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2012

Lenten

Devotional

Booklet

Written by Lutheran Campus Ministry students at ASU and partners in the community of University Lutheran Church.

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~ Preparing for Lent ~

Lenten Journey Dear Travel Partner: Thank you for your willingness to trek along with us in thought, prayer, and devotion this Lenten season. It is the hope of our community and those who spent time creating these devotions that our writings will add to your experience of Lent. It is also our hope that as you travel with us along this path a feeling of partnership in ministry is created and deepened. In fact, I have a request of you: each week in Lent would you please lift up a prayer for our students and ministry involved in Lutheran Campus Ministry? We would greatly appreciate such. As you may notice, at the bottom of each devotion we have included a hunger fact and/or activity for each day. Lent seems like such an appropriate time to strengthen our commitment to fight hunger in our community and in our world. Perhaps an additional meal-time prayer for the hungry would add to our Lenten pilgrimage. Thank you for traveling with us this Lent. We look forward to seeing you in Jerusalem! Gratefully in Christ, Gary N. McCluskey Campus Pastor, Arizona State University & Craig Talmage Campus Ministry Associate, Arizona State University

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Ash Wednesday Genesis 3:1-9

We know about dust in Arizona. In fact one dust storm, called a "haboob" was so intense it made national and international news. Dust is rather unpleasant and untidy. Yet, Genesis tells us both our present and our future is dust. On the surface this sounds rather nihilistic. We could understand this to be telling us since our end will be nothing more than dust, there is little if any use in striving for anything lasting or good. We might as well do what pleases us in the moment. There is, however, a context to this text. The context, of course, is creation. A creation that God calls good. A creation where God works wonders with dust. The creation story tells us we are very much related to this earth and all that is in it. The creation story says we were created with purpose. Our life matters. Your life matters. My life matters. God works wonders with dust! Lent has arrived! We journey to the cross. Lent is a pilgrimage where we recognize we are not as we were created to be. Lent is also a time when we are reminded we do not travel alone. God is not put off by dust. God puts dust to good purpose. Perhaps a Lenten reflection can be to ask what purpose God might have for us. Gracious God, in the dust of ashes you remind us who we are. In the grace of Jesus you make us clean and remind us whose we are. Thank your for all your gifts of creation. Thank you for the grace we have in Jesus. Amen.

-Pastor Gary McCluskey

Hunger Fact/ Challenge: During the week, say this prayer before meals…Come, Lord Jesus, be our guest, and let these gifts to us be blessed.

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Thursday- “Cain and Abel” Genesis 4:1-15

Cain and Abel: The way of sin is at odds with God’s way

The story of Cain and Abel reminds us of the power of our own desires to go against God’s desires for us. That is not to say what we desire is wrong or always at odds with God’s way, but that we must understand that how we live out our lives affects those around us and affects our relationship with God. Cain is instructed by God in verse five, “Sin is lurking at the door if you do not do well; it desire is for you, but you must master it.” God knows that we can falter by not living our lives not focused on His will. But how do we live lives congruent with God’s way?

I’m reminded of a recent youth retreat I served on that provided simple yet thoughtful instructions on how to live the Christian life. Four practices help us live out God’s will; these four practices can help us master our desires or our sin. First, we must pray. Prayer helps us listen to what God is saying to us, but it also helps us communicate to God what is on our hearts and minds. Second, we must study. We must dive deep into God’s word and discuss His word with those around us in order to gain a better understanding of what God wants for us. Third, we must act. We must help the poor, we must feed the hungry, we must clothe the naked, and we must fight injustice. Through action, we learn about the importance of others. We turn our energies from an inward focus on ourselves to a focus on others and the betterment of this world. Fourth, we must live in community with one another. God does not want us to live out our lives alone, but together in service to Him and others.

But still we will falter and God will hear us fall. In verse ten we hear, “Listen your brother’s blood is crying out to me from the ground!” God is there when we fail, but he does not abandon us. Cain following God’s punishment cries in verse fourteen, “Anyone who meets me may kill me,” but God does not let that happen. In verse fifteen he puts “a mark on Cain, so that no one who came upon him would kill him.” We are called to strive to live Christian lives, but God will not leave us if we fall short.

Dear Lord, I know I fall short of living the life You have laid out for me. I thank Tou for providing me with all the tools to live out Tour Word. Thank Tou for understanding that I will falter and fail, but know that I am committed to trying my best to live a life worthy of Your Glory. Thank You for the gift of Your Son, Jesus Christ, that forgives the sins of all the world and the gift of the Holy Spirit that remains with us as we strive to do Your work in this life.

-Craig Talmage (Campus Ministry Associate)

Hunger Fact/ Challenge: Pray for those who grow, harvest, process, transport, stock, sell, and prepare food.

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Friday- “Sin is drowned in the flood” Genesis 6:1-22

I have to imagine that if Noah ever stopped to think about what God had promised to do—flooding the world so thoroughly that only Noah, his family, and two of each kind of animal would survive—he would have been very afraid. Floods are destructive: a quick survey of national and international news will show you how, today, many suffer and perish because of tsunamis, rising rivers, and unrelenting rainstorms. Stop for a minute to imagine what a worldwide flood might have actually been like. What purpose could God have in something like that? I remember learning, in elementary school, that floods aren’t always bad: the ancient Egyptians were able to live in cities in the desert because of the seasonal flooding of the Nile River, which restored nutrient-rich soil to riverside agricultural lands. When the destructive floodwaters recede, what remains is the chance to start anew. Such was the work of God in the flood of Genesis: drowning sin so that new life for His people is possible. God doesn’t send worldwide floods anymore, but He is still in the business of drowning sin. Through baptism, God washes us clean of our sin to save us and draw us into Him. This Lenten season, I pray that you draw closer to God in the knowledge that He washes you clean and gives you the chance to start anew each day. Lord of the mighty waters, be with all those in our world today who suffer from natural disaster, and let us be the instruments of your aid and mercy. Make clean our hearts, and draw us each day closer to You. In the name of your Son, who gave His life for us, Amen. -Eric Lehnhardt Hunger Fact/ Challenge: Find 3 things to repair, recycle, or reuse instead of throwing away or buying new.

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Saturday- “Sin’s wage” Romans 6:15-23

Have you ever received a gift that you didn’t necessarily deserve? Maybe it was a grade higher than you earned in a class, or a free cup of coffee from the person standing in front of you in line at a Starbucks when you’re having a bad day. Sometimes we get these things from the kindness of others, even if we actually deserved a B instead of an A, and no free coffee. What we deserve are wages, but the things we receive freely, gifts, come because someone is kind and loving, and wants to give. But even worse than deserving a bad grade and no free coffee, is deserving death because we are sinful. Because of our sinful nature, our wage is death. But Christ’s death on the cross prevents us from earning this wage, because he grants us a free gift, eternal life, at absolutely no cost. Christ calls us to become slaves of righteousness, and to be like those who give gifts freely to others, at no cost. Just as Christ granted us a free gift of eternal life, we should show that kindness to others, even in the form of free grades, or free coffee. We have been set free of sin, inspiring us to show that free kindness to others, and to tell them of Christ’s free gift.

Heavenly Father, we thank you for our gift of life and for the willingness to give to others. Amen.

-Melanie Lehnhardt

Hunger Fact/Challenge: One out of every six of our neighbors around the world lack access to a reliable source of clean water. Four million children will die this year from water-borne infectious diseases. Give a gift to the ELCA World Hunger Appeal for each time you use running water today.

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Sunday- “Abraham is called by God” Genesis 12:1-9, 15:1-21

Now the Lord said to Abram, “Go from your country and your kindred and your father’s house to the land I will show you.

