A Journey of Faith Lenten Daily Prayers

Missouri Mid-South Conference

Week 1

Ash Wednesday, March 5

Rejoice in your hope, be patient in trials, be constant in prayer. Romans 12:12

Today is the first day of our Conference-wide Lenten daily prayers. Thank you for your commitment to prayer and introspection. The Bible verse above has been one of my favorites for many years. To me it is one of simplest descriptions for living each day – especially during Lent.

Ash Wednesday – I was in fifth grade when I first experienced this day in a new way. Our family had just moved from a small rural farming community in Illinois to Denver, Colorado. In our Illinois town there were several churches but all of them were of a similar Protestant tradition. In Denver there were people of many faiths. I recall sitting at my classroom desk, noticing that some of the students around me had smudges on their forehead. Then I learned some people were going to church for morning prayers every day in Lent, and some were giving up Brussels sprouts or even chocolate! I realized that in spite of our different practices, all the Christians were focusing on the journey to Easter. Now, many years later I celebrate the many ways we authentically express and live our faith.

God of All, today we pray for the Missouri Mid-South Conference family, that the journey of Lent is one of hope, patience and constancy in faith. May this ritual of daily prayer bring us closer together with all our sisters and brothers of faith. Amen.

Jan Aerie, Minister of Strategic Innovation, Conference Staff

Thursday, March 6

Thou takest the pen – and the lines dance.Thou takest the flute – and the notes shimmer.Thou takest the brush – and the colors sing.So all things have meaning and beauty in that space beyond time where Thou art.How, then, can I hold back anything from Thee.

- Dag Hammarskjold, in Markings, December 25, 1955

The 20th century Swedish diplomat, writer, United Nations Secretary General, Dag Hammarskjold, addresses God in the prayer above. God brings everything to life. God gives meaning and beauty to all things, simply because God is God. In that knowledge, how can we hold back from God, Hammarskjold wonders.

Praying quietly to God alone is one thing. Writing a prayer for all to read is quite another. Yet Hammarskjold’s perspective is helpful – God hears our prayers, spoken and silent, and makes them something shimmering and fine. God writes through us, making the Lenten journey far richer than it might have otherwise been. Besides, we’re praying together. What comfort there is in that knowledge! How can we hold back anything from God? This is my Lenten prayer:

O glorious and all-understanding God,receive this Lenten prayer, not polished or perfected, but from the heart:somewhat reluctantly offered up, halting here and there,yet hopeful and open-handed, to Your stream of love.Move us and make of this Lenten journeyfresh signs of Your grace in our midsttribute to the One who stretched out His arms for us, even Jesus. Amen.

Rev David Mehl, Interfaith Partnership

Friday, March 7

[Jesus] said to them, “It is written, my house shall be called a house of prayer…” Matthew 21:13a

Many people are intentional and focused on spiritual disciplines during Lent. One such endeavor is to be more prayerful - to pray more regularly and to engage in a variety of styles.

One of the things I believe the church can do to encourage this is to open up the sanctuary. I was fortunate to grow up not too far from my UCC church. I can recall many days when we would park our bikes by one of the back doors of the church and run in to use the bathroom or get a drink from the bubbler (have a guess as to where I am from?). I also remember showing the sanctuary to some of my friends and looking around our Sunday School classrooms.

I ache that we lock our churches. Our Council is even talking about upgrading our security – which will make it more difficult for people to gain access. If I had it my way in the church, the doors would be propped open all year long – not just to the sanctuary, but to the entire building.

God of awesome availability, we pray for one another’s prayer life – that it would be deep and wide. Continue to call us and help us to carve out space to listen to you, be vulnerable to you, and grow in you. Amen.

Rev. Kevin Cameron, Parkway UCC, St. Louis

Saturday, March 8

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. Galatians 5:22-23

Like many of you, I wish for a more gentle, kind and peaceful world. I often find this thought overwhelming. How can that wish ever be fulfilled? This year I skipped the New Year’s resolution effort (that never seems to work for me) and chose instead to focus on growing and developing in four specific areas of my life including 1) health, 2) spiritual growth, 3) meaningful contributions to society, and 4) practicing the fruits of the spirit as described by Paul. As I reflected on these choices, I was reminded that a more gentle, kind peaceful world starts with each one of us living the fruits of the Spirit. During this Lenten season I plan to focus on one fruit of the Spirit each day and ask for the Spirit of God to guide me in enhancing that area of practice in spiritual living.

God, we know that a kind, gentle peaceful world begins with each one of us. During this Lenten season may our eyes and ears be opened to ways each of us might be more fruitful in creating that vision for the world. May we once again dedicate ourselves to living in love, joy and peace, practicing self-control and extending patience, kindness, goodness and gentleness in faithful service. Amen.

Constance Brooks, Immanuels UCC, Holstein

Sunday, March 9

Join in prayer with your church community today.

Week 2: A Journey of Faith Lenten Daily Prayers

Monday, March 10

He [Elijah] himself went farther on into the desert a day’s journey. 1 Kings 19:4a (CEB)

In the gospel of Mark, Jesus and his disciples arrive at Gethsemane to pray. Jesus takes his inner circle of disciples, Peter, James and John along with him and they go a little farther out. Then, the text tells us Jesus “went a short distance farther and fell to the ground” (Mk. 14:35). Here, Jesus prays that he might be spared the agony of crucifixion. Elijah left his servants and went farther on into the desert and prayed for an end to his own suffering. This is not a coincidence. How much farther can we go, if we do so in prayer? Elijah and Jesus needed more than inner thoughts of heroic action to continue on their journeys. Jezebel, the Evil One, these principalities and powers are real.

