February 25, 2004 Ash Wednesday	Read Revelation 21:1-5
And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “See, the home of God is among mortals.  He will dwell with them as their God; they will be his peoples, and God himself will be with them; he will wipe every tear from their eyes.  Death will be no more; mourning and crying and pain will be no more, for the first things have passed away.”  And the one who was seated on the throne said, “See, I am making all things new.”
Two small and vaguely human figures with furry feet are running desperately through the forest night trying to escape horrors unseen, but urgently sensed. They are running for their lives. They reach the top of a hill, and what they see in the moonlight terrifies them.  Orcs!  They must hide.  Hide in the darkness of tall grass!  Too late.  They’ve been spotted.  The Orcs are coming -- lumbering, powerful, without pity.  Suddenly, the night air is split by the shrill screeching of giant eagles swooping down from their mountain perches. Elves show up to join the fray, then fierce Dwarfs.  The horrific sounds of warfare clash and echo as each group claws, beats, screams, stabs, and mutilates the others in efforts to win the victory. Trolls, Dark Riders, Goblins, and Wizards arrive, adding their weapons and their voices to the cacophony.  The carnage is awesome!  The little ones hiding in the tall grass freeze, hunkering down, hoping to be invisible.  Will those defenseless Hobbits survive the night, or will the forces of the Dark Lord have their way? ********************* We, my friends, are the little Hobbits hiding in the tall grass.  We are trapped in the battle between the Dark Lord and the True Lord, helpless and often hopeless.  Somehow we must be rescued, Some One must help, because we cannot rescue ourselves.  Without rescue, we will perish. This isn’t a movie.  This is our faith:  that the True Lord has asserted his dominion over the Dark Lord and all his forces. The sacrifice of the True Lord himself has saved us when we could not save ourselves. As we begin our period of Lenten self-examination and repentance, let us remember that, through the resurrection of Jesus, the True Lord changed the rules of battle.  There are still Orcs out there, and Trolls, Dark Riders, even Oliphants.  They will be waiting in ambush to grab us whenever they find opportunity to use us for their own purposes. But all things are new because of Jesus, who is the True Lord.  We are no longer helpless and hopeless and afraid.  We are marching in the Light of God. We pray to you, True Lord:  save us from the time of trial and deliver us from evil.  The Kingdom is yours, now and forever. DALLAS CRONK
February 26, 2004	Read Mark 1:1
The beginning of the good news of Jesus Christ, the Son of God.
JESUS CAME TO SAVE Do you remember the first time you heard the Good News of Jesus Christ?  I believe I was about three years old, it was Easter and my godfather, who was also my great uncle, told me “Happy Easter, Christ has risen to save us”.  He then gave me a beautiful card with a sparkly Easter egg on it. Recently I attended a Youth Quake with my students.  It was a very wonderful and exciting time.  We spent the whole weekend singing, praying, dancing and sharing God’s word.  We were all filled with the Holy Spirit.  Sometimes we were so filled, it felt like we had goose bumps.  Kari Lyn, our guest speaker for the weekend, always had a challenge for us.  The final challenge she gave us was, “How are you going to share God’s word with the world?” When I look at Mark 1:1, I thank God that he stirred the Holy Spirit in the disciples so they would take up the cross and join Jesus.  God also stirred in them the importance of sharing the Good News  with all the people of the world.  We are also reminded when our children are baptized to share God’s word by putting the Bible into their hands.  It is especially important in today’s fast paced society that we do not schedule God, but make God FIRST in our lives. Gracious God, stir up your Holy Spirit within each of us.  Make our hearts light so that we may sing, dance and praise you.  Guide us through our hectic lives, so that we may find your light in all we do.  We pray in Jesus’ name. MICHON WEINGARTNER
February 27, 2004	Read Psalm 100
GOD IS FAITHFUL
For the Lord is good; his steadfast love endures forever and his faithfulness to all generations. Throughout Biblical and modern history, God our Father has played an active role in his relationship to man.  He has always been faithful to his word.  He was there for Abraham and Sarah by providing a son late in life.  He called Moses to lead the Israelites out of Egypt. He made Israel into a great nation with leaders like King David and Solomon.  God made and kept promises, some through special miracles, for his people.  His ultimate act of love was to provide his Son as an intermediary for us sinners.  It seems that when we as humans are faithful to God and put our trust in him and tell him what we want or need, he somehow accommodates us.  Times seem to be better.  That is not to say that we get everything we ask for or always recognize his blessings.  More recent history supports the idea that human societies, void of God’s love, do not fair well.  The Nazis tried to use God for their selfish ends.  The atheist power of Communism has faltered and waned.  Even his bride, the Church, has been less than faithful at times.  God, on the other hand, has remained faithful. God has sacrificed his Son, Jesus Christ, because of humanity’s inability to remain faithful.  The apostles were left to teach us the lessons Jesus had taught them.  Saul-St. Paul was called away from the prosecution of Christians to deliver the message of Good News to the Gentile masses.  God continues his relationship with us as we go to him in prayer.  He listens to us, provides comfort and understanding, and uses us for his glory. Father in heaven we pray that you continue to listen to us.  We thank you for your guidance, comfort, and loyal love.  We know humans can not succeed except through your will.  Please help us keep our minds focused on your love and bless us this day in the name of your Son, Jesus Christ.  RICHARD MCDIFFETT
February 28, 2004	Read Genesis 12: 1-2
…and I will bless you and make your name great, so that you will be a blessing.