Abram was a great example of faith for his people. But he was not a hero who gathered glory by feats of human prowess. We do not read that he had any special physical or mental abilities. But what we do see is that he responded to what the Lord said. His response to God exemplify what vessels of clay can do when they become conductors of the power of the Word that says: “let there be.” Faith is not a leap into the unknown: it is directed to a “land” that is well known by God.

As a young child I told my mother that I wanted to be a minister’s wife so I could show God’s love. However, God’s plan was much different…as he led me to New York, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Georgia, and Arizona. Each state provided new and different opportunities of growth, experiences, and challenges and always questioning of what does God want me to do with my life. Sometimes I too just wanted clay feet and to stay stationary but I always came around and thought: “Let there be.”

Oh heavenly Father may we always be open to you and how you can bless us and the world we live in. Amen. -Lana Neighbors

Hunger Fact/Challenge: Pray for neighbors on the long road to recovery after the 2004 South Asian Tsunami, the 2005 Gulf Coast Hurricane Katrina, and the 2010 earthquake in Haiti.

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Monday-“A child of promise” Genesis 18:1-15; 21:1-7

It is kind of funny, isn’t it? A post-menopausal woman being told that she will have a son within the year. I’d laugh if I was in her situation. And I think it’s okay to laugh. God truly has a sense of humor. He goes to the misfits, to the folks who need a bit of a twist in their lives, and he gives it to them. God surely brought Sarah laughter and that is worthy of praise.

God, I love your sense of humor. Thank you for bringing me laughter. Amen.

-Kalie Virden

Hunger Fact/Challenge: At meal times this week, say the “Come, Lord Jesus” prayer and add…”And may there be a goodly share on every table everywhere. Amen.”

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Tuesday- “A gamble with God’s graciousness” Genesis 18:16-33

This story may seem very counterintuitive to most readers. Many would describe Abraham’s demeanor with God to be bold or perhaps even out of line. The interactions we see between God and Himself and God and Abraham are very important to note because they teach us a lot about how we can interact with God. It’s funny to think that God has not made up his mind about what He’s going to do with Sodom. If God truly is omnipotent, shouldn’t He then already know what He’s going to do? He is weighing the costs and benefits; He is deciding what He thinks is the right thing to do. He shows a very human nature at this point because as humans we often must decide on whether we make a choice based on justice or compassion. The great thing about God is that He invites us into the conversation. He converses with Abraham, and Abraham dissuades him from extreme action. He begs God on Sodom’s behalf to let the city be spared if merely ten righteous men remain in the city. He is able to talk God down from fifty to ten. This interaction is rooted in the covenant God made with Abraham earlier in Genesis. God has chosen (without asking us first) to be in a committed and everlasting relationship with us. He knows that we are flawed and that we will sin, but He wants to hear from us and know what we think. If we cannot have any influence in God’s decisions or in God’s interactions with us, then what’s the point of prayer? God asks for us to disagree with Him at times, but also be understanding when He does act contrary to our own desires. He invites us to be in conversation with Him, to join Him in the continuing story of His creation. He does not desire to let us live in isolation but in fellowship and communion with Him. Gracious God, thank You for letting us be in conversation with You. Thank you for considering what we have to offer and not making decisions about Your creation without hearing our voices. Thank You for Your continued and never-ending commitment to our lives and our relationships with You. Bless us today and help us never cease to express our thoughts and feelings to You. -Craig Talmage (Campus Ministry Associate) Hunger Fact/Challenge: Remember a time when you passed by someone in need. What made it hard to stop and help?

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Wednesday- “Isaac is to be sacrificed” Genesis 22:1-10

One of the things I’ve found to be most difficult about being a Christian is trusting God in unusual or confusing situations. If I can’t figure out exactly what’s going on and yet have to make a decision without all the information, I tend to balk and want to wait for a complete picture of the circumstances. Yet sometimes this isn’t possible, the decision must be made, I need to trust that God will provide for me even though I can’t see the road ahead. Certainly Abraham must have felt like this as he rode to Moriah with Isaac, his son. God calls to him and Abraham says, “Here I am.” God tells him to offer Isaac as a burnt offering and he starts the journey. Then Isaac calls to him, “Father” and Abraham responds “Here I am, my son.” Isaac wants to know where the lamb for the burnt offering is and Abraham says, “God will provide.” I imagine that Abraham was confused by God’s test and wondered at this unusual situation in which God demands Isaac’s sacrifice after having given him to Abraham and Sarah. What is God doing? Will the outcome of this story really be Isaac’s death at his father’s hand? Abraham follows God’s instructions even up to the moment when the angel from heaven calls to Abraham and he responds, “Here I am.” The angel says, “Do not lay your hand on the boy or do anything to him; for now I know that you fear God, since you have not withheld your son, your only son, from me.” Abraham trusted and God provided, even in these unusual and confusing circumstances

Dear God, thank you for your beloved power and give us the strength to follow you without question. Amen.

-Robin Morgan

Hunger Fact/ Challenge: What will you share today?

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Thursday- “God will provide” Genesis 22:11-19

This passage is one I have always struggled with. God asks Abraham to sacrifice his son, Isaac, to show his faith. While I may not be a parent, I do have people in my life I love unconditionally, and I cannot imagine being asked to murder one of them to show my faith to God. I can only imagine how much Abraham toiled with this decision before finally realizing to trust in God. The part that I find the most comforting is actually previous to this passage, in Genesis 22:8 where Abraham tells Isaac “God will provide the lamb.” God will always provide for us, we just may not see how. The lesson that God is teaching Abraham is to have faith, that even if we cannot see a bigger picture, the Lord will provide.

Lord, please give me the strength today to have faith and trust in you. Help me to understand that while I may not see the big picture, You do, and that’s enough. Amen.

-Abby Henderson

Hunger Fact/Challenge: An estimated 1.02 billion people in the world go hungry.

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Friday- “God’s promise and presence follow Jacob” Genesis 28:10-22

In this passage, Jacob is fleeting to Harran because in the previous chapter he is not in god graces with his brother Easu. Easu is seeking revenge over Jacob because Jacob stole Easu’s blessing from their father. As the night was approaching during Jacob’s travel, he decided to lay down and sleep. The Lord revealed himself in a dream to Jacob and promises Jacob he will be with him wherever he goes, and will watch over Him through this Journey. God is always with us, whether we see it or not. With the good news of Easter approaching, this passage brings hope. Hope that we have a God that loves us so much that He sent His son to die for our sins, mistakes, transgressions. This offers us new hope that God is always with us, no matter where we go. He is watching over us, so we can turn around and go back home to reconcile our differences.

God, we ask that in every situation we are in, we can see You in it with us. May this offer us to strength and peace to do the right thing. May we know you are always with, to help us. To guide us.

-Meghan Talmage: Senior Team Leader at Feed My Starving Children

Hunger Fact/ Challenge: Think about donating to Feed My Starving Children. 93% of the total donations go directly to the food program. 7% goes to fundraising, administration, and overhead combined. To donate visit www.fmsc.org and click donate.

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Saturday- “God intends good” Genesis 45:1-20, 50:12-21

How often does something happen in life that seems to have no purpose? How often do we struggle to understand the difficult times, the devastating events, the plans we have made that shatter in our hands? Joseph, sold into slavery by his own brothers, understood well the heartbreak that comes from occasions that seem truly terrible - and yet, it was only through this “intended evil” executed by his brothers that he was able to reach out and protect not only his family, but his entire community of people. This passage reminds us that no situation is without purpose and that by keeping our hearts open and tender we can come through stronger and more capable than what would ever have been possible before. Joseph would have been justified in being angry with his brothers and refusing them safety in Egypt, but instead he welcomed them, speaking kindly and forgiving their weakness; he saw the frailty of humanity and the beauty of the overarching plans God has for us. In my life, as in yours, there have been moments where I have cried, lacked understanding, been hurt and heartbroken - and moments where I saw what I had learned, what I had been missing, and what purpose that time served. Joseph, favored by the Pharaoh, was able only through the sum of his experiences to save his people from famine. What famine will we protect others from as we journey through intended evils that God means for good? How can we cultivate the grace and patience to see the goodness of God through the darkest times? May the strength and gentleness of Joseph encourage us all through this Lenten season.

