Holy Week & Beyond 2018

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Holy Week and Beyond 2018 A collection of devotionals written by members of Bethany United Methodist Church Compiled by Patsy Cruser

I Will Pour Out My

SPIRIT Upon All People Joel 2:28

HOLY WEEK & BEYOND DEVOTIONALS 2018 A collection of devotionals written by members of Bethany United Methodist Church Compiled by Patsy Cruser

SUNDAY, MARCH 25 ~ Read 1 Corinthians 1:18-31 What is on your mind right now? What is worrying you? What is making you happy? For me, it is deciding where to place each of the devotions I’ve been sent and what to write myself. I have chosen the scripture from 1 Corinthians because it is in the lectionary for this Holy Week. I asked God for guidance in writing. God called me outside. I looked at the stars, pinpricks in the night sky, and thought how these stars would remain long after everything I know is gone. I looked at the trees and realized that they are at the mercy of the elements and of the people who care for them. They may or may not outlast me. I thought about my precious garden, a gift from an aunt. The garden was desolate a few months ago. Some plants still seem to have died forever, but the rosebush is bursting with blooms, and the orchid tree is covered with white blossoms. The honeysuckle is blooming on the pergola, and the salvia and verbena show hope of reviving. Back to our worries, our routines, our happy moments: have we had these same problems or joys before? Have our struggles been productive? Do we wonder why other people just don’t seem to get it? Through the words of Paul and elsewhere in scripture, God tells us not to pride ourselves in worldly wisdom or to put our hopes in what seems powerful or productive in the world. God tells us that there is real weakness in the world, and the weakness puts our pride in our own worldly strength to shame. Our only hope is in Christ Jesus, who is going to the cross for us, whose wisdom and strength can’t compare to God’s. The glory in all of this for us who sometimes are unable to see beyond ourselves is that God loves us anyway. God loves us enough to die to this world so that all of us may live in a larger, lovelier world forever with God. Loving God, fill me with your wisdom, your righteousness, your sanctification and redemption (see 1 Corinthians 1:20), so that I may see past the wisdom of this world. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen. Patsy Cruser (This was written in 2017, but was not published.)

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MONDAY, MARCH 26 ~ Read Mark 11:25 “Whenever you stand praying, forgive, if you have anything against anyone; that your Father in heaven may also forgive you your trespasses” (Mark 11:25). Although Mark did not include the Lord’s Prayer in his gospel, this verse sounds like part of that prayer: “and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us” (Luke 11:4). After years of struggling with the “as we forgive those who trespass against us” part of the Lord’s Prayer, I now understand it as a way to live out the command in Mark 11:25. When we pray the Lord’s Prayer, we must forgive others. When I come to that part of the Lord’s Prayer, I try to say it as an act of forgiving others, right then. Of course, for most of us forgiveness is a process – often long and difficult – but praying forgiveness every time I say the prayer helps to move the process along. If, when I pray the Lord’s Prayer, I remember those I need to forgive and commit as I’m praying to be forgiving, I’m forced to give up some of my resentment and anger and to engage in the process of forgiveness. And, when I do that, I receive such a feeling of relief and peace. I recognize that the as-we-forgive-those-who-trespass-against-us language also expresses a fundamental truth: our failure to forgive others is like a dam we have built, clogging the channel through which God’s forgiveness flows to us. Where I once felt like God was threatening to withhold forgiveness unless I first forgave others, I now recognize that God is merely explaining that we ourselves block the path of God’s forgiveness when we fail to forgive others. We stunt our ability to grow into the beautiful creatures that God created us to be. But in addition to stating that truth, Jesus gave us another gift when he included “as we forgive those who trespass against us” in his model prayer. That language lets us commit, every time we pray the Lord’s Prayer, to be about the work of forgiving others not just at some unspecified future time, but beginning now. Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen. Beth Sterling

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TUESDAY, MARCH 27 ~ Read Luke 2:11-12 Passover Lambs “Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: you will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger” (NIV). Just what was the sign? A baby – perhaps. Where they would find him – in a manger. But is “wrapped in cloths” just a detail or is it the most significant part of the sign? For years I thought it was just because Mary and Joseph were poor and there wasn’t time for a baby shower ahead of the birth with the trip from Nazareth to Bethlehem. Then in a sermon and devotional this past Christmas, I learned why the detail of Jesus’ clothing after he was born is such an essential fact that it is recorded in scripture. This is part of the Christmas story – the visit of the angels to the Shepherds. The shepherds were likely two to three miles north of Bethlehem and about the same distance from the temple in Jerusalem. Because of the proximity to the temple, shepherds in this area raised lambs for the Passover. Because the lambs had to be without spot or blemish to be sacrificed for the Passover they were wrapped at birth in cloths to protect them. So while we may very well pass over this detail, the shepherds would have understood that the sign of “wrapped in cloths” or “swaddling clothes” was saying that the newborn child was the Lamb of God to be sacrificed for our sins as represented by the Passover lambs that they raised. Perhaps this is part of what they shared in Luke 2:18-19: “and all were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart.” Since it is not recorded what the shepherds told Mary, we can only wonder if, like Simeon and Anna at the temple eight days later, they can be included in the small group who recognized the significance of what God was doing. It would be many years before Jesus would celebrate Passover with his disciples and institute the Lord’s Supper in which the bread and wine represent the body and blood of Christ. In this season when we are reminded of Christ’s sacrifice for our sins, we are grateful for his redemption. As Hebrews 9:14 states, “How much more, then, will the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself unblemished to God, cleanse our consciences from acts that lead to death, so that we may serve the living God!”. As we remember the events of Holy Week, may we recognize our need for your atoning sacrifice to be applied to us. Amen. Bruce Leach

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WEDNESDAY, MARCH 28 ~ Read Psalm 70 Be pleased, O God, to deliver me. O LORD, make haste to help me! Let those be put to shame and confusion who seek my life. Let those be turned back and brought to dishonor who desire to hurt me. Let those who say, “Aha, Aha!” turn back because of their shame. Let all who seek you rejoice and be glad in you. Let those who love your salvation say evermore, “God is great!” But I am poor and needy, hasten to me, O God! You are my help and my deliverer, O LORD, do not delay!

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THURSDAY, MARCH 29 ~ Read Luke 22:7-8 MAUNDY THURSDAY Passover “Then came the day of Unleavened Bread on which the Passover lamb had to be sacrificed. Jesus sent Peter and John saying, ‘Go and make preparations for us to eat the Passover.’” (Luke 22:7,8, NIV). The Passover is also known as the Feast of Unleavened Bread, with the first and last days celebrated in Israel as legal holidays and as holy days involving meals, special prayer services, and abstention from work. The main entity in Passover is the sacrificial lamb or the Paschal lamb. The Passover commemorates the deliverance from Egypt of the slaves after the last of ten plagues. If they sacrificed a young, unblemished lamb and put the blood on the door posts, the death angel would pass over that house. Once Israel was in the wilderness and the tabernacle was in operation, a change was made in those two original requirements (Deuteronomy 16:2–6). Passover lambs were to be sacrificed at the door of the tabernacle and no longer in the homes of the Jews. No longer was blood smeared on doorways. The sacrifice could not be offered with anything leavened (Exodus 23:18), and had to be roasted and eaten together with unleavened bread and bitter herbs. One had to be careful not to break any bones from the offering (Exodus 12:46), and none of the meat could be left over by morning (Exodus 12:10, Exodus 23:18). Jesus modified a part of the Passover meal to what we call the Lord’s Supper: “And he took the bread, gave thanks, and broke it, and gave it to them saying, ‘This is my body given for you; do this in remembrance of me’” (Luke 22:19). “This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which is poured out for you” (Luke 22:20b). The old song comes to mind: “What can wash away my sin? Nothing but the blood of Jesus. What can make me whole again? Nothing but the blood of Jesus.” Thank you, Jesus, for being the sacrifice for my sin. Amen. Bruce Leach

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FRIDAY, MARCH 30 ~ Read 1 Corinthians 1:26-31, Ecclesiastes 3:18 (The Message) GOOD FRIDAY One of my favorite children's books is The Tale of Three Trees or The Legend of the Trees. A friend and cherished spiritual mentor mentioned it to me decades ago. Since then, I have purchased three copies. In the stories, each tree has a dream: one to become a treasure chest decorated with jewels, the second to become a strong ship to carry kings and queens across the sea, and the third wanted to stay on the mountain, strong and tall to point the people to God. The first tree became a feeding box for animals and eventually held the greatest treasure of all, God's Son. The second tree became a fishing boat and carried the King of kings. The last tree came off the mountain and became a rough cross that to this day reminds people of God and HIS great love for them. God does have a plan for each life and His way is always the best. How often do I have to learn this lesson? My retirement from a satisfying teaching career came a bit earlier and a whole lot uglier than my plan designed. I have been at ‘sixes and nines’* for much of my retirement. How am I now aligned with God and His desire? This doesn't seem like enough. Slowly, but surely, God has worked, including through this challenge of writing a devotion. As I followed the leading of the Holy Spirit, I looked through notes I have collected over several decades. I came across notes from an October 8, 2000, sermon preached at Midland Evangelical Free Church in Midland, Michigan. The pastor suggested five ways God uses our lives: our availability, our experiences, our prayers, our pain, and our faith. Looking back, God used my experiences, pain, and faith frequently during my working days. While all that continues according to His will, it seems the season now is more about being available (especially to Hanford and friends) and developing more mature spiritual disciplines (including prayer). Recently at Bethany UMC in chapel on Wednesday night, we read Ecclesiastes 3:1-8. Some of a certain generation may think, ah, yes, “to everything turn, turn, turn. There is a season, turn, turn, turn.” I had highlighted these words: “heal,” “build up,” “laugh,” and “dance,” as a kind of prayer that that may indeed be what this season of life is about for me. Dear God, thank you for your plan for my life. Let me discern it and obey with a spirit of joy and peace. May I have a quiet confidence in your perfect plan. Let me yield to it with grace from your Holy Spirit. May my life be a testimony to you, dear LORD. Amen. Hilary Ferguson *From a song by Diamond Light

