LENT 2017 - 50 Encounters with Jesus

LENTEN MORNING MEDITATIONS 2017

MEETING JESUS
"Who IS this man?"

2017 Presbyterian Lenten Devotional

By Jodi Craiglow

INTRO…. The author jumps into the Bible with first person narratives of the many people who encountered Jesus.  What was it like for Mary?  For the blind man or those who were healed?  What reaction did the centurions have at the cross?  The shepherds who came to the stable?  By ‘walking a mile in the moccasins’ of these people, we come to know Christ in a new and deeper way.  I am going to try to continue my short 4-6 lines poems summarizing the daily thoughts.  Where my pictures will take me, ‘God only knows’!! 

3.1.17       MARY
        

Ash Wednesday

Luke 1:26-38

For there is nothing that God cannot do.  ‘I am the Lord’s servant,’ said Mary; ‘may it happen to me as you have said.’ (37-38)

Lead me, Lord, when you call me to serve in ways I don’t understand.  Amen. 

3.2.17       SHEPHERDS

Luke 2:8-20

Let’s rush down to Bethlehem right now! Let’s see what’s happening! Let’s experience what the Lord has told us about! (15)

God, may I recognize your presence in unlikely messengers.  Amen.

3.3.17       MAGI

Matthew 2:1-12

It’s you, Bethelehem…from you will come the leader to shepherd my people. (6)

God, help me expect the unexpected when you are at work.  Amen.  

 

3.4.17       ANNA

Luke 2:22-38

Anna showed up, and broke into an anthem of praise to God. (38)

O God,

I have waited.

I have loved and served,

knowing your salvation

would come.

And now I have seen it!

In an unexpected form,

but....   Alleluia!

Amen!

Thank you, God, for fulfilling your promises within my life.  Amen.  

3.5.17       TEMPLE TEACHERS

Luke 2:40-52 VOICE

After three days of separation, they finally found Him—sitting among a group of religious teachers in the temple—asking them questions, listening to their answers.  Everyone was surprised and impressed that a 12-year-old boy could have such deep understanding and could answer questions with such wisdom. (46-47)

Who is this child?

How does he have

such wisdom,

such insight,

into the heart

of God?

We learned men

are simply amazed

with wonder.

God of wisdom…grant me such insight to recognize your presence in the least of these. Amen. 

3.6.17       JOHN THE BAPTIST

 

Matthew 3:1-17 MSG

 “I’m baptizing you here in the river, turning your old life in for a kingdom life. The real action comes next: The main character in this drama—compared to him I’m a mere stagehand—will ignite the kingdom life within you, a fire within you, the Holy Spirit within you, changing you from the inside out. He’s going to clean house—make a clean sweep of your lives. 

Repent!

Be washed clean with water!

He who follows will

baptize with fire,

the Spirit of God

within you!

This cleansing is nothing

in comparison!

Wash me clean, Lord, with the fire of the Holy Spirit.  Amen.  

3.7.17       ANDREW

John 1:35-42

Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother, was one of the two who heard John’s witness and followed Jesus. The first thing he did after finding where Jesus lived was find his own brother, Simon, telling him, “We’ve found the Messiah” (that is, “Christ”). He immediately led him to Jesus.(40-41)

Simon!

Good news:

We have found 

The Messiah,

The Lamb of God,

The Christ!

We must follow!

Lord, help me to recognize your presence and salvation promise in all we encounter.  Amen. 

3.8.17       NATHANAEL

John 1:43-51 MSG

Philip went and found Nathanael and told him, “We’ve found the One Moses wrote of in the Law, the One preached by the prophets.  It’s Jesus, Joseph’s son, the one from Nazareth!  Nathanael said, “Nazareth? You’ve got to be kidding.” (45-46)

Nazareth?

That hick town?

Not a chance.

No Savior could EVER come from there!

Then.... an encounter.

'You sat under the figs.'

He KNOWS me.

I'm sold.

Lord, help me live beyond my preconceptions and biases to witness your glory.  Amen.  

3.9.17       SIMON PETER’S MOTHER-IN-LAW

Luke 4:38-39 MSG

He left the meeting place and went to Simon’s house.  Simon’s mother-in-law was running a high fever and they asked him to do something for her.  He stood over her, told the fever to leave – and it left.  Before they knew it, she was up getting dinner for them.

I'm too sick for company. 

Why did you bring guests to the house, Simon?

Then...a stranger touched me. 

A stranger, yet so much more.

The fever is gone. 

What can I fix him for dinner?

Lord, may I serve others as you have served me.  Amen.