Our God, you are an amazing god and with you guiding us we know that we will always have you in our lives and look to up to you and love you. Amen.

-Elise Deringer

Hunger Fact/Challenge: A $10 donation to ELCA World Hunger-God’s Global Barnyard can bring a family 10 chicks; a source of food and income.

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Sunday- “God’s people are oppressed in Egypt” Exodus 1:1-22

Whom do you fear? The word 'fear' can mean two different things: anxious concern or profound reverence. Joseph helped Pharaoh, Egypt’s king, through some tough times and was rewarded. His extended family emigrated and was given prime farmland. These immigrants thrived. But a generation later when the new Pharaoh looked at them, all he saw was that they were too successful and too numerous. He dreaded them: afraid they would leave, yet also fearful that they would stay and thrive. His solution? Make their lives miserable. None of us can possibly imagine what it was like to be a slave making bricks to build treasure cities in Egypt. What are you afraid of? The things we fear: unemployment, foreclosure, health scares; these are as close as we come to imagining oppression. The more the Israelites were oppressed, the more they multiplied. So Pharaoh ordered the Hebrew midwives to kill all the boys they delivered. But these women of faith were filled with reverence toward God and therefore found the courage to oppose the king. Do challenging situations make us stronger or destroy us? Do we let difficulties fill us with dread, or allow them to push us toward a closer relationship with God? Lord, life's challenges often fill us with apprehension. Transform our dread to the good kind of fear: profound reverence for you. Let us be confident that you always hold us in the palm of your hand. Amen.

-Kim Savage

Hunger Fact/Challenge: At mealtimes this week, say the “Come, Lord Jesus” prayer: Add…”Guide us along the servant’s way, and lead us to your dawning day. Amen”

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Monday-“A baby escapes death on the waters” Exodus 2:1-10

Have you ever tried so hard to handle a burden on your own that you felt helpless? That’s how Moses’ mother probably felt when she was trying to hide her baby. However, she finally decided to let go and let God and sent the baby into the river. She had no ability left to carry the burden on her own, and she was asking for help. Not only did help come, but it was better than she had expected. The pharaoh’s wife adopted her son, and she got to nurse him while he was still in infancy. This is a lesson we could all learn from: we do not have to carry our burdens alone. If we are only willing to give up control and say “God, I need your help,” help will come. Do not be afraid to lift your burden into God’s hands, because He will ensure that things turn out okay.

God, please help me today to realize that I do not have to do this on my own. You are always there to help and guide me, and I sometimes have to place my faith and trust in you, instead of in my own strength. Amen

-Abby Henderson

Hunger Fact/Challenge: One out of every 10 households in the United States is at risk of hunger. Visit www.elca.org/grantinghope to learn about ELCA World Hunger domestic hunger grants.

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Tuesday- “Moses is called by God” Exodus 3:1-32

“What on earth do you do with a degree in sustainability?” There´s a question I´ve heard a few times. I have a couple of ideas of what I´ll do with my degree, and I think I´ll be fine, but even so, I´m at one of those points of pretty high uncertainty that we all reach from time to time. What are we even prepared to do? What has this all been leading up to? Have we made the right choices so far? With Moses it was no different. What would his resume have looked like at the interview with the Lord in the burning bush? Let´s see…Education: pampered in palace (few job skills?), Criminal history: killed one Egyptian, Work Experience: some shepherding. Still, God´s plan revealed itself step by step, just a little at a time, and Moses ended up being one of the most well-known and godly leaders in history. We can rest assured that through Jesus we are granted salvation and eternal life; as for this life, of course we cannot see all that will happen, but we can trust His daily guidance as he speaks to us through the Word, through other people, and through the talents we are blessed with to show us how we might serve him here. Lord, keep me from dwelling on the future so much that I do not see the opportunities before me today. Thank You for Your salvation that gives me a future of eternal life, and for your continual guidance in the present. -Loni Amundson Hunger Fact/Challenge: The average life expectancy at birth for a female in the United States is 80 years; in Zimbabwe, it is 37 years. Give a gift to the ELCA World Hunger Appeal for every year of your life.

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Wednesday- “The angel of death passes over” Exodus 12:1-32

In vss. 11–13, God instructs Moses to have the Israelites ready to travel while celebrating the Passover: “you shall eat it hurriedly” (vs. 11). While the Israelites eat, God will kill the Egyptians’ firstborn sons. What do we make of this? No matter how we attribute the origin and existence of evil, evil and death exist in our world. How do we live amidst this evil and death? During Lent we need to remember that we are but dust and that we too will die. Our time here passes quickly (I’m 56 and my son is 26; how did that happen?). But we live with the hope that ultimately God will save us from the finality of death. But in the meantime: what? We are pilgrims in this life. We must not burden ourselves with society’s worries. How much stuff do we really need? What do we really need for our faith journey? Beyond our physical needs, what we really need is the tools of love and compassion for our neighbor expressed in specific acts of mercy. What we is essential for pilgrimage of faith is a set of attitudes and behaviors and only the “stuff” necessary to express those attitudes and behaviors of love and compassion. In your personal pilgrimage through this life, what do you need to equip yourself with? This is a question we each need to ask ourselves. Holy God, cause us to remember that our lives our short and that we daily need to equip ourselves with mercy, compassion, and love and to use these things to love our neighbor. And remind us that, despite the death and evil around us, you will ultimately grant us new life. Amen. -Lynn Kauppi Hunger Fact/Challenge: Trace the sign of the cross on your foreheads as you remember your baptism. What do you know or have heard about your own baptism?

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Thursday- “God’s People cross the seabed” Exodus 14:1-25

Although the image of God parting the sea so the Israelites can walk across and the Egyptians getting washed away is a powerful one, it is not what strikes me the most about this lesson. In this passage, the Israelites are afraid and think that Moses has led them astray. They believe in God but in their fear forget that He is watching over them. Moses tells the Israelites to not be afraid and to stand firm; that they will soon see the deliverance of God; and indeed, as soon as the Israelites are safe, God turns against the Egyptians. This is a reminder to us that God is with us even when we are afraid and lose faith in Him. If we stand firm in God, as the Lord’s Prayer says, He will deliver us from evil. So the next time you hear the song “Pharoh, Pharoh,” remember that the story is more than just about how “all Pharaoh’s army did the Dead Man’s Float”’—it’s about believing in God even when you think there’s no way you can survive something. Anything is possible with God. Heavenly Father, you are always with us and we thank you for that, please continue to watch over us in our times of need, and help us to be strong. Amen. -Katy Lichtsen Hunger Fact/Challenge: ELCA World Hunger-Health Care breaks the cycle of hunger and poverty by building up healthy families. What do you count on for health care? Imagine your life without access to these resources and services.