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SATURDAY, MARCH 31 ~ Read Hebrews 10:23-25; Matthew 18:19-20 HOLY SATURDAY Spiritual Honesty I have heard in many sermons the value of reviewing John Wesley’s examination questions. I, however, have been avoiding the pain of thinking about the areas in which I am a failure. At a seminar that I recently attended, the overall message that I received was that we cannot grow spiritually if we avoid the spiritual questions about our sins. Scripture says “The human heart is the most deceitful of all things, and desperately wicked.” (Jeremiah 17:9) I don’t want to be wicked. I want to be like Jesus! I want to love all people; I want to see that all people come to know how good God is; and I want all people to be saved through Jesus Christ. The question I asked myself after the seminar was “Do I want to grow spiritually or not?” Unless I grow spiritually my impact on society for Jesus is limited. So, I reviewed the Wesley questions. There is one question that will snag me and reveal an almost daily sin (“almost” because I work in an office alone. Therefore, some days I am good). The question is “Am I irritable?” The answer is “Yes.” Now what do I do? I have learned from C.J. Mahoney’s book Humility: True Greatness that irritability is a form of pride. I pray all the time for God to reveal and remove all forms of pride in me. I don’t want to be arrogant (like the people who irritate me). I want to be humble like Enoch, who is my Old Testament Bible hero. I want to “walk humbly with the Lord and then was no more.” (Genesis 5:24) God’s Word instructs us to confess our sins one to another, and pray one for another, that we may be healed. (James 5:16) I know God doesn’t want me to struggle with my sins by myself. He wants me to be healed; to be free of the sin of irritation. His Word says to gather together with other believers to encourage each other even more as we see the day of the Lord coming. I believe Jesus when He said that where two or more are gathered in His name, He is there also. Jesus wants to heal me; to give me perfect peace. There is now no condemnation because I am in Christ Jesus. I have nothing to lose. Because of his death and resurrection He has set me free. I will stop avoiding the hard questions. Dearest Father, Thank You for Your Word that is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness, so that I, Your servant, may be thoroughly equipped for every good work. Thank You for my fellow believers who will listen to my confessions and pray for me. In Jesus’ name, for Your glory and honor give me courage to be spiritually honest. Amen. Janet Sims

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SUNDAY, APRIL 1 ~ Read Psalm 8 EASTER SUNDAY Perspective “What is man that thou art mindful of him?” (Psalm 8:4) A powerful new rocket recently blasted off from a NASA launch pad in Florida with the personal Tesla convertible of electric car manufacturer Elon Musk as the payload on the rocket’s nose. Later, an intriguing, almost humorous photo appeared in our newspapers of that red car with a dummy propped up in the driver’s seat cruising along in space with a beautiful planet Earth in the background. The car will go on out into the far reaches of space. As our exploration of space expands our understanding of the universe, we realize more and more how extremely tiny our Earth is in the vastness of space, and we can be made to feel quite insignificant, like the author of Psalm 8, who wrote, “When I look at the heavens, the work of thy fingers, the moon and the stars which thou hast established, what is man that thou art mindful of him, and the son of man that thou dost care for him?” Someone put it this way: “We are just one person in a population of millions in one country on a small planet in an insignificant solar system on a nondescript arm of an unremarkable galaxy in a universe of over 100 billion galaxies.” Perspective can be diminishing and disconcerting. But Psalm 8 bids us view ourselves from God’s perspective: after gazing into the heavens and feeling quite small, the Psalmist wrote: “...Yet thou hast made him little less than God, and dost crown him with glory and honor. Thou hast given him dominion over the works of thy hands; Thou has put all things under his feet, all sheep and oxen and also the beasts of the field, the birds of the air, and the fish of the sea, whatever passes along the paths of the sea. O Lord, our Lord, how majestic is thy name in all the earth!” Easter reminds us that God cared enough for us to send Jesus to this tiny blue globe hung in the vastness of space. His death and resurrection are perpetual reminders that each of us is important to God and that whatever Heaven is like in the life beyond our lives on Earth, each of us can receive this eternal inheritance through faith in Christ. O God, we feel so small and unimportant at times, but thank you for our faith which reminds us that we are of inestimable value to you, and thank you that there awaits us beyond life on Earth, an eternal existence that has been vouchsafed to us through the death and resurrection of our Lord and Savior, Jesus the Christ. In His name, Amen. Rev. Gus Browning

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MONDAY, APRIL 2 ~ Read Luke 22:1-53 I am a planner. When I was working, I would decide the night before what I would wear to work the next day. It made my morning preparation for work so much easier. I didn't have to make so many “big” decisions early in the morning. Even though I am now retired, I still do the same thing. However, now it is planning what to wear to the fitness center the next morning. Jesus is a vital part of God's plan for his children. Jesus came to earth to live among us and to be our example, to teach and preach, and then to die for us. Near the end, part of the plan was for Jesus to preside at the Last Supper (He must have asked someone to find a room and bring the wine and bread). He also arranged a stop in the Garden of Gethsemane to pray before appearing before Pilate. He was prepared to execute the divine plan. How prepared are you on a regular basis to encounter God in your life? How prepared are you to worship when you attend church? How prepared are you to communicate with God through prayer? What are you doing step-by-step and day-by-day to become more like Jesus (you know, the “G” for “grow in His image”)? My hope is that each of us is preparing to be an active participant in God's plan for us. May the preparation include scripture study, prayer, fasting, and worship, even beyond Easter Sunday. It is our life's work. Lord, we ask you to be with us as we work to become more like our Savior who gave his life that we may have eternal life. Amen. Sherry Moore

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TUESDAY, APRIL 3 ~ Read Psalm 133 How very good and pleasant it is when kindred live together in unity! It is like the precious oil on the head, Running down upon the beard, On the beard of Aaron, running down over the collar of his robes. It is like the dew of Hermon, which falls on the mountains of Zion. For there the LORD ordained his blessing, life forevermore.

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WEDNESDAY, APRIL 4 ~ Read Matthew 22:37-39 Today, February 14, is Valentine’s Day, and it also happens to be Ash Wednesday this year. To some, a day of love coinciding with a day of solemnity and mortality may seem strange, but it makes perfect sense to me at this moment in my life. February 14 is also National Donor Day, and without the selfless act of a 30-year-old woman and God’s grace, I wouldn’t be celebrating the love of my husband and preparing to receive ashes. Five and a half months ago, I finally lost the battle with primary sclerosing cholangitis, the autoimmune disease I had lived with for the past 20 years. I was admitted to the hospital with liver and kidney failure and sepsis. I was prepared to die because I had made my peace with God almost a decade ago when I was hospitalized for sepsis the first time and diagnosed with Crohn’s disease. This time was different, however. Even though I had accepted my fate, this time I knew that the only way I could live would be for someone to die. Before that could happen, the infection had to be brought down and my kidneys functioning again in order for me to be even considered for a transplant. I was on antibiotics and dialysis for a week before the doctors told me I had been placed at the top of the national transplant registry. What they couldn’t tell me was how long I would have to wait for a donor. Even though my blood type made me a universal recipient, a suitable donor would need to be geographically close and similar in size to my small body frame. Finding a perfect match could take hours or months, if one could be found at all. The transplant team called it a miracle when less than 36 hours later a potential donor had been found, and my surgery was scheduled for the following morning. I finally put my laptop away (yes, I continued to work, trying to tie up loose ends), and I physically, mentally, and emotionally rested for the first time, placing myself in God’s hands. I can’t recall if this was before the surgery when I was suffering from the confusion associated with organ failure or immediately after when I was still under the influence of the anesthesia, but I remember my kidney doctor asking me if I understood what was happening. The only way I could verbalize my state of mind to him was by calling it “circular logic.” I was dying but had to be “healthy” enough to receive a transplant. I had to literally lose my life to regain my life when my diseased liver was removed and replaced with a healthy one. The most difficult part was grasping the fact that someone had to die in order for me to live. Everyone kept reminding and reassuring me that this was a gift. I wasn’t taking life. I was being given life. I’ve come to accept my gift with a grateful heart. However, I occasionally struggle with survivor’s guilt, especially around the holidays when the only reason I’m surrounded by loved ones is because a family out there is grieving. But, I’m comforted knowing that I have an angel watching over me, and my second chance at life wouldn’t be possible without her or God’s perfect timing. Today, I celebrate unconditional love. The love of God, and the love of a stranger. The sacrifice of Jesus giving his life for me, and the selfless act of a woman who saved my life and possibly the lives of seven other strangers. I have a greater understanding of how achieving life is only possible through death, both spiritually and figuratively, and for this I am blessed. For more information on organ donation and to register as a donor, go to www.donatelife.net.