YOU CAN BE A BLESSING We confess our faith each Sunday morning using the Apostles’ Creed and say, “I believe in God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth.”  We read God’s words in Genesis, words that summarize the result of this creation:  “God saw all that he had made, and it was very good.”  (Genesis 1:31, NIV)  But sin broke into the world, man rebelled against God and “the Lord was grieved that He had made man on the earth, and His heart was filled with pain.”  (Genesis 6:6)  Out of this disappointment and yet through God’s abundant mercy, God called Abram. This one man, chosen by God, was to leave everything important in his life (family, community, land) . . . and go!  Abram responded to God’s call by faith – a courageous act of trust.  The call of Abram was a mark of divine intervention destined to reshape the course of salvation history.  God’s original blessing on all mankind would be restored and fulfilled through Abram and his offspring.  The call of Abram was a call for the Israelite nation to be a blessing to all people.  Unfortunately, God often had to use other nations to discipline the Israelites because, far from being a blessing to the world, they were usually disobedient.  Yet God did not give up on humankind.  The call of Abram and God’s promises to him take on their greatest fulfillment in the fact that Jesus Christ, a descendant of Abraham, became the means of blessing to the world.  Out of God’s abundant mercy, the blessing extends to us today.  As Paul writes in Galatians 3:28-29, “for you are all one in Christ Jesus.  If you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise.”  Christians are Abraham’s true spiritual descendants.  Take a moment and meditate on the meaning of this Good News. Lord, help us to recognize in faith our blessings so we may be a blessing to others; as we pray for Thy will to be done on earth.  LYNN SCHRIEVER
February 29, 2004	Read Luke 1:46-55:1-9
And Mary said, “My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has looked with favor on the lowliness of this servant.”
INNOCENCE RECLAIMED The Magnificat of Mary is refulgent with poetic beauty.  An exultant hymn of praise, she proclaimed it with the joy of being chosen to bear the Savior of the world. “Magnificat” comes from the Latin root meaning “great.”  The dictionary lists the first and most common use of the word “magnify” as ”to make greater in size, status or importance.” We live in a fiercely competitive world, where bigger is not only better, but is touted as the goal of mega-consumers –- bigger pizza, sanchos, houses, TVs, and insurance policies.  The fourth and final meaning of magnify–- listed as an “archaic” one -– is “to glorify and praise.”  How interesting that the original meaning of the word should become the least in usage. Adam’s longing or loneliness was relieved only by the companionship of Eve.  He had no family history and relinquished his happy future.  I remember my 4-year-old daughter asking me if Adam and Eve had a belly button.  Astonished at her wise curiosity, I replied, “They didn’t need one because they didn’t have a mommy to give them one.”  They were the only humans who never had a mother, and God decided this would never happen again.  Mary as the mother of the Savior became the mother of all the human race.  She proclaimed this Good News by the humble offering of her entire life.  Jesus had no place to rest His head, but Mary had no place to rest her heart.  This “lowly servant,” Mary, was the retrieval and amelioration of humanity’s lost innocence. We too should humble ourselves beyond “bigger” to live that “archaic” Magnificat throughout our lives, answering with Elizabeth: “...Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb, Jesus.” Mary, mother of God, let us share with your joyful humility the Good News of salvation.  JOANNE EHRLICH
March 1, 2004	Read Luke 2: 1-16
But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for see – I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people: to you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is the Messiah, the Lord.”
THE KING IS COMING! It would seem the People of Israel could have used some good news back at the time Christ was born.  The Romans had an occupying force that ruled the land, and the Jewish King was cruel to his people.  On top of that, it was very hard to eke out a living in Israel in those days -- hard work, oppressive government, high taxes. People needed some good news, but when the Good News came, God chose the lowest of lows to announce the birth of his Son. Why?  Luther wrote: "Behold how very richly God honors those who are despised of men, and that very gladly. Here you see that his eyes look into the depths of humility... God chose poor shepherds, who, though they were of low esteem in the sight of men, were in heaven regarded as worthy of such great grace and honor." Why use the symbolism of a shepherd to portray the Son of God? Christ, a servant King, was born of the house of David. David was a man who also rose from being a shepherd to a king.  Could this be God's way of emphasizing that the greatest kings are servant kings?  Or did he want to say Christ came for everyone?  I think he was saying both, for whom better to save everyone than a Servant Dear God, let our ears and our hearts hear your words in every manner in which you speak them to us.  Lets us not be so arrogant as to think that someone is too lowly to be your messenger.  Help us to be humble and lead us in the right path. BOB WEAVER
March 2, 2004	Read Isaiah 52:5-9
How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of the messenger who announces peace, who brings good news, who announces salvation, who says to Zion, “Your God reigns.”