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Friday- “God delivers the 10 commandments” Exodus 20:1-21

Recently I broke the law. I was stopped and charged with speeding well over the posted limit. I was so lost in my thoughts that I don’t remember how I got from point A to point B. The officer had his lights on for quite a while trying to get my attention, and finally after he turned on the siren, I jumped back to reality and anxiety began to flood my body. (He probably thought he was following OJ Simpson!) You know the feeling…when you do something wrong, whether intentionally or unintentionally. I deserved the ticket, which resulted in being punished with a large fine and traffic school. My moral compass was once again aligned. But…will it stop me from ever speeding again? Or only for a little while…

The 10 Commandments (laws) were given to protect our relationship with God, family, and community. Our sinful nature makes keeping the laws perfectly impossible. However, because of Jesus, who fulfills the law, we live with the freedom of God’s forgiveness and grace. Jesus has a different spin on the law. He states in Matthew 22:37-39: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.” This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” Love wins. Love conquers all. Love trumps all. How merciful is that? What a loving God we worship.

But, that does not change the reality that the gift of The 10 Commandments is to guide and protect us.

Lord Jesus, help us obey and follow The 10 Commandments out of love and respect for others and for you, knowing that when we do fail, you love us unconditionally and forgive us. We thank you Lord that every day we have a fresh start with you. Amen.

-Barb Talmage

Hunger Fact/ Challenge: Gifts to the ELCA World Hunger-Water help bring wells, reservoirs, water pumps, and irrigation systems to thirsty neighbors. Visit www.elca.org/hunger/water to learn more.

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Saturday- “Snakes of deliverance” Numbers 21:1-9

Every once in a while, a pastor, youth minister, or Bible study leader will offer to answer challenging questions, and the ones I usually ask come from passages like today’s. Here in Numbers, we find the Israelites up to their usual games: having been rescued, they find a way to turn their backs on God and are punished, before returning to the fold. But this passage is a little different from, say, the worship of Baal while Moses is on Mount Sinai. This time, all the Israelites did was question Moses and question God. As punishment, God sends poisonous snakes among the Israelites, and many of them die. What I would like to know is: Why? Why does God choose to punish the Israelites for questioning Him? Didn’t Job question God? Job was never punished for that—in fact, God answered Job. Even while dying on the cross, does not Jesus himself question God with the words, ‘My God, my God, why have you forsaken me’? Why, then, are the Israelites punished with death in this story? Answering the “why” questions about God is not a task that I envy any pastor, youth minister, or Bible study leader. But I do think it is important to ask these questions, especially during Lent, when we are preparing ourselves for the death and resurrection of Christ. The good news and hope in this passage is the healing that God provides for the Israelites in the form of the bronze snake on the pole; God does not abandon His people. Indeed, this event foreshadows the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross to heal all mankind of its sin. John 3:14-15 says that “Just as Moses lifted up the snake in the wilderness, so the Son of Man must be lifted up, that everyone who believes may have eternal life in him.” As you prepare yourself this Lent and struggle with your own questions, I pray that you look to Christ on the cross as a reminder that God has already answered the most important question. Lord, we do not understand all Your ways; help us make peace with the reality that we never will. When others ask tough questions of us, may we point to where You have been lifted up as the sacrifice and answer to our sin. Guide us always in Your truth. In Jesus’ name, Amen. -Eric Lehnhardt

Hunger Fact/Challenge: Pray for our neighbors in Africa to banish hunger, withstand HIV/AIDS, and build peace.

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Sunday- “King Saul loses God’s favor” I Samuel 13:1-15

“…the LORD has sought out a man after his own heart.” 1 Sam 13: 14b How often has our impatience gotten us into trouble? How often have we thought we knew what was best only to discover someone coming around later who had a bigger and broader perspective on a particular matter? Saul was in a crisis. After achieving a small victory over the more established and numerous Philistines, he deceived himself and his people into thinking the Israelites and his leadership were invincible. Rather than reflect a spirit of humility, he chose the path of arrogance. The Philistines rallied their army. Their sheer numbers put terror into the hearts of the Israelites. The people of Israel and Saul’s soldiers headed for caves and hills to hide out. Saul didn’t know what to do as defeat seemed close at hand. He did know that he could use a little help. He thought Samuel would show up and call upon the Lord to intervene and overcome the threat. Samuel delayed. Saul panicked. Saul sought to offer the offering in place of Samuel hoping that the Lord would listen, be pleased and intercede. When Samuel arrived, he was not a happy camper. He knew Saul had overstepped his role and responsibility by offering the burnt offering. He knew Saul failed to demonstrate the heart of trust that is so central to the journey that we walk in faith. Rather than be patient and trust in God’s timing, Saul operated and reacted prematurely only to receive a curse rather than a blessing. Maybe some of us can relate to ol’ Saul. We jump too early. Our assumptions, our conclusions, or are actions are rooted more in self-preservation rather than in self-surrender to our Creator and Savior. We know what it is like to cross the line between faith and doubt and back again. Thank goodness Lent is an annual reminder that we belong to a God who knows are tendency to jump across the line, but out of love chooses to toe the line of obedience, humility, and faithfulness by taking up a cross on our behalf. So we can be free to trust in the power of forgiveness, even when are hearts are not perfectly directed toward the Lord. Dear Lord: We know the consequences of not trusting you. We know the struggle with being patient and being preoccupied with our own agendas at the expense of yours. Thank you for coming to us in the one named Jesus, and because he never crossed the line of disobedience, we can trust in his power to offer your forgiveness to us. Amen. -Steve Talmage Hunger Fact/ Challenge: The HIV/AIDS pandemic is a major cause of hunger and poverty in Africa. Adults in the prime of life are unable to work and care for their families. Children orphaned by AIDS become head of their households, which often keeps them out of school. Give, pray, and advocate overcoming the tragedy of HIV/AIDS.

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Monday- “King David with Bathsheeba” II: Samuel 11:1-2:15

David saw Bathsheba bathing on her roof, and instantly knew he wanted her, and had to have her. David ordered a messenger to go and get her. Long story short, Bathsheba ends up having David’s son, and David orders Joab to put Bathsheba’s husband at the front lines of war. Uriah, Bathsheba’s husband dies in the war, and David feels the weight of his sin. In chapter 12 verses 13 through 14 Nathan replies “The Lord has taken away your sin. You are not going to die. But because by doing this you have shown utter contempt for the lord, the son born to you will die.” Have you ever had to absolutely have something, but you know it necessarily is not good for you? Did it end up hurting you in the long run? God has called us to be faithful, to love others, and to do what is right. We are human; we all have desires and wants. That’s why God sent His son to die for our selfish wants, desires, sins, and lead us to a better life. What parts of your life do you need to let God into? God, may we open to the path you want us to travel. May we let you into the chambers of our heart that we keep locked up from You. May we think about Your way instead of our way. Guide us in the right direction each and every day to serve You. -Meghan Talmage: Senior Team Leader Feed My Starving Children Hunger Fact/Challenge: Help out Feed My Starving Children by volunteering some of your time this week visit www.fmsc.org for more information.

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Tuesday- “King David repents” Psalm 51

This Psalm is King David’s request for God’s forgiveness after his affair with Bathsheba. He is full of guilt and asks God to “blot out” and “wash away” his offenses. We also hear a refrain that is very familiar from our own worship: (12) A clean heart create for me, God; renew in me a steadfast spirit. (13) Do not drive me from your presence, nor take me from your holy spirit. (14) Restore my joy in your salvation; sustain in me a willing spirit. King David acknowledges his sins and his sinful nature. He knows that his own efforts to change are limited and without God to “blot out” and “wash away” his offenses, he will be separated from God, causing him pain and fear. When we recognize and own our sinfulness, and then ask God for the emotional, social, and physical consequences to be relieved, it is through God’s deliverance from evil that we can humbly and gratefully return to grace. While we Lutherans believe that grace is freely given, it is through our repentance that we ask for and are granted relief. Praise to you, Oh God of Mercy! Hear our cries and deliver us from our sinful ways. Amen. -Deb Hull Hunger Fact/ Challenge: There are 52 African countries (see http://tinyurl.com/3d6bq3). How many can you list?

