There was a pharisee named Nicodemus and he was curious about this rabbi...so begins our gospel lesson this Sunday.

The lectionary readings for the 2nd Sunday in Lent are: Genesis 12:1–4a; Psalm 121 (UMH 844); Romans 4:1–5, 13–17; John 3:1–17

Julia M Conley
Retired
Midland South District

Psalm 121:1-2      
I will lift up my eyes to the hills, from whence does my help come? 
My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth. 

I will. . .            

           Not I could, or I might, or I ought, but I will.

            A declarative sentence.   

            I have a choice.

            I will choose to walk with God.

Lift up my eyes. . . .

            Change my point of view,         

            Look past my own needs.

            Gaze above the easy way,

            Beyond the wide road.                

To the hills. . . .

            Lord, your beautiful, rugged highlands!

            Mountains that symbolize

            Opportunities, challenges, barriers;

            Both beckon and dare me to ascend. 

From whence does my help come? 

            I grow weary with this journey, 

            My meager strength falls short. 

            I have leaned on others (Praise God for friends!)

            But earthly efforts are not enough. 

My help comes from the LORD. . . .

            Source of my life, guide on my journey

            All nature proclaims your power.   

            Why do I wait to turn to you? 

            When will I realize that you walk beside me? 

Who made heaven and earth. 

            No random path is set before me.

            The Lord of the Universe has created a space for me,

            Here in this place, and someday in the life to come. 

            I need only to lift my eyes.    

Prayer

O Lord, as I walk this journey of Lent, help me remember that you are my Savior, my Strength, and Creator of the Universe.  Remind me to lift my eyes and trust in You.  Amen

Julia M. Conley