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Lord, let us never take for granted the sacrifice you made for us so that we could be given a second chance at life and redemption. May we live our lives fulfilling the greatest commandment to love God and all His children. Amen. Emmeline Olson

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THURSDAY, APRIL 5 ~ Read Acts 4:32-35 Sharing “All the believers were one in heart and mind. No one claimed that any of his possessions was his own, but they shared everything they had” (Acts 4:32). “Mine! Mine! Mine!” shouted my toddler granddaughter. She was just learning to share and take turns, a lesson that is difficult for most young children. By the time we reach adulthood, most of us have become adept at sharing. Yet when a friend and I were discussing finances, she said she tells her husband, “What’s yours is mine, and what’s mine is mine.” We laughed and continued our conversation. Later I started thinking about that statement through the lens of the early believers. Acts 4:32 tells us they shared everything they had. This is not the norm in our culture, not even among Christ-followers, although I like to think we are quite generous as a whole. And it is okay that we don’t share everything; it has never been a requirement, not even for the early believers. Recently I have begun to wonder what I could be sharing that I am not. I have moved twice in three years, so I have given away a lot of possessions that I don’t use or need. But the bigger question is, what parts of myself am I holding back that could benefit others? What skills, talents, and spiritual gifts am I not sharing that could help others? What parts of my story am I withholding that might encourage someone who is struggling? How often do I fail to offer the simple grace of a smile, gentle word, or small kindness to a stranger, or even to my friends and loved ones? What about you? Is there more you can share with others to further God’s kingdom? Holy One, All we have comes from you. Help us to open our hands and hearts to share with others generously, knowing that with you there is always more. Amen. Betty Milburn

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FRIDAY, APRIL 6 ~ Read Numbers 21:4-9 The first troublesome emotions that shout out to me from the Hebrew people in the wilderness are impatience and fear. Moses had led the people out of bondage to Pharaoh, and after some days they were ready to go back. They had forgotten how much they wanted freedom from slavery and were now focused on the harsh living conditions in the wilderness. To punish them for their grumbling, God sent poisonous serpents among them. The idea of snakes, poisonous or not, brings out my fears. The next thing I notice is irrationality. In one sentence, the people gripe that “there is no food or water, and [they] detest this miserable food” (Numbers 29:5b). There is no food, and the food is “miserable.” It sounds like complaining children. They are suddenly sorry when God sends the snakes, though. I can hear, “We’re sorry. We’ll be good.” God’s goodness is greater than all the Hebrews’ complaining. God has Moses fashion a pole with a bronze serpent on it. To be healed of the snakebites, all the people have to do is to look at this bronze serpent. It’s easy to laugh at the Hebrews. We’re not the ones who had to survive in the wilderness year after year. A rainy camping trip can almost do me in. I’m not above complaining, either. I have a very loving husband, but on a bad day (for me), all I have to see is something left out or put in a different place than I have chosen for that object, and my mood is altered for the worse. I forget how very fortunate I am because of some mundane disturbance of my own myopic mindset. It is when I am in that kind of black mood that I usually trip and fall, bump into something, or drop and break something. Once, I even broke my ankle when I slipped on some pebbles when I was thinking how I didn’t want to be on that fishing trip. Then, too late, I may come to my senses and bewail my lack of gratitude. In the case of the broken ankle, I had six weeks to think about the attitude that caused me to stumble. Grumbling causes stumbling! God may get angry, but God is also forgiving. God sent His own son to show us how much He loves us. Easter is behind us, but God still forgives us. Nothing we suffer can compare with the suffering Jesus endured for us. Nothing can compare with the joy we experience in the light of our resurrected Lord. Lord, help us to remember that most of our perceived wrongs are trivial in comparison to the suffering you endured for our sakes. Give us hearts of gratitude for your great love for us now and always. In the name of Jesus we pray. Amen. Patsy Cruser

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SATURDAY, APRIL 7 ~ Read John 1:29-45 Jesus, The Lamb of God “The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, ‘Look, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world’” (John 1:29). “The next day John was there again with two of his disciples. When he saw Jesus passing by, he said, ‘Look, the Lamb of God’” (John 1:36). In the verses that follow we learn that Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother, was one of the two disciples of John the Baptist who heard the witness of John. The first thing Andrew did was to find his brother and tell him, “We have found the Messiah (that is, the Christ).” This witness of John to his disciples quickly led others to believe in Jesus as the Son of God. The next day Andrew brings Nathanael to Jesus and tells Nathanael, “We have found the one Moses wrote about in the Law, and about whom the prophets also wrote – Jesus of Nazareth” (John 1:45). The Apostle John also used the phrase, “Lamb of God,” several times in Revelation. “For the Lamb at the center of the throne will be their shepherd, he will lead them to springs of living water. And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes” (Revelation 7:17). More references are Revelation 15:3, 21:23, 22:1, and 22:3, where Jesus in heaven is referred to as the Lamb. Revelation 19:9 talks about the marriage supper of the Lamb. “Then the angel said to me, ‘Write: Blessed are those who are invited to the wedding supper of the Lamb!’ and he added, ‘These are the true words of God’”. Thank you, Jesus, for being the sacrifice for our sins. Amen. Bruce Leach

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SUNDAY, APRIL 8 ~ Read 1 Thessalonians 5:17

“Pray without ceasing...”

One of the best marketing slogans of all time has to be: “Would you like fries with that?” How tempting! After all it’s only a buck more and what’s a few more calories? You’ve probably already blown it anyway if you’re at a drive-thru window! By responding positively you turn a mere sandwich into a meal.

In our everyday lives we too often miss the opportunity to greatly impact others. One of the most underused phrases in our Christian walk is, “May I pray with you about that right now?” It costs us nothing but a few minutes of time and it can completely change the course of that person’s day. And believe you me, there’s no one more uncomfortable doing this than myself. I struggle with praying out loud. The Lord has been working with me for years! During my many years of teaching in Christian schools I prayed aloud with four- and five-year-olds everyday – many times a day. No problem. They were little kids and they loved their Miss Gayle. But come conference time, mid-school year, and meetings with parents, knowing I would be praying before we started, I would go into panic mode. But I did it, and our Lord Jesus was faithful to me, giving me the right words for each set of apprehensive parents who sat across from me. I can’t begin to tell you the impact that a simple prayer can have on another human being. I saw many a tear shed (usually the Moms) after one of my stumbling prayers and certainly not because I was good at it. I was totally out of my comfort zone and very nervous, but I was not praying for myself but for the needs of another; in these cases, for people’s children. I realized early on that many of these parents did not attend church and that I may well have been the first person ever to sit and pray with/for them and their families. Daunting! What an awesome gift I was allowed to give. There are people all around us everyday who are hurting in silence. What would it mean to someone to hear you say, “Can we pray about that right now?” Also when we tell a friend, “I’ll pray for you”, let’s be sure we do. When the other person responds positively your prayers will feed his or her soul. More than that, you’re reminding that person to Whom to turn when the next need arises.

“Then call on me when you are in trouble, and I will rescue you, and you will give me glory” Psalm 50:15. Thank you, Lord, for listening to us whenever we cry out. You are holy and powerful and so good to us. We adore You! Amen. Gayle Kneupper

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MONDAY, APRIL 9 ~ Read Psalm 111 “He gives food…” (Psalm 111:5, TLB). Reading the daily devotional, The Upper Room (available on the Information Desk) for today (2/16/18), I was thrilled to see the Backpack Ministry mentioned. Bethany has participated in this ministry since 2013. All area elementary and middle schools receive this help. Let me repeat that. ALL area elementary and middle schools receive this help. Hungry children aren’t just around the world. They are in our neighborhood, going to school with our children and grandchildren. Hungry children don’t learn as well as well-fed children. This affects their entire future. I incorporate Fasting into my Lenten observance. Every Wednesday, beginning with Ash Wednesday, I go without food until dinner. After Ash Wednesday, every Wednesday the church provides a soup supper in the Fellowship Hall before worship. That soup tastes mighty good after not eating all day! When I fast, however, my pantry is full, my refrigerator has everything I need, and I know where my next meal is coming from. I used to think when I fasted it was similar to those going hungry. Now I know it isn’t. It reminds me of those suffering hunger, though, and as a child I was one of them. Programs that feed hungry children are one way “He gives food…” – through us. Donations to the Backpack Ministry can be made with food in the bins around church or with money. You can also purchase the book, A Man Named Jesus: A Story. All proceeds go to the Backpack Ministry, whether it is purchased from me, Inspiring Voices Publishing, or Amazon. (The story begins with Good Friday and makes an excellent Lent read.) Lent is often a time when we give something up. A pastor at Bethany years ago, Lynn Willhite, encouraged us to add a meaningful practice. Consider adding an activity that will draw you closer to Christ. It can be as simple as giving to a ministry or incorporating a new, daily discipline (Bible reading is always a good one!). Bethany’s Backpack Ministry giving goes to Purple Sage Elementary School, where my children and oldest grandson went. There are over 60 children being helped this year. Last year there were over 100. Find a Ministry that touches your heart, or let your children choose and help. Charity begins at home. A list of Ministries can be found on the Bethany Web Page, or just ask someone what they give to. May you be especially spiritually fed this Lenten Season, Easter, and all throughout your life, as God’s hands, feet, and heart. Amen. Dearest God, feed me on your word, your living water, your consecrated bread. Feed your spiritually hungry world what only you can give them, and let us help you with that giving. Help us to give physical food when needed, out of the abundance with which you have blessed us. Bless all people in ministry to children. Amen. Gayle Calmes