You cannot face the violence of this world unless you go a little farther in your conversations with God. There is no simple remedy for the abuse you might suffer on a crowded bus. There is no gentle balm that can be applied to the sexism expressed on search committees. There is no prescription for how to challenge the Missouri legislature when it cuts out programs for the poor and the uninsured.

Mighty God, I need you to come and stand beside me, so that I may proceed with courage to challenge injustice. Amen.

Rev. David W. Poe, St Peters UCC, New Haven

Tuesday, March 11

One does not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God. Matthew 4:4 Every day I think about food: how not to eat too much, eat more vegetables, get enough protein. I think about those people who have prepared it, those people who aren’t getting enough of anything, those people who have eaten too much. I think about where the food is coming from and how it has come to my table. I am grateful for the abundance of my choices but uncomfortable with my privilege. Jesus knew that we all need “daily bread” to live but that there is more to life than eating. There is a basic sustenance which holds us, guides us, gives us strength in our inner selves: the love of God. Such love, in material gifts as well as thoughtful actions, can support us through all circumstances. May we deepen our connection to that Love this Lent through listening to God’s Word in our lives.

God of bread, God of life, may we remember Your presence in all that we eat. May we share Your presence with all who are hungry – for life, for love. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen

Rev. Lois Yatzeck, Epiphany UCC, St Louis

Wednesday, March 12

So those who welcomed his message were baptized, and that day about three thousand persons were added. They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. Acts 2:41-42

Does the church follow Jesus? To focus the energies of the three male Confirmands in a more kinesthetic approach to learning, I noted the main points of Mark’s Gospel briefly on small squares of paper. The papers were scrambled up and the group’s assignment was to put the story in order. Using Bibles, working together, asking questions along the way, they laid out the story line on the area rug in our meeting room.

Mark gets right to the point of the good news message, not pausing to tell a birth story or theologizing overly much, but simply telling what Jesus did in his life and ministry. When the students completed the assignment, I asked them to look over the story they had organized and to tell me what Jesus did. “He got baptized.” “He prayed…a lot.” “He taught and told stories.” “He fed thousands of people!” “He healed a lot of people.”

Does the Church today follow this Jesus? We claim we do.

O God, on our Lenten journey as the Church, help us truly embody the Way of Jesus, thus becoming the Body of Christ. Amen.

Rev. Carole Barner, Mount Tabor UCC and Grace UCC

Thursday, March 13

And Jesus said to them, “Follow me, and I will make you fish for people.” Matthew 4:19

Richard grinned at me as he entered the Chapel at Emmaus Homes in St. Charles one Sunday morning. “This is the first time I’ve ever come to church in my life!” he exclaimed. Richard was a new client for Emmaus, having recently moved to one of our community homes from a local habilitation center.

“Where do Kevin and Ron sit?” he inquired. “I’m pretty good friends with them, and they told me to come to church here, that I’d like it.” Kevin and Ron are long-time Emmaus clients who live in another community home near Richard’s, and who regularly attend Sunday morning Chapel services and Wednesday evening Bible studies. Devout Christians, they’d extended hospitality and invited a new Emmaus friend to church. Evangelism, sharing the good news, in action!

The gathered Emmaus community worshiped joyfully that day, singing together, talking about what we could give to Jesus in the New Year (our hearts!), sharing the Sacrament of Holy Communion. After the

service ended, Richard grinned at me again, saying “I loved it!” And then on Wednesday evening, he was there for Bible study.

Following Jesus, Kevin and Ron had fished for people.

Prayer: O God, may we fish for people not primarily to increase our own numbers, but rather to increase the love and knowledge of You, as we follow Jesus. Amen.

Rev. Cindy Bumb, Chaplain, Emmaus Homes

Friday, March 14

From where will my help come? My help comes from the LORD, who made heaven and earth. Psalm 121:1a-2

The God we encounter in scripture is living and active. The Psalmist cries out to God with the expectation that prayers will be heard and that God will act. We have a hard time with this. The agency of God has fallen on hard times ever since the Enlightenment birthed a closed, causal universe. Divine intervention is no longer an intellectual option where the laws of physics and chemistry and biology hold sway. And yet, as Blaise Pascal said, “The heart has reasons that reason cannot know.”

We do cry out to God when we hurt. This is not only reasonable, but effective. The testimony of faithful people before us affirms a faithful God who hears and acts, even if such action is not susceptible to scientific measurement. The scientific perspective claims too much for itself. It sees order and denies purpose when actually all it can say is that purpose is a higher order phenomenon which its measures and language cannot encompass. Our help comes from the LORD!

Gracious One, thank you for faithful people in all times and places who have given us their testimony of a help that does not fail. Thank you for the people of this Conference whose faithful lives testify to a faithful God. Help us to call on You with confidence, expecting to be heard and helped. Amen.

Rev. Mike Bone, Zion UCC, Union

Saturday, March 15

Listen to me, you who know what is right, people who carry my teaching in your heart: don’t fear human scorn, and don’t be upset when they abuse you. Isaiah 51:7 (CEB)

“I don’t believe women have the biblical authority to preach,” he said as he took another drink of coffee. He proceeded to quote some passages of scripture. He was a regular part of the ministerial alliance. She was just called to the Methodist church down the street. A graduate of Eden Theological Seminary, she stood her ground and attempted to engage this Baptist minister in a rational discourse about the

interpretation of scripture. It was a tense and uncomfortable conversation to observe as I downed my two eggs over easy. I tried to be supportive. I tried to be ecumenical. I think one is right and one is wrong. I wanted reconciliation by 10 a.m. I wanted to say something intelligent that would erase these differences and at least give us a change to relax with another cup of coffee. [Expletive] I didn’t need this! No voice from on high came that day to fix things.

