March 28, 2025

Abundant Grace

Herb Mather | Read 2 Corinthians 5:16-21

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Lectionary Week

March 24–30, 2025

Scripture Overview

Lent is a time for focusing on our need for God and remembering God’s abundant resources for filling that need. When the Israelites finally pass into Canaan, they observe the Passover as a reminder of God’s deliverance of them from Egypt. The psalmist, traditionally David, rejoices in the fact that God does not count his sins against him. Paul declares that through Christ, God has made everything new. God no longer holds our sins against us, and we in turn appeal to others to accept this free gift. Jesus eats with sinners and tells the story of the prodigal son to demonstrate that no matter how far we stray, God will always welcome us home with open arms. God never stops pursuing us, even if we feel unloved or unworthy.

Questions and Suggestions for Reflection

• Read Joshua 5:9-12. What stories do you tell about your faith? What do these stories help you remember?
• Read Psalm 32. When have you hidden from God? When has God been your hiding place?
• Read 2 Corinthians 5:16-21. How does your life display for others that life in Christ eliminates worldly identity labels?
• Read Luke 15:1-3, 11b-32. Do you identify with the prodigal son, the elder son, or the father in the parable? Are you ready to rejoin God’s household on God’s terms? Are you ready to welcome everyone home?

Respond by posting a prayer.

Juanita had just returned from a department store and was obviously steaming when she stormed into my office. “How can a woman six feet tall be invisible?” she asked. Clerks had assisted other customers but seemed unable to see her. Other customers were White. Juanita was Black.
A planning committee...

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Reconciling God, open our eyes and hearts to those who are invisible from a worldly point of view so all may join in the foretaste of your heavenly banquet. Amen.

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