LED TO NEW HEIGHTS We all love a good message but, with the exception of the Christmas season when the news is full of “feel good” messages and stories of human generosity to the less fortunate, what makes headlines are stories of gossip, scandals, crime, and war. We get caught in the trivial aspects of our lives and are so busy -- busy wasting a lot of precious time. In this the first week of Lent, we have an opportunity to repent and reflect. The message is one of great hope for justice, peace, and salvation through the Messiah to come. If we fill up on the Good News, there is no room for the bad. The text reminds me of a beautiful allegory by Hannah Hurnard, Hinds Feet on High Places. The title is based on Habakkuk 3:19: “The sovereign Lord is my strength, he makes my feet like the feet of a deer, he enables me to go on the heights.” The allegory dramatizes the yearning of God’s children to be led to new heights of love, joy and victory. It is the story of Much Afraid and her spiritual journey through difficult places with her two companions, Sorrow and Suffering. Much Afraid passes through many dangers until she finally reaches the High Places and is transformed by her union with the loving Shepherd. My hope and prayer for this Lenten season is for all of us to journey with the messenger, who brings the Good News of the Messiah and – just like Much Afraid -- unite with the loving Shepherd on the mountain top. Heavenly Father, give us the courage to join the chorus of the messenger of the Good News: Our God reigns. JETTE MORTENSEN
March 3, 2004	Read John 1:1-14
And the Word became flesh and lived among us, and we have seen his glory, the glory as of a father’s only son, full of grace and truth.
THE WORD WAS AMONG US In the beginning Christ, the Word (logos, God in action), was with God and was God. He was there at the creation, creating. He saw when sin began, when the flood came, when the commandments were given, when the Jews were sent into exile, and when they returned to Jerusalem. He saw the frustrated efforts of the prophets to bring his people back into the covenant of obedience. He knew all about human beings and their failure to keep their end of God’s covenant with them. Even so, he took on human form and lived among us, as one of us. He was Son of Man and Son of God at the same time. But as we know, the crucial difference was that he committed no sin. He was full of grace and truth¾sometimes full of hard truths he declared to his followers. Throughout his ministry, his trial, and even his crucifixion, his glory shone through. His was the glory as of “the Father’s only Son.”  Remember the message at Jesus’ baptism: “This is my Son, the Beloved, with whom I am well pleased” (Matthew 3:17), words similar to those used at the coronation of kings of Israel and Judah. And remember the witness of the Roman centurion at the foot of the cross: “Truly this man was God’s Son!” This man was the King of heaven and earth. And he gave away his life for you, for me. Amazing! “Love so amazing, so divine, demands my soul, my life, my all” (LBW 482). Dear Lord Jesus, King of heaven and earth, It is hard for me to fathom your divine presence in the form of a baby, a child, and then a rabbi. Why would an almighty King come into our troubled world? I am eternally grateful that you lived among us to teach us and minister to us, and then gave up your life to save us. Help us to respond with our lives given to you. EUNICE DOMAN MYERS, PHD
March 4, 2004	Read Mark 1: 9-11
And a voice came from heaven, “You are my Son, the Beloved; with you I am well pleased.”
THE SPIRIT COMES When you hear these familiar words of scripture from the Gospel of Mark, do you picture, as I do, a well known artists’ interpretation of Jesus’ baptism?  We can visualize the heavens opened and the Spirit descending like a dove.  It is a beautiful scene and in our mind’s eye, one of great peace, beauty and mystery.  Jesus, our Lord and Savior baptized by John, receiving the Holy Spirit and hearing the words from heaven . . . “with you I am well pleased.”  What a wonderful gift of grace that we, too, can receive the Holy Spirit, be forgiven our sins and start anew, marked with the cross of Christ forever and confident in the hope of eternal life. Each Sunday at worship, we confess our sins, hear the words of forgiveness and celebrate that we can start once again, a freshly forgiven child of God.  This is truly Good news!  As we leave worship with the parting words “Go in peace, serve the Lord,” we re-enter the outside world refreshed and with purpose.  Following in Jesus’ footsteps, even though we stumble, it is our hope that when our lives are reviewed, we too might have found favor in God’s sight. Gracious and loving Lord, we praise you for all of creation and for the gift of your son, our Savior, Jesus Christ.  We pray for your forgiveness of our shortcomings and thank you for the blessing of our Baptism and what it means in our lives.  We ask for your guidance as we try to follow your word.  In Jesus’ name we pray. LOTUS GERARDS
March 5, 2004	Read Isaiah 43:1-9
…for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine.  When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you.
GOD KNOWS YOUR NAME Comforting and encouraging words are provided for the Lord's people.  Israel belonged to God by right of creation, redemption and naming.  Just as the Lord brought the Hebrew slaves safely through the waters of the sea, so he would continue to bring his people through when they encountered troubled times. "Fear not, for I am with you.” Everyone is affected by circumstances that bring suffering.  God's goodness is nowhere more apparent than in the midst of suffering.  His history of providential care and deliverance for his people remains a constant reminder in every generation that he is to carry us through every adversity and trial.  His presence is sufficient to banish fear. His power is enough to deliver us from despair.  In my deepest despair, at difficult times in my life, it was my faith that God would carry me when I could no longer go on.  It brings a new meaning to a personal relationship with the God of my understanding.  God's ultimate purpose is always for our good, even though we may not realize it at the time. Today’s text says, "Let them bring out their witness...it is truth.”  It is now in our hands to share our faith and personal experiences to let others know the Good News and show that the Son of God is here to save us all. Dear Lord, I am deeply grateful that Thou art my God who has promised never to leave me nor forsake me.  I trust Thy Word that nothing shall be able to separate me from Thy love which is in Christ Jesus, my Lord. JEANNE TILLER
March 6, 2004	Read John 3:16-21
For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life.  Indeed, God did not send the Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him.
