise him! I pray your hearts live forever! Every part of the earth will remember and come back to the Lord; every family among all the nations will worship you.
Genesis 16 – Let the Lord decide who is right, you or me.
Romans 4 – But faith is credited as righteousness to those who don’t work, because they have faith in God who makes the ungodly righteous. 
 
For today’s full scripture readings, click here… https://www.divinestreet.org/lent-scripture.html

(Thursday)

I have never built a house, but I watch enough HGTV to know that it is a huge undertaking. From securing and clearing land to choosing finishes and paint colors, the endeavor has all the makings of an overwhelming task. Coordinating subcontractors who specialize in different areas can be time-consuming and burdensome, and missed deadlines can be devastating. The thrill of the challenge is often replaced by anxiety and dread, and the anticipation of the finished product almost always wanes during the process.
 
Our youngest child recently purchased his first home, and currently I am watching as he and his dad move walls and repair damaged areas. I even offer opinions on finishes and future plans – but only when asked! This may not be a new build, but there are moments when I wonder if new construction may have been less of a challenge. Either way, the work is necessary, is progressing nicely, and I continue to be excited about the end result!
 
The concept of building applies to others areas of my life as well. I’m not a house, but the way I approach life can be compartmentalized into different rooms and hallways, each with its own special layout and purpose.
 
With a little imagination, I can envision a kitchen space within me where my family gathers and my soul is fed. Ingredients such as contentment and thankfulness are carefully blended to feed my heart. From there a corridor lined with framed memories of fairness and loyalty leads me to a living room of wonder. This place is furnished with the couch of encouragement and a recliner of  reliability. In the corner is a fireplace providing me with a sense of warmth as the glow of truthfulness and understanding are cast throughout the room.

I pass through and enter into the next area immediately recognizing a lovely den designed for rest. Here I find a bed of humility, the comforter of compassion, and the pillows of kindness and love. Next door is a study filled with wisdom, orderliness and confidence where I can sit behind my desk of dedication in my chair of creativity to organize my thoughts and develop my plans.
 
As I move about my imaginary internal home, I recognize that the spaces align perfectly with my desired sense of self – a complete picture of who I want to be as one created in the image of Almighty God. I want to embrace my moral character and live into the qualities that make me a beloved child of God. Am I trustworthy and honest? Do I consistently offer respect and integrity? Would I be viewed as dependable and just?
 
Lacking in any of these areas simply means I am a fixer-upper, ready for the hand of God to begin my rehab. I have walls that need to be torn down and new finishes to install. I am convinced that God has the blueprints, as well as the carpentry and designer skills, to build me into a perfect dwelling for his Holy Spirit. The only remaining question is this: do I trust God to lead me through each of the rooms in my new construction?
 
“Abram trusted the Lord, and the Lord recognized Abram’s high moral character.” The result was the fulfillment of God’s promise that Abraham’s descendants would number as many as there are stars in the sky. That’s quite an overhaul for a human being who had already lived one hundred years! Talk about rehab!
 
As for me, I will pray that God continually sees me as a project worthy of the needed work. I want my internal rooms and my character to be progressing nicely, and I continue to be excited about the end result!
 
Building on faith,
Pastor Beth
 
 
PRAYER FROM PSALM 22
Let all who revere you Lord, praise you and stand in awe of you! You never despise or detest the suffering of the one who suffered, and you don’t hide your face from me. No, you listen when I cry out to you for help. Because of your faithfulness, I offer my praise to you! Indeed, all the earth’s powerful will worship you; all who are descending to the dust will kneel before you; my being also lives for you. Future descendants will serve you, and generations to come will be told about you, my Lord. They will proclaim your righteousness to those not yet born, telling them what you have done. Yes, let all who revere you, praise you! Amen.
 
KEY VERSES FROM TODAY’S SCRIPTURE READINGS
PSALM 22 – I offer praise in the great congregation because of you; I will fulfill my promises in the presence of those who honor God.
GENESIS 15 – Abram trusted the Lord, and the Lord recognized Abram’s high moral character.
ROMANS 3 – All have sinned and fall short of God’s glory, but all are treated as righteous freely by his grace because of a ransom that was paid by Christ Jesus. 
 