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TUESDAY, APRIL 10 ~ Read Colossians 1:9 – 10 “For this reason, since the day we heard it, we have not ceased praying for you and asking that you may be filled with the knowledge of God’s will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, so that you may lead lives worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to him, as you bear fruit in every good work and as you grow in knowledge of God.” Recently we read this Scripture in Wednesday night chapel. It hit me very strongly that I needed to convey this to my daughter in some way. She is a single mom and had decided to wait a few years before getting involved again. A young man she knew in Youth Group has re-entered her life and has given my daughter reason to doubt that decision. God laid it on my heart to write her a letter with this Scripture asking her and her young man to seek God’s will before they make any decisions about the future. We have not talked about the letter. There is no need to. God has spoken to her heart and she knows we do not cease praying for her. Debby Lesher

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WEDNESDAY, APRIL 11 ~ Read Luke 24:36b-40 Christ has died. Christ has risen. The disciples are perfectly aware that Jesus has died on the cross. Some, but not all, witnessed the risen Lord. Those who did not see Jesus immediately after he arose from the grave were told, but they still had trouble believing. Not knowing their future, they were still terrified. Then Jesus appeared to them in the locked room where they were staying. Again, they were terrified. A member of my Sunday school class asked why all the disciples fled when Jesus was taken away from them and taken before the high priests, Herod, and Pilate. Why didn’t they stand with him? I think the more incredible part of the story is how, after being suffused in fear, the disciples were able to stand up later. The answer is that they all saw him and heard him speak to them. Later, the Holy Spirit was to descend on them to give them all the energy and courage they needed to spread the Gospel. When I am tempted to doubt the resurrection of my Lord, I am reminded that twelve men, and their friends and other followers, were very afraid after the crucifixion of Jesus. I believe that these men saw and heard the risen Lord after he had been put to death. Later, they were empowered by the Holy Spirit. If not for divine intervention, we might never have heard the words of life which the apostles spread throughout the world. Christ has died. Christ has risen. Christ will come again. Lord God, strengthen my faith. Empower me to spread the word that only you are God, that Jesus is our Savior, and that the Holy Spirit continues to guide and empower the followers of Jesus, your son. In his name I pray. Amen. Patsy Cruser

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THURSDAY, APRIL 12 ~ Read Psalm 4 Answer me when I call, O God of my right! You gave me room when I was in distress. Be gracious to me, and hear my prayer. How long, you people, shall my honor suffer shame? How long will you love vain words, and seek after lies? Se’lah But know that the LORD has set apart the faithful for himself; the LORD hears when I call to him. When you are disturbed, do not sin; ponder it on your beds, and be silent. Se’lah Offer right sacrifices, and put your trust in the LORD. There are many who say, “O that we might see some good! Let the light of your face shine on us, O LORD!” You have put gladness in my heart more than when their grain and wine abound. I will both lie down and sleep in peace; for you alone, O LORD, make me lie down in safety.

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FRIDAY, APRIL 13 ~ Read Deuteronomy 30:14-20; John 14:1-7 “Today I have given you the choice between life and death, between blessings and curses. Now I call on heaven and earth to witness the choice you make. Oh, that you would choose life…” (Deuteronomy 30:19 NLT). We were studying the Minor Prophets in Sunday School and we read Jonah 2 out loud (Jonah’s prayer from the belly of the big fish). I noticed that Jonah 2:4 had a different focus in my Bible so I looked into it more.* In the 51 English translations of that verse, as Jonah was facing death, 27 responses were positive (I will see Your temple again!), 15 were uncertain (will I?), 5 were hoping for the best, and 4 were negative (never again to see your temple). It got me thinking about our attitudes and choices. Everyone has trouble. There is no way to escape the troubles of this world. For me, sometimes what gets me through difficult times is my attitude about Who God is in the midst of the situation. When I was diagnosed with cancer a few years ago, I could have believed that God had abandoned/cursed me. Or I could question God’s presence, love and power. Or I could say that God was still my Healer in the midst of it. Who God IS didn’t change because of my troubles. It was still true that God is Healer, but I had to choose to believe it. I had to choose to look at the Life-Giver. Yes, there were still (many!) times of questioning, and I had to continue to choose to keep my eyes on Jesus. Think of the four possible ways to translate that phrase in Jonah. In troubles I can question God, or fall into despair, or be hopeful. We worry that we can’t question God. (We can! God is big enough to handle our questions.) We think despair is a logical reaction (it is for the world, but not for a Christian!). And we think that “hoping” is good, is a right reaction to the situation. However, if I say, “I hope God will heal me,” then I’m really expressing doubt/fear that He will. That maybe He won’t. That I am at the whim of a capricious God and so I have no idea what will happen next. OR I can choose the fourth option: I can choose to believe who God has been to me in the good times of my life, the God revealed in the Bible. I can choose to believe God has not changed. I can hold onto the certainty of an unchanging God. THEN I will sense His everpresence, as I did during eight+ months of cancer tests, surgery, chemo and radiation. As I also did in the midst of many other times of deep, and often unexpected, traumas in my life. God has not changed… so I choose life, not death. Lord Jesus, we choose life. We praise You and believe You when You said, “I am the Way, the Truth, and the LIFE” (John 14:6). No matter our life circumstances, we trust that You are STILL the same. Continue to reveal Yourself to us. In Your name we pray, Amen. *NOTE: If you put a single verse into www.biblegateway.com , at the bottom of the verse it gives you the option of seeing it in ALL English translations! Jill Saufferer

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SATURDAY, APRIL 14 ~ Read Matthew 3:1; Acts 2:38; Acts 3:19 Common Element of the First Sermons “In those days John the Baptist came preaching in the Desert of Judea and saying, ‘Repent for the kingdom of heaven is near’,” (Matthew 3:1). “Peter’s sermon at Pentecost: Peter replied, ‘Repent and be baptized, every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins’,” (Acts 2:38). [After healing the beggar at the temple, Peter said,] “Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord,” (Acts 3:19). The message of John the Baptist and the first two recorded sermons of Peter, one on the day of Pentecost, and the second when Peter and John go to the temple and heal a beggar who had never walked and a crowd gathered, had as their goal and objective a decision on the part of the hearers to repent and turn to God. It is human nature to postpone an important decision. We put off a decision to follow the prompting of the Holy Spirit to repent and turn to God. In the words of the song, “Almost Persuaded:” “Almost persuaded” now to believe; “Almost persuaded” Christ to receive; Seems now some soul to say, “Go, Spirit, go Thy way, Some more convenient day on Thee I’ll call.” We need the times of refreshing that come from the Lord that Peter spoke about (Acts 3:19). If there is to be an awakening in our time we will first see a return to prayer and repentance. This starts first with believers. See the ninth chapter of Daniel for an example of what this looks like. Forgive us our sins. Help us to live in a spirit of repentance towards You. Amen. Bruce Leach

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SUNDAY, APRIL 15 ~ Read I John 3:16; Philippians 2:1-8; Matthew 5:14-16 Sacrificial Love “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends” (John 15:13, NIV). I started working on my devotional but had no subject. So, with my Bible and some notes I’d written; I left my computer and sat down at a table hoping a change of scenery would inspire me. It was late afternoon and the sun was shining through the windows. I watched as the sunlight crept across the floor. Suddenly it was shining brightly under a cabinet and I saw lots of cobwebs! These were time-to-do-some-cleaning cobwebs. There was no message woven into the web as in the book, Charlotte’s Web, by E.B. White. But a message came to me and by researching the story I had several ideas. The words Charlotte, a spider, wove into her webs were because of her love and friendship for Wilbur the pig. Wilbur was the runt of the litter. He had two friends, a young girl and Charlotte. They knew he was going to be slaughtered and the time was near. To save his life, Charlotte started weaving words into her webs. Growing up on a farm, I know spider webs are common but not easily seen in dark corners of farm buildings. When Charlotte finished her first web the farmer noticed the web with the words “some pig”. Sunlight (Sonlight) or some other light was shining on the cobweb making it visible. As the story ends we learn Charlotte not only showed love and friendship for Wilbur but she also sacrificed her life for him. The word she wove into her last web was “humble.” – reminds me of Jesus who loved us so much he humbled himself (Philippians 2:8) and sacrificed his life to save us. “By this we know what love is: Jesus laid down His life for us, and we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers” (I John 3:16). We do not have to lay down our lives for sacrificial giving. We only need to serve others. To love others. To give without expecting anything in return. Philippians 2:1-4 tells us to be imitators of Christ. And in Matthew 5:14-16, Jesus said, “You are the light of the world... let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” Help me become humble by imitating Christ so that I might be a light to others, helping them see the light of your word. Amen. Pauline Lacey

