April 4, 2010 Psalm 118

"This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it." (v. 24)

Growing up, Easter was always an exciting time for me, not because I was excited that Christ rose from the dead, but because my mom took me to the fanciest department store in town (Dayton's for those of you from the north) and let me pick out any dress I wanted. My choices always included a floral dress and the big matching hat. I would proudly wear my new dress to church Easter morning. Dresses, candy and bunnies are not what Easter is really about. It's about something much bigger. As I have grown in years my understanding of Easter has too. This is a big day, it is a big deal. Christ has conquered death! He is risen! How cool is that? We serve a risen Lord who is still at work in the world today! The joy of Easter Sunday would not exist without the sadness of Good Friday. You have to go through the sorrow and the mourning to make it to the joy of resurrection. Having gone through the loss of Christ on Friday, we have finally arrived at this resurrection today. Thank you God!

He is risen! He is risen indeed!

Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for giving us your son! Even though we do not deserve it and we fall short constantly, you provide us with a way to reconcile with you through your son. You are a grace filled God. Amen.

Michelle Stillwell

April 3, 2010 Psalm 103

"The Lord is merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love." (v. 8)

The basis for God's goodness and the key to know who God is, is "steadfast love." Four times in this Psalm there is reference to the steadfast love of God. When I think of "steadfast" I think of "firm", "solid", "a place to stand", "secure".

Jesus is now in the tomb which seems like it is firm, solid, secure and permanent. That is the intention of the soldiers and those who secured the stone in front of the grave.

The Good News for us is that the grave is not permanent, for in Jesus Christ, death is not permanent or solid. In Christ we hold to the promise that the steadfast love of God is solid and firm, a place for us to stand as we wait this side of the grave, as we live through the changes and challenges that life brings. Even in the face of death itself, we trust the steadfast love of the one who wins the victory over death and lives forever. That promise is firm, solid and secure.

O Lord of life, hold us secure as we wait and trust your promise of steadfast love. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Pr. Tom Schoenherr

April 2, 2010 Psalm 22

"My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? Why are you so far from helping me, from the words of my groaning? O my God, I cry by day, but you do not answer; and by night, but find no rest...To You they cried and were saved; in You they trusted and were not put to shame." (v. 1-2, 5)

The Psalmist is going through a period of trial and feels the depth of despair but also wanted to trust in God. This God is the God of the Psalmist's ancestors whom God delivered in time of trouble. The Psalmist wonders if God will also be be his or her deliverer. Jesus spoke these opening words from the cross on Good Friday, where He was feeling the full burden of our sin, and His approaching death. We can maybe understand some of his torment, and the depth of His longing to know that God was holding on to Him in this terrible hour.

In the face of our trials we also are groaning to be assured of God's care, when it seems like we are forsaken. Jesus knows our feeling of forsakenness, and promises to save us.

Hold on to us, Lord, and do not forsake us when our trials are too great to bear. Amen.

Pr. Tom Schoenherr

April 1, 2010 Psalm 116

"What shall I return to the Lord for all his bounty to me? I will lift up the cup of salvation and call on the name of the Lord, I will pay my vows to the Lord in the presence of His people." (v.12-14)

By now, the Father had given Jesus authority over everything and soon Jesus would return to God. The disciples did not understand why Jesus chose to wash their feet but He knew they would figure it out. The true message from Jesus was, and is, to "Love one another as I have loved you."

That is how I interpret Psalm 116, v. 12-14. The greatest gift we can offer to Jesus is to love one another to our greatest ability and to express this love in the presence of others.

Jesus doesn't ask for pity or protection from harm. Through the fear of His impending death, he remains focused on His message of love. What a truly remarkable example of how we should and can live our lives.

Dear Jesus, thank you for Your powerful message of love.

Julie Deay

March 31, 2010 Psalm 70

"Let those be put to shame and confusion who seek my life. Let those be turned back and brought to dishonor who desire to hurt me. Let those who say, "Aha, Aha!" turn back because of their shame. (v. 2-3)

In these verses David is asking God to send shame to his enemies. For a long time, I had a hard time wrapping my head around these verses because as a Christian I have always been taught that I'm supposed to love my enemies. So is it a contradiction that David asks God to punish His enemies and Christ teaches us to pray for our enemies? Maybe not.

The good news here is that it is up to God to deal out punishment and it is through Christ's example of loving forgiveness that I can move on past anger, hurt, or disappointment when I feel wronged, persecuted or misunderstood. What happens to my enemy is not my problem, it is God's; but, what happens inside my heart is my responsibility. A heart bogged down by anger and resentment keeps me from getting closer to God. Following Christ's example helps me to let go and move on. That is Good News!

Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew within me a right spirit. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Jamie De Geer

March 30, 2010 Psalm 71

"O God, do not be far from me; O my God, make haste to help me!" (v. 12)

God is never far from us. God is always hurrying to help us. So, why does the Psalmist pray for those things? I suppose one reason is to reassure himself. The prayer is a reminder that God is always near. And to ask God for that again and again reminds the one who is praying that God is always helping, is always near. Another reason to pray is that, even though God is already doing what we ask, and even though God already knows what we need, God still wants to hear the prayer. God still wants to have the relationship that prayer brings. God still wants us to pray, even though we're praying for something that is already (and always) being given. Prayer strengthens our relationship with God, who loves to hear our prayer.