For today’s full scripture readings, click here… https://www.divinestreet.org/lent-scripture.html

(Wednesday)

We had been in the car a few hours when Bill broke the silence with something that obviously had been on his mind for a time. “Trip-trap, trip-trap. What story is that?” My husband’s brain can come up with some interesting questions. Such queries are usually asked when I’m trapped in the car with him and have no means of escape. “If you mean trippity-trop, that’s from the Three Billy Goats Gruff,” I replied. Dissatisfied with my answer, he declared the phrase was trip-trap. The ensuing conversation about a children’s story was spirited, and we giggled through our playful argument. Did I have the wrong tale? Was it an ogre or a troll under that bridge? What sound do goats actually make when crossing a bridge?
 
Several minutes of time gave up their lives to that conversation, and as it turns out, we were both correct. We had the right story, it was a troll, and the sound of goat hooves depends on who is telling the story. Having Googled ourselves into a satisfactory understanding, we settled back for a comfortable and quiet ride; and I patiently waited for the next abstract question to surface.
 
Knowing and telling stories is a wonderful practice filled with imagery which allows our minds to focus on life-truths. At first glance, the billy goat story is about the consequences of greed. As in all good stories, though, there is more to discover. What if the troll represents something within us that fights against our best selves? We all have trolls in our lives keeping us from crossing over to the greener grasses. Trolls can show up as self-doubt, fear, temptation, and any number of other barriers.
 
Jesus is no stranger to trolls. The Gospel of Matthew weaves a fascinating story that takes place just before Jesus begins his ministry. As he enters into the wilderness to empty himself, fast, pray and prepare for his upcoming journey, Jesus encounters the greatest troll of all. We know the story. Wilderness, fasting, temptation, Satan and ultimate triumph are a few of the primary characters in the narrative. Even the potential for greed is found as Satan offers Jesus three distinct methods to prosper apart from God’s true story. Yet here, as in the goat tale, there is something more to discover.
 
At first Jesus is offered an answer to his hunger. “Come on, Jesus, you haven’t eaten in over a month. You have the ability to turn these stones into food; what’s the harm in a little bread?” Jesus’ response is a quote from scripture: “Bread isn’t the key to survival. You have to depend on God.” Moving along – trippity-trop.
 
Next is the enticement to prove who he is. “You think you are really the Son of God? Jump from this magnificent Temple height and prove it. I know scripture as well as you do, and the text says that God will send his angels so you won’t even stub your toe. If you think you are all that, then show me.” Jesus quotes scripture right back with a simple: “Don’t test God.” Continuing forward – trippity-trop.
 
Finally, Satan opens Jesus’ eyes to view all the kingdoms of the world and all they have to offer.
Satan: “All this is mine to give as I see fit. Just align with me, and it’s all yours.”
Jesus: “Back off, you old troll. I am headed straight for my Father and greener pastures.”
At this point, Satan gets bumped right off the bridge and into the water while Jesus launches into his ministry journey.  Trip. Trap. Done.
 
I love how Bill’s silly questions inspire my brain to engage in the exploration of truth. I love how even trolls cannot keep Jesus from his appointed work. Mostly, I love how ultimate triumph is just across any bridge I encounter – even ones guarded by trolls. May I spend my Lenten days avoiding trolls and seeking the beautiful meadows of God’s love.
 
Thwarting trolls,
Pastor Beth
 
 
PRAYER FROM PROVERBS 30
O Lord my God, all your words are tried and true; a shield for those of us who take refuge in you. Help me, Lord, to never add to your words. I do not want you to correct me and show me to be a liar. Instead I ask two things of you before I die: please keep fraud and lies far from me! Also, only give to me the food I need rather than offering me poverty or wealth. I never want to feel full and deny you, but want only to depend on you for all my days. Amen.
 
KEY VERSES FROM TODAY’S SCRIPTURE READINGS
Psalm 77 – With your mighty arm you redeemed your people; redeemed the children of Jacob and Joseph. 
Proverbs 30 – All God’s words are tried and true; a shield for those who take refuge in him.
Matthew 4 – Jesus responded, “Go away, Satan, because it’s written, You will worship the Lord your God and serve only him.” 