I suppose it is sometimes best not to give up, not to stop talking, not to allow someone or anyone to have the last word but God.

Loving God, I am really tired of waiting but if I must I will. Amen.

Rev. David Poe, St Peters UCC, New Haven

Sunday, March 16

Join in prayer with your church community today.

Week 3: A Journey of Faith Lenten Daily Prayers

Monday, March 17

As the deer longs for flowing streams, so my soul longs for you, O God. Psalm 42:1

When I was growing up, my family did not observe Lent. “Giving up something for Lent” was something my Catholic friends did, like eating fish not meat on Fridays. For the longest time I didn’t understand the practices nor their importance for spiritual formation. Over the years, Lent has become one of my favorite seasons of the church year. I look forward to it every year as a season of deeper-than-usual reflection. I try to lighten my schedule in some way to make more space for God. One Lenten practice that has become important to me is taking a 3-4 day retreat to a Catholic hermitage. There in the woods, I slow down. I sit in silence. I walk the trails. I look at what I am seeing, notice what I am feeling, and open myself to new insight. I try to pay attention to what I am longing for, to what lies beyond that, and what lies beyond that. Inevitably my longing leads me to God, and I return home renewed, strengthened, and ready for whatever is next on the journey.

Prayer: O Holy One, may we be drawn to You, this Lent. May You rise up within us as living water, as refreshment for our souls. May you be the “deep that speaks to deep” within our souls. Amen.

Rev. Mary Albert, Epiphany UCC, St. Louis, MO

Tuesday, March 18

…Sarai said, “I didn’t laugh.” Because she was afraid. But he said, “Yes, you did; you laughed.” Genesis 18:15 (The Message Bible)

I think my faith journey is convoluted and complicated. It is not really, at least compared to fellow travelers. I was raised and baptized in the Church of Christ. I was probably the first in my family to fall away, even though I couldn’t move out of its way. At 14, it seemed to me there were more disconnects than connects between the Gospel and the reality of church life. And the joy to be had was minimal. We are invited to grab onto joy however it comes to us. Everyone should know the joy that comes with a life lived with God standing on the other side of our tent. Sarai laughed God’s message to her old, cranky husband -- she would be a mother in her old age. How ridiculous and how blessed! Indeed, there are things that are horrific, things against which we must stand and people we must love even when we want to say,” cannot be”. These things can wring the joy from us. But, like Sarai, when God rolls out joy, grab onto it, claim and share it.

God, rarely do we thank you for our chances to laugh, to know pleasure, to be silly. But it is those times that enable us to walk with each other through the shadows of our lives. Forgive us. Amen.

Jan Barnes, Pastor, Trinity UCC, St Louis, MO

Wednesday, March 19

And should I not be concerned about Nineveh, that great city? Jonah 4:11a

Each morning, as I walk to my office, I walk past where over 1200 convicted felons will stand in line for breakfast, within thirty minutes of my passing. I get the feeling that most people in our society have the opinion that these men are getting justice. Our criminal justice system is based on retributive justice, a big term which really means we, as a society, seek retribution for activities we deem to be criminal. When God forgave Nineveh, Jonah was made. He wanted retribution.

God's response was that or mercy. The justice which Nineveh experienced was restorative, restoring the people to relationship with their Creator. When I see the men who reside outside my office, I have to remember they are all men created in the image of God and worthy of restoration.

We have the responsibility to seek to restore persons to relationship with God. Rather than repeating the cry for revenge which we hear around us, we are to cry for justice which demonstrates mercy. It's easy to be angry about what others have done. It's much harder to learn forgiveness and mercy and demonstrate that each day.

Merciful, compassionate Creator, forgive our cries for vengeance and retribution and give us hearts which cry for mercy for your creation. Amen.

Rev. Jim Hogue, Chaplain, Tipton Correctional Center, Tipton, MO

Thursday, March 20

…we are the people of [God’s] pasture, and the sheep of [God’s] hand. Psalm 95:7

I hear my father’s voice in my mind with these words. Of course, he’s spoken to me for a number of reasons over the years, and not all have been soothing. But he read Psalm 95:6-7 regularly to begin worship in the churches he served, and it became my frequent choice when I entered ministry, too.In his voice, strong and confident to a child’s ear, these words were a powerful promise and a compelling call. In the midst of congregational life, they pointed to a fellowship that embraced our family and substituted for distant relatives.

To think that this place (wherever it was at the time) was God’s pasture – selected, prepared, tended for the sake of those who would gather here! To think that we who gathered, did so under the watchful eye and in the care-full hand of our Shepherd!

I do not remember a specific moment when the reality, the love, the providential protection of God dawned on my mind. But I cannot remember a time when all of that was not part of my world view. It has seemed always to be so, and I rest secure in that.

Great Shepherd, continue to draw us into the peacefulness of your pasture, to feed and protect us by your own hand. Then may we so trustingly believe that hope becomes confidence which fills all our days.

Rev. Steven E. Swope, Columbia UCC, Columbia, MO

Friday, March 21

Christ is building you into a place where God lives through the Spirit. Ephesians 2:22

When I was a kid, I knew little about Christianity. We went to church occasionally but I didn't see it as important. Later, in my early adulthood, I felt downright hostile toward organized religion. Now, as I come near the completion of my journey to ordained ministry, I feel (obviously) differently. But, I'm still a work in progress.

I think back to my childhood, particularly my early adolescence, when I used to wander the Colorado countryside and wonder about God. I had many good "conversations" with the Almighty back then and came to have a faith in the abiding presence of God. But God was only just beginning to construct who I would become. In my mid-twenties, when I came stumbling into Christianity, I found myself having those conversations again - though this time, the idea of God had become more concrete in the person of Jesus Christ. And still, I was under construction.

