Prayerscapes

for Lent
Created by the Order of Ministry
of the
Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in West Virginia
and the
Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Pennsylvania
2017
Prayerscapes for Lent
2017 Christian Church in West Virginia, Christian
Church in Pennsylvania.
1402 Washington Ave., Parkersburg, WV 26101

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 Prayerscapes
March 1: Ash Wednesday Read Joel 2:1-2, 12-17
God calls us to return with all your heart, and to return to the Lord, your
God, for he is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and abounding in
steadfast love. The good news, brothers and sisters, is that we are being
called together again this Lent, for we are too important to be left alone on
this journey. Lent can be a very powerful time of renewal. A solemn and
reverent assembly of Gods very own (infants, youth and those who have the
Gift of Years) is given a call to worship.

Thus, holy Lent is a time of great gathering of Christs Church. The body of
Christ is being consecrated and sanctified in the great anticipation of
Gods grace and forgiveness. We are not just being called into a private time
of reflection and examination, although this is never to be underestimated.
This year, let us be mindful that the community of the baptized is being called
collectively to turn to God. Let us be open to all that God wants us to have
and to experience. Even in the midst of a world that too often times makes
no sense, our God calls us home to grace, mercy, halted anger, abundant
steadfast love, repentance, and a peace that passes all
understanding. Together we are called towards God in these important and
life giving holy days. Let us go together.

May we return to you Dear God with loving and trusting hearts.
May we be made one and share this gift
with your world and children everywhere.
Thaddaeus B. Allen
Regional Minister

March 2, Thursday Read Psalm 51:1-17

Psalm 51, the Ash Wednesday Psalm used every year in the liturgical cycle
for the beginning of Lent, is perhaps the most significant Penitential Psalm.
In 17 verses it covers in beautiful poetic language the state of our being as
humans living life before God. It moves with dramatic singleness of
thought and power through the following realities of our human life before
the Divine Presence.

Our human sinful condition as sinners in an alienated state of being from

God.
A quest and request for forgiveness and cleansing.
A desire for the renewal of lifes brokenness and sadness to joy and
well-being.
 An expression of commitment and an understanding of true worship.
An active engagement in true piety and proclamation of Gods
salvation.

The poem/prayer below was given to me by Dan Mahurin, member at FCC in

New Martinsville, and I pass it on as a blessing to you for your reflection on
this Ash Wednesday when we acknowledge in the liturgy with the sign of the
ashes that We are dust and to dust we shall return. Therefore, repent and
believe the gospel. It is a marvelous theopoetic expression of Psalm 51.
LET ME

Let my words From dust I arose

Be the cool water Molded by timeless hands.
For a thirsty soul. To dust shall I return
Save for the breath that gave life.
Make me the lance
To protect the weak, That breath not of air
The staff, But of eternitys touch
That the lame may walk. Shall never be dust
But onward passed
Through me speak As lance and staff
For those without voice, Voice and haven.
A haven for the lost
In lifes troubled seas. We leave our marks
As one
Of Gods works.

Dan Mahurin

Victor Hunter
First Christian Church, New Martinsville, WV

March 3: Friday Read 2 Corinthians 5:20b - 6:10

This is a difficult time politically as refugees from war-torn countries are
forced to leave our shores to return to starvation and war. Others return to
persecution or death due to their sexual orientation. How can we be
ambassadors for Christ (5:20) when people suffer discrimination because
their religion is different from ours? How can we convey the grace of God to
ensure we are putting no obstacle in anyones way? (6:3) Surely, silence or
failure to act obstructs any view of a compassionate Christianity.
Perhaps the key is first to be reconciled to God ourselves (5:20) - not the
reconciliation of two people shaking hands, but rather of mixing a cake. No
longer round and yellow, eggs mix with dry and grainy flour and become
reconciled taking on a new identity. They are made new, transformed. So, as
the eggs give themselves to the flour to become batter, we lose ourselves to
Love and are transformed to become the righteousness of God. (5:21) Being
reconciled to Love, all our life choices reflect the grace of God.

Help me, O God, to lay aside my fears

so I can trust in Your Goodness and be an effective ambassador of Yours.
Beverly Dale
United Christian Church, Levittown, PA

March 4 Saturday Read Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7

Reflecting back to the Garden of Eden when God told Adam and Eve not to
eat of the tree of knowledge and of good and evil, I realize that God's original
plan was for us to be immortal and not have any decisions to make. But God's
plan for salvation had to be changed to allow us to make the decision of
whether or not to follow God or choose to turn from God. He sent his son to
die for our foolish decisions (sin).

At this time of year, we are reminded of God's sacrifice of his Son so we can
still have a chance to spend eternity with Him. It is our choice, just like Adam
and Eve had the choice to eat of the tree of knowledge and of good and evil
or not. Our choice: follow God or not.

Father, we pray that you will let us make the right choice: to follow you.
Rodney Hubbs
First Christian Church, McMechen, WV

March 5: 1st Sun. in Lent Read Matthew 4:1-11

Temptationit is a very real aspect of our world. Its something we cannot
avoid. In an old Bible dictionary, I researched the word temptation. It
provided two dimensions of what temptation is in our daily living. First, it
said that temptation signifies an attempt to entice into evil. In other words,
to trick into wrong. However, a second dimension was a testing which aims
at spiritual good. In other words, you can come out stronger than you were
before the temptation. Its like James, wrote, whenever you face trials of any
kind, consider it nothing but joy, because you know that the testing of your
faith produces endurance; and let endurance have its full effect, so that you
may be mature and complete, lacking in nothing (James 1:2, NRSV).
Temptation it cannot be avoided, but if taken with the right attitude and
awareness, it need not destroy us, but rather can create a stronger follower of
the Lord Jesus. Temptation is essential for our spiritual development. Out of
the struggle grows character and commitment.

Lord Jesus, give me the strength to get through the fight.