ETERNAL LIFE IS OURS The way I interpret this scripture is that if we ask God for forgiveness of our sins, he will forgive us. God loved us so much that he gave his only Son to suffer and die for all my sins. God’s love is showered upon us every day. His love is unconditional and consistently seeks the highest good for the one who is loved. Because God first loved us, we ought to love others as well. I never knew my dad’s father.  He died before I was born. From what I do know, he was one of the sweetest men there was. My grandma tells me that he couldn't always make it to church every Sunday. But he did believe in God. I know that he is in heaven and has eternal life because of the assurance of this verse. I know God will protect us. I was in a car wreck about eight years ago with my family. Our van was shredded to pieces. The highway patrol officer said that, when he pulled up to the scene, he thought there would be fatalities.  To his surprise, we all came out alive. Three of us have permanent injuries, but we believe God sent angels down to protect us, just as he promised in these verses. God loves us so much that he doesn't want any harm to come to us. Because of the tremendous love, I know I will join my grandfather in heaven someday. Dear God, thank you for sending your Son into this world that we might be saved.  Thank you for the assurance of eternal life, as John wrote. Always be with me, keeping my heart and mind always with you. ADAM WATKINS NINTH GRADE STUDENT
March 7, 2004	Read Isaiah 61
The spirit of the Lord God is upon me, because the Lord has anointed me; he has sent me to bring good news to the oppressed, to bind up the brokenhearted; to proclaim liberty to the captives and release to the prisoners; to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all who mourn.
THERE IS GOOD NEWS Sometimes no news is good news. Newspapers warn of job layoffs, bills mailed with no money to pay, calls from the doctor, even letters from friends... Too much worry, sadness, bad news. Prophet Isaiah proclaimed God’s word of encouragement to people who were down and out, devastated by exile and oppression, suffering many miseries: God’s word of love and hope. Five centuries later Jesus picked up this very scripture for his first public proclamation: “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to bring good news to the poor... Today this scripture has been fulfilled in your hearing.” (Luke 4:18, 21) Years ago, while serving at Kansas City’s Metropolitan Lutheran Ministry, I carried a box of food to the home of a woman who had lost her job after being diagnosed with MS. She called for help when her cupboards were bare, electricity off, her home dark and cold. This cloudy gray day, I wondered how to help beyond a little food and utility aid. Nearing her apartment, I looked toward her window and saw her handmade cardboard sign with a message for the world: “Jesus loves me, this I know!” She was sharing her source of help and strength. This woman of faith, hope, caring and courage became a partner in helping others and speaking up for people trapped by troubles. She knew Jesus shared her pain. The Spirit of God was sending her with the Good News of Christ. Let us pray: O God of mercy and grace, I pray that you would use me to bring good news to someone who needs your word of hope and love, in Jesus’ name. REV. SALLY FAHRENTHOLD
March 8, 2004	Read John 1: 45-46
Philip found Nathanael and said to him, “We have found him about whom Moses in the law and also the prophets wrote, Jesus son of Joseph from Nazareth.”  Nathanael said to him, “Can anything good come out of Nazareth?”  Philip said to him, “Come and see.”
COME AND SEE The Philip and Nathanael story speaks boldly about faith and love.  First, Philip had the faith to follow Jesus, whom he accepted as the Son of God.  Jesus asked Philip to “follow him,” which he did.  Then, Philip demonstrated his love for another, a reluctant Nathanael, by asking him to “come and see” the Son of God.  Nathaneal in the later verses of this biblical account saw and spoke with Jesus.  He, like Philip, truly discovered that Jesus son of Joseph was the Son of God who came from such an unexpected place as Nazareth. As followers of Christ, we need to be like Philip and share our faith and love with others by proclaiming the Good News that Jesus is the Son of God.  In this secular world, we often times are reluctant about practicing our faith in the midst of  society.  Last fall, Tom Schaefer of the Wichita Eagle wrote an article in the Faith and Values section of the newspaper about why people do not pray before meals in restaurants.  Various reasons and excuses were given in response to Schaefer’s inquiry.  Philip candidly reminds and challenges each one of us that in our daily lives we must, by what we say and do, spread the Good News that Christ, the Son of God, lives within us. This public act of faith and love requires courage.  Let this Lenten Season be one in which we all, with God’s help, become more Christ-like by living and practicing our faith and love for one another each and every hour of every day of our lives. Gracious Father, allow your Holy Spirit to dwell within us that we might be more Christ-like in all we say and do. LARRY D. EHRLICH
March 9, 2004	Read Ephesians 2:13-18
So he came and proclaimed peace to you who were far off and peace to those who were near; for through him both of us have access in one Spirit to the Father.