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MONDAY, APRIL 16 ~ Read Jeremiah 29:11-13 “For I know the plans that I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future” (Jeremiah 29:11-13). In June, 2007, Scott and I found out that we were adding another sweet baby to our family. We were apprehensive but then realized that it was just what we needed. We broke the news to our 2 beautiful girls and they were so excited, each of them giving their guesses of whether it would be a little sister or a little brother. Everything was going well. I felt wonderful and healthy just like in my other two pregnancies until the morning of September 21, 2007. I was startled awake at 4:30 in the morning to realize my water had broken. I was admitted into the hospital and on the morning of September 24, 2007, our third beautiful angel decided she was ready to come into the world even though she was not due for fourteen more weeks. She was tiny but doing well; we just thought that she would need to grow a little; then she could come home around her original due date, December 26th. What a Christmas that would be! But then we received the news that our baby had contracted necrotizing enterocolitis, the #1 fatality in preemies. It was the most difficult time of my life! I tried to turn to prayer, but the more issues she had the angrier I got. Every time the phone rang I was afraid it was more bad news or the worst news. When friends and family asked me how I was doing I would answer with, “It’s in the Lord’s hands and I trust in His plan,” but did I really? If that were true, I wouldn’t worry each time the phone rang, would I? I had a husband and two beautiful little girls to take care of, but I was so worried and stressed out about my sweet baby fighting in the NICU, I wasn’t doing a very good job of taking care of anyone. It was time to believe the words I was saying, that I trusted in the Lord’s plan. It didn’t happen overnight but I remember the feeling of peace that came over me when I finally believed those words. The prayers and undying support from our family, friends, church family members (some we had not even met before) and Bethany’s wonderful pastors kept us going; but ultimately it was this verse that made me realize I was not in control and I needed to let go, let God. Today Sophia is a healthy, loving, incredibly bright ten year old. When I look at her I see hope, a promising future and love, a love so great that it could only be Heavenly. I don’t know the plans that He has for her but I know that I trust in them and will do anything in my power to help her accomplish them. Thank you, Lord, for watching over us and giving us this wonderful life, for the love and grace You give us every day. We often think we know what we need, which leads us to question Your plan. Forgive us when we are reluctant to accept Your will. Give us the strength to understand You will not forsake us but carry us in your loving arms. Amen. Cindy Munoz-Morgan

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TUESDAY, APRIL 17 ~ Read Isaiah 41:10 “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” There will be times when you feel like you don’t really “need” God and can take care of things yourself. I went through one of those times where I was angry with God recently, until I had an incredible experience during one of my weakest moments. I was very physically ill and exhausted from doctor’s appointments and tests from 6 am to 11 pm. As I lay in an MRI machine, I felt so ill I thought there was no way that test would be able to be completed. That is when I started praying to God to help me, and recited Bible verses in my head for the next thirty minutes to comfort myself. Isaiah 41:10 was a verse that kept repeating in my mind over and over again, and I found it provided me with comfort. In those moments, I realized that I was not strong enough to handle everything on my own, but that God has my back, and somehow God will provide for me exactly as I need. Lord, please continue to stand by my side through the difficult times. I know I am not strong enough to get through these things alone, but since your strength is made perfect in my weakness, everything will be okay. Please continue to embrace me with your perfect love and healing. Amen. Marissa Henis

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WEDNESDAY, APRIL 18 ~ Read Psalm 23 Comfort and Peace “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil” (Psalm 23:4). When I was growing up, I attended Sunday School and Training Union (in the Baptist Church) and we regularly memorized scripture for Bible exercises and challenges between the attendees. I am sorry to say that I remember very few of those scriptures. But Psalm 23 is one I have never forgotten. It is likely because I have heard it so many times over the years in church and at memorial and funeral services as it shows such deep love and compassion, no matter the circumstances. No one knows for sure when King David wrote this psalm but it was likely in his later life. He was very familiar with the role of a shepherd and he used that imagery to reflect on God as a shepherd to his people. We, like sheep, tend to stray from our shepherd. It is comforting to know that God, as our shepherd, is always with us to provide safety, strength and guidance in all situations. God brought King David through many difficult and tragic times, and David proclaimed God’s provision and faithfulness. The psalm reminds us that God is always walking with us through good times and bad, even as we face death. I like to think that Jesus also remembered this psalm as he faced the scorn of the Pharisees, the humiliation of a public trial, and the anguish of his crucifixion. Jesus’ resurrection is our promise that death will not be the last word for us. Heavenly Father, may we always look to you as our shepherd in all times and know that your love, comfort, peace and protection will sustain us always. Amen. Jo Nell Morris

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THURSDAY, APRIL 19 Jesus, Lamb of God Several devotionals will follow this theme. In 1985 the lyrics to the song, “Lamb of God” were written by Twila Paris. Let the words speak to your heart. Your only Son No sin to hide But You have sent Him, From Your side To walk upon this guilty sod And to become the Lamb of God Your gift of Love They crucified They laughed and scorned him as he died The humble King They named a fraud And sacrificed the Lamb of God Chorus: Oh Lamb of God, Sweet lamb of God I love the Holy Lamb of God Oh wash me in His precious Blood My Jesus Christ the Lamb of God I was so lost I should have died But You have brought me to Your side To be led by Your staff and rod And to be called a lamb of God Chorus: Oh Lamb of God, Sweet lamb of God I love the Holy Lamb of God Oh wash me in His precious Blood 'Til I am just a Lamb of God Oh wash me in His precious Blood My Jesus Christ the Lamb of God Bruce Leach

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FRIDAY, APRIL 20 ~ Read Mark 9:30-32 Lately I have sometimes awakened with a song on my mind. I keep a hymnal beside my prayer chair, and with the tune and limited lyrics I recall, I can look up the music. Then I am able to read/pray, and sometimes sing the song. The other morning I had a song in my head that I only recalled a few words of, but the tune was haunting. After some time I found it (God Bless Google!). The words are so perfect for Lent and Easter, I just had to share it. The Lamb of God by Twila Paris* Your only Son No sin to hide But you have sent Him from Your side To walk upon this guilty sod And to become the Lamb of God Your gift of Love They crucified They laughed and scorned him as he died The humble King they named a fraud And sacrificed the Lamb of God Chorus: Oh Lamb of God, Sweet Lamb of God I love the Holy Lamb of God Oh wash me in His precious Blood My Jesus Christ the Lamb of God I was so lost I should have died But You have brought me to your side To be led by Your staff and rod And to be called a Lamb of God Chorus: Oh wash me in His precious Blood My Jesus Christ the Lamb of God Dear Lord, thank You for saving us. Thank you for including us in Your flock. Thank you for your precious love. Amen. Gayle Calmes *Note from Patsy Cruser: When I assign dates for the writings, I first assign dates based on the scriptures quoted and a glance at the content. Then I read each individual devotion and write the date at the top, try to make the format consistent among all the submissions, and check for errors before sending them to Sally Foster and Sheri Clifton for further corrections and printing. I did not notice that Bruce Leach and Gayle Calmes had chosen the same song to submit to the devotional booklet until I looked at Gayle’s after already putting Bruce’s in its final form. I decided that if God had put the same song on the hearts of two people, then the song deserved to be seen twice by the congregation. The song really fits the Lenten season, but in both cases (Bruce’s and Gayle’s), it had been pushed down to the third week after Easter. I’m leaving it right where it is--twice!