O God, You respond to our needs even before we ask. Help our prayers give us comfort and strengthen our relationship with You. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Pr. John Gerike

March 29, 2010 Psalm 36

"How precious is Your steadfast love, O God! All people may take refuge in the shadow of Your wings." (v. 7)

How do we explain something that is hard to understand; God's love. God loves us with a steadfast love. The definition of steadfast is fixed or unchanging; steady; firmly loyal or constant; unswerving. God loves us no matter what we do, or who we are. He loves us from the second we're born with the same steadfast, unswerving love through our whole life. A life filled with sin, and His love never changes. A life filled with wonderful moments and regretful moments. His love never changes. Our lives change constantly, but God's love is steadfast. God loves us so much that he sent his only Son to die for us. How precious is Your steadfast love, O God!

Heavenly Father, Thank you for Your love that is steadfast. Amen

Brenda Ogroski

March 28, 2010 Psalm 31

"In you, O Lord, I seek refuge; do not let me ever be put to shame; in your righteousness deliver me. Incline your ear to me; rescue me speedily. Be a rock of refuge for me, a strong fortress to save me."
(v. 1-5)

You are indeed my rock and my fortress; for your name's sake lead me and guide me, take me out of the net that is hidden for me, for you are my refuge. Into your hand I commit my spirit; you have redeemed me, O Lord, faithful God.

This passage from Psalms speaks to me. I have had the blessing in my life to be surrounded by people who know and love God. I have also known people who have no relationship with Him at all. I feel so sad for those individuals. When life changes come our way, be it death or illness, job loss or a number of other events in our life, we need God to be our strength, our refuge. I don't know how people can cope without him.

I am so thankful for having God in my life. I pray for everyone to grow and know they too can have a relationship with Him, they can be rescued.

Dear Lord, thank you for being our fortress, for always being strong for us. Help us reach out to others and show them your love and strength. Amen

Pam Valenti

March 27, 2010 Psalm 143

"Teach me to do your will, for you are my God. Let Your good spirit lead me on a level path." (v. 10)

I know that God loves me and I trust that what He wants for me is what is best for me - just like what I want for my children is what is best for them - even if it is sometimes hard to convince them of that.

This verse helps me to recognize God as my teacher, the one who has the knowledge of how I can follow His will for my life. If I study His word, listen for His voice and choose to obey the things that He reveals to me, I might experience more peace and balance and less stress and hardship. Unfortunately, it is easier said than done isn't it? But, through His mercy, I don't have to do it on my own. He gives me His Holy Spirit to lead and guide me on my journey.

Merciful God, help me to stay on the right path that will lead me to experience the abundant life that you have promised your faithful servants. In Jesus' name, Amen

Jamie De Gee

March 26, 2010 Psalm 121

"I lift up my eyes to the hills - from where will my help come? My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth." (v. 1-2)

When I think of my favorite Bible passages, it doesn't get much better than Psalm 121 for me. The Psalm to me is, in words, a most glorious description of God's loving protection. This passage is like a security blanket, a favorite stuffed animal - I read it when I need God's guidance and I remember it when things are going well. Yet... I wonder why I still sometimes first put my trust elsewhere - why looking heavenward, as we go along our life's journey, is not always instinctive. Instead we often first look inward, outward but not upward, to Him. Oh, the amount of worry, stress, and fretting I sometimes go through before I offer it to God! When I read this peace-filled promise, I imagine our Father God, smiling down - I would imagine Him shaking His head a bit, as if to say, "I've been here all along - you just have to look up and trust in me."

Heavenly Father, Thank you for being our most trust-worthy protector. Please help us to remember that you are always there, in the hills and valleys of our lives. It is in You we place our trust. Amen

Becky Howard

March 25, 2010 Psalm 100

"For the Lord is good; His steadfast love endures forever, and His faithfulness to all generations." (v. 5)

I am going to a family reunion this weekend - the first in over 40 years. The reunions stopped after my grandfather died. It was a tradition in my family, when I was growing up, to get together once a year in February to celebrate my grandfather's and his siblings birthdays. This was a huge gathering since my grandfather was from a family of 9. SO, I definitely have several cousins. My minds eye quickly travels back to those gatherings with everyone packed into my small family home. It was a time of great chaos, laughter and warmth. We have had the best of intentions over the years - but somehow the tradition was lost. Now that we (who were the kids) are now the ages of our parents, we can more clearly see the value of gathering together. We readily remember the stories of my grandfather's parents and how they traveled from Knoxville, TN to Waynesville, MO. The story of that trip and their faith in the journey were retold and retold to us by our grandfather, and great-aunts and uncles. I look forward to meeting those 3rd and 4th cousins that I have never seen, but God has.

Dear God, thank you for the gift of family, and the greatest gift we have of all being joined together as family through Christ. In Jesus name, Amen.

Suzie Everingham

March 24, 2010 Psalm 96

"Let the heavens be glad, and let the earth rejoice; let the sea roar, and all that fills it; let the field exult, and everything in it. Then shall all the trees of the forest sing for joy before the Lord; for He is coming, for he is coming to judge the earth. He will judge the world with righteousness, and the peoples with his truth." (v. 11-13)

Well, there it is in writing, God is coming to judge us one day! I can't help but think of all the things that I have done in my life that might have hurt or disappointed someone else or God.