WE’RE ALL HIS CHILDREN Today’s Ephesus is a magnificent ruin in the country we now call Turkey.  Much of it remains buried under the rubble of centuries, but the part that has been excavated is startlingly beautiful.  The streets of the ancient city are made of marble and are lined by Grecian columns, also marble, that once were topped with statues of gods, goddesses, and other important people.  There are remnants of public bathhouses and evidence of water transport systems that moved sewage one way and fresh water another.  Carved in stone from another era are pictograph directions to the local bordello. Despite all these wonders, nothing prepares the first-time visitor for the vision of the great public building at the end of the main street.  One simply arrives at the top of a hill and there below, at what was once the shore of the Mediterranean Sea, are the stunning remains of a building that rivals the Parthenon in architecture and sheer beauty. In Paul’s time, Ephesus was a major seaport and cultural center.  It was a prosperous city; the culture was quite advanced and many of the people lived in relative luxury.  Ethnicity was mixed.  We might say the Ephesians were culturally diverse.  As a major trading port, the city attracted residents from all parts of the civilized world.  Some were Jews; most were not. Paul loved the Christian church in Ephesus, though it had its problems.  The Jews had trouble accepting the Gentiles and vice versa.  Peace, Paul said, God’s peace to Jews and Gentiles alike.  Please learn to get along together, in the name of Jesus who loves all people. Forget your religious and historic disagreements in the name of Jesus.  The Good News comes to all, to those who live far away and to those who live nearby. You are all his children.  He wants you to love one another, even though your traditions differ.  Work together in his name. To those who are far away and to those who are nearby, to all those who believe in the saving power of Jesus, may the eternal peace of the Lord be with you always. DALLAS CRONK
March 10, 2004	Read Psalm 91
When they call to me, I will answer them; I will be with them in trouble.  I will rescue them and honor them.
COMFORT COMES IN “SOLDIER’S PSALM” This Psalm is printed in the Bible without a title.  We do not know for certain who the author is, although Jewish scholars have always attributed it to Moses.  Their reasoning is that when the author’s name is not given, it can be credited to the last named author; in this case, Moses.  Indeed, many of the expressions used are similar to those used by Moses. But what this Psalm has to say is more important to us than who wrote it.  It promises that God will be with us in times of trouble.  We have only to call on him, and he will answer.  He promises us deliverance.  If God is with us, who can be against us? The 91st Psalm has been called “The Soldier’s Psalm,” because generations of soldiers have found comfort in it before going into battle.  It is especially important for us today when our country faces so many dangers, both seen and unseen.  We can no longer doubt that there are forces of evil that seek to destroy us and our country. With all the perils we now face, is it not wonderful that we have the assurance provided by this Psalm? Our Heavenly Father, we are grateful to you for the comfort you have provided us in this Psalm.  You are our only hope in a world that opposes everything we hold dear.  We ask this in the name of your Son, Jesus Christ. LESLIE RIGGLE
March 11, 2004	Read Mark 5:22-43
He took her by the hand and said to her, “Talitha cum,” which means “Little girl, get up!” And immediately the girl got up and began to walk about.  (She was 12 years of age.)  At this, they were overcome with amazement.
MIRACLES STILL HAPPEN Miracles seem to abound these days.  There are miracle drugs, miracle cures, miracle wrinkle creams, Miracle Whip, and there’s even a new hockey movie called “Miracle.”  Miracles are also quite prevalent in the Gospels as writers recount the journeys of Jesus throughout his ministry.  (I know this because, as an art undergrad, I had to write a paper once on the “Journeys of Jesus” for a religion course I was taking.  But, I digress.) Today’s scripture passage chronicles not only healing but also restoration of life, certainly a bona fide miracle by any standards.  It is somewhat surprising that this miracle occurred at all.  Notes in my Bible indicate that the girl’s father, Jairus, was the elected leader of the local synagogue.  Many synagogue leaders had close ties to the Pharisees, and it was therefore likely that Jairus had been told not to support Jesus.  The severity of his daughter’s illness led Jairus to seek help regardless of the consequences. While on the way to Jairus’ home, Jesus was interrupted by someone else who needed healing, and so he arrived too late.  The girl had died.  Jesus told the assembled mourners that she was not dead, only sleeping, and proceeded to restore her life.  This incident was only one of many in which Jesus showed great compassion while also teaching a lesson about maintaining hope and trust in him. Jesus never gives up on us, and we should return the favor.  Miracles still happen; we just need to be aware enough to recognize them. Heavenly Father, help us to walk about with new eyes to see the glories of our world as well as the needs of our world.  Help us to listen with new ears to the Good News of your saving grace. SUZANNE KOCH
March 12, 2004	Read John 4
Jesus said to her, “Everyone who drinks of this water will be thirsty again, but those who drink of the water that I will give them will never be thirsty.  The water that I will give will become in them a spring of water gushing up to eternal life.”
THIRSTY SOULS ARE WATERED We’ve all been thirsty – water is one of our most basic physical needs. Water is essential for our very existence. We can survive for weeks without food, but only for a few days without water. We also have a spiritual thirst – a thirst that is part of our very nature. In the beginning we were created in God’s image, but in the Fall and in our disobedience, we are separated from God and his righteousness. Our souls are thirsty, too. Our physical thirst always returns. And when we try to satisfy our spiritual thirst with our own righteousness, our spiritual thirst always returns as well; our own goodness is never enough. The Good News from John’s Gospel is that Jesus GIVES us the water of his own righteousness. It’s complete, and it does much more than just quench our spiritual thirst. It becomes a spring of righteousness – Christ’s righteousness in us – gushing up to eternal life. We no longer look to our own righteousness, but our lives gush with the righteousness of Christ. Jesus gives his grace not to the proud or the self-important, but to the lowly. The woman at the well had three strikes against her. She was a Samaritan, a woman, and an adulteress. Jesus, unconcerned about her race and gender, pointed out her sins, showing her deep need and thirst for righteousness that she could not provide. Her reaction was to immediately go and tell others. (She even forgot to take her water pot!) The springs of living waters were already beginning to flow in her life, as she told others to come and see for themselves whether the Messiah was come. Lord Jesus, we can’t quench our own thirst. As you poured out your grace to the woman at the well, in your grace show us our sin and give us a deep thirst for your righteousness. Then give us your living water and make us springs that show only your righteousness to the world.  TIM MEYER
March 13, 2004	Read John 11: 11-45
Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life.  Those who believe in me, even though they die, they will live, and everyone who lives and believes in me will never die.”