Cletus Hull
Trinity United Church, Lower Burrell, PA

March 6: Monday Read Psalm 32

Lent is a time to do some introspection about our Christian walk. None are
perfect, no not one, but we do strive to be more Christ-like. It is a time to
ask the Holy Spirit to help us in this process of sanctification, to manifest the
fruits of the Spirit more and more in our lives. It is a time to dedicate ourselves
to Bible reading and prayer. It is a time to reach out and provide help to
others, either financially or with our time and talents. It is a time to give
thanks for Gods mercy and grace, that our sins are forgiven and not counted
against us!

Note in the passage from Psalm 32 above, there are also personal benefits to
confession. Blessed or happy are those whose transgressions are forgiven!
There is a definite mind/body connection, whereby guilt and shame can
manifest themselves negatively in us physically. Gastrointestinal and
cardiovascular problems are just two examples. These are called
psychosomatic illnesses definite physical problems with psychological
causes. No wonder the psalmist was rejoicing in the forgiveness he received
from his confession! May we also rejoice in the forgiveness we receive from
a loving, merciful, gracious God!

Father, we are so thankful that if we confess our sins, you are faithful
and just to forgive our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
Wesley Howsare
First Christian Church, Moundsville, WV

March 7: Tuesday Read Romans 5:12-19

This is great news for a sinner like me! Its hard when you think about it. No
matter what your intentions are, you are a sinner. How do you get past
that? And then to add to that you do make mistakes, you do hurt others, and
you are hurt yourself. It is a lot to take in, but then this passage in Romans
lifts us up. It does so through grace. No matter what we do or have done, or
what has been handed to us, Jesus one righteous act through the cross resulted
in justification and life for all who believe.
So, this Lenten season, name how sin is holding your back. Demystify it by
naming the chains, then break free of them with the acceptance of
grace. After all, Jesus was there first.

Set me free, Lord, by your grace, and I shall live!

Nikki Mazza-Fredley
First Christian Church, Monongahela, PA

March 8: Wednesday Read Psalm 25:1-10

In another beautiful prayer, the Psalmist embraces the Lenten theme by
reminding us to seek Gods ways and Gods Paths. While this Psalm is
familiar to me I was particularly struck, as I read it for this reflection, by the
implied emphasis on Gods way versus my own way. Having backpacked
and hiked most of the trails in the Monongahela National Forest believe me I
know the importance of being on the right trail or the right path.

Because I would get lost without a map, I use one. I recognize my need for
help on my journey, and I trust the map to be accurate. When I have been
lost, it is because I decided to rely on my own judgement rather than on the
map. I am sure that the Psalmist had experienced being on the wrong path in
his spiritual journey and is asking God to get him on the correct path or way.
When I am lost in my spiritual life it is most often because I have chosen my
path over Gods.

Dear Lord, grant me the wisdom and the courage

to seek your way and then to follow it.
Del Parris
Lost Creek, WV

March 9: Thursday Read Genesis 12:1-4a

This passage contains the components of the Lord's call to Abram. The first
component is the call itself. The call was a command for Abram to uproot,
leaving everyone and everything behind. It was not an empty call!

The second component is the promise the Lord made to him. He would
become a nation and his name would be great. This was not an empty
promise.

The third component includes the rewards--to be blessed, to be protected from

those who would curse him and "all peoples on earth would be blessed
through him." These were not empty rewards.
The Lord spoke. Abram obeyed. The rest is history! Abram's call and
response are an invitation for each of us to review how we are responding to
the Lord's call. It would be appropriate for us to ask, "Am I living up to the
Lord's blessing through serving as a blessing to others?"

Renew me, Lord, that my mission will be a blessing to those I meet each day.
In the spirit of Abram, I accept your call anew.
Jerry Griffin
Lititz, PA

March 10: Friday Read Psalm 121

My heart leapt when I saw Psalm 121 had been assigned to me. I will lift up
mine eyes unto the hills. These poetic words not only drip beauty and
comfort, they also hold a treasure of memory. So many times have I read this
psalm at a graveside with the beloveds gathered round, embraced by Gods
green hills. These are traveling words of blessing for the saints to carry with
them on their journey home. He will not let your foot slip.

Some denominations pray this psalm at infant baptisms. As the young ones
are washed in grace, these words of promise surround them for their journey
through life. The Lord is your keeper

This is a Psalm for sojourners. Whether we live or whether we die, our help
comes from the Lord. Wherever we journey, the living presence of God
moves beside us every step of the way. As we walk through these days of
Lent toward the shadow of the cross, even there, the Lord will keep your
life.

O God who travels with us, keep our going out and our coming in
from this time on and forevermore.
Sarah Webb
Wheeling, WV

March 11: Saturday Read Romans 4:1-5, 13-17

Jesus, lover of my soul, let me to thy bosom fly,
while the nearer waters roll, while the tempest still is high;
hide me, O my Savior, hide, till the storm of life is past;
safe into the haven guide, O receive my soul at last!

Other refuge have I none; hangs my helpless soul on thee;

leave, ah! leave me not alone, still support and comfort me.
All my trust on thee is stayed, all my help from thee I bring;
cover my defenseless head with the shadow of thy wing.

Plenteous grace with thee is found, grace to cover all my sin;

let the healing streams abound; make and keep me pure within.
Thou of life the fountain art; freely let me take of thee;
spring thou up within my heart, rise to all eternity.

(Charles Wesley, Public Domain)

March 12: 2nd Sunday in Lent Read John 3:1-17

In the midst of Johns telling of the coming of the Christ as the light of God,
we meet a religious leader coming to Jesus under the cover of darkness,
looking to commend Jesus, and to confess however secretly that he
believes that Jesus is indeed working in the power of God. He is met with a
rather out-of-place remark about seeing beyond the signs Jesus was working
to the actual kingdom of God, which can only be seen and known through a
new kind of life being born in us. It is the birth from above that is needed to
give entry to the presence of God. And the key, Jesus says, in coming to that
new birth is from water and the Spirit. Both of these point all who would
believe toward the one who is lifted up, like the healing serpent on the staff
of Moses in the wilderness.

