Dealing With Rejection

 Scripture: Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18  •  Psalm 27  • Philippians 3:17-4:1  •  Luke 13:31-35 or Luke 9:28-36, (37-43a)      

As Jesus makes his way to Jerusalem, some Pharisees warn him that Herod wants to kill him. Why do you think they warned Jesus, and what was his response? Jesus follows with his lament over the city of Jerusalem. Compare images of the power of the Romans and Herod, and that of a mother hen protecting her chicks. Of conquest by force, and conquest by loving sacrifice.

The Rev. Kory Wilcoxson discusses "rejection," "broken-heartedness," "perseverance," and "protection and feeling need for protection," recurrent themes in our Lenten reflections, in "Keep on Going."

What are the stones that pave Jerusalem which Jesus laments? What are the stones thrown that not only killed the prophets, but our very souls and spirits, and which keep us from being in relationship with God and each other?  See "The Road to Jerusalem is Paved With the Stones of Rejection," by The Rev. Michael K. Marsh.

As we read and hear of world events today, especially with the algorithms of social media feeding anger, division, and alienation, we ask will the world be a better place for our children and grandchildren? In "God's Hidden Work in theWorld, "" The Rev. Ben Helmer reflects on Paul's letter to the Philippians and promises made to Abraham, and to us through the prophets and Jesus. He discusses some best practices that help us to connect with God's promises to help us connect with God's promises as we wait the day of Christ's coming in glory.

In, "I Have Longed,"Debie Thomas tells us we are invited to embrace our vulnerability, lament, and return in this second week of Lent. What does she mean?