WE LIVE AGAIN THROUGH CHRIST Visiting the Holy Land several years ago with Christian friends… We visited many sites where Jesus taught and performed miracles.  In the middle of a group outside Lazarus’ tomb and listening to scripture, my mind went back to those days.  I, too, was mourning and crying with the friends who had come to comfort Mary and Martha.  Someone shouted that Jesus was coming.  Martha ran to him, saying, “Oh! If only you’d been here!”  Jesus said to her, “Your brother will live.”  They sent for Mary, who had stayed behind at the house, perhaps disappointed that Jesus hadn’t come sooner.  Mary said, as had Martha, “If only you’d been here!”  Again, Jesus said that Lazarus would live again. Raising his arm and praying to the Father, Jesus called, “Lazarus, come forth!” Cries of astonishment and joy rang out as Lazarus walked out of his tomb.  Quickly the grave wrappings were removed. In awe, my heart swelling with joy and my goose bumps kicking in, I’d witnessed this miracle! I remembered the words Jesus had said to Martha: “I am the resurrection and the life.  Those who believe in me, even though they die, will live, and everyone who lives and believes in me will never die.” I believe!  I believe! We give thanks, Lord, for the miracles we witness every day.  Please give us great courage to spread the Good News of Jesus Christ in our daily lives to relatives, friends, and strangers.  TWILA BLACK
March 14, 2004	Read John 20:19
When he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, “Receive the Holy Spirit.  If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven them; if you retain the sins of any, they are retained.”
THERE IS FORGIVENESS As we travel toward Easter, we are getting closer to the central mystery of our faith -- the resurrection of the God made flesh and offered for our sins. The witnesses to his resurrection are here presented with the previously unbelievable fact that death can be overcome and sins paid for and forgiven. They see Jesus as the Christ who passes through the protective enclosure, physical and spiritual, and enters amongst them. He shows them that he really did suffer and then shares his peace. Imagine the disciples in fear in a locked room, suddenly seeing some one entering through their defenses and then their relief and joy when it is their Lord. Christ’s peace does, however, come with attachments. It is given freely and "blown on us.”  We are then sent like him so that others may share in this gift. Not alone, but with faith and the Holy Spirit to support us in the difficult task of deciding forgiveness. For if we do not forgive, there is no forgiveness! The more I read this passage, the more I have to concentrate on the last sentence and ask myself the question: What would Christ have done.... The joy of Easter and the presence of our resurrected Lord give the difficult answer easily: Love and forgive as he loves and forgives us, seventy times seventy and more. Dear Lord! Please enter my life and, as Jesus did on that first evening, have him come through all my walls and defenses.  Send me to do your tasks and give me your peace and spirit as guidance at all times! DR. STEEN MORTENSEN
March 15, 2004	Read Luke 6: 27-38
Do not judge, and you will not be judged; do not condemn, and you will not be condemned.  Forgive and you will be forgiven; give and it will be given to you.  A good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap; for the measure you give will be the measure you get back.
SALVATION IS GOD’S WORK We live in a country that is increasingly tolerant of other faiths, beliefs, and life styles.  Tolerance is essential for living in a diverse nation.  Despite expressed tolerance, we often are not as generous to the parade of individuals with whom we interact on a daily basis.  We judge on  things like appearance, financial status, perceived deficits, associations and – yes – poor decisions.  It is easy to look at others and determine their shortcomings, both real and perceived.  Worse yet, our judgments are often based on bias rather than objective reason. The newspaper and TV news bring into our homes the glaring mistakes of people in our community and throughout the world.  Tales of mass murder, sordid webs of adultery, startling accounts of CEOs defrauding stockholders – all these permeate our lives.  Perhaps these reports give some of us a false sense of security.  Surely our sins are not so great compared to these.  However, it is not our place to compare ourselves to others, but rather to strive to emulate Christ’s example; in that comparison we all fall short. Salvation cannot be ensured by our own volition.  Fortunately no one has to achieve the impossible.  God in his infinite love and wisdom has bestowed on us, through his precious Son’s death on a cross, unmerited grace. God calls us not to judge others, but to respond in love to his will for our lives.  He impels us to take the high road.  To love our fellow man and forgive those who wrong us.  To reach out with compassion to those who are less fortunate and to give generously of ourselves to those who need love and acceptance.  In so doing, we will reap the joys that such actions create in the hearts of people through Christ Jesus. Lord Jesus, help us to follow your example.  Give us the ability to ignore petty selfishness and seek instead to love as you love. SHARI RYDING
March 16, 2004	Read Luke 7: 17-23
And he answered them, “Go and tell John what you have seen and heard:  the blind receive their sight, the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, the poor have good news brought to them.