It is comforting to know that God loves me and He understands and expects me to make human mistakes. The prophecies in the bible help guide me along the way to do my best to be a good Christian even though I know I am a sinner. I feel blessed to have such a forgiving God.

Dear God, thank you for reminding us daily that we are loved unconditionally.

Julie Deay

March 23, 2010 Psalm 90

"So teach us to count our days that we may gain a wise heart." (v.12)

My wise dad always taught us to "live life with no regrets - not to miss anything, especially when it comes to family." I don't think anything makes my dad happier than watching us with his grandkids. Sledding, reading, fishing, swimming - "that's the NOW that's important," he says. I think about that advice often when making choices in my life and I wonder if maybe that's part of what the Psalmist is referring to when he says, "count our days" - a reminder not to miss the now in our lives. Sometimes it's easier to reflect back on a happier time or to look ahead to a better place. But not being truly present in the "now", means we can miss opportunities for really amazing connections, for blessings we can't imagine.

As we look to the start of Holy Week, I wonder how Jesus' followers felt in their "now" that led up to His crucifixion. I pray that I might have faith to celebrate each day I'm given and to represent Him in a way that would be pleasing to Him... now.

Dear God, thank you for being the guiding light in our lives. Please open our eyes and hearts so that we can see how Your plan came together so gloriously for us all. In Jesus' name, Amen.


Becky Howard

March 22, 2010 Psalm 84

"O Lord of hosts, happy is everyone who trusts in you." (v. 12)

Happy, or blessed, is everyone who trusts in the Lord. How wonderful that sounds. Does it mean that nothing bad will ever happen - that no one close to us will ever be sick or die? Does it mean that we'll have everything that we ever wish for or want? We'll always have the best job, best house, best kids? We'll never feel sad? Nope. What I think the Psalmist is saying is no matter what happens in life, when we stay focused on the Lord, we'll make it through. We'll have peace in the hard times, and joy in the good times. We'll see the blessings in the little ordinary occurrences. If we put our trust in our Lord, we can journey through our lives knowing that He is in control of every aspect of our lives - the happy times as well as the sad times.

Heavenly Father, help us to keep our trust in You. Give us peace during the difficult times and help us feel the joy that comes in knowing that you are in control. In Jesus' name we pray, Amen

Brenda Ogroski

March 21, 2010 Psalm 116

"Be confident my heart, because the Lord has been good to me."(v.7)

When challenged with the task of speaking about the goodness of God, I have often struggled with a lack of confidence. But when I began praying daily for God to remind me that He is always there for me to lean on, I discovered a new heart-felt confidence that wasn't there before. I found a willingness to bring God into my conversation, and the strength to deal more calmly with stressful situations that have occurred in my life. This is just one more example of the Lord being good and merciful to me.

Heavenly Father, thank you for your presence in our lives, and help us to remember to call on You for the strength that we need.

Carter Pederson

March 20, 2010 Psalm 107

"O give thanks to the LORD, for He is good; for his steadfast love endures forever. (v.1)

This is one of my favorite Psalms. The first verse reminds me of a parent who is trying to teach a child to remember to use good manners. I'm glad to be reminded to use good manners with God.

Then they cried to the LORD in their trouble, and He saved them from their distress; (v. 6, 13, 19, and 28)...Let them thank the LORD for his steadfast love, for his wonderful works to humankind. (v. 8, 15, 21, and 31) This must be pretty important information to be repeated four times in the same Psalm. It reminds me of who I can go to for help when I am in need; who will help me get back on solid ground; who will save me because He loves me. That gives me hope!

Let those who are wise give heed to these things, and consider the steadfast love of the LORD. (v. 43) What a blessing to know that there is always someone who loves you!

Dear LORD, thank you for loving me. Thank you for always being there for me when I need you. Help me to be wise and recognize that in you there is deliverance.

Jamie De Geer

March 19, 2010 Psalm 67

"The earth has yielded its increase; God, our God, has blessed us. May God Continue to bless us; let all the ends of the earth revere him."(v.6-7)

This Psalm ends with this line, Our God has blessed us. May God continue to bless us." As a country we are blessed. Only 8% of the world's population owns a car. So just by owning a car you have more than 92% of people in the world. Things like that completely change my perspective on things. Sometimes I pout because it feels like Josh and I will never be able to afford to buy a house. But then I think about having an apartment with running water and heat. It reminds me to thank God for all the good things in my life. It is so easy to get focused on all the things we don't have. This Psalm calls us to remember the blessings we have and to thank God for them.

Almighty Father, thank you for all the blessings you have given us!

Michelle Stillwell

March 18, 2010 Psalm 57

"Be merciful to me, O God, be merciful to me, for in you my soul takes refuge; in the shadow of your wings I will take refuge, until the destroying storms pass by." (v. 1)

This Psalm is about taking refuge in God until the destroying storm passes by. Even just reading that passage makes me feel calmer, more centered. It's a moment of clarity for me. It's like my brain finally gets it. Of course when times get tough and there is a destroying storm coming, I should seek refuge in the Lord. Only in actuality I rarely do, or I should say I rarely do it as a first response. I usually get around to taking refuge in the Lord after all my attempts to stop the storm myself have failed. It's always me trying to stop the storm, but this Psalm is not about God stopping the coming storm, it's about God providing refuge while the storm comes anyway.