The healing hope for the world, and for the lives of Nicodemus and others
who would be disciples (including you and me), is in the person of Jesus
Christ, lifted up on the cross. We are called, even in the shadows of our
cautious questions, to look upon him and have life.

Loving God, help us to see, even through the shadows,

your presence, and find new life born from holy water. Amen.
Heather Simpson
Central Christian Church, Uniontown, PA

March 13: Monday Read Matthew 17:1-9

Im not a fan of secrets, except maybe keeping a gift secret, because I really
enjoy seeing someones surprise when the gift is opened. Too often secrets
are used as a way to exclude to say were in and youre not. Christianity
isnt like that. Christianity is about inclusion, community, sharing and
inviting - not about exclusion and secrets. Which makes todays scripture
story seem kind of odd to me.

After the Transfiguration, Jesus says to Peter, James and John, Dont tell
anybody. Too often we act as if Jesus has told us, Dont tell
anybody. How silent we are about our faith? Whens the last time you
shared your faith with someone, or told someone about Jesus, or spoke about
Gods unconditional, ever-lasting, completely overwhelming love? Have you
told anyone lately about your faith, about God, about Jesus?

Its no longer a secret. The resurrection has taken place. Jesus lives. The
story is complete. Well, not quite complete. When Jesus appeared to his
disciples after his resurrection, he gave them, and us, this instruction, Go and
make disciples of all nations, teaching them all I have taught you (Matt
28:19). No more secrets. Tell everybody! Tell everybody!

Lord, open our mouths to share your love story.

Jamie Gump
Madison Avenue Christian Church, Huntington, WV

March 14: Tuesday Read Psalm 22:23-31

A call to speak out for the Holy One: Of Israel! Our Creator! Our Sustainer
Father! Psalm 22, quoted by Jesus on the cross, which begins with a word of
despair: My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? yet builds to an
incredible crescendo of faith and hope and affirmation. The Psalmist calls for
the people who fear the Lord to proclaim the mighty acts of God.

What are those mighty acts? They are not the absurdly extravagant challenges
for God to alter the laws of nature in a moment of doom and gloom. Rather,
those mighty acts of God, silently presented, are the faithful presence and
assured comfort of God to those who suffer, to those who mourn, to those
who are afflicted. He does not despise the afflicted, but listens and hears their
cries for help. Who could have ever written such powerful words without
themselves knowing the depths of despair, and the height of faith?

You meet us in the heights and depths of our lives, O God.

Help us to speak out our praise of your name.
John Crist
Pittsburgh, PA

March 15: Wednesday Read Psalm 62

In a contemplative living workshop that she taught last Fall at Buffalo
Seminary, Bonnie Thurston shared her definition of prayer. Prayer is a mode
of being. It is a way of living that orients the whole person: body, mind, and
spirit, to God. The prayer that anchors me into this way of living is the prayer
of silence.
It makes me laugh that for most of my life I despised waiting. I hated it,
dreaded it, went to great lengths to avoid it. And yet now, an hour of silence
first thing upon waking is how I choose to begin each of my days. For God
alone my soul waits in silence (v.1). Afterward, when I find myself waiting
in the natural course of my day, in traffic, at the store, etc., I pause again in
silence. Wherever I am, when I truly enter into the moment, I can look around
me and see the light of God in everyone and everything. Its all so vivid and
beautiful, it feels sacred. And I rest in the peace, joy, grace, hope, and love of
God alone.

Lord, as we make our journey through Lent to Easter and then beyond,
help us to wait only in You.
Valerie Parsons
Island Christian Church, Wheeling, WV

March 16: Thursday Read Exodus 17:1-7

Is the Lord among us or not? Faith would be much easier if we didnt
struggle with doubt, but it would also be meaningless. Infants in healthy
families learn to trust their parents not because they hover over them at every
moment, but because, though they step away, they always return and supply
the babies needs. But even so, there are times when an infant cries, is
frightened, even despairs.

Was it unreasonable for the Israelites to hope not to die of thirst in the
wilderness? Humans dont last long without water. Notice that while Moses
shows annoyance with his complaining people, God does not. God supplies
their need even though they fear that God will not.

The strongest faith takes doubt very seriously. The most profound trust also
knows the feeling of abandonment. Doubt and belief are intertwined with each
other, as inseparable as the elements of the air we breathe or the water that
sustains our bodies. Belief and doubt. Trust and anxiety. Communion and
abandonment. The deepest faith contains them all.

Meet us, O God, in our questions and doubts

that our faith may grow beyond our fears.
Dennis Landon
Lititz, PA

March 17: Friday Read Psalm 95

The Israelites tried Gods patience in the wilderness when they put the
providence of God to the test. Psalm 95:8 referred to an incident at Masseh
where they demanded water and argued with Moses (Exodus 17:7). They had
the audacity to question if God was with them. Considering the generous
provisions from God in the wilderness up to this point, this was self-centered.
They were unable to enter Gods rest.

What happens to our behavior when listen to our fears more than our faith in
God? Psalm 95 calls us to worship and trust in God. The concluding verse
speaks of entering Gods rest. How does our manic lifestyle of perpetual
activity relate to the gift of rest? Sabbath is a lifestyle of peace and
contentment that comes from trust in God.

Great Shepherd, we trust in your providence

and good work in the world. Grant us your rest.
Lisa Crone-Sheldon
First Christian Church, Morgantown, WV

March 18: Saturday Read Romans 5:1-11

What a message of security and relief Paul has given us! This passage draws
us into the heart of the Gospel the love of our Lord. In these words, we
receive the assurance that our lives have been justified by faith through Jesus
Christ our Lord. The formula is clear:
Justification through faith + Peace with God = Reconciliation and Hope

At times, this formula seems simple. For example, I feel really smart, wise,
and relieved each month when our checking account balances with the bank!
Then, reconciliation is quite simple. At other times, the formula is difficult
and elusive. As we seek oneness with our Lord when we face suffering,
adversities, disappointments and pain, reconciliation becomes much more
involved. Often, it is harder to find reconciliation, inner peace, and hope due
to our natural preoccupation with the accompanying anguish.