3.10.17     SERVANT at the WEDDING BANQUET

John 2:1-12

When the host tasted the water that had become wine (he didn’t know what had just happened but the servants, of course, knew), he called out to the bridegroom, “Everybody I know begins with their finest wines and after the guests have had their fill brings in the cheap stuff.  But you have saved the best til now!”  This act in Cana of Galilee was the first sign Jesus gave, the first glimpse of his glory. 

So embarrassing!

We are out of wine!

What??

Fill the jars with bath water?

You're kidding, right?

Then... praise from the host.

Quality wine!

Who IS this man?

Lord God, may I never underestimate you or the miracles you can perform.  Amen. 

3.11.17     NICODEMUS

John 3:1-21

“How can a grown man be born again?” Nicodemus asked. “He certainly cannot enter his mother's womb and be born a second time!” (4)

I dare meet him only at night.

He speaks strangely.

Born again?

I can't climb back
 into my mother's belly!

I don't understand this talk of

Wind and waters,
 baptism and Spirit. 

Who IS this man 
to speak as such? 

Lord, help me to understand the Love with which you surround us, the power of the Spirit to grant new life.  Amen. 

3.12.17     SAMARITAN WOMAN

John 4:1-42 MSG

 The woman said, “Sir, give me this water so I won’t ever get thirsty, won’t ever have to come back to this well again!” (15)

I am Samaritan. 

Moreover, I am a woman. 

Yet he speaks to me, 

asking for water. 

And then....talk of Living Water!

He KNOWS me.  

Who IS this man?

Could he be the Anointed One?

I must tell the others! 

Lord, I am thirsty.  Fill me with your Living Water of Life.  Amen.  

3.13.17     MATTHEW

Matthew 9:9-13

 Jesus left that place, and as he walked along, he saw a tax collector, named Matthew, sitting in his office. He said to him, “Follow me.”  Matthew got up and followed him. (9)

 I was just sitting there

collecting the taxes.

(Sometimes I manage to grab

a little extra from the unsuspecting.)

This man Jesus came and said,

'Follow me.'

So I did.  

We ate at my house,

which caused much gossip.

Why did I follow?

Who IS this man?

Thank you, God, for coming to bring healing to the broken.  Use me.  Amen. 

3.14.17     PERSON on the HILLSIDE

Matthew 5:1-12 Voice

 And He began to teach them.

 Jesus: Blessed are the spiritually poor—the kingdom of heaven is theirs.

     Blessed are those who mourn—they will be comforted.

    Blessed are the meek and gentle—they will inherit the earth.

    Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness—they will be filled.

     Blessed are the merciful—they will be shown mercy.
    Blessed are those who are pure in heart—they will see God.
     Blessed are the peacemakers—they will be called children of God.
     Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness—the kingdom of heaven is theirs.

 And blessed are you, blessed are all of you, when people persecute you or denigrate you or despise you or tell lies about you on My account. (2-12)

I joined the crowd on the hillside

to hear the new preacher. 

He talked of those God blesses -

but not like the priest and pharisees.

It's like he is saying the

Law isn't so important,

God cares about who we really are. 

Who IS this preacher?

His message isn't easy, 

but certainly affirming! 

God, we don’t always understand the upside-down way you look at our world, but we know it is always with love and grace.  We are blessed.  Amen.  

3.15.17     CENTURION

Matthew 8:5-13

Then Jesus turned to the captain and said, ‘Go.  What you believed could happen has happened.”  At that moment, his servant became well. (13)

My servant lies paralyzed and ill.

I have ordered doctors,

but to no avail. 

The new Jewish preacher

is reputed to be a healer.

He can simply say the words,

and healing will happen.  

Who IS this man

 in whom I,a Roman,

place my absolute faith?

Lord God, may we have the faith to put our trust totally in you.  Amen. 

3.16.17     DISCIPLE OF JOHN THE BAPTIST

Luke 7:18-35 MSG

Are you the one we’ve been expecting? ….Jesus gave his answer: ‘Go back and tell John what you have just seen and heard:  The blind see, The lame walk, Lepers are cleansed, The deaf hear, The dead are raised.  The wretched of the earth have God’s salvation hospitality extended to them.’

 My friend, the Baptizer,

is in prison.  

He sent me to find Jesus

and ask the BIG question:

Are you the promised Messiah?

I got action for an answer:

Sight, speech, mobility,

even resurrection!

Healing and hospitality,

wholeness for everyone. 

He IS the answer! 

 God of ALL…may we also extend hospitality to everyone we meet, especially those we deem lesser or different from ourselves.  Amen. 

3.17.17     JESUS’ BROTHER

Mark 3:31-35  MSG

Who do you think are my mother and brothers?  …Right here, right in front of you – my mother and my brothers.  Obedience is thicker than blood.  The person who does God’s will is my brother and sister and mother. (33-35)

Hey, big bro'!