All of us, as individuals and as the Church, are works in progress. The Great Carpenter is continuing his work in us, that we may be a dwelling place for God in the world. This Lent, let's put up a sign that says "Pardon Our Mess" and open to Christ's work in us.

Creative and Creating God, we offer up ourselves to you, confident that your holy hands can turn our mess into a masterpiece. Amen.

Larissa Forsythe, Pastor, St Johns UCC, Mantels and St John UCC, Casco, MO

Saturday, March 22

From his fullness we have all received, grace upon grace. John 1:16

It certainly wasn’t the best sermon I had ever preached. As I finished the sermon and looked out at the faces of the congregants, all I could do was apologize to God for not having spent more time in preparation. And then I apologized for not taking better care of myself, because if I had, surely the sermon would have turned out better.

I tried not to feel deflated or defeated as the worship service came to a close. I put on my best smile to greet everyone as they left worship.

Almost everyone had left the sanctuary when I was approached by two women. The younger of the two said, “My mom wanted to meet you.” I shook “mom’s” hand as she said, “I really appreciated what you said in your sermon.” I replied, “That’s nice of you to say. What is your name?” “Grace.”

Sometimes grace comes to us in unexpected ways or places. When we catch it, when we get a glimpse of what grace means in our lives, we are awed by the wonder and love of God. Grace reminds us again and again that we are enough, just as we are, and there is nothing we need to do to earn God’s love which is already freely given.

Loving God, open our eyes and hearts to receive your grace each day. Amen.

Rev. Carolyn Held, Chaplain, Lydia’s House, St Louis, MO

Sunday, March 23

Join in prayer with your church community today, and add this prayer to your afternoon:

LORD, I AM READY FOR YOU TO SHOW ME.Day by day, light my way,People to address and share grace full.News and fervent prayer, quiet spaceWith room for Your voiceIn worship and when I make a choice. Amen.

Rev. Doris Judy, Faith UCC, Wentzville, MO

Week 4: A Journey of Faith Lenten Daily Prayers

Monday, March 24

I can do everything through Christ who gives me strength. Philippians 4:13

When your world seems to be falling apart control of every possible aspect seems the only way to get through each day, even in the desperate cries of constant prayer.

By age 32 I had been struggling for years to keep the “elephant in the living room” under wraps and unnoticed. I had done a great job of seeming to hold it all together financially, spiritually and physically for my family of four in the shadow of my husband’s addiction and my co-dependency. But then I was floored with pain as a result of stress, unable to move my head from unbearable pain in my jaw—unable to control anything or anyone anymore. So I let go. I prayed, “Okay God, I can’t do it anymore—please help.” I was stopped in my tracks and began to listen to the whispers of the Spirit, began to allow Christ to lead, and was stunned by the beauty and healing that took place in myself and my circumstances.

Holy God of strength, healing and grace, lift up our hearts this day in your direction. Help us to let go of fear and worry, and to follow your path toward peace and wholeness. Amen. Kristin Aardema Faigh, Pastor, Zion, Mayview, MO

Tuesday, March 25

Thanks be to God, who in Christ always leads us in triumphal procession. 2 Corinthians 2:14

Seventeen years ago this spring I was the victim of a hit-and-run car accident. When I awoke from a six-week coma, I was told that I would be in a wheelchair for the rest of my life. During the long and painful road to recovery, I received a note in my hospital room that contained just this scriptural reference: “Thanks be to God, who in Christ always leads us in triumphant procession.”

What a joke, I thought to myself. What’s triumphal about my situation? How can one be so glib about processions when I can’t even walk anymore?

But, as it turned out, that reference from 2 Corinthians has been my mantra ever since. I survived! I have gone on to continue having an impact through the church. I was present as my children grew up and they now have children of their own. Dark, life-threatening moments will occur, but through patience and encouragement, bright futures can follow. I still can’t walk, but I have two little grandchildren who just love to ride on my lap in my wheelchair. Who’d have thought?

Compassionate One, we thank you for your word of hope that can disperse the most desperate gloom. Though we cannot predict outcomes, we know that you have our best interests at heart, and intend for us lives full of promise and fulfillment. Help us to know and experience your abiding presence, even and especially in the darkest moments. Rev Bob Molsberry Interim, Peace UCC, Webster Groves, MO

Wednesday, March 26

For I am sure that He who started this good work in you will carry it through until it is finished on the Day of Christ Jesus. Philippians 1:6

We are conceived sinners (Psalm 51). Jesus said, “Be born again” to be saved from our sinful selves. Very depressing were it not that He so loved us, died for our sins and, not stopping there, gives us faith in His real resurrection (“handle me and see, a ghost does not have flesh and bones as you see that I have”). This faith also includes knowing that He is working in us. On the day He returns or the day He calls us home He makes us perfect. He works His righteousness into us throughout our lives. We are victorious by His work in us. He is the author and finisher of our faith. He produces the fruit of righteousness in us – love, joy peace, patience, kindness, faithfulness, goodness and self-control. We rest in Him for our salvation.

Our Father, thank you for Your confidence in your Son who has saved wretches like us. Give us trust that He is transforming us by the Holy Spirit to be completely conformed to that image of You that has been despoiled by our sin. Enable us to see, feel, and know that the righteousness of Your Son is not only our hiding place but by the Holy Spirit, imparted to us. May we each see this transformation.