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Wednesday- “A history of unfaithful kings begins” I Kings 12:1-33

Why is it that power can be so corrupting? Is it possible to be given so much and to not be corrupted by it? Jeroboam, given leadership over ten of the twelve tribes of Israel, became fearful of losing his power as the people returned to Jerusalem to worship there. His solution was to create a new religion and keep them from returning. Given so much by God, Jeroboam fearful of losing what he had been given turned against God.

We see this desire for attention and power above all else in the news, on reality TV and around us. Our faith and the grace of god gives up power. A gift we cannot corrupt. Can we ignore it, but God always waits for us and in our time the grace and mercy awaits. The power? To change the world with our faith in our creator and our compassion and love for our neighbor.

Loving Creator, help us to find the power within us to live out our faith and your call to love you and love our neighbor. Bless us with compassion for others and the ability to see past our own insecurities and fear and live our lives to their fullest potential.

-Beth Wootten

Hunger Fact/Challenge: Give a gift to ELCA World Hunger- Stand With Africa for every country missing from your list.

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Thursday- “God has expectations” Amos 8:1-14

I must admit that when I first read the verses I was confused. The passage condemns ancient Israel for their wicked behavior, instead of the hopeful Biblical passages I was previously exposed to during Lent.

The more I talked to friends and family I became aware to a deeper meaning. My friend Ariel stated that “the basket of fruit,” symbolizes the plethora of gifts, talents, and relationships the Lord gave to Israel and to each of his believers. Too often, I have seen myself and others sabotage our friendships and resources then later bemoan the desperate state we are in.

Eva, an acquaintance, told me that she had not spoken to her family for over two years due to their dishonesty. Later on Eva complained that she had no one to turn to when she needed emotional support during her crisis.

Kathy, a friend, mentioned that many of society’s problems of poverty, war, etc. com from individuals’ lack of a loving relationship with God. Christians are tempted by the love of money, the love of technology, love of success, etc. A truly loving relationship with the lord opens our souls to the needs of the hungry and down trodden around us.

Roger, another friend, said “once I started to examine my relationship with God. I discovered at times that I am truly the most vindictive, stubborn, vile person I know.” I believe this passage allows us as Christians a time to list and examine our faults and our relationship with the Lord. Only after listing our faults can we truly amend and strengthen our relationship with our friends, family, and Jesus.

Thank you God for friends; thank you for coming to us with words of love through those whom you put around us. Thank you especially for Jesus who makes possible a relationship of love with you.

-Kenneth Overtuff

Hunger Fact/ Challenge: In Mumeya, Rwanda, getting health care used to mean a long and dangerous walk. Now the community has its own health clinic. Offer a prayer of thanksgiving for all the ways God blesses and multiplies our gifts to the ELCA World Hunger Appeal.

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Friday-“Difficult news” Jeremiah 15:1-9

The prophets of the Old Testament must have been elated to be contacted personally by God; then shocked to learn that God expected them to carry a message of doom, destruction and death to the people of Israel. It isn’t surprising that many of them responded with excuses and refusal. What would you do today if the Holy Spirit charged you with spreading the news throughout the state that God was totally disappointed with the people of Arizona and all who live in it would soon be destroyed? My response would be something like, “Nice to talk with you God and I’m proud that you chose me but no thanks.” Being the bearer of bad tidings is always uncomfortable. Finding the right words and responding to the reaction is not something we are eager to do. However, there are times when we have no choice. The Good News for us, in the light of the Gospel, is that although God may at times be very disappointed in us, God has chosen to save us rather than destroy us. God, as Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit, will be with us whether we are the deliverers of difficult news or the receivers. Thanks be to God. Heavenly Father, thank you for saving us and not destroying us thank you for guiding us and making us stronger, although we have difficult news to give or receive sometimes we thank you for being there with us. Amen. -Marilyn Brown Hunger Fact/Challenge: What food might you grow at home?

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Saturday- “Homecomings” Jeremiah 23:1-8

The Prophet, Jeremiah, tells us that the Lord is angry with those who have misled and scattered “the flock of my pasture…” and vows to punish them. The Lord will appoint new “shepherds for them who will shepherd them so they need no longer fear and tremble; and none shall be missing…; and they shall again live on their own land.” We are like the people of Israel who have been led astray by false idols, errant beliefs, greed, and fear; however, our God came to us in a manger and continues to live among us through the Easter miracle of resurrection. We can return to our “own land” and no longer “be missing” if we but acknowledge our transgressions, repent, and return to the Lord. Gracious and forgiving God, thank you for loving us enough to send your son to shepherd us back to you to remove our fears and live to praise and love You and each other. Amen. -Deb Hull Hunger Fact/ Challenge: Cut down waste and save money by avoiding food and drinks served in disposable cups and containers.  

 

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Sunday-“God sent the prophets and his son” Hebrews 1:1-14

Most likely Hebrews was written to address the needs and concerns of late first century Jewish Christians. These opening verses explicate Jesus, God’s son, through the use of Hebrew Bible (Old Testament) texts. For we modern, gentile Christians (how many of us here at ULC are Jewish?), the understanding of Jesus presented in these verses is “good news but old news”. This is the stuff of Sunday school, confirmation, and Bible study. But vs. 1 makes a statement deeply relevant to modern Christians: “Long ago God spoke to our ancestors in many and various ways by the prophets.” In the church we are too often obsessed with what the 1960s comedian Flip Wilson called “the [faith] of what’s happenin’ now”. We forget that our faith comes from over 3000 years of struggle, reflection, and prayer. God was being worshipped as “El” before the time of Saul and David, about 1000 BC. Since Jesus we have 2000 years of Christians wrestling with and trying to live out and understand their faith. Quite simply we need to read the Hebrew Bible (the Old Testament) and not just as a precursor to Jesus. What issues were the ancient Israelites and Jews struggling with? We need to read the Didache, Justin Martyr, Jerome, Augustine, Luther, the poetry of John Donne, the prayers of Elizabeth I, Dag Hammarskjold’s musings. The present is built on the past, so the past is always relevant. Our ancestors in the faith have much to teach us. Let us sit at their feet and learn from them. Perhaps this Lent, we can take a few minutes to learn from an ancestor in the faith.

Lord God, may we never forget the saints who have gone before us. May we read and study the examples of their words and deeds in their lives of faith. Amen. -Lynn Kauppi Hunger Fact/Challenge: Imagine that you can finally return home after living in a refugee camp for years. What are your hopes and fears?

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Monday-“The Word lives here” John 1:1-18

“The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” These are words we commonly hear as a call and response at church. What do these words mean to you? To me they bring back memories of my grandmother’s death. She died during the season of advent and these words were a common theme in her funeral. It was hard to respond to them at the time. It’s hard to feel the light when someone you love passes away. That must have been how Mary and the disciples felt when Jesus was crucified. The “true light” was dead.

I’m sure we’ve all experienced darkness. Perhaps it was feelings of depression, mourning a death, or experiencing the affects of a disease. It’s hard to remember that the light still shines and, as stated in this passage, we are that light. “In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind.” And so in preparation for Easter perhaps we should celebrate the resurrection and the shining light by being that light for others.

Father, I thank you for showing me over and over again that the light surely does shine in the darkness. Please help me to be that light for others and to spread the good news of your Son who was the living Word. In your name we pray, Amen.

-Kalie Virden

Hunger Fact/Challenge: In Chile, your gifts to the ELCA World Hunger Appeal help women improve the health of their families and communities.