THE CALL IS HEARD A friend of mine from college, who is now a pastor, was raised “in the church” as a youngster.  After Confirmation (or whatever they called it at his church), he became less and less active.  By the time he left for college, he was not attending church or Sunday School at all.  For the first two years of college, he searched for some group to belong to, some cause to join, for something.  As he explained it, he knew he felt a persistent “call” but could never find what he was called to.  This “quest” became so ridiculously far-reaching that he even tried to join the Black Panthers -- the last place a rural, white kid was likely to belong.  Despite all this questing, he never gave church another chance; he was so sure it was not his answer.  Eventually, he decided to pledge the fraternity I belonged to.  One of the qualifications to join was to be Lutheran.  That part didn’t interest him at all, but he figured it wasn’t a big deal and he could “snooze” through the “indoctrination” with minimal effort or attention.  A little, halfhearted involvement quickly progressed to complete commitment.  Thirty-some years later, his passion for the Lord still burns brightly.  Heavenly Father, help us persevere through the many distractions that keep us from opening our eyes to see you and opening our hearts to receive you.  Grant each of us the fulfillment that comes only from being yours.  KEITH MARTIN
March 17, 2004	Read Matthew 5: 3
Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
THE KINGDOM IS OURS When I received my assigned passage I must admit that, while I’ve heard it quoted many times, the meaning was somewhat elusive to me.  What does it mean to be poor in spirit?  I spent some time looking to other translations of the verse and came upon the following from the Daily Study Bible: O the bliss of the man who has realized His own utter helplessness and who has put his whole trust in God, For thus alone he can render to God that perfect Obedience which will make him A citizen of Heaven Certainly, this is familiar territory to those of us who as Lutherans were taught in our confirmation classes that we are saved by grace alone.  In this passage, Jesus tells us that we are unable to become a citizen of heaven of our own doing; it is only by turning ourselves over to God that we can enter the kingdom. This is a difficult concept for many who believe they must “earn” their way into heaven.  I know people who seem to keep a scorecard and have concerns about whether they are tallying up enough checkmarks to enter heaven.  Reading this passage confirms my belief that it is God’s grace that saves me.  That is the best news I can receive. Heavenly Father, thank you for your saving grace, for it is by your grace alone that I will be allowed to enter your kingdom. SUSAYN BRANDES
March 18, 2004	Read Matthew 5: 4
Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.
COMFORT REACHES THROUGH TEARS One might “spiritualize” this Beatitude, interpreting it to mean that when we mourn over our sins, God is ready to forgive and embrace us with his love. And surely that would be true! That is one likely meaning to this cryptic statement. But it is not spelled out as such. The text simply says “mourn”.” And Jesus knows, and you and I know, that there are countless reasons why we mourn. We mourn because we have experienced a loss ---a beloved family member or treasured friend has died. . .we’ve lost a job. . .health has deteriorated. . .someone we love dearly has moved far away. . .a once happy marriage or a happy friendship has been destroyed by careless words or actions. . .a person we trusted has betrayed us--- The loss has left a big, throbbing empty spot in our heart. And it hurts!  Am I to call such things “blessings?” You can’t be serious!  Grieving and mourning are not conditions that most of us think of as desirable, and certainly not as “blessings.” No. Those are not blessings! Plain and simple, those are hurts. They cause us to mourn. But Jesus tells us that when those hurts do happen, and we are mourning, we are blessed. Because we can be assured that God cares. We are blessed in his love. God will give us comfort! Sometimes mystically, but more often through one of God’s people as his instrument. That happens when someone we love experiences distress and pain, and we reach out to comfort him or her. We want that person to return to a state of joy.   And how shall we define or describe “joy?” It definitely is not the same as happy. Deep joy is not necessarily expressed by laughter, or singing, or dancing (though it might be). It’s much deeper than that. It is more of a state-of-being. Living in God’s grace we know a deeply settled condition. Regardless of outward circumstances or experiences, when we mourn, we can be assured that our Heavenly Father knows all about it, and cares. Knowing him, we know that we are blessed. And through our tears we know his comfort.   Thank you loving God that when we mourn, we can know we are blessed, and will know your comfort. WIL JOHNSON
March 19, 2004	Read Matthew 5: 5
Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.
GOD’S IN CHARGE Many of us have looked from the shoreline of an ocean at the incoming waves.  With a power that can defy understanding, the crests come relentlessly from a distant horizon, one after another.  If the coast is rocky, the power of their crashing can be felt and heard; you can taste the salt spray.  Whenever I have been in such a place, the power of the sea has made me meek.  I am humble when facing God’s ocean. Though the waters are strong, God has made it possible for us to be in his sea.  I’ve plowed safely through these waves in many ships and enjoyed the views that come only from the water.  I’ve been SCUBA diving 100 feet under the surface on coral reefs with clouds of rainbow fish.  And I stay humble on or in God’s sea. Jesus was teaching “blessed are they who accept God’s guidance.”  Another meaning could be:  “God, I accept that you are in charge.”  Meekness suggests humility before God. As you kneel meekly to receive Communion, look up at the cross behind our altar and celebrate the Good News it represents.  Jesus gave his life so we can be forgiven for our sins. Jesus also teaches:  Blessed is the one who has great strength, but who chooses to use it gently.  Jesus does not salute those with unbending pride.  Those loud voices may lead the parade, but the quiet ones who come along catch God’s eye. Meekness is having confidence that, no matter what happens, you can accept God’s guidance.  Meekness means knowing God is always in charge. Eternal Father, strong to save, whose arm has bounced the restless wave; who bade the mighty ocean deep, its own appointed limits keep.  Oh, hear us when we cry to thee, for those in peril on the sea. TOM CRONK
March 20, 2004	Read Matthew 5: 6
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.