Almighty Father, please help us to remember to seek our refuge in you when times get tough.

Michelle Stillwell

March 17, 2010 Psalm 51

"Create in me a clean heart, O God, and put a new and right spirit within me. Do not cast me away from your presence, and do not take your holy spirit away from me. Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and sustain in me a willing spirit." (v. 10-12)

So often we hear on the news about some wealthy person who had illegally taken money from a business, clients, relatives or friends. I wonder why they thought this was something they could not live without. Were they afraid of having to want for something? I wonder if, when they eventually realized that money meant nothing in heaven they prayed to God in a way that sounds like verses 10-12 above.

Why do we get carried away with money or other things during our lives? We step over other people to get at what we want. During Lent and after, I am going to remember Psalm 51 to help me keep my life in perspective and appreciate that we leave this world the same way we enter it. God is waiting for us when it is our time to go and that is all that is important.

Dear God, help us keep our lives and hearts centered around You, so that when we look back, we can be proud of the choices we've made. Amen.

Julie Deay

March 16, 2010 Psalm 47

"Clap your hands, all you peoples; shout to God with loud songs of joy. For the Lord, the Most High, is awesome, a great king over all the earth." (v. 1-2)

I cannot read the Psalm without thinking of the words of the song, "my God is an awesome God - He reigns over heaven and earth..." Have you ever looked around the congregation when singing a song like that? It is certainly a song that is sung loudly and with great joy. I know how that feels in my heart and also shows in this community of faith. As exciting as it is to verbalize what an awesome God we have, perhaps that can also be reflected by God back on us. Can you imagine God with us and feeling the very same thing about us?? In effect, God saying to each of you how very awesome you are?

Thank you God for your love for us sinners; it is an amazing gift that is beyond human understanding, and yet that love surrounds us each and every day. Thank you God for loving us into loving - In Jesus' name, Amen.

Suzie Everingham

March 15, 2010 Psalm 46

"Be still and know that I am God! I am exalted among the nations, I am exalted in the earth." (v. 10)

Psalm 46 has a very familiar line near the end of it. Psalm 46 tells us to "be still and know that I am God." It sounds so easy, right? All we need to do is be still and trust that the Lord is with us. It is much harder than it sounds though. I am an excellent worrier. If it were to be a sport I would win gold. So when I hear things like this all these "buts" come to mind. "But God, I have to worry, I am broke." or "But God, I have to freak out right now; I am so busy at work." This Psalm does not say, freak out, worry, be unsettled and know that I am God. It says be still and know that I am God. This is a difficult task, however, once we manage to accomplish it, life becomes much more fulfilling.

Almighty Father, help us to be still and know that you are God. Call our focus back to you when we wonder. Amen.

Michelle Stillwell

March 14, 2010 Psalm 45

"Your throne, O God, endures forever and ever. Your royal scepter is a scepter of equity; You love righteousness and hate wickedness. Therefore God, your God, has anointed you with the oil of gladness beyond your companions; your robes are all fragrant with myrrh and aloes and cassia." (v. 6-8)

In Hebrew the word for "anointed one" is "Messiach" which is also the word for Messiah. Priests and prophets were anointed. We are anointed children of God who are righteous (made right) by God's grace, God's love for us. I recently read an article in Readers Digest that noted the happiest people are the ones who are happy, yet readily acknowledge that there will be calamities in their life. They know it yet at the same time don't fear it - they just roll with it into a hope for the future. God not only anointed us - He anointed us with gladness and cleaned us with the most expensive, sweetest smelling of oils of life - Jesus - the Messiah.

Dear God, thank you for your amazing anointing gift of gladness and love and hope for the future. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Suzie Everingham

March 13, 2010 Psalm 40

"I waited patiently for the Lord; He turned to me and heard my cry. He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; He set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand. He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see and fear and put their trust in the Lord." (v. 1-5)

There is power enough in God to help the weakest, and grace enough to help the unworthiness of all that trust in him. The Psalmist waited patiently; he continued believing, hoping, and praying. This is applicable to Christ. His agony, in the garden and on the cross, was horrible. But those that wait patiently for God do not wait in vain. Christ is the Rock on which we can stand. God filled the Psalmist with joy, as well as peace in believing.

Dear God, thank you for the peace we have through Jesus. Help us to joyously see all that we have been given. Help us grow stronger in hope and love; then help us to share with others. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Pam Valenti

March 12, 2010 Psalm 38

"Do not forsake me, O Lord; O my God, do not be far from me; make haste to help me, O Lord, my salvation." (v. 21-22)

In Psalm 38, David is confessing his sin and repenting. He admits his sin has separated him from God and his friends. David asks God not to be far from him. In our lives of instant everything (instant communication, instant entertainment, instant gratification), there is nothing more sure and instantaneous than God's presence with us. Often, though, I think I take for granted how near God is, and how well He knows me. A line from the "Magician's Nephew" by C.S. Lewis, has stuck with me this week. Two characters were wondering about how God knows our every need, and do we even need to ask? And one of the characters (Fledge) said, "I have no doubt He would (know our needs), but I've a sort of idea He likes to be asked."