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Tuesday-“A child is on the way” Luke 1:26-56

Have you ever felt like you were being entrusted with a responsibility beyond your experience and capabilities? In this passage, the Lord reveals to Mary that she will be having a holy child even though she is not a mother. I remember a time in my life when I felt like I was being given a leadership position that I was in no way prepared for. I could not, at the time, fathom why I was being chosen. However, I surprised myself by rising to the challenge. I struggled, I had bad days, and sometimes I felt like a failure, but I persevered. I can imagine that Mary was feeling similar to this at the news when the angel told her she was expecting a child. She was in no way qualified to be the mother of such an important person, however, God entrusts her with this responsibility, and she rises to the challenge. I am sure there were days that Jesus cried through the night and Mary was exhausted, or things went wrong. However, she trusted that God would not choose her if she was not qualified.

Dear Lord, thank you for always challenging us to rise to new heights. Help me see the challenges in my day as opportunities to prove that I can do what needs to be done. Amen.

-Abby Henderson

Hunger Fact/Challenge: In rural Haiti, pigs and other animals function as a family’s bank account. Share some of what’s in your “piggy bank” to help fight world hunger.

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Wednesday- “A Savior is here” Luke 2:1-20

We have all heard of "Christmas in July". But Christmas in Lent? What gives? Our text this day actually is a wonderful reminder that all of what we remember in Lent...the Last Supper, the trial, the crucifixion, and after Lent, the Resurrection.....all of this took place in a real person in a very real world and very real time. This is not the story of "long ago and far away". This is an account tied to a particular person, in a specific time period and in a known place. "In those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus". Caesar Augustus was an actual Roman Emperor. He ruled in a known and specific time. A Savior is here, in this earth, in this life, in my life, and in your life. A Savior lived and died in this world not some other and not some place of fantasy or fiction. This Savior lived and died and rose again and has purpose for this world and this life with all of its joys and sorrows. This Lent we recall and give thanks the story we tell is not one of wishful thinking but one of hope for this world and this life. For you and for me. For all God's children. God of the manger, we thank you this Lent that you continue to remain among us. We ask that we might glimpse your presence and your work in our world and in our life. We pray that we also might be that presence and work in the lives of others. In Jesus' name we pray. Amen. -Gary N. McCluskey Hunger Fact/Challenge: Give a gift to the ELCA World Hunger Appeal for each year of school you have completed.  

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Thursday- “Jesus is tempted” Matthew 4:1-11

One year for Lent, I decided to give up eating dessert. I don’t usually give anything up for lent, but that year I decided I would try to stop eating copious amounts of sugar after every meal I ate. I figured I could probably last 40 days with eating fruit every time my sweet tooth was bugging me, and then hit the candy jackpot on Easter. But, the problem with giving up desserts for lent, is that desserts are probably the most tempting of all foods in the world. I found it incredibly difficult to avoid dessert, and may have even cracked once or twice… Jesus didn’t crack when he was tempted. I thought giving up sugar was difficult enough; imagine being tempted by the devil himself. Jesus could have easily proved to Satan his omnipotent power, but instead he refrained from caving in. However his temptation not only magnifies his perfect being, but reminds us that Jesus, too, was human. He was one of us, and underwent the same emotions, trials, and temptations that we still face day to day. The way we would feel about being tempted to make a bad decision, even as miniscule as eating a slice of cake after dinner, is something Jesus could have related to. He made himself man so we could be close to him, and know that he understood earthly suffering. This Lenten season, I tempt you try to eat a little less sugar, as you remember the perfect earthly model Christ set for us. Thank you Lord for being there for us when we are tempted and for being there when we give into temptations and helping us through the situation. Amen. -Melanie Lehnhardt Hunger Fact/Challenge: Gifts to the ELCA World Hunger Appeal help children and adults to learn how to read.

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Friday- “Jesus teaches” Matthew 5

As this is written campus ministry students at Arizona State have been getting a steady diet of Jesus' teachings from the Sermon on the Mount each week. In particular we have been focusing on the Beatitudes. Mostly we discover Christians like these teachings of Jesus. Matthew places them very early in his gospel, most likely indicating the author sees these as central to any understanding of Jesus' teaching and who Jesus is. Christians need to be wary of making these into some new law. If that is what they are, then we who follow this Jesus are in trouble. We see that for Jesus even what we are think and feel can be sinful. Uh oh. Sometimes we are satisfied with the part of us we put on display for the world. How satisfied would we be if that world somehow had a window into our thoughts and feelings? The Sermon on the Mount is not simply a series of teachings to replace the Ten Commandments as a new law. They are teachings. And disciples are, as the word implies, those who are learning. This noon I attended a meeting hosted by a novice Rabbi. He forgot to begin with a blessing as is customary. He apologized, saying, "I'm sorry. I'm still learning". Aren't we all? Jesus, teacher, thank you for showing us God's grace in so many ways. Thank you for showing us God's grace in your teachings as well as in your life and death. Gratefully we pray in Jesus name. Amen. -Gary N. McCluskey Hunger Fact/Challenge: Time how long it takes you to shower today. Every day this week take a shorter and shorter shower to conserve water.  

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Saturday- “God’s love revealed through parables” Luke 15

This is an awesome reading because it helps us to understand that God will always be there for us and rejoice. We read 3 separate parables of being lost and then found. The parables are about being lost and then found; but they are more about how we must rejoice when it happens. In the parable about the lost sheep the man goes out leaving his ninety-nine sheep to find one sheep, he does, and he rejoices with friends! In the parable about the women losing one of her ten coins, she finds the coin and rejoices with her friends! In the final parable the father gives the younger son his share of the property and the son leaves. When the younger son has spent all of his money he decides to go home and work for his father. When he returned home his father saw him in the distance and ran to him welcoming him back. His father rejoiced that he was lost and now was found! Notice in all of the parables that the lost are always found by God. When have you felt lost or in a dark place? Maybe it’s today, always remembered that God will find you but also when he does he will rejoice and others will see that rejoice in you! Dear God, we thank you for being amazing and rejoicing when we are found and for helping us to be found by you. Amen. -Chelsea DeMoor Hunger Fact/Challenge: ELCA World Hunger-Training and Education efforts help break the cycle of hunger and poverty. Give a gift to the ELCA World Hunger Appeal in honor of a teacher.  

 

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Sunday- “Jesus is the one” Luke 4:16-30

What is the will of God? Generally when we ask that question we are wondering what God wants for me. What does God want me to do with my life? What does God want me to do concerning any number of issues in my life or in our world? As disciples we are usually serious about such questioning. And the answers are frequently not perfectly clear. What we see in today's text is that one question we never need ask is this" What does God think about the poor and oppressed?" It is clear that God has great concern for them. Enough concern that this is a topic addressed by Jesus in Luke very early in his ministry. Here comes Jesus to bring freedom to the captive and good news to the poor. God not only cares about the poor and oppressed, God loves them. So much does God love them that bringing them good news and release is at the top of Jesus' job description. Lent is a great time to remember that those who struggle in poverty, hunger, or oppression are also on the top of our job description as disciples. Funny thing when we work to alleviate poverty and eliminate hunger.....we just might meet Jesus in the process. Lord of all, we thank you that in our concern for the poor, the hungry and the oppressed we are not alone. We thank you that you are with us and we need not travel this path of discipleship alone. Amen -Gary N. McCluskey Hunger Fact/Challenge: At mealtimes this week, say the “Come, Lord Jesus” prayer and add…”Come deep within our hearts to dwell, that we may all your goodness tell. Amen.  

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Monday- “God’s will is joy” John 2:1-12

This, the first of his miraculous signs, Jesus performed at Cana in Galilee. He thus revealed his glory, and his disciples put their faith in him.

