The Second Week of Easter: From FEAR to WORTH
STEP ONE: BREATHE
Take a deep, cleansing breath. Allow the air to fill your lungs and expand your body. Exhale and empty yourself into the room. Repeat three times - once for the one who Created you, once for the Incarnate One who walks beside you, and once for the Spirit whose life fills your being.
STEP TWO: DWELL IN WORD
“And do not keep striving for what you are to eat and what you are to drink, and do not keep worrying. 30 For it is the nations of the world that strive after all these things, and your Father knows that you need them. 31 Instead, strive for his kingdom, and these things will be given to you as well.”
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FEAR NOT - Some things to try out
Ending each week of this devotional, there will be a collection of practical suggestions on how you can FEAR NOT. As pastors we know the importance of bringing the abstract ideas of faith down to earth. What can I do in the face of fears? Here are a few suggestions from the pastors who wrote this week’s devotions. Try them out. Allow them to spark other ideas within yourself.
“During this quarantine we have had time to go through the hoarded stuff in the basement. Certainly that stuff that we don’t use any more adds no real worth. We are letting go of stuff that we might not have been ready to part with without this wake up reminder of what really matters. Giving things away feels good.”
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“Take time to notice the birds, the plants, the sky… etc…Even our bird feeders - God feeding through our own hands” ”
“Think about your most precious treasure. What is it? What memories are associated with it? Did someone special give it to you? Did you earn or win it? Is it an heirloom or something brand new? How does this treasure make you feel? Proud. Special. Nervous. Beloved. Does it free you or trap you as you seek to love others? Now think of your most valued relationship. With whom do you have this connection? What memories and stories do you share? How does this person make you feel? When was the last time you let them know?” ”
“Do you have things others need more? You know, those things you planned to do something with, but haven’t? Even if you don’t sew, do you have 100% cotton fabric, elastic, and/or shoelaces that a sewer you know can use to make masks? Have you found an extra package of toilet paper you can give to your local food shelf?” ”
STEP THREE: PRAY
God of birds, flowers, and me, thank you for your constant care and concern for all creation. Give me the wisdom to appreciate the worth that is found in everything and everyone you made. Let me celebrate your many wonders and treasure them all in my heart. Through Jesus, amen.
Today’s prayer is by Pastor Walt Lichtenberger