Gracious Father, help us to remember You are always near. Remind us to take the time to talk with You, to ask for Your forgiveness and for Your help. Amen.

Vicki Martin

March 11, 2010 Psalm 37

"Wait for the Lord, and keep to his way, and he will exalt you to inherit the land..." (v. 34)

I grew up on a farm with three brothers. Every day of my life, for as long as I can remember, we had chores to do on the farm. However, there were only so many hours of daylight each day, and part of that time was at school. So - I learned to walk very fast so that the chores would get completed sooner and also because I wanted to keep up with my brothers. Reflecting on this, I know I have continued that fast walk in my life. Yet, I long for slowing down the pace and spending quiet time listening and waiting for God. I know that God has always been there, but I also know there are times I have been too busy to notice.

Dear God, thank you for the gift of Your love. Please guide us in our choices each day that we may continue to learn to wait for You. Honestly, if we waited for You and Your directions, it would certainly have saved us a lot of wrong turns. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Suzie Everingham

March 10, 2010 Psalm 34

"Depart from evil, and do good; seek peace, and pursue it. (v. 14)

What a great verse! Not only are we called to keep from doing bad things (evil), we are clearly called to do the opposite and do good things. And even more profound, we are instructed to not only seek peace, but to actively pursue it. As my teenage son would say when I have stated the obvious to him yet another time, "duh". Could it be any clearer?

In my bible, Psalm 34 has the descriptive title 'Praise for Deliverance from Trouble.' Indeed, if we follow God's word as stated in verse 14, we surely would be delivered from many troubles. When I think of all the petty arguments and issues that could be avoided if we were to use this verse as our 'Golden Rule', I can just picture God looking down at us - the loving and benevolent father - gently shaking his head with an "I wish you would have listened to me in the first place" look on his face when we err. God wants the best for his children and he has given us his word as an outline for how to live our lives.

Dear God, thank you for your wisdom that guides us to do your will. Give us the strength to deny ourselves for the sake of peace and help us to pursue the things that are meaningful and pleasing in your sight and reject those that are not. Amen.

Jamie De Geer

March 9, 2010 Psalm 32

"Blessed is he whose transgressions are forgiven, whose sin is covered. Blessed is the one whose sin the Lord does not count against him and whose spirit has no deceit." (v. 1-2)

So many times we speak of forgiveness and that God remembers our sin No more. What a blessed truth! I do not believe we should so quickly and lightly dismiss the matter from our mind. We should ponder the effects and the results of our sins, to insure we will not sin in that way again. It is not a good thing to forget the marvelous grace of God and His mercy.

Thank you God for the sacrifice of your son for the forgiveness of our sins.

Pam Valenti

March 8, 2010 Psalm 29

"The voice of the LORD shakes the wilderness of Kadesh. The voice of the LORD causes the oaks to whirl, and strips the forest bare; and in his temple all say, 'Glory!' The LORD sits enthroned over the flood; the LORD sits enthroned as king forever. May the LORD give strength to his people! May the LORD bless his people with peace!" (v.9-11)

This Psalm has been described as one about 'The Voice of God in a Great Storm' and it speaks of the power of God that reaches even the most desolate place - the wilderness of Kadesh. The Psalmist speaks of the LORD's strength which is given to his people and it ends with a blessing of peace for His people.

This reminds me of how I felt about my dad when I was a little girl. He seemed so big and powerful, like he could do just about anything. He had a deep booming voice that stood out in the crowd and it could invoke fear in me when I was being naughty, even if he couldn't see me. But whenever I was sick or scared, I thought that my dad could make everything OK and it was his arms that I sought for comfort. His strength brought me the peace that I needed then like God's strength brings a blessing of peace to His people.

Father God, Help us to listen for your voice so that we may find peace in your strength and not our own. Amen

Jamie De Geer

March 7, 2010 Psalm 142

"Give heed to my cry, for I am brought very low. Save me from my persecutors, for they are too strong for me. Bring me out of prison, so that I may give thanks to your name." (v. 6-7)

When I was in first grade my mom enrolled my sister and me in summer school because she was returning to work. To our dismay, we were each put in classes with children a few years older than us. One day we were asked to bring in something special for "show & tell". My favorite possession was a peacock feather, and I was so proud to show it to the class. Apparently two boys were not pleased with me because when we went outside, they chased me around the playground as I held on to my feather. They took my feather and tore off its parts. I was so frightened that I climbed to the top of the slide with my "peacock stick" and sat crouched with my knees to my chest. My teacher was not around so I thought about my mom teaching me to pray when I was afraid. I closed my eyes and pleaded with God to help me. I immediately felt comfort even though I was too young to comprehend why. This was not one of my better days but I will always remember it as the day that God came to my rescue.

Dear God, thank you for being there when we need you. You are always near when we feel alone and afraid. Amen.

Julie Deay

March 6, 2010 Psalm 122

"I was glad when they said to me, 'Let us go to the house of the Lord!'" (v. 1)

Being invited to something is a joyous and wonderful feeling. To be included gives one a sense of belonging and family. In Psalm 122
verse 1, the Psalmist is being invited to worship the Lord. It's visible at our church on Sunday and Saturday. We gather as a large family to worship together and feel true joy and security that only comes from knowing Jesus. We all look different, we think differently, we have different jobs, we like different things, but through worshipping together, we are joined to the same joy, the same security, the same salvation, that only comes through the death and resurrection of Jesus. Through worship this Lenten season, let us be reminded what gift of true joy and peace we have through Jesus Christ, and share that gift with others.