You have alot of nerve!

You are alienating the religious leaders -

You're talking in riddles 

of last being first.

We're your flesh and blood!

But you don't seem to care, 

embarrassing us instead

in front of neighbors and friends!

Who do you think you are? 

God of all, we are your children, one family in you. Praise such an adoption!  Amen.   

3.18.17     JAMES

Mark 4:35-41 MSG

Awake now, Jesus told the wind to pipe down and said to the sea, ’Quiet! Settle down!’ The wind ran out of breath; the sea became smooth as glass.  Jesus reprimanded the disciples, ‘Why are you such cowards?  Don’t you have any faith at all?’ (39-40)

I've fished from boats all my life,

but the storm was wild,

the seas stormy and high. 

I was scared, and yet...

Jesus was sound asleep!

Awakening, he spoke but a word.

The wind stopped,

the seas like glass.

Who is this man that the

winds and seas obey?

God of wind and waves....give me faith when the trials of life seem to overwhelm me.  Amen.  

3.19.17     GERASENE PIG-OWNER

Mark 5:1-20 MSG

A large herd of pigs was browsing and rooting on a nearby hill….Jesus gave the order [and the demons left the man and went into the pigs]…But it was even worse for the pigs than for the man.  Crazed, they stampeded over a cliff into the sea and drowned.  (11-13)

First I was awed and amazed.

Now I am angry, just plain mad!

That preacher killed my pigs!

Every one of them went over the cliff!

Sure the local madman is cured, 

but our pigs!

We took care of him, though. 

We sent him on his way!

Who does he think he is?

Lord, don't let my selfishness blind me to your grace at work.  Amen.  

3.20.17     JAIRUS

Luke 8:40-55 MSG

While he was still talking, someone from Jairus’ house came up and told him, ‘Your daughter died.  No need now to bother the Teacher.’  Jesus overheard and said, ‘Don’t be upset. Just trust me and everything will be all right.’ (49-50)

 My little girl was suffering,

dying.

I was powerless to help. 

Jesus agreed to come, 

but the crowds kept him away.  

And then it was too late.

My child was gone.

'Be not afraid' he said.

'Trust me.'

A touch and she was with us again. 

Who IS this man who holds life and death?

God of healing…help us have the faith to trust, to know that in you, everything will be all right. Amen. 

3.21.17     WOMAN HEALED OF BLEEDING

Mark 5:21-43 GNT

‘If I just touch his clothes, I will get well.’  She touched his cloak and her bleeding stopped at once; and she had the feeling inside herself that she was healed of her trouble. (28-29)

For twelve years life

has drained from me. 

I grow weaker each day, 

discouraged.

In desperation, 

I reach out to the Healer.

If I can just touch his clothes, 

perhaps?

But, he knows. 

He stops and asks,

'Who touched me?'

I tremble in fear,

knowing my actions were bold. 

A whisper,

'Your faith has healed you.'

Who IS this man 

who heals body AND soul?

Healing God, thank you for seeing through our physical needs to see the desires of our souls.  Amen.  

3.22.17     THADDAEUS

Matthew 10:5-20 MSG

Go to the lost, confused people right here in the neighborhood. Tell them the kingdom is here….You don’t need a lot of equipment.  YOU are the equipment….  (6-7, 9-10)

 I am just a little apprehensive.

Jesus is sending us out in twos

to act in his name 

to the lost sheep of Israel.

The power of God in our hands?

Are we ready?

No luggage, no spare change.

We are the equipment, he says.

We, with God's help.

God, give us assurance for this journey. 

Lord, give us the assurance to do your work, knowing your presence in us is the only equipment we need for the job.  Amen.  

3.23.17     YOUNG BOY

John 6:1-14 GNT

Another one of his disciples, Andrew,… said,’There is a boy here who has five loaves of barley bread and two fish.  But they will certainly not be enough for all these people.’….Jesus took the bread, gave thanks to God, and distributed it to the people who were sitting there.  He did the same with the fish, and they all had as much as they wanted. (8-9,11)

We've been listening all day

to the new preacher. 

I'm hungry. 

Everyone is hungry!

People are starting to grumble.

It isn't much, but I offer my basket:

Two fish, five small barley loaves.

The preacher blesses the food,

and begins to pass it around. 

Around and around,

and all are fed. 

Who IS this man who uses

 the smallest of gifts for good?

Thank you, God, for creating miracles from our simple gifts.  Amen.  

3.24.17     CANAANITE WOMAN

Matthew 15:21-28 Voice

Jesus:  I was sent here only to gather up the lost sheep of Israel.

Cannaite Woman: Lord, help me!