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SATURDAY, APRIL 21 ~ Read Ephesians 2:11-22 During a trip last fall, my tour group sailed from Spain (Seville) to Morocco (Casablanca) and then departed from Morocco (Tangier) to return to Spain (Malaga). As part of the boarding process in Tangier to leave Morocco, we had to show the port authorities our passports. I had left mine on the ship. My thought was, “I’m getting off the ship in Casablanca, Morocco and I will be boarding again in Tangier, Morocco, so I don’t need my passport.” Wrong! I needed my passport to re-enter Spain and the passport check took place in Tangier. What a hassle! It seemed as though I not only needed a passport to enter Morocco, but one to depart as well. About a month prior to my trip, I had a dream that I have remembered since. I dreamed there were no borders between countries. Everyone could travel and live anywhere they wanted and just enjoy being a citizen of the world. This brought out the best of everyone. People were helping others and lending a hand wherever it was needed. Everyone benefited and enjoyed the beauty and all peoples of the Earth. According to the scripture in Ephesians, all of us, no matter our ethnic background or national origin, are members of the household of God, equal in his sight. Jesus was born and later died for all of us that we might be saved and later dwell in the presence of God. Dear Father, may we remember that all are equal and precious in your sight. May we strive to love one another as you and your Son love us. Amen. Sherry Moore

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SUNDAY, APRIL 22 ~ Read John 16:13 “Jesus said: ‘But when He, the Spirit of Truth, comes, He will guide you into all the Truth’” (John 16:13a). Our Bible study members wanted to know more about the Spirit and how to draw closer to Him. This is what the Lord placed on my heart. Worship in the Spirit Draw close, now is the time to worship Approach the throne on bended knee Open your heart with worship And allow the Spirit to be free. Lift up your hands, bow down your head Listen and hear and mean each word Reach into the depth of your heart Singing and worshiping your Lord! When the Spirit stirs your heart and soul Be ready to follow Him all the way Relinquish your every inhibition Surrender each one – just let your body sway. He will guide you in to the whole Truth There is no way you can go wrong When offering yourself as a sacrifice And are gladly following the Spirit in song. Helping us to demonstrate our love freely As the Holy Spirit pours out and flows Bringing us to the Lord our God in praise and worship Moving us closer to His heart than we know! Debby Lesher

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MONDAY, APRIL 23 ~ Read 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18; Philippians 4:6 “Always be joyful. Never stop praying. Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, NLT). “Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done” (Philippians 4:6, NLT). “All we can do now is pray…” Have you ever heard that? I know our pastors have often told us that prayer should be our first resource, not our last resort. Sounds like a good idea. But is it the way that we actually live? What happens when we discover that someone close to us is in an abusive relationship, or is spiraling down with addictions? Or when we get that phone call about a sudden death, a financial crisis, or a difficult diagnosis? I’ve been in the Bethany prayer ministry for over twenty years, and although I’m getting better, I have to confess that prayers are sometimes not the first things that come to my mind in an emergency. Why don’t we pray first? We often don’t pray because we don’t know WHAT to pray, because we’re so consumed by the situation. When my niece died in a car accident I was totally blank… and I’m a prayer usher, trained to pray in all circumstances! But in that moment I could not see beyond the circumstances. So I called someone else to pray with me. Actually for me and all the family because I just listened to the prayer, did not pray at all. But hearing someone else pray for my circumstances was a healing balm to me – a recognition that God is bigger, that we are not alone, that there is Someone to walk alongside who will help us get through this. That’s what prayer ushers are for – those who stand or sit with a red stole, or a yellow button, waiting to usher me, you, all of us, into the presence of God. Not in spite of our situations, but because of them, and in the midst of them. Because we don’t know what to pray. And also to fulfill the biblical promise that where two or three are gathered in Jesus’ name, HE IS THERE ALSO. But mostly, prayer ushers are to help us to take our eyes off the situations of life, and get them back onto our loving God. No matter what has changed, God is still the same. That is something we can hang onto. Thanks be to God. We thank You, Jesus, that You are the SAME, yesterday, today, and forever (Hebrews 13:8)! We confess that sometimes we are tossed about by the storms of this world, but we praise You, Father, for sending us brothers and sisters to pray with us, and to remind us of truths of Scripture. Thank You that Your Holy Spirit helps us in our weakness, when we don’t know how or what to pray (Romans 8:26-27). Yes, AMEN, may it all be so according to Your Word. Jill Saufferer

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TUESDAY, APRIL 24 ~ Read 1 John 4:13-21 “There is no fear in love (1 John 4:18a).” In a song sung by Joni Mitchell are the words, “The opposite of fear is love.” In the scripture passage for today, we read that “perfect love casts out fear” (1 John 4:18b). What do we fear? We are told by the Apostle Paul that nothing can separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus (Romans 8:38). When we are worried, we need to take stock of our fears, for worry is based on fear. There are many problems in our personal life and in our corporate life. Our health, and the health of those we love, is an often prevalent worry. The health problem is often connected to the fear of loss of those dearest to us and to the fear of our own death. Another prevalent worry which sometimes overwhelms our nation is the problem of outsiders or insiders who want to harm us. How do we protect ourselves as individuals or as a nation? We may be afraid because we don’t know who our enemies are or when or where these enemies might strike out against us. All of these fears are legitimate. The problems may or may not have solutions. When we think we have the solution, we may strike out at others who voice a different solution. How can we love others who are so wrong while we are so right? “The opposite of fear is love.” When we realize that there may be no solution to our immediate problems or the possibility of problems, our only hope lies in going to God in prayer. No matter what laws we make, what precautions we take, we cannot be assured of perfect health or perfect protection from harm. What we as Christians can be assured of is the love of God through Jesus Christ. We can be assured of comfort and wisdom from the Holy Spirit. Our health will fail, our loved ones will leave or die, but nothing can separate us from the love of God. We will die to this earth, but we have eternal life in God’s holy kingdom. Tom Deviney, in a sermon several years ago, stated that of all the things that were dear to him, each one could be taken away – house, friends, family – and he could survive; but if his relationship with God were taken, there would be no hope. The word I received from this sermon was that God and God’s love are the most important gift we have. We love because we have been loved. I need to remember this fact whenever I am afraid. I am loved. I must share love with others and give fears to God. Holy God, may we ever be mindful of your love for us. Thank you for sending Jesus to exemplify this love. Help us to remember to give our worries and fears to you. My we be ever thankful. In the name of Jesus we pray. Amen. Patsy Cruser

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WEDNESDAY, APRIL 25 ~ Read Isaiah 43:1-3a, 4 When You Walk through the Waters In the early morning of our 44th wedding anniversary, I took a solitary stroll on the Port Aransas Beach where my husband and I were spending a few days to celebrate and reflect on a blessed union. The beach has always been a place that raises my “God consciousness” because of its beauty, its constancy, and its vastness. There lay a large sand dollar, somewhat solitary in the midst of the ubiquitous sand, rocks, and broken pieces of shells. At first glance, the sand dollar appeared to be perfect and whole, just as we so often seem to those around us. I picked it up and realized that, though the sand dollar was still in one piece, some damage had been done to its surface and its shape, but it was still strong and whole, and yet so fragile. The newly found sand dollar brought to mind our lives as Christians in experiencing challenges and triumphs over the years, and for some of us, the decades. Like the sand dollar, each of us is made unique and beautiful in God’s image, with the promise that “He is the one who goes with us; He will not fail us or forsake us” (Deuteronomy 31:6). We may be tossed about by rough waters and the consistently harsh elements of the world, but as God promised, “When you pass through the waters, I will be with you” (Isaiah 43:1b). Yes, the year just passed had been a difficult one with my husband’s cancer recurrence, chemotherapy, and surgery. And yet we had continually felt God’s presence and perfect peace. Like the sand dollar we had been tossed about on our journey, but today, we are complete and whole, surrounded by the beauty of God’s creation, inspired and strengthened by His word, and repeatedly lifted up by our brothers and sisters in Christ. Holy and Gracious God, how humbled we are when we consider the depths of your love for us, and the promise that nothing can separate us from Your love. May we offer the light of Jesus to those we encounter who are “walking through the waters.” For it is in the name of Jesus, our Savior and our Compassionate Companion, I come to you. Amen. Cheryl Goad

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The Legend of the Sand Dollar There’s a lovely little legend That I would like to tell, Of the birth and death of Jesus Found in this lowly shell. If you examine closely You’ll see that you find here, Four nail holes and a fifth one Made by a Roman’s spear. On one side the Easter Lily, Its center is the star, That appeared unto the shepherds And led them from afar. The Christmas Poinsettia Etched on the other side, Reminds us of His birthday Our happy Christmastide. Now break the center open And here you will release, The five white doves awaiting To spread Good Will and Peace. This simple little symbol Christ left for you and me, To help us spread His Gospel Through all Eternity. Author Unknown

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THURSDAY, APRIL 26 ~ Read Matthew 6:19-21

Crockpot! “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Matthew 6:19-21). I love my crockpot! When I know I have a busy, away from home day ahead of me, I throw ingredients into it and go about my way. By the end of the day when I’m home again, there awaits our supper! This past winter in central Texas was a chilly one and several times I tossed stew meat, chopped carrots, celery, onions, potatoes, tomatoes and some herbs and spices, then covered it all with some beef broth. Humble ingredients, but they combined to create a satisfying stew for a cold winter evening’s meal. When Jesus talks about storing up treasures in heaven, I think about my crockpot. The preparation comes long before the enjoyment. We are serving Him today, looking forward to the eventual feast. What are the ingredients we are adding to the pot? Perhaps quiet words of understanding and encouragement that we offer a friend. Or a financial gift to another’s ministry. A gentle hug. A patient correction given to a child. A warm smile given a stranger on the street. Or the effort it took to hold back an unkind word. Maybe the song of praise we lifted to Jesus alone in the car as we drove across town. All demonstrations of love to Jesus and others become part of the treasures stored up in heaven. As the ingredients blend and simmer over our lifetime, Jesus stirs, adjusts, and adds His own components. I am so excited for that time at the final banquet where we’ll discover what treasure was created from the humble bits and pieces of our lives! Dear Lord Jesus, plant seeds of wisdom and courage in us as we navigate this earthly life. Convict us to live lives that are dedicated to being Your hands and feet. Lives worthy of the sacrifice You made on the Cross, for You are our Rock and our Redeemer. Amen. Gayle Kneupper