Heavenly Father, Thank you for the gift of joy and peace we have through You, and lead us so we may share this gift with others.

Brenda Ogroski

March 5, 2010 Psalm 27

"The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stonghold of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?" (v. 1)

When I read this, I immediately reflect on how much of a worrier I am. I worry about my family (including church family), friends, finances, and when I run out of worries there (ha) I can easily start thinking about things to worry about in the future. I quiet my worry (fear) tendency by praying - a lot! One of my favorite verses that especially quiets the fear is Matthew 6:34: "So do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring worries of its own. Today's trouble is enough for today." God, the one who adores each of us so much that he gave his only begotten son for us, walks before, with and behind each of us every day - doesn't it help to picture yourself in God's arms!!

Dear God, when life's challenges drive us to worry instead of faith - forgive us and guide us to your light of love and safety amid our storms of fear. In Jesus name, Amen.

Suzie Everingham

March 4, 2010 Psalm 25

"Show me your ways, O Lord, teach me your paths; Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day long." (v. 4-5)

Do you wonder where God is leading you? I wonder that quite often.

I'll admit I like structure as much, well, maybe more than the next guy. And I'm tempted to think that structure does not coincide with figuring out where God is leading us. That maybe we have to be open to new twists and turns God presents to find His path for us. But maybe a little structure is also part of finding our way.

Psalm 25 spoke to me about knowing God through His word. God does show us His ways, very specifically in fact, in the Bible. I don't know about you, but when I make time for God in my life, to study His word and listen to Him, life is so much more comfortable in a routine that doesn't involve making time for Him, that the path God has laid out for me feels difficult to find.

But the good news is that when we stray, or get too busy or too comfortable, God keeps calling us back. Calling us to remember His love, shown to us in Christ's death and resurrection, and to share His love.

Gracious Father, show us your ways and teach us your paths, keep calling us back to you, so that we might continue to grow in your love. Amen.

Vicki Martin

March 3, 2010 Psalm 24

"Who shall ascend the hill of the Lord? And who shall stand in his holy place? Those who have clean hands and pure hearts, who do not lift up their souls to what is false, and do not swear deceitfully." (v. 3-4)

As I read through this Psalm with the lovely, peace-filled promise of our Lord's glory, the first thing that popped into my head in answer to verse 3, was the refrain from one of my favorite hymns, "Here I Am, Lord." Verse 4 had me thinking, "not so fast, girl." I know my hands aren't always "clean" and try as I might, my heart isn't "pure." I remain in need of God's daily grace. There are so many distractions - new technology like cell phones, iPods, and Facebook and just so much noise in our lives that I cannot always find the quiet and reflective time to hear God's word and to feel his touch in my life. How can we possibly believe our souls to be deserving of a holy place?

And then... I remembered the hymn again: "All who dwell in deepest sin, my hand will save... Who will bear my light to them? Whom shall I send?" We will go, Lord - if You lead us.

Heavenly Father, this earth and all that is in it is Yours. Thank you for inviting us into Your light. Please, amid all the distractions that come our way, lift up our heads and hearts to the glory and the saving grace that we have in You. Amen.

Becky Howard

March 2, 2010 Psalm 23

"The Lord is my shepherd..." (v. 1)

When I retired ten years ago, I had no plan for where my life would go. Due to the encouragement I received from members and friends at Good Shepherd, I joined the Stephen Ministry and then took a part-time job on the church staff. I truly believe that this was the Good Shepherd leading me.

"...He leadeth me beside still waters." (v. 2)

Not only has my life been given a positive and spiritual direction, I have experienced a great deal of contentment and peace in my every day existence. I seem to be more patient and less temperamental. I feel a calmness when making decisions because I know He is beside me.

"...He restoreth my soul." (v. 3)

At a key time in my life, the Lord showed me a way to find a new and energized road to travel. This pathway has given my life real meaning and a relationship with God that I had never experienced before.

Lord, I thank you for being my Good Shepherd.

Carter Pederson

March 1, 2010 Psalm 20

"Some take pride in chariots, and some in horses, but our pride is in the name of the Lord our God." (v. 7)

I've never put my pride in chariots and horses - because I've never had chariots or horses. There was a time when I was young that having a horse sounded really exciting, but the only times I've wanted a chariot is when I was watching Ben Hur. So, what am I proud of? What are you proud of? Job? Success? House? Car? Family? Money? Accomplishments? Maybe there's a better place for my pride -- "...But our pride is in the name of the Lord our God." You are God's child. Even if everything else is taken away, you are still a child of God. Even if you lose your job, your house, your car, your money, your success, even your family, God never leaves you. Your pride is in the name of the Lord your God. May that give you strength and courage to follow.

Lord our God, help us put our pride in you and follow where you lead.

Pr. John Gerike

February 28, 2010 Psalm 105

"He is mindful of his covenant forever, of the word that he commanded for a thousand generations." (v. 8)

This lengthy Psalm is a catalog of the many events in the history of God's people, Israel, and how God remembered his promise, his agreement, his covenant with them through their long and continuing story. God's promises kept them through their journey in the wilderness and fed them when they had nothing to eat.