 
For today’s full scripture readings, click here… https://www.divinestreet.org/lent-scripture.html
 
For a fun video of the Three Billy Goats Gruff story, click here… https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c9jEwK0Bfk0

​(Tuesday)

Clara is unhappy. I’ve known her for more than thirty years, and the first three were a lot of fun. We laughed and went places together. We enjoyed the same things and the same friends. We listened to the same music and ate the same foods. We even loved the same sports teams. I’m not sure when things changed or why, but these last twenty-seven years have been different. Clara is unhappy.
 
I have unhappy moments in life – doesn’t everyone? I have times when I feel sad or angry, and I sometimes feel that life isn’t going my way. I even get grumpy and difficult. Just ask my family; I am certain they will vouch for my occasional grumpiness. Times like that never last very long, though. I usually find a way to vent out my steam and return to a more even temperament. Clara is more like a pressure cooker.
 
Younger people today aren’t as familiar with the old pressure cooker. My daughter loves her Instant Pot and likely thinks this is an innovative cooking process. I’m pretty sure her sleek device is simply a new take on an old method. Pressure cooking began in the 1600s and has evolved over the years into what today is an electric Instant Pot. I don’t know much about Instant Pots, but I can tell you a bit about pressure cookers.
 
I remember summer days in my childhood when fresh green beans from the garden were placed into Mom’s special silver pot. It had a lid that locked in place and a funny little wiggle thingy on top that would sing when the food was ready. Mom would carefully maneuver that wiggle thingy to the side and release the built-up steam before opening the cooker to reveal its reward. I also remember the day when that lid didn’t seal correctly and rather than sing, the little wiggle thingy rocketed to the kitchen ceiling with a force that might have mortally wounded us had we been in its path.   
 
A pressure cooker works in two distinct ways. First, it allows the water inside the pot to reach a temperature above boiling which cooks food faster. Second, it creates pressure which forces moisture into the food also cooking faster and making the food more tender. Clara is a pressure cooker. Boiling mad is only the beginning of her heated outlook which rises quickly, and the pressure within her forces a dampness on her inner thoughts and well-being. Unfortunately, Clara’s release valve appears to be a bit faulty, and I’m often concerned that she will hit the ceiling wounding anyone in her path.
 
These days, a major difference between me and my friend is that there is a major difference between us. I don’t mean to offer a circular premise, but the trouble is just that: circular. Clara is unhappy that she is unhappy. She is also unhappy that I refuse to join in her unhappiness.
 
Over the years, Clara has often approached me wanting to know why all the bad stuff happens to her and why I get to be so happy. I think if Clara had been paying attention for the past thirty years, she might have noticed that we have one difference that is more distinct than any other. My goal in life is to love Jesus and chat with him as often as possible offering my heart, my praise and my thanksgiving in all things. As far as I know, Clara only talks with God to complain and question.
 
Don’t misunderstand me. I think God is big enough to handle any communication we offer, but I also believe we are created to worship. We are designed to praise and glorify our Creator. While God is certainly walking right alongside us during our difficult times, those times are not God’s best plans for us.
 
When Clara questions me, I want to remind her of the hope we have in Jesus. I have certainly tried to do that over the years, but I admit my shortcomings in this area. Clara tends to push my buttons – especially my button labeled “lack of patience.”  After thirty years of listening to the bellyaching, I want to yell at her that she’s doing life badly!  You are created to honor God with your every breath, Clara. Get your act together!
 
Peter reminds me that I don’t get to do that. “Always be ready to make your defense to anyone who demands from you an accounting for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and reverence.” Wait… what? Gentleness and reverence?! That’s not the Peter I know, is it? The Peter I know might have challenged Clara to a fight by now. The Peter I read about most often has his own faulty steam valve. How annoying it is that the one person I can usually count on to back me up on my aggressive desire to yell is the one who is holding me to gentleness and reverence!
 
When Jesus gets into our hearts, even Peter and I are moved to a spirit of calm and respectful patience. With God’s help, I will keep my lid tight and my steam released, until time to receive my own heavenly reward. I will keep talking with Clara about hope and happiness. I may never get to see the change in her, but change isn’t my job. I know the Holy Spirit is at work even when I cannot see; my job is to share the hope. Yes, Peter, I’ll do that with gentleness and reverence.
 
During this Lenten season, I pray that I may offer the love of Christ to all the Clara’s in my world – with no pressure.
 