Rev. Karl M. Kindt III

Thursday, March 27

Be kind and loving to each other and forgive each other just as God forgave you. Ephesians 4:32

It is quiet. It is early. My coffee is hot. The sky is black. The world is still asleep and daylight is fast approaching. When it does, the stillness of the dawn will be exchanged with the noise of the day. Those who know me do not always understand my love for the joy I feel before dawn while others are sleeping. It is now that I make a choice. Because of Calvary I am free to choose. And as I begin my day I choose love and forgiveness just as God has loved and forgiven me. I will love God and my fellow co-workers. I will not let the noise of the day take over. I cherish this early morning time to reflect on Lent and the great meaning it holds. I put my trust and joy in the Lord who gives me my strength.

Our Heavenly God, today I give thanks to you for the early dawn which allows me to reflect and focus on the wonderful gift you have given us. I pray for all my friends in the UCC, my family and co-workers that we may all feel this wonderful gift of love. Joyce Bathke, Faith UCC, Wentzville, MO

Friday, March 28

Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I fear no danger because you are with me. Psalm 23:4

It was a beautiful day for a walk. The pasture was greening with tender new grass, trees were filling with leaves, spring flowers brightened the land. Stepping out of the woods into the open pasture, he froze in place. Directly in front of him—only a few feet away—was a cougar stalking prey—the horses.

Soundlessly, he waited as the huge cat turned amber eyes toward him. His heart pounding, he forced himself to remain calm. Slowly, he straightened to his full height, spreading his arms, making himself as big as possible. Amber eyes gazed at him . . . the horses . . . and back to him. Then the huge cat turned, ran toward the fence row, clearing it in one leap—leaving them behind.

The horses moved to surround him, each reaching out to sniff and rub against him. The smell of fear still clung to them, yet they gentled with his touch. With him, they knew they were safe even during moments of great fear.

God who walks with us, help us to trust in you—even in our moments of greatest need and fear. You walk all of life with us. Our hope . . . our promise rests with you. In you we find rest. Amen.

Rayla Stewart Hogue, First Congregational, Memphis, TN

Saturday, March 29

Truth stumbles in the public square, and honesty finds no place there. Isaiah 59: 14b

Before my cataracts were removed I stumbled in the public square– too many close calls on the road! It’s a wonder I didn’t put someone in the hospital or worse. My passengers had to be thinking: “She must be blind!” I’m sure more than one of them prayed: “God, help me get out of this car alive!” Of course, no one ever said that. My friends and family are all too polite!

The thing is – I didn’t know how bad it was. Those cataracts grew slowly, I adjusted to them and didn’t know my vision was failing. I knew something was wrong because fewer people wanted to ride with me.

Finally, a friend said: “For heaven’s sake get your eyes checked! Surgery was scheduled, and like Saul “…something like fish scales fell” from my eyes. All of a sudden I could see where I was going! Before Isaiah spoke the truth to the Israelites, they wandered in darkness. Before Jesus spoke to Saul, he believed he was doing the right thing. We all need to hear the truth from someone if we want to get a glimpse of God’s vision for our lives and be able to see how to get there!

Holy One, on this Lenten road together as the Missouri Mid-South Conference, may we find the courage to speak the truth in love to one another; but even more, may we be willing to open our hearts to see the truth when it is spoken to us.

Rev. Margaret Philip, St Thomas UCC, Chesterfield, MO

Sunday, March 30

Join in prayer with your church community today.

Week Five: A Journey of Faith Lenten Daily Prayers

Monday, March 31

Sing psalms with all your art. Psalm 47: 7

When I attended seminary the New English Bible (NEB) was a popular translation. However, my Old Testament professor chided me for using a version of “dubious scholarship.” He maintained that the RSV was the preferred edition for his class. I found the NEB more literary with a poetic resonance that spoke to my soul. Dr. Rogers and I always seemed at loggerheads until one day in class we were studying Psalm 47. The RSV translated verse 7 as “sing praise with a psalm.” As we explored the literal translation, we became aware that the Psalmist was engaging in poetic simile—literally: psalm a psalm with a psalm. I shared the NEB translation with the class: “sing psalms with all your art.” Dr. Rogers nodded and conceded with a smile, “I couldn’t have translated it any better.”

Awesome Creator God, you call us to sing your praises unceasingly using our entire being. As we journey through this adventure called life, help us to discover the deep art hidden within, so that we might use voice, brush, pen, instrument – whatever means within our creative reach – to acclaim you with shouts of joy. Amen.

Rev. Cliff Aerie, Webster Groves UCC, Webster Groves, MO

Tuesday, April 1

I will lead the blind by a road they do not know, by paths they have not known I will guide them. I will turn the darkness before them into light, the rough places into level ground.These are things I will do, and I will not forsake them. Isaiah 42:16

These words of the prophet were addressed to people exiled to Babylon. They were in despair. Having lost all that gave them security, they were hopeless, blind to any prospect that God might be with them ready to do a new thing.

We know about despair: violent conflicts with no prospects for peace; climatic warming that threatens our earth; children who cannot get a quality education; churches struggling to survive; families broken. Sometimes we, too, are exiles, blind to any prospect that God might still be with us ready to do a new thing.

To “blind” exiles the prophet offers words of assurance and hope, not words about what we can or should do, but words about what God is doing: shining light into darkness and leveling the rough ground. God is with us ready to do new things with us – if only we will open our blind eyes. That is our hope as we walk toward Easter.

Holy One, in the midst of the brokenness of our world and our lives, open our eyes that we may sense your presence with us ready to do a new thing with us and in our world. Amen.