Our individual, family and congregational histories are marked with events where we may have wondered how we would get through; how we could survive; much like the children of Israel. Psalm 105 celebrates the fact that God holds to his promises to us. God's promise is to send a Savior who gives his life for us to show God's deep and abiding love for us that will never end. We can count on God's promise.

O Lord, thank you for your covenant promise that is forever. Amen.

Pr. Tom Schoenherr

February 27, 2010 Psalm 19

"Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable to you, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer." (v. 14)

There's a story (I'm sure I've used it in a sermon sometime) about a man who was shipwrecked. After the storm, they found him lying on top of a rock, hanging on with all his strength. They asked him "How did you do it? How did you make it through the storm?" He replied "I really couldn't do anything, but the rock didn't move at all. It kept me safe." God is our rock. In the midst of whatever life brings, God holds us tight and never lets us go. In the midst of whatever life brings, God's love guides our life. In whatever we do, may we reflect the steadfast love of God, our rock. May our words and our thoughts and our actions be a witness to the God who holds us always.

O God, our rock, hold us safe and guide us to follow you.

Pr. John Gerike

February 26, 2010 Psalm 18

I love you, O LORD, my strength. The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge. He is my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold. (v. 1-19)

HELP WANTED: Defender and protector through all life's trials and tribulations (sickness, brokenness, failure, loss, suffering...)

Job Description:
A. Rock - unyielding power to defend us
B. Fortress - create a safe haven to protect us
C. Deliverer - rescues us for all eternity
D. Shield - comes between us and harms way
E. Horn - represents all might and power
F. Stronghold - offers place of protection and refuge

Could you use a personal assistant to fit this description? Well, look no further - God has just the one in mind for you - Himself! And lucky for us, he's already filled the position. In rescuing us, He sets us free to leave behind our worry and doubt and follow Christ.

Do you ever wonder why he chose to rescue you, to defend and protect you? Verse 19 tells us, "because He delights in you!" He doesn't just love us, he DELIGHTS in us! He's got big plans for us, and He promises to be there every step of the way.

Father, thank you for being our rock. Rescue us and set us free to delight in you! Amen.

Vicki Martin

February 25, 2010 Psalm 16

Keep me safe, O God, for in you I take refuge. I said to the LORD, "You are my Lord; apart from you I have no good thing." As for the saints who are in the land, they are the glorious ones in whom is all my delight. The sorrows of those will increase who run after other gods. (v. 1-4)

You have made known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand. (v. 11)

What a wonderful reminder this Psalm is to keep God close to us, because He "keeps" us. He keeps us as only our Heavenly Father can. He keeps us safe; He gave his son on the cross to keep us safe from death. He keeps us with him; even when we are in deepest despair, He is with us. He keeps us encouraged, through our brothers and sisters in Christ. And He keeps us fed through the body and blood of Christ.

An He wants us to keep Him close, as well. When we separate ourselves from God, life certainly doesn't get easier! When we let other gods come first in our lives, we cause God pain. God wants to be close to us. He wants us to know Him intimately. He wants to fill us with joy.

Heavenly Father, thank you for keeping us close to you. Continue to remind us to keep You close, that we might know you more intimately each day and follow in Your ways. Amen.

Vicki Martin

February 24, 2010 Psalm 14

Fools say in their hearts, "There is no God." They're corrupt, they do abominable deeds; there is no one who does good." (v. 1)

I was in the third grade. One of my classmates and I were talking. I don't remember what brought it up, but he told me he didn't believe in God. I was shocked, and saddened. In my sheltered life, I thought everyone was a Christian. I just remember how sad I felt for him. How did he not know that Jesus walked with him every day. Who did he go to when he was sad, troubled, or happy? Who did he think made the world we lived in? I included him in my prayers at night, and was especially nice to him after that day. I don't remember him doing any abominable deeds; we all sin. We all fall short, even if we believe with all our hearts. We need God's saving grace through Jesus Christ. In this Lenten season, take time to remember and reflect what Jesus has done for us. Through Him we are all saved by grace.

Heavenly Father, we ask that you soften the hearts of those who don't know you, so they may feel your love and know your saving grace. Amen.

Brenda Ogroski

February 23, 2010 Psalm 10

"Why, O Lord, do you stand far off? Why do you hide yourself in times of trouble?" (v. 1)

Mother Teresa is one of my heroes. I have always been impressed with her deep, deep caring for those in need. The book of her letters released after her death shared her feeling that God was distant - that she couldn't sense God's presence. This emptiness lasted for decades. She had felt God's presence and love so strongly, and then for years all she felt was darkness and emptiness. How did she respond? She cried out to God. She sought help from her spiritual guides. And she kept on living her life of caring deeds. The good news in this Psalm doesn't come until verse 14: "But you do see! Indeed you note trouble and grief, that you may take it into your hands..." Sometimes God seems so far away. But God is there. God does see. God holds us in arms of love and sends us out to share that love.

Loving God, when we can't see you, help us continue to trust and know your love. Amen.