Releasing the steam,
Pastor Beth
 
PRAYER FROM 1 Peter 3:
Giving God, help us to have unity of spirit, sympathy, love for one another, a tender heart, and a humble mind. With your guidance, may we never repay evil for evil or abuse for abuse; but, on the contrary, let us repay with a blessing. It is for this that we were called—that we might also inherit a blessing. Amen.  
 
KEY VERSES FROM TODAY’S SCRIPTURE READINGS
Psalm 77 – You are the God who works wonders; you have displayed your might among the peoples. With your strong arm you redeemed your people, the descendants of Jacob and Joseph.
Job 5 – As for me, I would seek God, and to God I would commit my cause. He does great things and unsearchable, marvelous things without number.
1 Peter 3 – Those who desire life and desire to see good days, let them keep their tongues from evil and their lips from speaking deceit; let them turn away from evil and do good; let them seek peace and pursue it. For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and his ears are open to their prayer.

For today’s full scripture readings, click here… https://www.divinestreet.org/lent-scripture.html
 
*Clara – real person, fictional name.

(Monday)

​I was really looking forward to supper. Bill had brought home a beautiful tenderloin a few days earlier, and I had been anticipating the mouth-watering treat ever since. Tonight was the night. I turned the oven to preheat knowing I would cook the pork slowly over the next few hours.
 
To ensure it would be moist and tender, I spent my next few minutes preparing the meat to be seared. Of course, the best way to sear a special piece of meat is in a well-seasoned cast iron skillet. As the pan heated on the stovetop, I added just the right amount of my favorite flavored Southern oil (also known as butter), and dried the meat to ensure any excess moisture would not interfere with sealing in its own juices.
 
Finally, the moment came. The butter was sizzling, the tenderloin was patted dry, and I lifted the meat to gently place it into the pan. My mind drifted to the now-heated oven waiting to begin its work, and I began to anticipate the tantalizing aroma that would soon fill the kitchen. I was so distracted by the prospect of future deliciousness that I failed to realize the heavy piece of meat was slipping from my grasp.
 
When a three-pound pork loin accelerates into sizzling oil, the result can be disastrous. The best one can hope for is to escape a painful burn. A secondary hope would be to avoid a hot, greasy mess of splashed oil on the stovetop, countertop, kitchen walls and floor. I dodged neither.
 
In the moment, though, there was no time to address either issue. Yes, in that split second, the kitchen was a catastrophe and my arm was moving from tender to throbbing; but searing meat is a rapid process. I was intent to stick with my chore as I was unwilling to ruin our beautiful meal over a little mess or a little (although increasing) pain.
 
Once the pork was seared, removed from the pan, covered with lovely seasonings, wrapped in foil and placed inside the oven, I could turn my attention to my arm. By this point, it was clear the kitchen mess would have to wait as I was in urgent need of something cold to offset the burning. What I had thought was one tiny spot of discomfort was already showing signs of blistering in three different places. My little mishap is going to cost me a few layers of skin, and slight scarring now seems likely. Fortunately, this body is designed by God for perfect healing.
 
In Ephesians 2, Paul describes a different type of cost and scarring, but a similarly perfect kind of healing. When I took my focus off my cooking, I faced the destruction of my physical well-being and was left with dead tissue which needs attention in order to heal. Paul writes about taking our focus off our Creator and being like a dead person because we followed “the rule of a destructive spiritual power.”  When we allow the weight of our disobedience to plunge us into sizzling sinful behavior, the result is a disastrous mess and wounds that need the attentive, healing balm of Jesus Christ.
 
The good news, Paul says, is that God is rich in mercy. When we refocus our attention and accept God’s love, we are restored back to spiritual health and our souls are healed. It’s as if we are seared by God’s love, and the goodness is sealed in ensuring our lives are flavored to perfection. All this simply because God loves us. We are brought back to life – saved by God’s grace! “We don’t do a thing to help it along. Instead, we are God’s accomplishment, created in Christ Jesus to do good things. God planned for these good things to be the way that we live our lives.”
 
Bill said the pork tenderloin was deliciously seasoned and perfectly prepared. I pray my life may be headed toward the same. Throughout these days of Lent, may I be more focused on each moment and offer my healing self as a continuous praise to God.
 