Jesus: It is not right to waste the children’s bread by feeding dogs.

Canaanite Woman: But, Lord, even dogs eat the crumbs that fall by the table as their master is eating. (24-27)

I reach out to the Jewish healer,

but I am ignored!

I'm not a 'lost sheep'!

Yet my child knocks on Death's door!

Help me!

I persist with the claim,

'Even dogs eat the crumbs that

fall from the master's table.'

A smile, an affirmation of faith:

'Your daughter is well'.

Who IS this man who answers

with healing for all?

God of mercy….may our persistence in seeking your favor produce miracles in our own lives.  Amen. 

3.25.17     PETER

Matthew 16:13-28 Voice

Jesus (to His disciples):  Who do people say the Son of Man is?

Disciples: Some say John the Baptist, and some say Elijah.  And some say Jeremiah or one of the other prophets.

Jesus: And you?  Who do you say that I am?

Peter: You are the Anointed One.  You are the Son of the Living God. (13-16)

Who do YOU think I am?

The Teacher asks as we walk

the road to Philippi. 

We respond as other have:

The Baptist, or Elijah,

or a prophet of old.

But again the question.

Who do YOU say?

And suddenly I know

without a doubt.

You are the 

Son of the Living God. 

God of Elijah, Moses, the Baptist, God of the prophets….may I never doubt that Jesus was and is your Son, your presence here in human form.  Amen.

3.26.17     JOHN

Luke 9:28-36 MSG

While he [Peter] was babbling on like this, a light-radiant cloud enveloped them.  As they found themselves buried in the cloud, they became deeply aware of God.  Then there was a voice out of the cloud: ‘This is my Son, the Chosen! Listen to him.’ (34-35)

Jesus took the three of us,

Simon Peter, James, and myself, John,

to the top of the mountain. 

Suddenly, the clouds swirled,

Elijah spoke, Moses was near, 

and we heard the voice of God,

'This is my Son, the Chosen!'

A sense of incredible glory 

enveloped us. 

This Jesus continues to 

amaze us and fill us with

wonder and awe. 

God…grant me such moments of glory that I am filled with wonder, amazement, and awe.  Amen. 

3.27.17     MAN HEALED of BLINDNESS

John 9:1-25 GNT

After he said this, Jesus spat on the ground and made some mud with the spittle; he rubbed the mud on the man's eyes and told him, “Go and wash your face in the Pool of Siloam.” …So the man went, washed his face, and came back seeing. (6-7)

I was born blind,

and the rest of the world

was blind to me.

Yet, the Jewish healer came

and placed mud on my eyes.

With that, my life changed, 

for suddenly I could see.

But my world did not alter.

My church did not believe,

my parents were questioned

with doubt and disbelief.

The healer was cryptic in response:

'The blind shall see and the 

sighted become blind'.

Who IS this man who so 

understands my world?

Lord, may I open my eyes to your work in my world, that I may see your Spirit moving among us.  Amen. 

3.28.17     EXPERT in the LAW

Luke 10:25-37

Looking for a loophole, he asked, “And just how would you define ‘neighbor’?” …. “What do you think?  Which of the three became a neighbor to the man attacked by robbers?”  “The one who treated him kindly,” the religion scholar responded.  Jesus said, ‘Go and do the same.” (29, 36-37) 

I have the Jewish Laws down pat.

I KNOW what God wants!

But still I decide to test

the upstart young preacher. 

He answers my question with another,

and then tells a story of

robbers and Samaritans.

Samaritans, of all the nerve!

Who was a neighbor? he asks.

Such Gentiles are not on MY radar!

Who is this rabbi who so challenges

Hebrew Law?

Lord God, help me be a neighbor to all, especially those different from me and perhaps difficult to like.  Amen.  

3.29.17     LAZARUS

Luke 10:38-42 Voice

Martha (interrupting Jesus): Lord, why don’t You care that my sister is leaving me to do all the work by myself? Tell her to get over here and help me.

Jesus:  Oh Martha, Martha, you are so anxious and concerned about a million details,  but really, only one thing matters. Mary has chosen that one thing, and I won’t take it away from her. (40-41)

Our friend Jesus and his disciples

came to dinner the other night.

We men were gathered,

listening to all he had to say.

Suddenly, my sister Mary came in

to plop down at his feet!

A woman among the men!

Then sister Martha intruded to

complain about Mary!  Chaos!

This isn’t how we treat our guests!

But Jesus gently responded

with kind words making it seem

like Mary had chosen well.

Who is this man who turns the 

social mores around?

Jesus, we don’t always put the priorities of others ahead of our own.  Guide us to seek your truth!  Amen.  