RECIPE FOR SPIRITUAL SUPER-SIZING In this text we learn about Good News and Great Blessings. All we need to do is hunger and thirst for righteousness and we will be filled. It sounds easy, doesn’t it? This verse reminds me of the daily news…diets of all kinds are presented as being the solution to our weight problems in America. In January especially, many people make resolutions to eat better and exercise more. I have certainly noticed the upswing in pilates class attendance and in the exercise rooms at the east YMCA. Other friends and co-workers are trying the Atkins diet or some other plan. We are desperate to find just the right diet and exercise that we can fit into our busy lives and still reap the benefits.  Are we just as desperate to follow Jesus’ teachings? You certainly don’t hear about it in the news. Yet Jesus was clear when he spoke to the Samaritan woman in John 4:14-15—“Everyone who drinks of this water will be thirsty again, but those who drink of the water that I will give them will never be thirsty. The water that I give will become in them a spring of water gushing up to eternal life”.  He also said, “I am the Living Bread that came down from heaven. Whoever eats of this bread will live forever.” Here we are concentrating on spiritual food….we want to be righteous in Jesus’ sight as well as in everyone’s eyes. But just like with diets, there are many temptations that keep us from our goals. During this Lenten season, let us concentrate on spiritual hunger and thirst and how we can be satisfied with the Great Provider of everything we need. It won’t be easy, but it is a lot more important than our earthly diets. He has the Good News of life eternal and we don’t want to miss out on that. We might not achieve all our diet and exercise goals….because we aren’t perfect…but we can be assured that we are not alone in seeking our heavenly goals. God of Good News and Great Blessings, be with us today as we go about our daily lives in a modern world full of temptations….things that are bad for us physically, mentally, and spiritually. Help us to know that only you can fill our needs and make us righteous in your sight. Help us to share this wonderful news with those who may not know you.  In Jesus’ name we pray. MARSHA MEILI
March 21, 2004	Read Matthew 5: 7
Blessed are the merciful, for they will receive mercy.
WE ARE THE HANDS AND VOICE OF CHRIST I want to tell you about the merciful care a young mother gave to her child.  I am calling her Kate.  She is a young woman who met adversity with dignity, courage, grace and mercy. Life was good for Kate in the year 2000.  She and her husband had a nice home, good jobs, and two adorable little girls.  They were anticipating the birth of their third child.  Kate gave birth to her son, Cody, in August. Within hours of the baby’s birth it was evident there was a problem.  Tests revealed he had numerous birth defects, some of which were life- threatening. The baby’s care fell totally on Kate.  Her husband, who had longed for a son, withdrew from the child.  The baby required round the clock care.  Kate never got more than two or three hours of uninterrupted sleep.  The demands of the baby’s care were so great she had little time left for her two young daughters.  She felt guilty about the fact she could not fully meet their needs. Kate was exhausted by the summer of 2003.  Cody had been having frequent seizures.  He was hospitalized for a week and Kate was with him continuously.  He had only been home from the hospital a few days when he became seriously ill.  He suffered cardiac arrest in the ambulance on the way to the hospital.  Kate was devastated when doctors told her Cody was brain dead.  She did not know how she was going to let him go.  She had never known such pain.  God, in His mercy, sent a message to Kate.  The friend who delivered the message did not realize it was a message from God.  The message was simple,  “Kate, I am taking Cody home now.  I want you to have time for your daughters while they are still young.”  The message helped Kate find the strength to let Cody go.  She had been given the assurance Cody was going home.  Kate was at peace when Cody died in her arms a few days later. Thank you God for surrounding us with your mercy . Thank you for sending merciful caregivers.  Thank  you for letting us grow in your grace. JUDY MCDIFFETT
March 22, 2004	Read Matthew 5: 8
Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.
SEARCH FOR GOD PROVIDES LIFE FOCUS When I think of “pure,” I think of clean or unsoiled. But, what is a clean heart? Are the words of the Beatitudes comforting to those experiencing difficult times? Do pure hearts have difficult times? These words are somewhat baffling to me. Changing the meaning of pure from “clean” to “focused” gives this passage a great deal more meaning to me personally. When I am focused on a task and have a goal in sight, I have an easier time moving through tasks. I am, therefore, more happy or blessed. Being focused allows decisions to be easier. Distractions don’t occur as easily as they do when I don’t know my focus. Focus allows me to succeed in accomplishing my end. When I feel successful, I feel more inclined to look outside myself. Does focus bring us success in life? I don’t know. What I do know is that I can’t process the concept of God when I’m distracted. Dear Lord, thank you for being there even when I’m not focused. I feel I lose sight of you when I don’t know what direction I’m moving. I also feel more relaxed and able to assimilate my life when I recognize that you are with me. I am happy to share my success with you as I learn to walk in your footsteps.