Rev. John Bracke, Columbia UCC, Columbia, MO

Wednesday, April 2

Your constant love is better than life itself, and so I will praise you. Psalm 63:3

It is hard for anyone to be constant. People cannot always keep a job at the same company or live at the same address. Many people have a time being married or having the same friends, and then a time not married and finding different friends. Things keep changing but God is ALWAYS there. He is always home and ready to be there for us.

Love is good, considerate, listening, happy, willing, pleasant, patient, and kind. With no love there is nothing. With love there is truth, faith, and hope. It is eternal, encouraging, and comforting.I praise God, because without God there is no earth, air, stars, water, light, food, animals, plants, sky, other people, or rest.

I praise all these things. With all that we have in our world, we mix and match them all and it makes us whole. We should use these things wisely and share with one another. It is good to celebrate these things daily with many people, the ones close to us and with strangers.

Without God these things are impossible. We humans feel we are at the top of the world. We are not perfect and we make many mistakes. That is why we have our God to help us get back on track and to solve our imperfections. God will accept us if we ask for forgiveness.

Dear God, we praise you for all you have given us and for all the things you will give us. Amen.

Linda Becker, St Peters UCC, Washington, MO

Thursday, April 3

And God will answer them, “Truly I say to you, as you did it to one of the least these, you did it to me” Mathew 25:40

Christian Hospital in Mungeli, India was on the brink of closure and we saw it as our calling. We took on the challenge of the mission hospital legacy of over 100 years when it had been in a state of disrepair for over 35 years. We realized that working for the poor and marginalized here was one way we could serve God. Now the hospital serves thousands from the rural and urban population in a 50 mile radius. The

hospital also runs a K – grade 11 school at a subsidized rate, which has about 650 children. The hospital recently initiated a nursing school which the hospital also subsidizes. Mission work has been a passion in our lives and the challenge that it brings through its fulfillment makes life truly special. We share this joy, and God has used us richly.

O God, Jai Masih ki! (Praise be to God) Our mission ancestors were steadfast in their faith and such strong advocates for equality for all. You have given us this rich legacy which we are dedicated to honoring it in all our future efforts. With God, ‘this is the beginning of always.'

Anil and Teresa Henry are our missionaries in Mungeli, India. They are Director and Chief Surgeon and Senior Medical Officer respectively. The Henrys are visiting in our Conference this month.

Friday, April 4

Consider it all joy, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. James 1:2, 3

So many individuals to be confirmed and baptized -- increased numbers of children and a growing need for church school teachers -- not enough communion trays and cups -- issues with the tiling in the new church building -- the need to hire a contractor to build a toilet.… Although these may be seen as problems by some, the congregation at Ramotswa UCC of Southern Africa takes it as a wonderful challenge given by God. The congregation has been slowly but steadily growing over the last three years - from an average of 25 people in attendance to around 100 on Sunday mornings. The children and youth programs have quadrupled in size. The church hosts several regional events and continues to be involved in many outreach programs. The church has chosen not to forgo any kind of static worldview of what it means to be a congregation. The church’s members have shown by their actions that complacency is unworthy of a church’s calling. For both Jayanthi and me, the church has been a tremendous blessing in our lives - a constant source of encouragement and support.

God, each day is a brand new gift - unspoiled, unblotted. Help me to be inwardly open to what you have for me today. Amen

James & Jayanthi Wilson are missionaries with the UCC of Southern Africa at Kuruman, and recently visited in the Conference.

Saturday, April 5

We know that all things work together for good for those who love God, who are called according to His purpose. Romans 8:28

I recently had the opportunity to visit 75 year old Rev. Sasaki who lives in northern Japan, 25 miles north of the power plants. I wanted to see how life was for him now, after the triple disaster of 2011. There, I was remembering how afraid we were the first days after the nuclear plants exploded, not knowing the effects of the high levels of radiation. I asked Rev Sasaki about his decision. He was clear from the beginning that he was not going to leave Kashima, even if the radiation levels were deemed too high. He told me, “There are people here who love this land and have nowhere else to go. I know the villagers and feel their pain and weakness. In that pain and weakness I see the face of Christ. I am a weak and earthen vessel, but I know that God brought me here to love others. That is the reason that I have chosen to remain in this village, so that God’s people will be comforted and loved.”

Lord, we pray today for the peace that comes with knowing we are a part of Your plan; right where we are, doing what you would have us do.

Our missionary, Jeffrey Mensendiek, serves as director of the Gakusei (Student) Center in Japan. Jeffrey visited churches in our Conference during his last visit to the US.

Sunday, April 6

Please join in prayer with your church family today.

Week 6: A Journey of Faith Lenten Daily Prayers

Monday, April 7

There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to the one hope that belongs to your call… Ephesians 4:4

The United Church in Jamaica and the Cayman Islands began in the 1880s when missionaries planted many new churches. Today, Jamaica’s new and unified group of churches has named priorities for their goals and mission of the Church. “When the people of God are united in God’s love, it is easier to reach out to each other and to make a positive difference in the world.”

The first priority initiative is to provide summer camps for children and youth in order to promote good family and community. The churches plan to increase the number of camp participants to 1000 annually. The churches host a series of summer camps each year, providing opportunities for young people to reflect on the true meaning and purpose of life and to determine whether or not their daily choices are aligned to their hopes and aspirations. Through Bible studies, keynote addresses, workshops, and informal discussions, youth explore the core values and principles of Christianity. The church encourages the youth to apply these principles in daily living, to become positive change agents in their local congregations and communities – “to be the change they want to see.”

O God of us all, we recognize we are One Body in Christ and the Church, striving for more loving ways to live out our call in the world.

Our Conference shares a partnership with churches in Jamaica.