3.30.17     WOMAN HEALED of a CRIPPLING DISEASE

Luke 13:10-17

When Jesus saw her, he called out to her, “Woman, you are free from your  sickness!” He placed his hands on her, and at once she straightened herself up and praised God.

 The official of the synagogue was angry that Jesus had healed on the Sabbath, so he spoke up and said to the people, “There are six days in which we should work; so come during those days and be healed, but not on the Sabbath!” (12-14)

For nearly twenty years
 I've lived my life looking down,

my back bent into a curl of arthritic pain.

But I honor my God and go to worship on the Sabbath.

As I pass by, the new young preacher touches me.

A flood of warmth envelops me and I stand upright!  Praise God!

But the Pharisees are angry and blast the preacher for healing on the Sabbath!

I don't care what day of the week it is!  
God is at work!

Who IS this man who cares more about
 souls than law?

Lord, may we always be more concerned about people that a set of rules.  Amen. 

3.31.17       MAN HEALED OF LEPROSY

Luke 17:11-19 GNT

When one of them saw that he was healed, he came back, praising God in a loud voice.  He threw himself to the ground at Jesus' feet and thanked him. The man was a Samaritan.  Jesus spoke up, “There were ten who were healed; where are the other nine?  Why is this foreigner the only one who came back to give thanks to God?” (15-17)

There were ten of us lepers

living together,

yet I was apart, a Samaritan.

But the preacher healed us all

with just a touch and a

command.

The rest ran off in joy,

but I had to go back

and praise this healer.

Who is his God who cares

not about my race?

O God, may I never fail to give you thanks for the miracles in my life.  Amen. 

4.1.17     PHARISEE HOST

Luke 14:1-6, 15-24 GNT

One Sabbath Jesus went to eat a meal at the home of one of the leading Pharisees; and people were watching Jesus closely….. (1)

So the master said to the servant, ‘Go out to the country roads and lanes and make people come in, so that my house will be full.  I tell you all that none of those who were invited will taste my dinner!’”(23-24)

I'm not sure what to make 

of the upstart young preacher. 

He heals on the Sabbath, 

right under our noses! 

We invite him to dinner 

and he insults us with outlandish stories

 of dinner invites filled with 

rogues and outsiders. 

He even insinuates that 

God will pass us over

 in favor of such!

Who does he think he is?  

God himself?

What a joke! 

Lord…May I hear your invitation and make no excuse, but come to dine with you.  Amen.  

4.2.17       MARTHA

John 11:1-44 GNT

The sisters sent Jesus a message: “Lord, your dear friend is sick.”

 When Jesus heard it, he said, “The final result of this sickness will not be the death of Lazarus; this has happened in order to bring glory to God, and it will be the means by which the Son of God will receive glory.” (3-4)

I'm so confused!

Lazarus my brother fell so very ill.

He was dying! 

We called for our friend, Jesus.

He could heal him, we knew it. 

But Jesus wouldn't come....not for days!

We buried Lax in the tomb, our grief overwhelming. 

Jesus FINALLY came and wept with us. 

Then...."to bring glory to God"

he called Lazarus forth from the tomb. 

Wrapped in burial clothes, our brother walked out...alive!

Who IS this friend who brings the dead to life?

Keep reminding me, God, that your timing is what matters.  You can bring good to every trial if we have faith.  Amen. 

4.3.17       CHILDREN

Mark 10:13-16 MSG

 “Don’t push these children away. Don’t ever get between them and me. These children are at the very center of life in the kingdom. Mark this: Unless you accept God’s kingdom in the simplicity of a child, you’ll never get in.” Then, gathering the children up in his arms, he laid his hands of blessing on them.  (14-16)

We're not very old, just kids!

We were scared with all the people

surrounding the quiet man with the kind eyes.

Everyone was hurrying here and there,

pushing one another around.

When our parents brought us to him,

his friends tried to shove us away!

'He's too busy!" they said.

But the man took us on his knee and hugged us.

He said God always has time for kids like us.

He made us feel special,

even though we are small.

We LIKE this man with the kind eyes!

Strip me clean, Lord, of my adult pretense and prejudice, and come to you with the simplicity and openness of a child.  Amen.

4.4.17       RICH YOUNG RULER

Matthew 19:16-30 MSG

 “If you want to give it all you’ve got,” Jesus replied, “go sell your possessions; give everything to the poor. All your wealth will then be in heaven. Then come follow me.”   That was the last thing the young man expected to hear. And so, crestfallen, he walked away. He was holding on tight to a lot of things, and he couldn’t bear to let go.

As he watched him go, Jesus told his disciples, “Do you have any idea how difficult it is for the rich to enter God’s kingdom? Let me tell you, it’s easier to gallop a camel through a needle’s eye than for the rich to enter God’s kingdom.” (21-24)

I have it made.