Cooking up goodness,
Pastor Beth
 
PRAYER FROM Ephesians 4:
You, O God, are rich in mercy. You brought me to life with Christ while I was dead as a result of those things that I did wrong. You did this because of the great love that you have for me.  I am saved by your grace and you raised me up and seated me in the heavens with Christ Jesus. You did this to show future generations the greatness of your grace by the goodness that you have shown me in Christ Jesus. I am saved by God’s grace! Thank you, Holy God! Amen.
 
KEY VERSES FROM TODAY’S SCRIPTURE READINGS
Psalm 77 – But I will remember the Lord’s deeds; yes, I will remember your wondrous acts from times long past. I will meditate on all your works; I will ponder your deeds. God, your way is holiness!
Job 4 – Think! What innocent person has ever perished? When have those who do the right thing been destroyed?
Ephesians 2 – You are saved by God’s grace because of your faith. This salvation is God’s gift. It’s not something you possessed. It’s not something you did that you can be proud of. Instead, we are God’s accomplishment, created in Christ Jesus to do good things. God planned for these good things to be the way that we live our lives.
 
For today’s full scripture readings, click here… https://www.divinestreet.org/lent-scripture.html
 

“Let’s grab a loaf of bread and head over to the city park to feed the ducks.” Having grown up enjoying life’s simple pleasures, I knew this was a Sunday afternoon delight just waiting for us. My friend was hesitant and unsure what this was about but agreed to accompany me. After an hour or so of sitting on the pond’s bank surrounded by happy quacking, my smiling friend gave voice to amusement and satisfaction. “Who knew how much fun this could be? And for less than a dollar!”
 
I have often spent time on the banks of a pond. Whether I am there to fish, to worship, or simply to be, the water provides a calming backdrop just right for refreshment of the soul. From roaring oceans to trickling creeks, with or without ducks, I love the water. Even cold rain provides a lovely setting for one of my favorite pastimes – the afternoon nap. I’m a big fan of rain and naps.
 
What we need around here is a little more rain. I have heard this statement uttered several times in recent days most often during a downpour. While the sarcasm is not lost on me, I do wonder what our ongoing teasing might bring toward the end of the coming summer. When faced with drought, we may be singing the same words to a different tune. What we need around here is a little more rain!
 
David is no stranger to rain nor drought – perhaps not in a physical sense but more in a way of describing his holy adventures. He certainly understands the pain of unconfessed sin and aptly pens Psalm 32 as a hymn of contemplation in the face of spiritual dryness.
 
He begins his song by embracing his clean slate. He has reconciled his past failings and returned to God with a praising and joyful heart. He admits that when he was held in the clutch of his poor decisions, life was dry and miserable like a drought of his soul. The heaviness of his silence had weighed him down until he possessed no strength to withhold his confession.
 
When David finally lets go of his silence and openly speaks with God about his lapses, his despair is drenched in the downpouring of God’s love. Forgiveness rains down on David in a torrent of cleansing, and his personal drought gives way to God’s nourishment. At this sanctification, he cannot keep his elation contained. “Be glad in the Lord and rejoice, O righteous, and shout for joy, all you upright in heart.”
 
Moving through a season of introspection, may these forty Lenten days result in my own desire to enter into confession over my transgressions and receive the healing waters of God’s love and forgiveness.
 
It’s a good day to be a duck.
Pastor Beth
 
PRAYER FROM PSALM 32
Lord, instruct me and teach me about the direction I should go.  Advise me and keep your eye on me. I don’t want to be like some senseless horse or mule, whose movement must be controlled with a bit and a bridle. I don’t want to be anything like that! I know that the pain of the wicked is severe, but faithful love surrounds the one who trusts the Lord. I know those who are righteous rejoice in you and are glad! I want my own heart right so that I may sing out in joy! Amen.
 
KEY VERSES FROM TODAY’S SCRIPTURE READINGS
Psalm 25 – Make your ways known to me, Lord; teach me your paths. Lead me in your truth – teach it to me – because you are the God who saves me. I put my hope in you all day long.
Psalm 32 – I will instruct you and teach you about the direction you should go. I’ll advise you and keep my eye on you.
Matthew 9 – Jesus said, “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. But go and learn what this means: ‘I desire mercy, not sacrifice.’ For I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners.”
 