It is in a moment of welcomed clarity that the words in verses 1 and 2 become

a renewed reality. The "lifeline" has been tossed. We grab it. We are pulled
into the safety of assurance and hope in our Lord's arms. The formula is
honored!

Our Lord, forgive my ignorant stubbornness in times of struggle,

for it is then that you are truly my Savior.
Jerry Griffin
Lititz, PA
March 19: 3rd Sunday in Lent Read John 4:5-42
Jesus made a choice to go through Samaria. He could have chosen to go
around but he chose instead to go through. At one time, I thought he had to
go through in order to change the life of the unnamed woman that he met
while sitting near the well. But now I can see that he did not come just for her
Jesus cane for a city. Jesus shows us that one transformed life can lead to
many transformed lives.

This unnamed woman is so transformed from her encounter with Jesus that
she forgets her water jar and runs back to town. Her message was so
captivating that a city full of people followed her back to the place where she
met Jesus. They listen and after some days they declared that they believe for
themselves not just because of the testimony of the woman. Jesus may have
transformed your life so that you can be the one to lead a city to him.

Dear God, give me the courage to share my story

with those I encounter along the way.
Marsha Brown-Woodard
Palmer Theological Seminary, King of Prussia, PA

March 20: Monday Read Psalm 19

The heav'ns declare thy glory, Lord, in every star thy wisdom shines
But when our eyes behold thy word, we read thy name in fairer lines.

The rolling sun, the changing light, and nights and days, thy power confess
But the blest volume thou hast writ reveals thy justice and thy grace.

Sun, moon, and stars convey thy praise

Round the whole earth, and never stand:
So when thy truth begun its race, it touched and glanced on every land.

Nor shall thy spreading gospel rest till through the world thy truth has run,
Till Christ has all the nations blest that see the light or feel the sun.

Great Sun of Righteousness, arise, bless the dark world with heav'nly light;
Thy gospel makes the simple wise, thy laws are pure, thy judgments right.

Thy noblest wonders here we view in souls renewed and sins forgiv'n;
Lord, cleanse my sins, my soul renew,
And make thy word my guide to heaven.

(Isaac Watts, Public Domain)

March 21: Tuesday Read 1 Corinthians 1:18-25
If memory serves me correctly, I was about 10 years old the year that the days
leading up to Easter Sunday began to take on significance for me. Looking
back, I can imagine that the minister and one of the creative members of my
home church had combined their inspirations to create a series of messages
and worship displays that I can still picture vividly over sixty years later. A
few weeks before Easter - behind a thick layer of transparent mesh - a huge
cross appeared front and center in the sanctuary. Each Sunday following, the
transparency would become clearer with additional symbols being added until
Easter Sunday when the mesh was gone and the cross was beautifully adorned
and surrounded with fragrant flowers of spring. The messages that
accompanied the changing scene were all centered on the cross and what it
meant to our lives.

Often along the way on our spiritual journey, we lose our focus as we struggle
to navigate our faith and our relationships with each other. Out of focus, we
lose the clarity of vision and wisdom necessary to proclaim the message of
the cross which is the power of God. Today and in the days ahead as we move
ever closer to the cross, may our faith be rekindled and strengthened so that
we who are being saved may draw on the everlasting power of God that
belongs to each of us.

God of grace and mercy, as we move ever closer to the cross of Calvary,
bless us with eyes that see clearly,
and help us to boldly claim the power of the cross
that is ours for the claiming. Amen.
Judith Bennett (from 2015)
Bridgeport, OH

March 22: Wednesday Read Psalm 77

The Lenten season presents us with the opportunity for change, a change of
heart, a change of understanding. This is clearly expressed in Psalm 77, that
shifts from feelings of abandonment to realizing trust in a great and holy God.
How many times have we ourselves had instances of lament, the cathartic
unleashing of feelings of despair? These can be soul-cleansing moments,
when we express the raw emotions of feeling abandoned by God. The
Message offers verse 9 this way: Just my luck, the High God goes out of
business just the moment I need him. Rather than drown in despair, the
Psalmist recounts the greatness and holiness of God that God is merciful
and gracious, rescuing his people from Egyptian bondage. He truly loves his
people. He truly loves us. He is frighteningly powerful, that even creation
trembles, but his people he holds safely in his hands, shepherding his sheep
with care.
While we may despair in our sinfulness or overwhelmed with the
circumstances of our situation, we can trust in a God who, although holy and
powerful, is gracious and merciful. In moments when we feel abandoned,
may we continue to seek through those feelings to find that God cares for us.

God, be not far from us in our times of trouble, that we may find
your mercy and grace to give us strength in our time of need.
Andrew Wade
First Christian Church, Logan, WV

March 23 Thursday Read 1 Samuel 16:1-13

There are two very important things we can learn from this passage. First, we
should always listen to God and never be afraid to do what He ask us to do.
Second, Gods plan of salvation for the world could not be disrupted. As this
passage starts off, God told Samuel that He rejected Saul as king over Israel
and asked Samuel to go an anoint one of the sons of Jesse to be the new king
but Samuel was not sure of what he should do because he feared that Saul
would kill him. After God assured Samuel that he would be protected, he
decided to do what God ask of him.

God gave Samuel specific instructions on how this anointing should take
place and told Samuel to anoint the one He would indicate. Samuel went and
did what God ask him to do. God knew exactly who he wanted Samuel to
anoint. When Samuel anointed David with oil, it confirmed Gods plan for
the World. Gods plan was to provide salvation for the whole world through
Jesus Christ who was from the seed of David. Jesus Christ became the
sacrificial Lamb by giving His life for everyone who accepts Him. He became
the Salvation of the World. During this season of Lent, let us remember what
Jesus did.

