Lent
March 28, 2018
Scripture Reading: Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24
O give thanks to the Lord, for he is good;
his steadfast love endures forever!
Let Israel say,
‘His steadfast love endures forever.’
The Lord is my strength and my might;
he has become my salvation. –Psalm 118:1-2, 14
Salvation is for today and as well as tomorrow. “Things may be tough now, but you be a good slave and you will get your reward in heaven.” This was an acceptable theology of the 18th and mid-19th century in the USA. Salvation always removes shackles that lock people into lives of futility.
Christ’s salvation for many today frees people from bondage we wrap around ourselves from addictions to greed, hatred to violence, low self-esteem to narcissism. Christ’s salvation engages all to be doers of justice tearing downs walls that separate and divide. Christ’s salvation enables the Kingdom of God’s full fruition where all have enough, and an abundant life is defined by the depth of our loving and being loved.
Our world is caught in a chaos of its own making leaving many perplexed and feeling helpless. We await the Resurrection of Christ once again as a reminder that our salvation arrived some 2000 years ago in the person of Jesus, who offered his very life for our salvation. He is with us today, every day, and forever. Jesus said:
‘There will be signs in the sun, the moon, and the stars, and on the earth distress among nations confused by the roaring of the sea and the waves. People will faint from fear and foreboding of what is coming upon the world, for the powers of the heavens will be shaken. Then they will see “the Son of Man coming in a cloud” with power and great glory. Now when these things begin to take place, stand up and raise your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.’ (Luke 21:25-28)
Jesus also said:
‘Now we know that you know all things, and do not need to have anyone question you; by this we believe that you came from God.’ Jesus answered them, ‘Do you now believe? The hour is coming, indeed it has come, when you will be scattered, each one to his home, and you will leave me alone. Yet I am not alone because the Father is with me. I have said this to you, so that in me you may have peace. In the world you face persecution. But take courage; I have conquered the world!’ (John 16:30-33)
Prayer: Lord, as we once again remember your death and resurrection help us also remember the constancy of your presence and the power of your love. Amen.