Tuesday, April 8

Take what you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, do; and the God of peace will be with you. Philippians 4:9

It is a common sight in Chiapas, Mexico, to see children selling merchandise such as scarves and bracelets. Here, an estimated 199,000 children do daily work. Poverty-stricken families are compelled to send their children into the streets to help provide for the family. Even though the child labor rate in Mexico has actually decreased 40% in the last 10 years, child labor is still a very present reality. Education is an answer to ending child labor. The Institute for Intercultural Studies and Research (INESIN) provides many educational workshops. We know parents who attend these workshops are more likely to send their children to school. One workshop is “Leadership Training for Youth” ages 14-25, held four times a year. The youth learn marketable skills, and discuss spirituality. These workshops provide an opportunity for the youth in Chiapas to expand their potential and connection to the world.

INESIN will continue to provide workshops to help reduce child labor along with their other mission priorities. Education is a powerful thing. It changes worlds. It changes minds. It changes lives.

God of love and fairness, keep us diligent to protecting and caring for the children of the world, especially those in such need of basic essentials.

Lindsey Mercer is our Global Mission Intern from St Johns UCC, Bem, MO serving with the Institute for Intercultural Studies and Research in Chiapas, Mexico.

Wednesday, April 9

God is good to all, and God’s compassion is over all that he has made. Psalm 145:9

You are the reason I made my trip to the Congo. It all began with knowing there have been a series of “wars” in Congo since 1996. Do you have any guess as to how many people have died? Over FIVE MILLION. Yet, there is very little news coverage about this in the US.

My second reason was that Global Ministries had been drilling the concept of “critical presence” into my head. Presence can mean many things –and just “showing up” is very important. Our Congo partners asked for a way to improve their English, because it is an important tool for communicating with the world outside of Congo. I speak English, have the means to get myself to where they are, and have done some teaching.

Thirdly, I wanted to be the lens through which others can learn to love the people of the Democratic Republic of Congo as much as I do. I hope you discover Congo through me, and find a way to connect with these wonderful children of God.

God, of justice and grace, we hear of so much need in the world, and we find we must act. Show us the way to be a presence in our own communities, and the mirror of love to the world. Amen.

Susan McNeely, serves as our short term volunteer with the Church of the Congo from February to the end of this month. Follow her blog here (http://www.susanmcneely.wordpress.com)

Thursday, April 10

Now there were seven brothers among us; the first married, and died childless....In the resurrection, then whose wife of the seven will she be?... Matthew 22:25-27

Before being called to ordained ministry, I taught elementary school for a local St. Louis County school district. I have always enjoyed the scripture above, because it reminds me of the proverbial math word problem. The secret to solving math problems is understanding the components and the question being

asked. What we have in this text is a heavenly question being asked based on an earthly law. The Mosaic law and life in the resurrection have nothing to do with one another. The risen Christ, fulfiller of the law and the prophecies, negates the former. Therefore, the pieces are incompatible, apples and oranges.

We frequently struggle as sons and daughters of faith and as churches because we are more of the world than we recognize ourselves to be. Though we strive to serve in Christ’s name, our service is based on our ideas, our rules, our agendas. To walk in the way of our Lord and Savior we are called to have our heart and mind set on Christ’s heart and mind. We are called to view the world from a different perspective, being in it but not of it. When uncertain, help is only a prayer away.

Lord of the Lenten journey, in our serving help us to pray, “Not my will but yours be done.” Amen.

Rev Denise C. McGary, Calvary UCC, St. Louis, MO

Friday, April 11

“Yet even now, says the Lord, return to me with all your hearts, with fasting, with weeping, and with sorrow; tear your hearts and not your clothing.” Joel 2:12-13

I do not remember ever successfully completing the mini-fasting, self-depriving, dessert-sacrificing, give-up ritual of Lent that my Sunday School teachers encouraged me to participate in. I just was not very good at it. Or, maybe I just wasn’t into it. Or, maybe I didn’t see the point of it.

During Lent, God calls us back: for honest sharing, for meaningful conversation, for deeper relationship. Lent offers us an opportunity to intentionally reorient ourselves toward God: to clear some of the distractions and defenses by which we limit our approach to the one whose faithfulness is without limits; to breathe deeply and step boldly nearer to the one who always waits with grace and ompassion; to pour out our hearts to the one who grieves with us over our losses and limitations and who delights with us in our joys and passions.

If we remember this objective of Lent – to clear a path back to God – then maybe our next “mini-fasting self-depriving, dessert-sacrificing, give-up” breakdown will be just one more reminder to keep clearing and keep moving toward the God that keeps calling.

O God, give us the grace to keep stumbling our way back to you and the courage to open ourselves up to you. Amen.

Rev. Julie Jennings, Chaplain, Every Child’s Hope (ECH)

Saturday, April 12

I called on your name, O Lord, from the depths of the pit; You heard my plea, “Do not close your ear to my cry for help, but give me relief!” You came near when I called on you; you said, “Do not fear!” Lamentations 3: 55-57

At the Conference “Persons in Ministry” retreat last year, the keynote speaker, Kent Ira Groff, spoke about the importance of lament as part of our worship. He said that as important as praise is in worship and devotion, lamentation is also significant—naming our losses, those events and people for which we mourn, and facing the truth about ourselves. While not all lamenting is “from the depths of the pit,” there are those moments when we plead with God, “Do not close your ear to my cry for help, but give me relief.”

As these thoughts are given written expression, one of my personal laments is the death of a relative who died as the result of a tragic highway accident. I lament that his lifespan was only 51 years. I lament the loss for his widow and their two sons who have experienced “the pit.” I lament simply that there was not enough time to do everything that had been planned.