For today’s full scripture readings, click here… https://www.divinestreet.org/lent-scripture.html

The teenage plan: Thanksgiving lunch with us and then Thanksgiving supper with the boyfriend’s family. I felt it was a reasonable request from our oldest daughter. Her younger sister felt differently. “You can’t go. Thanksgiving is for family,” she said in a feisty voice reserved for a stereotypical redhead. Immediately, she was given great assurance that the absence from our family would only be for a couple of hours. “We will still watch the parade and cook together, and I’ll be here for our family meal. I’m only going to his house to eat later, and I’ll be right back.”  Little Red repeated her words.  “Thanksgiving is for family.”
 
When the holiday came, both families understood the plan. Our oldest was true to her word and spent all her time with little sis and our family until late afternoon. She then said a happy good-bye and headed off for her brief visit. The pouty younger girl walked slowly to their shared room and quietly closed the door. I assumed she intended to sulk for a couple of hours. I assumed wrongly.
 
When the happy daughter returned right on time, she headed off to her room to find the redhead. I expected a pleasant reunion and anticipated a night filled with giggles and storytelling of the boyfriend’s family. Again, I was wrong. Rather than giggles, my ears filled with shrieks and shouting. I thought I heard the words “what have you done” and I headed down the hallway to discover more questions than answers. In the split second it took to view the scene, my brain began to race. Was the room bigger? Wait, was something missing? Why is the window open on such a cold day?
 
Our oldest daughter spun on her heel to face me, pointed an accusing finger across the room, and screamed, “SHE threw my bed out the window!”  As I quickly turned toward a very satisfied-looking redhead, she confidently gave her even-toned response: “SHE doesn’t live here anymore.”
 
King David may never have thrown a sibling’s bed through a window, but in his youth he did stay in quite a bit of trouble. I find it fascinating that some scholars debate the meaning of David’s physical description in scripture. Ruddy and handsome could refer to any number of things, but there are those who believe David was a redhead.
 
In David’s psalm (which we’ve numbered 25), he asks God for two things: remember me, don’t remember me. He is first turning to God requesting that God keep the promise to be eternally compassionate and faithful in love. When God keeps in mind his own covenant, David knows that forgiveness is provided.
 
David then immediately asks for what seems to be the opposite. Don’t remember me. Don’t remember my teenage sins. Don’t remember my wrongdoing. See me through the lens of your compassion and healing. Know me only through your love for me.
 
Rather than opposing one another, I believe the two statements go hand-in-hand: Think of me, and as you love me forever, forgive me. Only God could offer such a beautifully complete promise – not only to redheads, but to all of us. Throughout this season’s Lenten journey, may I be less inclined to throw things and more inclined to return to scripture for reassurances of forgiveness and love.
 
Reassured,
Pastor Beth
 
PRAYER FROM PSALM 25
Make your ways known to me, Lord; teach me your paths. Lead me in your truth – teach it to me – because you are the God who saves me. I put my hope in you all day long. Lord, remember your compassion and faithful love – they are forever! But don’t remember the sins of my youth or my wrongdoing. Remember me only according to your faithful love for the sake of your goodness, Lord. O Lord, you are good and do the right thing; you teach sinners which way they should go. You guide the weak to justice, teaching them your way. All your paths are loving and faithful for those who keep your covenant and laws. Make your ways known to me, Lord; teach me your paths. Amen.
 
KEY VERSES FROM TODAY’S SCRIPTURE READINGS
Psalm 25 – Lord, remember your compassion and faithful love – they are forever! But don’t remember the sins of my youth or my wrongdoing. Remember me only according to your faithful love for the sake of your goodness, Lord.
 
Daniel 9 – We pray our prayers for help to you, not because of any righteous acts of ours but because of your great compassion. My Lord, listen! My Lord, forgive! My Lord, pay attention and act! Don’t delay! My God, do all this for your own sake, because your city and your people are called by your name.
 
2 Timothy 4 – Preach the word. Be ready to do it whether it is convenient or inconvenient. Correct, confront, and encourage with patience and instruction. 
 
 
For today’s full scripture readings, click here… https://www.divinestreet.org/lent-scripture.html