A good job, reputation, and wealth.

I follow the commandments.

But I sense there is more, 

so I ask the young preacher,

"What good must I do to gain eternal life?"

His answer is disheartening:

"Give it all away, follow me."

I am very wealthy.

How can I give it ALL away?

Who Is this man who demands

such sacrifice?

Lead us, Lord, through the eye of the needle into your Kingdom for we all hold tight to the security of possessions in some manner. Amen.

4.5.17       MOTHER OF JAMES AND JOHN

Matthew 20:20-28 GNT

 “Promise me that these two sons of mine will sit at your right and your left when you are King.” (21)

“If one of you wants to be great, you must be the servant of the rest;  and if one of you wants to be first, you must be the slave of the others—  like the Son of Man, who did not come to be served, but to serve and to give his life to redeem many people.” (26-28)

My sons, James and John,

have walked with the Teacher

for several years now. 

They have sacrificed much

and should be rewarded.

But when I questioned Jesus

about their rightful places of honor,

he spoke of servanthood and

the last being first.

The other disciples were angry

with my questions.

Who is this man who says 

he came to serve

and give his life?

Help me, Lord, to be the kind of servant you showed us to be.  Amen. 

4.6.17       ZACCHAEUS

Luke 19:1-10 GNT

 When Jesus came to that place, he looked up and said to Zacchaeus, “Hurry down, Zacchaeus, because I must stay in your house today.”

Zacchaeus hurried down and welcomed him with great joy.  All the people who saw it started grumbling, “This man has gone as a guest to the home of a sinner!” (5-7)

I'm not really sure what happened today!

The young rabbi was coming through town.

I'd heard such amazing stories about him!

I wanted to get a better view,

so I climbed the nearby tree.

I was just curious!

But he saw me - 

in the midst of that crowd!

He picked me out, 

and then invited himself to dinner!

What??  

My head is spinning with possibilities. 

Who Is this man who brings such a sense

of change to my life? 

God of forgiveness….May we know we are always welcome, sinners and saints, to your table.  Amen. 

4.7.17       CITIZEN OF JERUSALEM

Luke 19:28-44 MSG

 As he rode, the people gave him a grand welcome, throwing their coats on the street…Right at the crest, where Mount Olives begins its descent, the whole crowd of disciples burst into enthusiastic praise over all the mighty works they had witnessed:

Blessed is he who comes,
    the king in God’s name!
All’s well in heaven!
    Glory in the high places! (36-38)

 Hosanna!

I can't get the word out of my head!

So many of us gathered to celebrate

the arrival of the One -

the One we just KNOW

is the Messiah!

Release from Roman bondage!

We spread out our cloaks,

we waved our palms,

we shouted and cheered 

as Jesus rode into town on a donkey,

just like the scriptures predicted!

This IS the promised one!

We just know it!

Hosanna, Lord!  May I forever offer my praise to the glory of your name.  Amen.

 4.8.17      TEMPLE MERCHANT

Mark 11:15-18 MSG

Immediately on entering the Temple Jesus started throwing out everyone who had set up shop there, buying and selling. He kicked over the tables of the bankers and the stalls of the pigeon merchants. He didn’t let anyone even carry a basket through the Temple. And then he taught them, quoting this text:

My house was designated a house of prayer for the nations;
You’ve turned it into a hangout for thieves.(15-17)

The nerve of that man,

that vagabond radical preacher!

He's been upsetting the Pharisees 

for some time, 

but today he really made us mad!

We were gathering our temple taxes, 

profits from the sacrificial laws. 

He stalked in like he owned the place,

throwing the tables,

blocking passage inside. 

He accused us of being a den of thieves!

Who does he think he is?

Help me, Lord, to remain true to your teachings, to not be a hypocrite before others.  Amen. 

4.9.17       POOR WIDOW

Palm Sunday

Mark 12:41-44 MSG

 “The truth is that this poor widow gave more to the collection than all the others put together. All the others gave what they’ll never miss; she gave extravagantly what she couldn’t afford—she gave her all.” (43-44)

I have so very little

that sometimes the temple folk

make fun of me. 

They cast their offerings

into the collection box

like money grows on trees.

I see their stares

when I drop in my meager coins -

the plink plink of metal echoing

with a hollow sound.

Then I see the eyes of the young preacher

gently acknowledging me. 

Not with mockery or scorn,

but with gratitude and love. 

Who IS this man

who makes me feel like

I have given greatly?

God of the ultimate gift, may we always give of all we hold dear, of all we have, including our heart and soul.  Amen.  