Dear God thank you for letting Jesus die for us

to provide us Salvation and the forgiveness of our sins.
Steven Jumper
First Christian Church, Cameron, WV

March 24: Friday Read Psalm 55:1, 16-19, 22-23

If you will trust in God to guide you
and hope in God through all your ways,
God will give strength, whate'er betide you,
and bear you through the evil days.
Who trusts in God's unchanging love
builds on the rock that will not move.
Sing, pray, and keep God's ways unswerving;
so do your own part faithfully,
and trust God's word; though undeserving,
you'll find God's promise true to be.
God never will forsake in need
the soul that trusts in God indeed.

(Georg Neumark, 1657)

March 25: Saturday Read Ephesians 5:8-14

Now you are children of light. Christ will shine in you. It sounds like
Advent all over again. Yet this is taking that from the natural world, and using
it to illumine spiritual truth. This comes from Holy Scripture, and extends
through the long line of Christian spirituality that looks to creationor what
some have called our first bible.

How can the natural order of the world illumine our souls, especially when
everything in the natural order dies? Yes, this is one way to look at the world
around us. Yet we travel through this Lenten season with the illumination of
Christ and see what is exposed with Resurrection eyes. Let this change your
worldviewthe natural order of the world is not life and death, but rather is
life-death-resurrection!

Skin cells die every moment, but new ones take shape and live on! The
perennials planted last year showcased evidence of death all winter, but now
sprout forth with new buds! I shed many a tear over the loss of life this winter,
but with Easter on the horizon I feel a sense of beauty in hearing the words,
Sleeper, awake! Rise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you.

Give us eyes to see your light, O Risen One, and the hope to see
that, in you, the death of things will always spring forth in newness of life.
Kenneth Hardway
First Christian Church, Wheeling, WV
Associate Regional Minister for Youth and Young Adults

March 26: 4th Sunday in Lent Read John 9:1-41

I once read a story of a woman blind from birth that was asked by a friend,
"How do you sing 'Amazing Grace'? You know the part: I once was lost but
now am found, was blind but now I see.

The blind woman answered, "When we get to that verse, I straighten my

shoulders, and sing proudly, Amazing Grace, how sweet the sound, that
saved a wretch like me. I once was lost, but now am found, was blind, and I
still can't see! But . . . praise God from whom all blessings flow!"

Sometimes those with 20/20 vision lack spiritual sight, and those without
physical sight have 20/20 spiritual vision. The Pharisees hold Gods Word in
plain view each day, but fail to see Gods Word incarnate, the Light of the
World, in Jesus. Betraying two Sabbath rules by kneading his spit into mud
and healing a serious but non-life-threatening condition, Jesus light
trespasses boundaries to heal the one in need. The mans sight and faith are
restored.

Open the eyes of our hearts, Lord, to sense your Son,

the True Light, with us and drawing us closer to those in need.
Michael Lehman
Fairhill Manor Christian Church, Washington, PA

March 27: Monday Read Psalm 42

Twice, in Davids 42nd Psalm, in v. 3 and again in v. 10, he speaks the words
spoken by his oppressors, Where is Your God? Yet, even though the
psalmist is in a period of lament and sorrow, he has hope and is not in total
despair. It is as though he is able to transform his thoughts from those of
suffering deep pain to those of praise of my savior, my God and, somehow,
in some way, to have the realization that through a combination of despair
and praise, God has brought precious victories again and again to all his
children. And, as the famous preacher, Spurgeon says. he pulls himself
together and regains his composure, preaching to his own soul, as he talks to
himself, reminding himself of the great and wonderful goodness of God.

Such is life. We, too, find ourselves in our own times of personal lament,
experiencing the effects of oppression, rejection, and persecution in our lives
due to our belief in the living God, Jesus Christ. Can we not transform
ourselves as did David? Can we not calm and compose ourselves with the
reminder that He who rescued our ancestors will rescue us as well? Why are
you downcast O my soul? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my
savior and my God (v.11)

O God, raise me up as I place my trust in you.

Earl Shaw
Big Run Christian Church, Cameron, WV
Associate Regional Minister of the Word
March 28: Tuesday Read Hebrews 5:5-10
Dictionary.com defines Priest as a person whose office it is to perform
religious rites, and especially to make sacrificial offerings. In todays
Scripture lesson, we have Jesus priesthood proclaimed and confirmed, not
only for himself, but for all whom he represents. Historically priests were the
ones who, on behalf of their societies, offered up sacrifices which were hoped
to be pleasing to God, therefore deflecting negative divine actions towards
them, or opening up the flow of heavenly blessings upon them. The concept
of sacrifice is key to defining the term priest.

In Jesus case, the sacrifice became no longer a thing. The sacrifice

offered up to God became his own life and person his own physical and
spiritual selves. By doing this, he set the example for each of us who claim
the mantle of Christian one who lives in imitation of Christ. May this
Lenten season lead us to ever greater sacrifices to God on behalf of those God
loves.

Gracious God, teach us each day to offer ourselves up in sacrificial ways,

that your creation may benefit greatly from our gifts.
Richard Howard
Morgantown, WV

March 29: Wednesday Read Psalm 89

I will sing of the mercies of the Lord forever is how Psalm 89 begins in one
translation that I use daily. It is also the first line of one my favorite old
hymns, one of the very first ones that I learned by heart, because its really
more of a refrain. For as long as I can remember, and Ive been a part of choirs
since I was a child, singing has always been the purest form of worship for
me. I love to sing! Singing was, and still is, my favorite part of Sunday
service, or any service, for that matter.

But what I finally realized about ten or fifteen years ago is that singing is also
prayer. And so, when Im worried and I cant stop my thoughts from cycling
back into negativity, I sing. When Im bored, anxious, or frustrated, I sing.
When Im sad, lonely, or frightened, I sing. Sometimes singing moves me to
tears. Thats okay. Tears are prayers, too, and God hears them all.

