Day 9: Compassionate God, as we approach the end of this week, instill in us a spirit of compassion for others. May we see the needs of those around us and respond with kindness and generosity. As we lean into life’s uncertainties, may this Lenten journey reflect your call to resilience and transformation found in the wilderness. Amen.
2.22.24
Our recent sermon explored the profound message of leaning into God’s nearness amidst life’s uncertainties. Inspired by Mark’s Gospel, we discovered the invitation to embrace the Spirit, especially when facing the challenges of our personal wilderness.
Mark encourages us to “lean into the uncertainty,” mirroring our struggles. Similar to Jesus in the wilderness, we’re urged to embrace the Spirit even in uncharted territory. Rather than abandoning us, the wilderness holds hidden resources that can sustain us in times of trial.
At the core of the message is the choice to lean into the Spirit, opening ourselves to resilience in the face of uncertainty. This challenge is not theoretical; it’s a present choice that each of us must make.
Mark’s timeless call invites us to a transformative journey through life’s wilderness. Reflecting on baptism and wilderness trials, we see Jesus as a model of transformation, highlighting God’s nearness in our vulnerability.
As we enter the Lenten season, let’s not just observe but deeply engage with the journey. God’s love is not limited to mountaintop experiences; it extends into the valleys of our struggles. This season prompts us to transform, acknowledging that the One who walked through the wilderness with purpose is with us on our journey.
May this Lenten season be more than observation, evolving into a sacred space for growth. Embracing the challenges of the wilderness, we can encounter the profound nearness of God amid life’s trials.
Grace and peace, Sela
Day 8: Gracious God, guide us in self-examination. Help us recognize areas of our lives that need cleansing and transformation. Grant us the humility to surrender our shortcomings to you and the strength to strive for holiness. Amen.
Day 7: Merciful Lord, open our hearts to a deeper understanding of your love. May our repentance be genuine and our gratitude for your grace abound. Grant us the courage to let go of everything hindering our relationship with you. Amen.
2.20.24
Day 6: Loving God, grant us the strength to persevere in our Lenten commitments. As we face challenges, help us remember the ultimate sacrifice of your Son, Jesus. May His example inspire us to endure with faith and hope. Amen.
Day 5: Gracious God, as we begin this new week, help us embrace Lent’s discipline. May our actions and choices reflect your love and mercy. Guide us in seeking forgiveness and extending grace to others. Amen.
2.18.24
Compassionate God, as we embark on this First Sunday in Lent, guide us through this sacred season, opening our hearts to the profound lessons of repentance, renewal, and a steadfast reliance on your boundless grace. Guide us in the footsteps of Jesus, who faced temptation in the wilderness and emerged victorious. May this day of worship inspire us to deepen our commitment to follow Christ and prepare our hearts for the joy of Easter. Amen.
Day 4: Gracious God, grant us the wisdom to discern your will in our lives. May our hearts be open to your guidance and our spirits be refreshed by your peace. Prepare us for the challenges and blessings that lie ahead. Amen.
2.16.24
Day 3: Merciful Lord, as we reflect on your sacrifice, grant us the strength to bear our crosses with patience and humility. May the trials we face draw us closer to You, and may we find solace in the promise of Your resurrection. Amen.
2.16.24
This past Sunday was the conclusion of our series on the book of Jonah. The narrative’s powerful closing reminds us that God’s waiting grace is always ready to welcome us home despite our detours and disobedience. Jonah’s journey prompts self-reflection on our responses to God’s grace and our willingness to return when we veer off course.
Moving beyond Jonah’s story, we delve into a broader call to share God’s grace with everyone. The central message echoes that God’s enduring and universal grace extends to friends, family, neighbors, and even those of different faiths. The emphasis lies in embracing the transformative power of spreading this message and recognizing our role as vessels of God’s unmerited favor in our interactions.
As recipients of God’s grace, we are urged to actively extend the invitation to others. The call to action resonates strongly: become ambassadors of God’s grace in our communities and beyond. The closing questions challenge us to examine our inclusivity and confront misplaced anger, reminding us that God’s preferences lean towards grace over anger. The message encourages us to align our motives with God’s transformative love as we carry the lessons of Jonah’s journey into our daily lives.
a journey in existence 