4.10.17     PHILIP

John 12:20-26 GNT

 I am telling you the truth: a grain of wheat remains no more than a single grain unless it is dropped into the ground and dies. If it does die, then it produces many grains.  Those who love their own life will lose it; those who hate their own life in this world will keep it for life eternal.  Whoever wants to serve me must follow me, so that my servant will be with me where I am. And my Father will honor anyone who serves me. (24-26)

 Gentiles stopped me today

and asked if they could meet Jesus.  

We went to the Teacher,

but his response was baffling -

and just a bit cryptic.

He spoke of glorification 

and seeds dying. 

Then words of honor and service.

More metaphors that confuse me!

I have no answers for the foreigners,

as I have no answers for myself!

Who is this man I so love,

yet still fail to understand?

Help us to understand the world spinning around us, Lord, and see you at work in spite of the chaos.  Amen. 

4.11.17     MARY

John12:1-3 GNT

Then Mary took a whole pint of a very expensive perfume made of pure nard, poured it on Jesus' feet, and wiped them with her hair. The sweet smell of the perfume filled the whole house.(3)

I don't know what came over me!

We were eating dinner with Jesus,

the disciples and other friends.

Suddenly, I had an overwhelming desire

to honor Jesus in some way.

I grabbed the nard, ignoring its expense,

and poured it on my Lord's feet.

I realized I had no towel,

so I took my long soft hair

and wiped his feet clean.

Judas mocked me;

others were a bit shocked.

But Jesus' eyes were filled with love -

that's what I'll remember. 

Fill us with your power, Lord, to demonstrate your love and grace in ways that might be hard to understand.  Amen. 

4.12.17     JUDAS

John 12:4-8 GNT

One of Jesus' disciples, Judas Iscariot—the one who was going to betray him—said,  “Why wasn't this perfume sold for three hundred silver coins and the money given to the poor?” He said this, not because he cared about the poor, but because he was a thief. He carried the money bag and would help himself from it. (4-6)

I've had it!

Three years of wandering,

hungry, cold, and sore.

Three years of twisted stories 

with undecipherable messages!

And now, ridicule!

That woman wasted the perfume,

squandering goods from which

I could have made a profit!

And for what?

A so-called king who will NOT

save his people!

It's time he got what he deserve.

Who does he think he is?

Keep my faith strong, Lord, so when I face trials I will not betray you.  Amen. 

4.13.17     MALCHUS

Maundy Thursday

Luke 22:47-53 GNT

When the disciples who were with Jesus saw what was going to happen, they asked, “Shall we use our swords, Lord?”  And one of them struck the High Priest's slave and cut off his right ear. But Jesus said, “Enough of this!” He touched the man's ear and healed him. (49-51)  

What a night!

I went with the high priest -

(truth me told I am his slave) -

to arrest the young rabbi. 

It was dark and gloomy in the garden.

A disciple, angry at the arrest,

struck my ear with his sword.

Ouch!  It was painful!

My severed ear fell to the ground.

But the rabbi, ever in control,

touched the side of my head

and made it new.

Who is this man whose response 

to violence is healing?

Heal me, Lord, that I might heal others through your grace and love.  Amen. 

4.14.17     CAPTAIN of the GUARD

Good Friday

Matthew 27:45-54 MSG

The captain of the guard and those with him, when they saw the earthquake and everything else that was happening, were scared to death. They said, “This has to be the Son of God!” (54)

I'm still shaking!

I've overseen many crucifixions -

heard the screams, the tortured cries.

But not today. 

This one was different.

The crucified rabbi prayed for those around him.

He sought solace for his mother.

He called out to his God. 

It was almost a moment of peace.

But then....death.

The skies turned black,

the ground shook,

the world seemed to split apart!

We guards, terrified,

turned to each other

and silently mouthed,

"Could this truly be

the Son of God?"

Thank you, God, for the hope that seems to come in the midst of chaos.  Amen.  

      

4.15.17 JOSEPH OF ARIMATHEA

Great Vigil of Easter

Mark 15:42-47 Voice

Then Pilate gave Joseph permission to take the body.

 Joseph had the body wrapped in a linen burial cloth he had purchased and laid Him in a tomb that had been carved out of rock. Then he had a stone rolled over the opening to seal it. (45-46)

My guilt is

overwhelming.

I believed in this Jesus.

I believe in the 

coming Kingdom.

I did not agree 

with my fellow members 

of the Sanhedrin.

Yet I failed him.

I didn’t stand up for him.

I watched him die.

What kind of man am I to deny

God in such a way?

The least I can do

is provide a decent burial.

Lord, may I never again deny you in the face of danger.  Amen. 

