Day 22: Everlasting God, we remember your promise, “He will raise it up.” As we anticipate the celebration of your Son’s resurrection, fill our hearts with hope and expectation. May we find strength and renewal in the knowledge that even in the midst of darkness and struggle, your love prevails, and you have the power to raise us up and transform our lives. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
3.8.24
Wes (the church dog) faced labor complications at home, prompting a visit to PARC Emergency Hospital on Thursday afternoon. The initial diagnosis from the doctor suggested that Wes had a fetus lodged in the birth canal, causing distress and labor dystocia, and that none of the fetuses were deemed “viable.” After discussing the options, I decided that the nonviable fetuses would be removed, and Wes would undergo a spaying procedure. The plan was for her to stay overnight at the hospital.
For hours, I waited for the doctor to call with an update; I prayed that maybe she was wrong and that they would find at least one alive with a heartbeat. I called for an update and was informed the doctor would update me after surgery. Well, the doctor called back, revealing her initial diagnosis was partially incorrect. Surprisingly, two of the five fetuses were indeed viable and were “thriving” (doctor’s word). I was relieved and grateful but heartbroken for the three who did not make it. Then, in the middle of the night, I received a text message from the hospital saying that one of the two puppies had “passed away.” I was confused.
Despite the mixed emotions, there’s a silver lining. Considering the eventual need to part with the puppies and the uncertainty of their future homes, the situation might have unfolded for the best. The story is bittersweet, with moments of joy and sorrow intertwined. Yet, I am grateful for the opportunity to nurture and raise one precious puppy life. Whether human, animal, or plant, life is a gift from God.
I’ll update on the well-being of mom (Wes) and puppy (Epiphany). They are home from the hospital.
The PARC, a 24-hour Emergency Hospital, may be the place to take your pet in Fort Worth for emergencies, as it is equipped with doctors, the latest modern tools, and fancy equipment, but the ER cost is no different than a human ER… 😳😩🤑
#thankful #grateful #blessed #epiphany
Day 21: Merciful God, forgive us for our shortcomings, both the deliberate and the unintentional. As we journey towards the light of your resurrection, guide us on the path of renewal. Help us to learn from our mistakes, grow in faith, and become more faithful reflections of your love in the world. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
In a bold act of reform, Jesus cleanses the temple, challenging institutional practices and redefining worship. The focus shifts from traditional sacrifices to a personal connection with Jesus, symbolized by the transition from the altar to the Communion Table. This radical act challenges institutional rigidity, prompting reflection on personal and spiritual cleansing during the Lenten season. As we journey to the cross, may our lives become sacred spaces where Christ is raised, fostering openness to God’s renewing work.
A summary from this past Sunday’s sermon based on John 2:13-22.
Sela Finau
Day 20: Mighty God, empower us to be instruments of your peace, breaking down walls of prejudice, misunderstanding, and conflict. Guide us to build bridges of understanding and love, fostering connection and reconciliation in your name, just as Jesus offered himself as the ultimate sacrifice, bridging the gap between humanity and God. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Day 19: Loving God, cleanse our hearts and minds from all that hinders our focus on you, including distractions, anxieties, and worldly concerns. May your light shine brightly through us, revealing your love to the world through our actions, words, and how we treat one another, just as Jesus cleansed the temple and brought focus back to your presence. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Day 18: Gracious God, help us identify the “tables” in our lives that need flipping, whether it be harmful habits, negative thoughts, or judgmental attitudes. Grant us the courage to overturn them in pursuit of your will, replacing them with the fruits of your Spirit – love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Day 17: Holy God, open our eyes to see where in our lives we may be replicating the actions of the moneychangers in the temple, creating barriers that hinder others from experiencing your love and grace. Remind us that, like the temple, our hearts were meant to be dwelling places for your Spirit, not marketplaces of self-interest. Guide us to remove these obstacles with compassion and love, allowing your light to shine through and draw others closer to you. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Gracious God, on this Third Sunday in Lent, we gather in your presence with hearts open to your grace. As we journey through this sacred season, deepen our understanding of Your love and mercy. Guide us in reflection, repentance, and renewal. May the lessons of this Sunday inspire us to live more fully in your ways, embracing the transformative power of your love. Strengthen us as we continue our Lenten journey, and may the joy of Easter’s promise illuminate our path. Amen.
Day 16: Gracious God, on this day, we reflect on the journey of discipleship and the call to take up our cross and follow Jesus. Grant us the peace that comes from knowing you are with us every step of the way. Renew our strength and refresh our spirits as we walk in faithfulness and obedience to your will. Amen.
a journey in existence 