- John 2:11 This is the first of Jesus’ miracles when he reveals his glory and his disciples put their faith in him. What miracles have you seen? Has it taken a miracle for you to put your faith in Jesus?

What better place to feel joy than a wedding. This story is an earlier one where Jesus

Loving Creator, Help us too see your miracles that surround us. Help us to recognize the smallest blessings in our lives and to feel your joy in your creation.

-Beth Wootten

Hunger Fact/Challenge: Gifts to the ELCA Disaster Response bring help and hope in times of drought and flood.

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Tuesday-“God Frees us from the demons” Luke 4:31-37

What sort of demons do you have? Things that keep you awake at night. I think that everyone has certain demons that they have to deal with. The great thing is that God can free us from our own uncleaned spirits. He doesn’t condemn us as humans he only condemns the unclean spirits. God knows about the demons that we have and even the demons that we may not even know that we have. That is the greatness of God. Dear God, thank you for looking over us and helping us to maybe realize our demons and help us to rid of them. Amen.

-Chelsea DeMoor

Hunger Fact/Challenge: Donate old clothes that no longer fit you or that you don’t want anymore.

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Wednesday- “God wills health and healing” Luke 5:17-26

So, in the middle of Jesus’ teaching, some men start tearing up the roof of the building. Rude? It may seem so, if the verbal teaching was the most important part of this story. However, Jesus isn’t even quoted in this passage until he addresses the man being lowered into the room. To me, the boldness of faith the men and their friend show by interrupting the gathering and the power of forgiveness and healing Jesus displays toward the paralyzed man speak louder than any structured verbal teaching. Have you ever felt stuck? Helpless? Stressed? Wounded? Physically, emotionally or spiritually? Imagine the emotions of these men. The magnitude of love they have for their ill friend. The severity of faith they show in the Son of God and their persistency to reach Him. The hope the injured man has in Jesus’ strength. The astonishment toward Jesus saying, “Friend, your sins are forgiven” instead of healing the obvious physical ailment. But, we are human, therefore we are sinners. God knows the destruction sin causes within us and He knows that forgiveness is what we need most. We all need healing. What a wonderful gift. Then imagine the joy and wonder the men feel toward Jesus telling their friend to walk and finally seeing him rise. Praise God. Heavenly Father, Thank You for loved ones in my life. Thank You for the strength they provide. Thank You for Your healing. Please help me to uplift those who are suffering and help me to spread faith in Your healing power. Please help me to be bold and trusting in faith that You see and can heal my wounds, that You forgive me. Amen. -Catherine Willis Hunger Fact/ Challenge: Learn about LWR’s Fair Trade Coffee, Chocolate, and Handicraft Projects at www.lwr.org/fairtrade. Do you know if your congregation serves this coffee?  

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Thursday- “God works to restore us” Mark 5:1-20

Daemons! My first racing thought about this passage went straight to exorcist movies, demonic people convulsing and speaking multiple languages all at the same time! My second and more rational thought was our own brokenness. We all live with daemons that affect us every day. For most of time we can control and remove those daemons from our minds like Jesus removed The Legion out of the man and into the pigs.

There are tough times though where we are the man that needs Jesus to remove our daemons. We go through our busy lives struggling to find the peace in a world, which brings war, famine, and fear. CNN and other news stations pound the fear into our everyday lives causing us to doubt the idea of hope and cloud us with darkness. The man in the story was in darkness he was controlled by his own fear, his own daemons. Jesus during his time of Lent was tested and faced the darkness multiple times. Remember that, when in times of great darkness that Jesus will be with you to help you out of the darkness.

Prayer: Dear Lord watch over us especially in time of darkness. Help us remember that we are not alone and that you, Jesus can help us out from the blackness. Amen.

-Colton Grimmer

Hunger Fact/Challenge: The average Food Stamp benefit is $1 per meal per person.

 

 

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Friday- “God’s will is not death” Mark 5:21-43

This is a very busy passage, but the one thing that really caught my attention was the way Jesus acts under pressure. From dealing with large crowds (from the very second he steps off the boat), timely pleas (to heal a daughter on the cusp of death) and a costly interruption (the sick woman who touches Jesus’ robe), Jesus has a lot to handle in a very short amount of time. Throughout the entire story, he acts calmly and without haste. He makes a point of interrupting his journey to speak to the woman who has healed herself, telling her, “Go in peace and be freed from your suffering,” a response she did not intend to receive. Even as the daughter is proclaimed dead, Jesus is calm, proving to everyone in the house that not even death can constrain his power.

This passage shows that even in times of urgency and distress, Jesus has a plan: we just need to patient enough to receive it. In a society that focuses on instant gratification, it is easy to get impatient with God. We want our prayers answered now. However, how much easier would our lives be if we acted like Jesus? Cool, calm, collected, and patient? A little faith and a lot of patience can go a long way.

-Christine Wilkins

Hunger Fact/ Challenge: At meal times this week use this table grace from Latin America: To those who hunger, give break, and to those who have bread, give the hunger for justice. Amen.

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Saturday-“God’s will is new life” John 11:1-44

The story of Lazarus is a popular story that I’m sure many of us have heard since we were young. And although the theme of miracle’s and Jesus’ healing powers is seen throughout this passage, I want to focus on a smaller quote from Jesus, “Anyone who walks in the daytime will not stumble, for they see by this world’s light. It is when a person walks at night that they stumble, for they have no light.” This quote can be taken in the sense of those walking with Jesus and living as a disciple. However, I want to take this one step further and argue that perhaps Jesus was stating that we must live in the present, in this world, rather than looking toward the future or in the past. We must focus on how we can bring heaven to Earth. For once Lazarus’ sisters started living in the world’s light there was no point in mourning the dead, for Lazarus was still alive. Perhaps this was foreshadowing to Christ’s resurrection. Christ rose from the dead. He is alive. The question is do you still mourn?

Dear Lord, Help us to remember that we must live in this world’s light. Help us to see the beauty that you bring us every day and help us to share those gifts with others. Amen.

-Kalie Virden

Hunger Fact/Challenge: Help ELCA Disaster Response be prepared to care by giving a gift for every flashlight and candle in your home.

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Sunday-“Jesus approaches Jerusalem and death” Mark 11:1-11

In this passage, Jesus sends his followers ahead to get a colt for him that is tied up near the entrance of the next village as he makes it to Jerusalem. His disciples were close to him, and follow his command but some of the people near the colt wondered what they were doing. To me this shows that at first, it can be unclear what God’s intentions are, but once the disciples explained that the colt was to be brought for Jesus to ride, and that it would be returned shortly, the people allowed them to take the colt. This first part of the passage teaches trust and respect in Jesus.

After the colt had been draped with cloaks for Jesus to sit, and the road adorned with cloaks and field branches, Jesus rode down to Jerusalem with a procession fit for a King. People cheered for him before he got to them, and they cheered while following him to Jerusalem. This shows that the people because of his compassion, kindness, and teachings worship Jesus; he is a King of the everyday person, the hungry, and the downtrodden. He is not coming to town on a majestic steed, whose packs are overflowing with gold and treasures. He comes to Jerusalem on a colt to help those in need and spread the word of God.

Dear Lord, Please help me understand your intentions when they seem strange or I am feeling uncertain. I know that you have a plan and that everything happens for a reason. That’s why God sent his only son to save us from our sins. Please also help me be more like Jesus and his disciples, who in this passage show that a King is not made by wealth or power, but by humility, patience, and wisdom. Amen.

-Brett Gall

Hunger Fact/Challenge: Pray for neighbors, known and unknown, in need of healing.