4.16.17     MARY MAGDALENE

Easter Sunday

John 20:1-18 GNT

Mary stood crying outside the tomb. While she was still crying, she bent over and looked in the tomb and saw two angels there dressed in white, sitting where the body of Jesus had been, one at the head and the other at the feet.  “Woman, why are you crying?” they asked her.

She answered, “They have taken my Lord away, and I do not know where they have put him!” (11-13)

She thought he was the gardener, so she said to him, “If you took him away, sir, tell me where you have put him, and I will go and get him.”

Jesus said to her, “Mary!” (15-16)

He lives!

My Lord is alive!

I went to the tomb this morning

and found the stone rolled away.

The linen cloths lay flat,

the body of Jesus gone!

Where had they put him?

What was going on?

Then I saw my Lord,

although I failed at first

 to recognize him!

He is alive!

Alleluia!

Alleluia!  God lives….in you and in me!  Amen. 

4.17.17 Simon the Cyrene

Mark 15:21

There was a man walking by, coming from work, Simon from Cyrene, the father of Alexander and Rufus. They made him carry Jesus’ cross.

I was on my way home,

tired from working the fields.

Commotion up ahead -

the Romans and their crucifixions!

Then I hear an order:

'You - Pick up the cross!'

Me?  Now?  For the rebel rabbi?

He can carry it himself!

But I'm given no choice,

so I hoist up the heavy burden. 

The man is badly beaten,

yet his eyes captivate me. 

They are filled with love,

with a peace I cannot describe.

We reach the top, 

and I feel a sense of honor 
to have helped him.

Who IS this man who, 
in mere seconds,

so changed my life?

Lord, may I always be willing to do the hard work of taking up your cross and walking your path.  Amen.  

4.18.17 Pontius Pilate

Matthew 27:11-26 MSG

When Pilate saw that he was getting nowhere and that a riot was imminent, he took a basin of water and washed his hands in full sight of the crowd, saying, “I’m washing my hands of responsibility for this man’s death. From now on, it’s in your hands. You’re judge and jury.” (24)

The rabbi just stood there,

silent as stone and bleeding 

from the mockery of his thorny crown.

I kept asking,

"Are you King of the Jews?"

"You say that I am" was his only response.  

But the crowd was near riot,

shouting 'Crucify!'

I washed my hands of the whole affair -

right in front of the people.

I refuse to take the blame for an innocent man!

I am amazed at his presence.

He truly IS some kind of king! 

Give me the courage, Lord, to stand up for what is right in your name.  Amen. 

4.19.17 PETER

Matthew 14:22-33

Peter, suddenly bold, said, “Master, if it’s really you, call me to come to you on the water.” (28)

My impetuous mouth

gets me in such trouble!

We were alone in the boat at night,

the wind whipping the sails.

We saw a ‘ghost’ walking on the water.

It was our Lord!

Yet I blurted out,

“If it’s you, Jesus,

may I walk on water to you!”

He said, “Do it.”

So I jumped out of the boat!

What was I thinking??

But, amazingly, it worked!

At least, until I looked down

into the depths

and lost my nerve.

Who IS this friend who

commands such faith?

Still my fears, Lord, that I might completely put my trust in you.  Amen. 

4.20.17 Thomas

John 20:24-29 MSG

But Thomas ….. was not with them when Jesus came. The other disciples told him, “We saw the Master.”

But he said, “Unless I see the nail holes in his hands, put my finger in the nail holes, and stick my hand in his side, I won’t believe it.” (24-25)

Everyone is shouting

with joy and praise.

Jesus is alive!

I don’t believe it.

I have to see it for myself.

I have to put my finger in the nail holes,

my hand into the wound from the spear.

Then I’ll believe.

Suddenly, Jesus appears before me.

“Place your fingers here,

your hand there.

Put aside your doubt and believe.”

My Lord! It’s true!

Yet I feel like I have

somehow let him down

with my doubting faith.

Take away my doubts and fears, Lord, and fill me with the hope of the resurrection.  Amen. 

4.21.17 CLEOPAS

Luke 24:13-32 GNT

One of them, named Cleopas, asked him, “Are you the only visitor in Jerusalem who doesn't know the things that have been happening there these last few days?” (18)

Our hearts were heavy,

our steps laden,

as we walked the road to Emmaus.

But a stranger came to travel with us.

He knew not the events

of the crucifixion weekend,

yet shared stories of the

Promised One that filled us with hope

and lifted our spirits.

We invited him to dine with us,

and as he broke the bread,

our eyes were opened.

OUR LORD IS RISEN!

HE IS RISEN INDEED!

Help me, Lord, to recognize your presence in all I encounter, in all I do.  Amen.  

4.22.17   

YOU.  ME.