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FRIDAY, APRIL 27 ~ Read 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 During my trip last year in Morocco, our tour bus stopped at various “comfort stations” along the way. At one of these, besides gas and snacks, there was a restroom facility with a special feature, a place for Muslims to wash and then pray. You are probably aware that Muslims receive a call to pray five times during the typical day (dawn, midday, afternoon, sunset, and night). So even if you are traveling on the highway in Morocco, you can stop and pray when it is time to do so. So how often do you pray? Once a day, twice a day, in the morning or in the evening, or only on the golf course? In 1 Thessalonians 5, Paul tells us “Be cheerful no matter what; pray all the time; thank God no matter what happens. This is the way God wants you who belong to Christ Jesus to live” (The Message). We truly can have a prayer in our mind and in our heart any time we wish. We don't need to wait for a call to pray nor do we need to be rigid in our prayer structure. We just need to establish a relationship with God through prayer, talk with him frequently, and thank him for sending his Son to us. Dear Father in Heaven, help us to remember to pray and to listen for Your reply. Help us to use the power of prayer to become one with You no matter where we are or when we ask You to hear us. Amen. Sherry Moore

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SATURDAY, APRIL 28 ~ Read Psalm 95 The Message God’s Thunder Sometimes God's thunder comes in the person of a four year old girl. I had been to dinner with a friend, Yaneth, and Ximena, her daughter. When we got back to their home Ximena, of course, needed to show me her room and her toys. This evening was the beginning of cherished friendships with both mother and daughter. As I was leaving, this precious child called to me to wait. She had me bend over so she could reach my face. I was then blessed as her Grandma had blessed her so many times. "In the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit..." This blessing was poured over me in the beautiful Spanish language. In David's psalm we read, "We fall to our knees – we call out, "Glory." Though I did neither literally, my heart and head felt like I had and still do when I ponder on this moment in my life. So fleeting, so poignant, so quiet, but in it, God thundered. As the psalm concludes, "God gives his people peace." Yaneth simply said, "My daughter, the pope." “Bravo, GOD, bravo! ... all angels shout, ‘Encore!’ In awe before the glory, in awe before God's visible power (Psalm 29:1, The Message). Dear LORD, Thank you for speaking to us. You are so creative, God. Sometimes your voice is thunder, sometimes it is a child's voice, and sometimes it is still and more quiet than a whisper. Help us to LISTEN. Amen. Hilary Ferguson

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SUNDAY, APRIL 29 ~ Read Psalm 22:25-31 From you comes my praise in the great congregation; my vows I will pay before those who fear him. The poor shall eat and be satisfied, those who seek him shall praise the LORD, May your hearts live forever! All the ends of the earth shall remember and turn to the LORD; and all the families of the nations shall worship before him. For dominion belongs to the LORD, and he rules over the nations. To him, indeed, shall all who sleep in the earth bow down; before him shall bow all who go down to the dust, and I shall live for him. Posterity will serve him; future generations will be told about the LORD, and proclaim his deliverance to a people yet unborn, saying that he has done it.

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MONDAY, APRIL 30 ~ Read Jeremiah 6:16a Slow Down “Be still, and know that I am God!” Psalm 46:10 (NIV) On Ash Wednesday we were in Florida and were going with my brother-in-law to a worship service. Being on a small island off the coast of Florida, there was only one two-lane highway everyone used to get to wherever they were going. I doubt anyone has ever gotten a speeding ticket as it’s mostly impossible to even go the speed limit! We left the condo giving ourselves an extra twenty minutes to go the short distance to the church. We had only gone a few minutes before the traffic was stop and go. Turns out, Ash Wednesday was also garbage pick-up day for the area. With no turn lane and very little space on the side of the street, the garbage truck was controlling the traffic speed. Before discovering the problem for the traffic, we started speculating on reasons for the slowdown as it was well past morning rush hour. We knew there was a large Catholic church and a small Baptist church on our way and assumed others might also be going to services. The slow traffic allowed me to look at people in cars and those walking on the sidewalk. I noticed many had ashes in the sign of the cross on their forehead. They had already been to an Ash Wednesday service and were on their way home. I found myself looking for the ash cross on foreheads as we continued our journey. Not only did it speed up the trip (mentally) but it reminded me of the meaning of Ash Wednesday. My negative thoughts were replaced with the meaning of Ash Wednesday: a time of repentance. The traditional imposition of ashes signifies purification and sorrow for sins. The slowing down of traffic provided me with time for a spiritual lesson, preparing me for the worship service. When we slow down, life can provide us with many unexpected spiritual lessons. I’m reminded of a quote from Mother Teresa that often helps me slow down, pray and listen for God: “If you’re too busy to pray; you’re too busy.” Slow me down, Lord. Allow me to create time to listen to you during my busy days. Let me hear your words for me. Let me receive and follow your guidance in all that I do and say. Amen. Pauline Lacey

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TUESDAY, MAY 1 ~ Read Romans 5:2b-5 “Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance character; and character, hope. And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us” (Romans 5:2b-5). I was diagnosed with adrenal insufficiency nine years ago. The disease had been affecting me for some time. Once it overtook me, I became very sick and had to go on temporary disability as of the day of diagnosis for three months. This was a big blow to me. I was working full time in a job I loved. The question of the day was always how much caffeine I had because I never stayed still. I was on a mission whenever I got out of my chair and others knew to stay out of my way. All that energy had been taken away. It was a good day if I could get out of bed. My endocrinologist got my hydrocortisone dose to where I could work twenty hours a week. The dose was triple the amount they wanted me on but at least I was stable and out of crisis. It took nearly a year to wean me down. The dose is still higher than the doctors are comfortable with, but it keeps me alive and functioning. I was able to persevere through that year and I am still persevering. This experience has definitely changed and continues to change my character. Because of all I am going through I have great hope. My hope is in the God who wakes me up each morning and gives me breath every moment of the day. My hope is in the Father who promises me life with Him forever by believing in His Son, Jesus Christ. My hope is in Him who so wants to give me the chance to experience His will on earth as it is in Heaven. All I have to do is accept, believe and trust in His promises and His love. Lord, thank you for giving us hope. Amen. Blessings with luv, Debby Lesher

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WEDNESDAY, MAY 2 ~ Read Matthew 6:16-20 “And when you fast, don’t make it obvious, as the hypocrites do, for they try to look miserable and disheveled so people will admire them for their fasting. I tell you the truth, that is the only reward they will ever get. But when you fast, comb your hair and wash your face. Then no one will notice that you are fasting, except your Father, who knows what you do in private. And your Father, who sees everything, will reward you,” (Matthew 6:16-18 NLT). Fasting! Just the word made me feel condemned. Jesus said WHEN you fast, not IF you fast. And Lent is a traditional time when the church fasts. I have read fasting books, LOTS of books, and been so overwhelmed by them that I didn’t do anything, or I started and then quit. Going through a book about spiritual growth last year, there was a chapter on why we should regularly fast. So I started going along with the Seedbed weekly fast – at least in a limited way, and pretty legalistically. But beyond that… Then early one Sunday when I was scheduled to be a prayer usher I asked God to give me a “word” for someone that morning. Everywhere I went, everyone who passed, I listened to see if that was the person. Nothing. Did God not hear me? Then in worship I heard a “word”… for ME. That Lent was coming and I needed to start a fasting support group. I confess that I argued with God silently a little. With caring for Dad my mornings are uncertain (I’d attended/led fasting groups before, first thing in the mornings). God clarified that it could be an e-group so I could do it anytime. I laughed a little when I realized God HAD answered my prayer, just not in the way I expected. So I wrote emails to those who contacted me, and they came together pretty easily. Then I realized that I was supposed to do this also! Not just telling others what would be good to do, but actually doing it myself. Not just the fasting, which is basically eliminating something that is separating me from God, but especially the “adding in” (journaling, Scriptures, additional prayer, listening time, focusing on God, etc.). No one would know if I wasn’t fully present to this – except the God who told me to do it. Oooh, ouch. There’s an old quote, something like this: If you fail to plan, you plan to fail. We don’t “go with the flow” in fasting, because, honestly, we would never follow through! This is not legalistic. We make a plan WITH GOD, then commit to the plan WITH GOD. And you know the only way we can follow through on the plan? Yes, WITH GOD! At this writing we’re halfway through Lent. Fasting has been challenging in several ways, but I certainly am talking/listening with God more. We will see how it goes. Bottom line, I know that it’s God’s will, it’s just between us, and that even the effort will be pleasing to Him. Holy God, we know you call us to fast for a variety of reasons, but mostly so we can get closer to You! Grow us, Lord Jesus! As you expected your disciples to fast, you also expect us to. Show us how. And meet us in that private place of intimacy, for Your name’s sake. Amen. Jill Saufferer

