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.
2.29.24
This past Sunday’s message explored the message of Mark 8:31-38, reminding us that following Jesus isn’t about earthly success or comfort. The message emphasizes:
Following Jesus requires living our faith with courage and integrity. This includes standing up for what we believe in, acting with kindness, and embodying the message of love and hope through our actions. Just as the first disciples faced challenges, we, too, will encounter moments where unexpected circumstances test our faith.
We are reminded that faith is a journey with challenges, but through perseverance and commitment, we can make the world a brighter place, one act of compassion at a time.
Sela Finau
Day 14 –Compassionate God, thank you for the gift of a new day and for your unwavering presence in our lives. As we navigate the challenges of this day, grant us the grace to embrace the cross of discipleship with humility and determination. Help us to let go of our own desires and ambitions, fully committing ourselves to following Jesus. Strengthen us in moments of doubt and trial. Amen.
a journey in existence 