Pr. John Gerike

February 22, 2010 Psalm 8

"...what are human beings that you are mindful of them, mortals that you care for them? Yet you have made them a little lower than God, and crowned them with glory and honor." (v. 4-5)

Psalm 8 is devoted to praising God for creation and all that God has done to elevate human beings to be the center of that creation. God is the majestic creator and we are the ones given the responsibility to care for God's creation.

Our place in creation does not seem to give us a place of privilege, but we are created a little less than God in order that we may care for animals and people, much as God cares for all of us. In Jesus Christ, God comes to care for us and all people as he takes up the cross for us. We take up the cross to follow him in love and care for the people he calls us to serve.

O God, may we take up the cross as your people who care. Amen.

Pr. Tom Schoenherr

February 21, 2010 Psalm 130

"Out of the depths I cry to you, O Lord. Lord, hear my voice!" (v. 1-2a)

It would be nice if every day everything was perfect in every way. But we all know it doesn't work that way. There are days of great joy. There are days of great sadness. And there are days in between. For the Psalmist, it's a rough day. He is in the depths. Life is hard, each moment a struggle. He can't find his way out of deepest despair. Everything seems lost. But there is still hope. We often think we need to find our own way out of despair, but that's not how it works. We cry to God out of the depths, and God hears our voice. God loves us and draws us to life. We don't have the power to do it, but God does. On those days when you are in the depths, God is still with you. On those days when you feel hopeless, God gives hope. On those days when you feel powerless, God is your strength. God hears your voice and God never leaves you. God is your hope when you cry from the depths.

Gracious God, hear our cry and be with us always. Give us hope and life. Amen.

Pr. John Gerike

February 20, 2010 Psalm 6

Be gracious to me, O Lord, for I am languishing; O Lord, heal me, for my bones are shaking with terror. (v. 2)

This Psalm is a prayer for healing, from some sort of terrible illness or grief. I really appreciate that the Psalms show us how to pray. I often struggle with how and what to pray when someone is sick. Do I pray for complete recovery? What if the person doesn't get better, does this mean God did not hear me? In this Psalm the writer explains to God how they are feeling and then asks for healing. When praying for the sick I often pray that they feel God's presence and have peace even through the sickness. Lent is meant to be a time of preparation for the coming death and resurrection of our Lord. The joy of Easter Sunday would not exist without the sadness of Good Friday. The joy of being healthy would not be so strong without the experience of being sick.

Almighty Father, guide us as we travel through this Lenten journey together as a community of faith. Amen.

Michelle Stillwell

February 19, 2010 Psalm 4

Answer me when I pray, O God, my defender; When I was in trouble you helped me. Be kind to me now and hear my prayer. (v. 1)

Since I know I am a sinner, I sometimes wonder why God would want to listen to my prayers. This Psalm of David encourages me to continue praying because God Loves me in spite of my weaknesses, and it also reminds me that He listens. Even though I don't always get the answers I am looking for, I know He cares. That in itself is so important to me because it tells me that He loves me. When I joined the Stephen Ministry, the first and most important thing that I learned was the value of listening. It's so meaningful to a person to be able to relate their problems to someone who cares enough to listen without passing judgement. It's an act we should all strive to do more often.

Heavenly Father, help us to listen to and care for each other as You do for us. Amen.

Carter Pederson

February 18, 2010 Psalm 3

I lie down and sleep; I wake again, for the Lord sustains me. (v. 5)

The Psalmist is in trouble from enemies who taunt her saying, "There is no help for you in God." The Psalmist should be having a restless night because of all her troubles, but the Psalmist's confidence, peace and hope are in the Lord God who has sustained the Psalmist's life all along and will be there forever. Not even the huge numbers (10,000 people), nor the intensity of their anger can shake the Psalmist's trust.

As we live in this Lenten journey, we know times of restless sleep for fear of our enemies of time, danger from illness, troubles in our work, or regret over something we did or said. We can rest secure in the Lord who sustains us through the night and through all of our waking moments.

O Lord, hold us in your loving arms and give us peaceful rest in your promise. Amen.

Pr. Tom Schoenherr

February 17, 2010 Psalm 1
Happy are those who do not follow the advice of the wicked, or take the path that sinners tread, or sit in the seat of scoffers; but their delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law they mediate day and night. They are like trees planted by streams of water, which yield their fruit in its season, and their leaves do not wither. In all that they do, they prosper.(v. 1-3)

For me, this Psalm is about making choices, choosing with God's guidance as He watches over and grants us a place to prosper. As parents, we hope to be directional signs guiding our children. When they are young, our signs offer the simplest instruction: STOP, DETOUR. We then add what-to-expect signs such as: STEEP HILL or INTERSECTION AHEAD. When they are young adults, we might use more cautionary signs: a subtle BRIDGE MAY ICE IN COLD WEATHER might help with their choices. We pray that our guidance will deliver them safely to their destination. God does this for us as well. Sometimes His signs are unmistakable: a large red octagon; sometimes, more orange and cautionary.

Through prayer and reflection, we listen closely to follow His guidance and NOT to choose the path where "sinners tread." During this Lenten season, the promise of being that fruit-yielding tree sounds just glorious. His signs will get us there, we just need to follow!

Dear God, Thank you for giving us direction in our lives - through your word, your love and through the people you place in our lives. Help us to stay focused on making the right choices on our journey to You. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Becky Howard