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THURSDAY, MAY 3 ~ Read Matthew 5:1-11 These days, you can't go anywhere without hearing the phrase, “Have a good one!” I know most people who say this are only trying to wish me well, but I often wonder when they parrot this generic phrase exactly what they really have in mind for me. Have a nice day? Have a nice life? Have a nice case of the flu? Have a nice flat tire? Have a nice mother-in-law? Well, I've decided to say something else in reply: “Have a blessed day.” In the Beatitudes, Jesus mentions many people who are blessed: the poor, the meek, they that mourn, the merciful, the pure in heart, the peacemakers… He came to bless us, and we can bless others by how we treat them and what we say. So I hope you will join me in saying to others, “Have a blessed day” and really mean it. Father, thank you for sending Jesus to us. Help us to follow His example and be a blessing to others. Let us honor Him and You by treating others as we would like to be treated. Amen. Sherry Moore

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FRIDAY, MAY 4 ~ Read Matthew 5:3 At The End of My Rope I have many fun memories from over forty years of teaching. One of my favorites comes from a winter day in Michigan in an eighth grade study skills classroom. In an attempt to diffuse (what, I don't remember), I said, "Let this be a warning to you, I am at the end of my rope." Then I heard from the corner of the room, as only an eighth grade girl can reply, "Don't let go." I burst out laughing, eventually the kids did too, and we went on with our time together. Situation diffused and, as so often is the case in a classroom, the teacher learned the biggest lesson. Then God's Word makes the lesson even more complete. “You're blessed when you're at the end of your rope. With less of you, there is more of God and his rule," (Matthew 5:3, The Message). I am blessed at the end of my rope, for then I finally turn to God and HIS will. Do I dare pray, Lord, make my rope shorter and shorter so I turn to you more and more, faster and faster? I am nothing without HIM. I want there to be less of me so there is more of God and his rule. As part of that hope, yesterday I completed lesson four as part of Priscilla Shirer's online Bible study, Discerning The Voice of God. She challenged me to practice the presence of God, be in the presence of God, tarry in the presence of God, for HE alone is the prize. Then she said, "God will keep hold of me." How much better is THAT than me trying to hold onto a rope?!? Dear Lord, Thank you for bringing me to you and for ALWAYS being a part of my life. Let me drop the rope and cling to YOU, your plan, your will, your Spirit, even as you keep hold of me. Our God reigns, let my life reflect that! Amen. Hilary Ferguson

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SATURDAY, MAY 5 ~ Read James 1:19-20; Mark 9:7 Quick or Slow “My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry,” (James 1:19, NIV). Whenever I read this verse I’m reminded of the saying, “God gave us two ears and only one mouth.” The meaning being, we should listen twice as much as we talk. Listening first saves us from saying the wrong thing or saying too much. I began to make two columns, one for “Quick” and one for “Slow,” and started expanding both lists to include other traits I needed to focus on in my life. QUICK To listen To share my time To help others To love others

SLOW To speak To become angry To rush into daily activities without talking to God first To judge others

I noticed my “slow” column was growing faster, but thinking about it, I decided that was a good thing. I also decided that by listening first; many items in my “slow” column might be avoided. James continues in verse 22 saying, “Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.” Listening is important but it’s equally important to choose to whom I will listen. Proverbs 3:16 says “Listen for God’s voice in everything you do, everywhere you go; he’s the one who will keep you on track.” Mark, Matthew, and Luke all recorded the words God spoke on the mountaintop during the transfiguration of Jesus: “This is my Son, whom I love. Listen to him!” (Mark 9:7) A hymn I like singing or hearing to remind myself to listen to the Lord is “Take Time to Be Holy.” Some of my favorite phrases are: Take time to be holy, speak oft with thy Lord Abide in him always, and feed on his word. Take time to be holy, let him be thy guide, In joy or in sorrow, still follow the Lord, and looking to Jesus, still trust in his word. W. D. Longstaff Lord, teach me to be holy, to be calm in my soul, so all my thoughts and my motives will glorify you and be in your control. Amen. Pauline Lacey

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SUNDAY, MAY 6 ~ Read Psalm 98 Oh sing to the LORD a new song, for he has done marvelous things! His right hand and his holy arm have gotten him victory. The LORD has made known his victory; he has revealed his vindication in the sight of the nations. He has remembered his steadfast love and faithfulness to the house of Israel. All the ends of the earth have seen the victory of our God. Make a joyful noise to the LORD, all the earth; break forth into joyous song and sing praises. Sing praises to the LORD with the lyre, with the lyre and the sound of melody. With trumpets and the sound of the horn make a joyful noise before the King, the LORD. Let the sea roar, and all that fills it; the world and those who live in it. Let the floods clap their hands; let the hills sing together for joy at the presence of the LORD, for he is coming to judge the earth. He will judge the world with righteousness, and the peoples with equity.

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MONDAY, MAY 7 ~ Read John 13:1-2, 4-5; Matthew 28:7; Mark 14:18, 27-28 Prodigal Love “But after I have risen, I will go ahead of you into Galilee,” (Mark 14:28). When my daughter was young, we had a routine when we got home from work and day care. She would go watch cartoons, and I would immediately start making dinner. One evening I was so exhausted I had the temerity to sit down for a moment and glance at the mail before starting dinner. My daughter came into the kitchen, saw me sitting, burst into tears, shouted, “I trusted you!” and ran off sobbing. Needless to say, I jumped up and immediately started cooking dinner. Betrayal is devastating. It has ruined many relationships, and is extremely hard to forgive, especially if the betrayal has come from someone in our closest circle of friends. That is what happened to Jesus. He was betrayed by Judas Iscariot, and after he was arrested, all of his disciples abandoned him. Jesus knew this would happen. In fact, he told them that one of them would betray him and that all of them would fall away. And then he told them that when he had risen, he would go ahead of them to Galilee. What incomprehensible love! Before the Passover meal, knowing he would soon be betrayed and abandoned by his closest friends, he washed their feet. He ate with them, and he told him he would be in Galilee waiting for them when everything was all over. God, with steadfast love, says, “No matter what awful thing you have done, I still love you. No matter how crushed, desperate, in despair, lost you are, I’m going ahead of you. I’ll be there for you. I know you. I know what you have done, what you have not done, what you will do, and still I love you.” Regardless of circumstances, God loves us. We may be bitter, angry, desperate, ashamed, fearful, or all of these. It does not matter. God is right there in the middle of our mess with us, loving us and suffering and grieving with us. Whether we are aware of God’s presence with us or oblivious, whether we are numb or lashing out or on the verge of physical, mental, and/or emotional collapse, God is there, loving us, understanding us, having compassion on us, waiting for us. Holy God, your love for us is extravagant. Open our hearts to accept this amazing gift that is dependent solely on you. May we ever praise and thank you, for you are good, and your love endures forever. Amen. Betty Milburn

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TUESDAY, MAY 8 ~ Read Romans 8:22-28 As many do, I ignored God, the church, my faith for a time in my twenties and early thirties. I went to church off and on, gave a pledge, tried some small groups, but everything was lukewarm and at the bottom of my list of priorities. My eighth year teaching began with a new principal. The school was in the most needy part of a wealthy, educated town. Most citizens didn't know that side of town, let alone that there was a school there. What I didn't know was how challenging my class was going to be, though I should have had a clue. I had three students on probation reporting to a judge once a month. The fifth graders were assigned to combination classes or my fifth grade. The students assigned to combination classes were independent workers and the "best" of the student pool. All other fifth graders were on my class list. That did not bother me. With my passion for the underdog, I felt up to the challenge. I was NOT up to the challenge, but neither was anyone else. The school psychologist who came in to "show me better strategies," left after one hour saying, "I don't know how you do this." The principal sat in the corner balancing his checkbook and passing out lollipops on the few occasions he "visited." I just persisted to the best of my ability, but in the evening I would collapse on my couch and moan and groan, rarely even able to cry. Oh, how I give thanks for that year of my life now. Though I didn't know it then, I lived Scripture: "God's Spirit is right alongside helping us along. If we don't know how or what to pray, it doesn't matter. He does our praying in and for us, making prayer out of our wordless sigh, our aching groans," (Romans 8:25+,The Message). God kept this promise even for someone so lukewarm. I moved to another school a year later. There I met children of parents who were faithful Christians. God's Spirit continued to be at work. I eventually became intentional about paying attention to my spiritual life and “…That's why we can be so sure that every detail in our lives of love for God is worked into something good," (Romans 8:28, The Message). Dear God of grace and goodness, thank you for loving me through THAT year. Thank you for forgiving me for my years of neglect and running. Thank you for bringing me to intentionality with You and Jesus. Keep me faithful, sweet Spirit. Amen. Hilary Ferguson

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WEDNESDAY, MAY 9 We have no more devotions, but Pentecost Sunday is coming on May 20. Until then, I would encourage you to use the other devotional materials you may have, study in your small groups, and worship in the chapel, the sanctuary, or the worship center. Before Pentecost, please read Acts 2:1-11, and remember the sacrifices made by the early Christians so that we might continue to worship as Christians today. May you be blessed and comforted by the Holy Spirit. Patsy Cruser

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