Lord, as we make our journey to Easter and through the rest of the year,
help us always to sing your praises, and to remember that when were not
sure we even can, that when we most need to sing them.
Valerie Parsons
Island Christian Church, Wheeling, WV
March 30: Thursday Read Ezekiel 37:1-14
While the story of Ezekiels vision in the valley of dry bones gathers up the
story of a suffering and nearly-dead community, it may have a personal
dimension to offer people like us. When our resources are dried up beyond
any hope, like the totally barren and wind-blown bones of a long-decayed
army, the Spirit of God can still bring things together. There is hope even
beyond this present hopelessness, light beyond this day of darkness. God still
brings forth new life where death has reigned; nothing is lost or forgotten!

When we have exhausted our store of endurance,

When our strength has failed ere the day is half done,
When we reach the end of our hoarded resources,
Our Fathers full giving is only begun.
His love has no limits, His grace has no measure,
His power no boundary known unto men;
For out of His infinite riches in Jesus
He giveth, and giveth, and giveth again.

(Annie J. Flint, Public Domain)

David Chafin
United Christian Church, Coal Center, PA
Consultant to the Regional Minister

March 31: Friday Read Psalm 130

In our social media obsession, we keep count of everything: how many
friends on Facebook, how many followers on Twitter, how many connections
on LinkedIn. The psalmist despairs because he/she knows that God keeps
account of all our sins. It is this misery that can lead to a sense of isolation
from God. However, the psalmist also provides a testimony of trust in the
Lord as one who knows that even though he/she might be a sinner, the Lord
still hears their cry out of the depth.

It is this type of hope that forms the indissoluble link with the God of the
covenant, who not only issues threats and promise, but also offers final
salvation to the faithful. Sin is not committed in a vacuum, and essentially
impedes our relationship with God. Nevertheless, our Lords heart is always
willing to reach out in mercy, simply because of who He is, and offer not only
forgiveness, but also restoration to life with Him in an eternal Kingdom.

When in the depths of my darkest night, O God,

kindle a fire that will assure me of your presence and your saving love.
Donald Snyder
First Christian Church, Beckley, WV
April 1: Saturday Read Romans 8:6-11
Many people mistakenly believe once you make a decision to live a life
devoted to God, you have a supernatural endowment of power preventing you
from experiencing anything except positive emotions and positive
experiences. Although this may sound absurd, in all actuality its partially
true. We have been endowed with the supernatural power of Gods Holy Spirit.
However, most believers will attest they are confronted with challenges,
pressures, and conflicts that result in negative feelings and negative
experiences from time to time.

Pauls message to the Roman community helps us to understand the

connection between our challenges, our faith, our mind, and Gods Spirit.
Although the Spirit of Christ dwells within us, we are never free from
struggles! However, when we have faith in the resurrected Christ, choose to
live a life according to the Spirit, and set our minds on the things of the Spirit,
we are able to experience life and peace, in spite of our struggles, as
demonstrated through the life of Jesus Christ.

God, redirect my focus back to you, so that I can experience peace.

Empower me with the love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness,
faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control exhibited by Jesus Christ.
D. Marie Tribble
First Christian Church, Lemoyne, PA

April 2: 5th Sunday in Lent Read John 11:1-45

This extended passage of the raising of Lazarus is enmeshed with the theme
of death and darkness. There is the threat to Jesus life in Jerusalem that forced
the entourage of disciples to flee; the willingness of Jesus to return near
Jerusalem to Bethany at the news of Lazarus death; Thomas bold declaration
that the disciples should prepare to die with Jesus; and the mourning of the
household of Mary and Martha.

In the face of all of these dark challenges, Jesus calls his followers even us,
in 2017 to see with the light that is within us. Later, in response to Marthas
great confession that she believes in the resurrection at the last day, Jesus
declares that he is the resurrection and the light. Not a future resurrection,
but a present new life. And standing in the middle of the grieving and
saddened crowd of mourners, Jesus begins to weep. Traditionally, we see this
as the humanity of Jesus emotions. I wonder, however, if it is also his dismay
that these followers, in their grief and darkness, are unable to see the light of
the resurrection with their enlightened eyes of faith.
Perhaps our admonition in any dark time is to hear Jesus command
unbind them and let them go. Let those who have eyes to see and ears to
hear take note!
In the darkness of our days help us to believe and walk in the light.
Darwin Collins
Central Christian Church, Uniontown, PA
Christian Church Foundation
April 3: Monday Read Jeremiah 31:31-34
At the lowest point in my life, after the death of my husband, I asked
God to walk with me as I maneuvered the tunnel in darkness. My feet
kept going, one foot in front of the other, and the stuff of life got done,
piece by piece, but my heart was empty. I am thankful God took me
by the hand and led me out of my Land of Egypt which held me captive
in my grief.

As the days stretched on and the sunshine slowly began to return, I

continued to go to God in prayer. Now my prayers are for purpose and
meaning. I yearn for Gods instruction, engraved in my heart, as I find
my new self. I trusted God in the tough times when my heart was
broken, and God was faithful to lead me. Now, in the sunshine, I know
God continues to be faithful as my path unfolds before me.

O God of love and care, thank you for your presence.

Robin Norsworthy
Central Christian Church, Fairmont, WV
April 4: Tuesday Read Ephesians 2:1-10
O sacred head, now wounded, with grief and shame weighed down,
now scornfully surrounded with thorns, your only crown.
O sacred head, what glory and blessing you have known!
Yet, though despised and gory, I claim you as my own.
My Lord, what you did suffer was all for sinner's gain;
mine, mine was the transgression, but yours the deadly pain.
So here I kneel, my Savior, for I deserve your place;
look on me with thy favor and save me by your grace.
What language shall I borrow to thank you, dearest Friend,
for this, your dying sorrow, your pity without end?
Lord, make me yours forever, a loyal servant true,
and let me never, never outlive my love to you.

(Bernard of Clairvaux, 12th C.)