South African theologian Denise Ackermann observes: “Lament is the sound suffering makes when it recovers its voice.” This day, voice is given to all those who suffer—from hunger, homelessness, brokenness, injustice, hopelessness and despair. The lamentations of many become our own; our voices join the plaintiff chorus, “Give me relief!”

O God, in and out of season, in the midst of praise and lamentation, in solidarity with all those who suffer, we affirm: “God, you came near when we called on you; you said, ‘Do not fear!’”

Rev. Dale Parson, Associate Conference Minister

Sunday, April 13

Please join in prayer with your church family today.

Week 7: A Journey of Faith Lenten Daily Prayers

Monday of Holy Week, April 14

If anyone asks you, “Why are you untying it?” just say this, “The Lord needs it.” Luke 19:31

Pilate questioned Jesus, “What is truth?” - often repeated in the pulpit and Bible studies. I have not heard in church, “Why are you untying it?” let alone the response, “The Lord needs it.” We can be tied-up or bound to aspects of our past that no longer help us. What of our religion are about structures, hierarchy and personal rewards? How do old ways of doing church impede on being Christian today? What strings attached need to be untied rather than us admiring the pretty bows? The Disciples were told to untie the colt because he had a plan for it. It was a part of his provisions - not much, but essential. Jesus has supplied provisions we need on our journey. It is no linguistic accident that the root of provisions is “vision.” We needed a solid vision to carry us in Christ’s way. We shall have positive (pro), professional (pro) visions to distinguish our necessary ties. If we may make a mistake and snip the wrong cord, we’ll simply retie the ends together and carry on.

Jesus, your Aramaic word for “untie” also means to “forgive.” Free me from hurt that I still tie myself to. Untie the bindings and loosen me from pain. I need it; you need it. Amen

Rev. Paul Koch, St. Peter’s UCC, Washington, MO

Tuesday of Holy Week, April 15

Consider your own call, brothers and sisters: not many of you were wise by human standards, not many were powerful, not many were of noble birth. 1 Corinthians 1:26

In this verse, Paul tells us a basic Christian truth: Who we are is incidental to what God can accomplish through us. Our birth, our ethnicity, our social class, our orientation of every kind, all appear to be randomly assigned and accidental, no cause for either arrogance or shame. Some of us accomplish much, by human standards, and some accomplish little; but the works of God are truly done among those who live by humility and faithfulness. In Christ, it is the mutuality of our fellowship that matters – the sharing in faith of God’s healing gifts. When such a community is strong, the members eagerly share what God provides, and grow in awareness of the good that can be done, when no one feels the need to take the credit, and everyone comes to trust the giftedness that comes upon us all from God.

Holy One, may your Spirit of compassion so prevail among us, that we who journey together in the fellowship of Christ may discover in one another’s distinctiveness the various channels of your redeeming grace. Amen.

Rev. Allen Fluent, Acting Conference Minister

Wednesday of Holy Week, April 16

The Spirit intercedes for us with sighs too deep for words. Romans 8:26

It was a bright, brisk, beautiful morning. The light breeze blowing seemed to whisper the secret that spring was coming - a secret shared by a stunning sun that burst forth with warmth. Surely a day anyone could affirm -“a good day to be alive”. But I did not have that good feeling. I gave my deaf ear to the whisper, and instead heard the murmurings of my own mood. I was tired and surely -“dead on my feet”. That is how I began Lent, on Ash Wednesday, March 7, 1984.

I sought out the strength and support of an old friend. As I turned into the driveway I saw no others as I made my way through the cemetery to my friend. I recalled the first time we met. I remembered how he had supported and strengthened my ministry. I felt his presence with me. I saw his special smile, I felt his strong and sure handclasp. He seemed to chide my cynicism with the laughter of love - I began to feel chagrin.

Then I saw it, a BIG, BEAUTIFUL HOT-AIR BALLOON. ITS’ BRIGHT, BOLD COLORS SPLASHING THE SKY. As the balloon ascended toward the sun it seemed bigger than life (or death) - as it rose, so did my spirit. As I stood staring at that brilliant balloon I heard the words “Made like Him. Like Him we rise. Ours the cross, the grave, the skies.” I thanked my friend and my God. As I walked back to my car I could sense the spring in my step, and in my soul.

Faithful God, help us see you in every situation that may arise and not only in the good times. Amen.

Rev. Alan Gatewood, Pastor, Bethel UCC, Concordia, MO

Maundy Thursday, April 17

Then he came to the disciples and found them sleeping; and he said to Peter, “So, could you not stay awake with me one hour? Stay awake and pray that you may not come into the time of trial; the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.” Matthew 26.40-41

I am an early riser; the morning is my time of day. If I have work to do, errands to run, or something to accomplish, I try my best to get it done by noon because I know if I don’t do it by then, very soon my energy will wane. By late afternoon I feel even my good intentions draining. When evening rolls around the recliner has won me over and I am usually done for the night.

I think of Peter asleep in the Garden wanting, I am sure to be there for Jesus, but unable to keep his eyes open for even one more hour. I understand how the spirit can be willing but the flesh weak. My only comfort is that Jesus seems to understand this weakness too. Still, I think a part of my Lenten discipline

should include a resolve to do whatever is necessary to stay awake, alert, and mindful of the conditions around me. I wouldn’t want to miss an opportunity to serve our Lord or to make a difference in the world.

Dear God, help me to be a bright spot for you—morning, noon, and night. Amen.

Rev. Donna Kendrick-Philips, Zion UCC, Oakfield

Thank you for being a part of the Missouri Mid-South Conference Faith Journey through Lent.

Please continue to pray for our churches, communities and the world. Join your congregation in completing this Holy Week in worship and prayer. Blessings to you.