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Monday- “The parable of the wicked tenants” Mark 12:1-12

This parable starts with a vineyard owner that goes on a journey and rents his property out to some tenants. When the harvest comes around, he sends a series of servants to collect rent, all of whom are beaten, shamed, and/or killed. His last recourse is to send his only son, who the evil tenants kill in hopes of inheriting the vineyard. Little do they realize that the owner will strike down upon them with great vengeance and furious anger. Jesus told this parable to a crowd of Jewish spiritual authorities while in Jerusalem’s temple courts. His audience was undoubtedly well-versed in Old Testament writings and must have easily recognized the parallelisms in Jesus’ story. God had sent many different prophets and leaders to the Jewish people, and they were listened to quite often; these stories make up much of the Old Testament. But those whose advice wasn’t heeded were mocked and killed for their message, paving the way for the only son. Imagine the look on the Jewish leaders’ faces when Jesus basically told all that were there that they wanted him dead! Dear God, we thank you for your son and the gift that you have given to us. Amen. -Ryan Jones Hunger Fact/Challenge: Think about donating to ELCA Disaster Response, whether it be your time or gifts.

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Tuesday- “A new promise revealed” Mark 14:12-25

The Apostle Mark describes for us the preparations for Passover that were taken by the Disciples and we are introduced to the Lord’s Supper. Here is the Christ breaking bread and sharing the common cup with those entrusted to carry on His ministry of love. Jesus also tells the Disciples of the betrayal yet to come saying, “…one of you will betray me, one who is eating with me.” The men ask him, “Is it me, Lord?” The words recorded in Mark’s Gospel are those we hear each time we celebrate the Sacrament of Communion and are reminded of the body and the blood given for our sins. We are also called to acknowledge our own betrayal when we sin and fail to repent. God of Hope and Love, when we consciously recognize you as the creator and giver of all, we are returned to favor in your sight. Thank you, Lord, for all of your gifts – especially the gift of Christ and the forgiveness of our sins. Amen. -Deb Hull Hunger Fact/ Challenge: Reflect on the difference between wants and needs. How much is enough for you?

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Wednesday- “Jesus is judged by the religious” Mark 14:53-65

What sacrifice! What love! We all know how the Passion story ends. And if the act of carrying His own cross and being crucified weren’t a large enough display of the strength, commitment and love of Jesus Christ, then this passage shows some more. Jesus showed strength in His silence. How difficult to not speak up and say ‘I give up, God, I’m not doing this’ or to the witnesses ‘you’re not speaking the truth’ or to the court ‘this trial violates Jewish Law and is illegal’. Would you have been able to remain silent? Jesus showed strength in His declaration. When He says “I am” it is self-incrimination but Jesus goes so much further than that. He goes on to declare that he will fulfill his purpose. He will die and rise again. Could you have been more bold? Jesus showed strength in His isolation. He was abandoned by His disciples but did not abandon us or His mission. But, God did not abandon Jesus in this time. His purpose was more than His life of miracles and teachings, His purpose was fulfilled through His death. Jesus was committed to His love for humanity. Jesus was confident in the Father. Most of all Jesus was loving in the midst of His sacrifice. He paid for our forgiveness with His life. He was found guilty to make us guilt-free. What love! Heavenly Father, Thank You for Your Son! Thank You for His ultimate gift of sacrifice to make us clean. We love You. May we spread the good news of Your strength and love. Amen. -Catherine Willis Hunger Fact/Challenge: What would make your next Christmas celebration more meaningful and less stressful?  

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Maundy Thursday- “The authorities pass judgment” Mark 15:1-20

As a senior approaching graduation, it’s difficult not to become overwhelmed with anxiety about the future. With my calendar completely clear once the spring semester ends, I am constantly asking myself: “where will I go?”, “what sort of job will I have?”, and “how will I support myself?” Such daunting questions have a funny way of narrowing my perspective, causing me to exaggerate my daily anxieties while underestimating the worries of others. This happens to all of us. In our daily lives, we operate as if we live on isolated planets where our problems are the most pressing, our schedules are the busiest, and our concerns are the most important. Jesus’ suffering on the cross can give us a new perspective. In this passage from Mark, Jesus willingly accepts false accusations, is mocked by Pilate’s soldiers, and is forced to wear a painful crown of thorns. Christ gave up everything to save what he loved. How could we possibly view our own lives the same way in light of this sacrifice? Ultimately, our daily worries and anxieties pale in comparison to Jesus’ suffering. Consequently, inflating our own concerns and narrowing our perspective to our own “little worlds” is not only unproductive, but pointless. Jesus showed us that life is so much more than our daily worries and anxieties. Father, help us to broaden our worldview beyond our own daily concerns. Guide us to see the concerns of others, as Christ endured great suffering in order to save humanity. -Michelle Schomker Hunger Fact/Challenge: Remember a time when you passed by someone in need? What made it hard to stop and help?

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Holy Saturday- “Jesus is buried” Mark 15:42-47

Jesus is buried, God is revealed in the Death of Jesus

Holy Saturday has always been a holy day that has perplexed me. Religious services are held in other faith traditions to remember the burial of Jesus or even some honor at this time Jesus descent to the dead. We hear in 1 Peter 3:18-20; 4:6 that Jesus in his time with the dead (some believe to be Abraham’s bosom, Sheole, Hell, or Gehanna) proclaimed salvation to those that did not know him in life. We profess this in our creed each Sunday. We profess each week and believe that there is no end to the reach of Jesus; he will even to go Hell and back for us.

But this text has an even more important lesson for us to remember: Jesus died. We have to remember that. God poured himself into His Son. His Son lived, breathed, fought with his parents, struggled to have fulfilling relationships with friends, dealt with temptation, discussed politics, prayed, ate, and slept like anyone of us. But he also did what all of us will do at some point, die. God desired so much to be in relationship with us that he endured the ultimate ending we all will face. He died.

But God does it better than us, He does something better for us. He conquers death. We profess in our Creed on Sunday’s that He rose from the dead and ascended to the Heaven. He conquers death not to prove that He can; He conquers death for us. He is our champion; He fights for us. We must remember that. We fights tooth and nail to be in relationship with us; let’s this Holy Saturday work to surrender our lives to Him.

Dear God, thank You for sending Your Son to Earth to be one of us. Thank You for not only living with us, but dying with us. Thank You for being our champion, our savior. Today, I pray that I can surrender my life to You and Your will.

-Craig Talmage (Campus Ministry Associate)

Hunger Fact/Challenge: How much did you collect/commit to the ELCA World Hunger Appeal during your journey through Lent? Write a check for the amount (See www.elca.org/hunger/howtogive).

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Easter Sunday- “God conquers even death” Matthew 28:1-10

A familiar story. The mighty and powerful elite have used their power to get their way and silence opposition. Jesus the critic and opponent of both religious and governmental authorities was executed. Problem solved. Case closed. At least that is how the story appears. And that is how it so often appears in life. But the story of Jesus does not end here. God does not end here. Jesus is risen! The limits of power and the powerful are exposed. Any sovereignty they exhibit is temporary. It is God that has the final word. The good news of the resurrection is that God is not finished with this world. God is not finished with you or with me. God is always at work to raise up. The story of Jesus continues. It does not end with now. It does not end with you or me. It begins and ends with God. And in the meantime it continues to belong to God. Christ is Risen! He is risen indeed! Alleluia! Living God, we thank you for the life, death and resurrection of Jesus. We thank you for his risen presence that surrounds and accompanies us in this life and awaits us in life to come. May this new life of Jesus give hope and new life to us and to those whom we serve in your name. Amen.

-Pastor Gary McCluskey

Hunger Fact/ Challenge: Thanks be to God for the response-ability to

“Go and do likewise” and be a good neighbor. Share with someone what

you’ve learned on your Lenten Journey.