April 5: Wednesday Read Psalm 107:1-3, 17-22
Giving thanks is a spiritual disciplinea deepening of the relationship
between the saved and the Savior. Yet it is also witness! The Psalmist
encourages us to remember our story, remember our struggles, and to
remember how God has delivered us. This remembering isnt only for the
sake of me and God, but when shared as testimony gives witness to the very
nature and character of God.

Every Sunday, we remember in great thanksgiving. When our Lord was

betrayed he took bread and cup and said, Remember. Remember when we
were sick, and God healed us. Remember when we were broken, and God
mended us. Remember when we were outcasts and unloved, and God
received us anew. Remember when we were lost and forgotten, and God
remembered us. Thank you, Lord, are always the words that pour forth
from the lips of the redeemed.

In this Psalm, youll find a litany of specific dangers from which the redeemed
were saved. Perhaps this Lent we should prepare such litanies for ourselves
at the Lords Supper, for Communion is a private devotion, and it is public
witness! It is a sign to the world, and in a very particular way our testimony
of Gods very naturesavior, redeemer, lover and friend.

Remind us, O God, of the particularity of our salvation,

and embolden us to share our witness with the world that needs it so.
Kenneth Hardway
First Christian Church, Wheeling, WV
Associate Regional Minister for Youth and Young Adults

April 6: Thursday Read Psalm 118:1-2, 19-29

Hosanna to th' anointed King, to David's holy Son;
Help us, O Lord; descend and bring Salvation from thy throne.
Blest be the Lord, who comes to men with messages of grace;
Who comes in God his Father's name to save our sinful race.
Hosanna in the highest strains the church on earth can raise;
The highest heav'ns, in which he reigns, Shall give him nobler praise.

(Isaac Watts, Public Domain)

April 7: Friday Read Psalm 23

The Lords my Shepherd, Ill not want. He makes me down to lie
In pastures green: He leadeth me the quiet waters by.
My soul He doth restore again, and me to walk doth make
Within the paths of righteousness, een for His own names sake.

Yea, though I walk through deaths dark vale, yet will I fear no ill:
For Thou art with me, and Thy rod and staff me comfort still.

My table Thou hast furnished in presence of my foes;

My head Thou dost with oil anoint, and my cup overflows.

Goodness and mercy all my life shall surely follow me:

And in Gods house for evermore my dwelling-place shall be.

(Scottish Psalter, 1635)

April 8: Saturday Read Philippians 2:1-11

I had a New Testament professor who taught and lived Christian JOY: Jesus
first, Others second, Yourself last. I suppose some people, by nature or
nurture, can live this JOY without effort. I know I cant. Im just too self-
centered. Always have been. Probably always will be.

Lord knows I want to set aside ambition, conceit, and my own interests. I
know how divisive they can be. Ive seen it in churches just as much as
anywhere else. Especially when my interests are ignored. I dont want to be
a humble, obedient slave even to God.

Lord knows I want to be tender and compassionate. But it seems the only
time I can follow through is when I am driven by love the discipline of love.
Only then, when Im totally concerned about the other (or the Other), am
I not concerned about what happens to me. Often instead I have selfish
agendas, hidden even to me, until God reveals them.

You know, Lord, you know. You know all about me, yet you show me such
grace and mercy, and you work to make my hard heart ever softer.
Help me to make your heart mind connection.
Don Gaffney
Beaver Falls, PA

April 9: Palm Sunday Read Matthew 21:1-11

After the crowds disperse
After the cloaks are gathered
After the colt is tethered
After the stones grow silent
After a cloak is stripped
After a back is striped
After the nails pierce
After the body hangs
After the stone rolls away

After fronds are stripped of blades

After a childs hands enfolds a cross

Then holy fire consumes

all things crossed
wood and frond and flesh

Grey ash is mixed with blessed water

and marks our lives with grace
Then
rising incorruptible
we join the procession
triumphant!
Larry Grimes
Bethany College, Bethany, WV

April 10: Holy Monday Read Exodus 12:1-4, (5-10), 11-14

On this blessed day, we in essence are beginning a new life. The tomb is
empty. Jesus was raised! Our Scripture lesson reminds us of another
beginning of new life, and the preparations that would be needed to begin that
new journey. For the newly-liberated Hebrews in Egypt, a new, exciting,
dangerous life journey lay before them life that would require sacrifice. In
the freedom that God was offering, they would have to risk much, but the
rewards would be great. Once you were not a people, but now you are God's
people. (I Peter 2:10)

The advent of the Easter season once more offers us new life, and a renewal
of the journey. The 18th Century reformer, John Wesley, called upon his
fellow travelers in the Christian faith to journey towards Christian
Perfection. At ordination services in the United Methodist Church to this
day, ordination candidates are asked the questions, Are you moving towards
perfection? and Do you expect to reach it in your lifetime? The expected
answer in both cases is a resounding yes!. The perfection sought is not to
be perfect in all things, but rather to be faithful in the journey to which we are
called as Christians, as imitators of Christ. To be to the world as the
resurrected One would be. May this Easter season find each of you committed
to the journey of new life!
 Loving God, grant us strength to make the journey,
walk with us along the way, and at its conclusion, receive us into your glory.
Richard Howard
Morgantown, WV

April 11: Holy Tuesday Read Psalm 116:1-2, 12-19

During a workshop on prayer, I gave the participants an exercise on
thanksgiving. They were to make a list of everything they were thankful for
on one of the worst days of their lives. After ten minutes I asked the
participants to share this experience of offering a sacrifice of thanksgiving. A
woman in the back of the room continued to write as the sharing began.
Finally, with a catch in her throat, she commented on her experience. My
young adult son died three months ago of cancer. It was a terrible time for
us, but I realize through this exercise how much I had to be thankful for. A
nurse who was so kind. Friends who stood with us. My sons freedom from
a body of pain into eternal life. I wrote three pages and I could still write
more! She had found the hand of God through her sacrifice of thanksgiving.

St. Ignatius taught that the greatest sin is ingratitude. Ingratitude shuts down
our connection with God. But when we give a sacrifice of thanksgiving,
especially during painful times, Gods love can pour into us and give us what
we truly need to become: more than conquerors.

Lord Jesus, forgive our sin of ingratitude.

Show us how to give a sacrifice of thanksgiving every day of our lives.
Janet Hellner-Burris
Christian Church of Wilkinsburg, Pittsburgh, PA

April 12: Holy Wednesday Read: 1 Corinthians 11:23-26

We are preparing in most of our churches to enter into a solemn night of
remembrance and thanksgiving for the life that has been given to us in the
offering of Christ to his people in the upper room. In doing so, we are taking
our places in a tremendous chain of the tradition that cannot be let go of.

Plenty of people have died tragic or untimely deaths, and plenty of memorials
have been established to help keep the memory alive in the life of the world.
But in this action of gathering to take, bless, break, and give the bread and the
cup of Christ, Paul says we are handing on what the Lord has given to us.
And precious, indeed, is the memorial! In it, Jesus tells us, we are receiving
his body and his blood the new covenant given for all who would receive it.
And Paul affirms that it is in these actions that we do indeed show forth
Christs death for all who would see it, and do so looking forward to his
coming again pointing us all toward a feast over which Christ himself will
preside, a feast which will have no end.

Every hunger of every human life is filled at this ongoing memorial, which
we hand on now to new generations in the Eucharist we celebrate tomorrow
and on every occasion when we gather in Christs presence. He is, indeed,
there in our midst. Christ our Passover is sacrificed for us; therefore, let us
keep the feast and keep it always, filled with the memory and sweet
fragrance of its first Celebrant.

As we remember and give thanks for your love in Jesus Christ, O God,
we offer ourselves anew as his people. Now fill us with his life.
David Chafin
United Christian Church, Coal Center, PA
Consultant to the Regional Minister

April 13: Holy Thursday Read John 13:1-17, 31b-35

Johns telling of the washing of feet in the Upper Room begins with: Jesus
knew that his hour had come and the devil had already put it into the heart
of Judasto betray him. Yet sitting between these two shocking and
terrifying statements is a testimony to Jesus love for his disciples. John
wants us to know that Jesus sees this as a final opportunity to express his love
for his own.

Jesus can serve with such compassion so humbly, so generously because

he loves so much. Such an exemplary last act of love! Jesus describes his
action as an example. It is to become our pattern, our invitation to embrace
the unexpected freedom of living for others.

Yet, it is even much more than this. What Jesus gave was a blessing a
repeatable, relivable blessing. As Jesus said: If you know these things, you
are blessed if you do them (13:17). Where will we find the courage to center
upon such love and embrace such an extraordinary invitation toward loving
and blessing others?

God of Generosity, guide us to be generous with our love,

and challenge us to be a blessing to all. Amen.
Heather Simpson
Central Christian Church, Uniontown, PA
April 14: Good Friday Read Isaiah 50:4-9a
Today we meet the Suffering Servant of Isaiah. This is most appropriate
for our Good Friday meditation, as the Servant foreshadows the meaning of
suffering and obedience which Jesus presents in his passion.

The Servant, like Jesus, is sorely persecuted: I gave my back to those who
struck me, and my cheeks to those who pulled out the beard; I did not hide
my face from insult and spitting. But this is not a lament or a complaint as
we often hear from those who are abused. It is a psalm of confidence and
assurance.

The Servant is constantly aware of Gods presence and compassion

throughout his ordeal. The Lord God helps me; therefore, I have not been
disgraced I know that I shall not be put to shame; he who vindicates me is
near. This total awareness of Gods abiding care is evidenced by the fact
that the Servant is given the tongue of a teacher [to] sustain the weary with
a word. His ears are opened to listen as those who are taught.

In the midst of distress, the Servant and God are in a remarkable relationship
of love. This psalm is a demonstration of Gods love for and delight in us and
an invitation for us to share that love and delight. Jesus giving of himself in
the crucifixion is the powerful act that binds us to our God in the best and also
the worst of times.

Loving God, open our ears to hear your word,

free our tongues to share your love.
Let us know that in the suffering and death of your Son he saves us
and binds us to your constant care, whatever our situation.
William B. Allen
Regional Minister Emeritus

April 15: Holy Saturday Read Psalm 31:9-16

On Holy Saturday, the narrative stops. Everything goes silent. It is the cosmic
day of listening, waiting, and unknowing, the great corrective to human
hubris. We arent as smart as we thought we were. Today, we come face to
face with what Isaiah told us: Gods ways are not our ways.

Nor are they the worlds ways. In the world, kings arent enthroned on
crosses. Charismatic religious teachers dont end up like this. Today there are
no pat answers. Today is for silence, watching, waiting to see what happens
next. Western Christians dislike this. We want to get busy and do something.
But nothing can, or indeed, now must be done. The Psalmist gets it: My times
are in your hand. Even today. Even when things are darkest, when we lose
everything we loved, believed in, thought we knew. When we dont know
what comes next, especially then, our times are tenderly held in Gods nail
scarred hands.

Help us, O God, even in the darkness of death,

to know the calm assurance of your abiding care.
Bonnie Thurston
Wheeling, WV

April 16: Easter Sunday Read Matthew 27:11-54

The witnesses declared Truly this was Gods Son! In fact, the Resurrection
called all of humanity and all of creation to make the good confession
together. All that was confessed. Today, with all that we are and have, we too
confess and declare: We believe! Today, we are remaking the good
confession, and this sets the course for all that we are.

Easter cries, trumpet sounds, organs playing, children marching, flowers

blooming, Bread and Wine being shared, and a word of belief bear witness to
the truth of Gods Son who is alive in our midst. Happy Easter to Easter
people!

Giver of every perfect gift, we thank you for life and life abundant
in our risen Savior Christ Jesus.
Thaddaeus B. Allen
Regional Minister