2016 Belmont University Lenten GuideSample

There are times where the world seems to be crashing in and the unthinkable happens. If you have ever been in a place where you longed for God to rescue you the words in Psalm 70 bring comfort. “Hasten, O God to save me; come quickly, Lord, to help me… may all who seek you rejoice and be glad in you; may those who long for your help always say “The Lord is great!” But as for me, I am poor and needy; come quickly to me, O God. You are my help and my deliverer; Lord, do not delay.” The psalmist reminds us that the story of the Hebrews is our story too. Life has ups and downs. There are times of joy and times of sorrow. Life brings both triumphs and heartaches. The words reflect anxiety in the midst of difficulty. Heartache filled with pain. Read closely for the words reveal one who holds on to hope believing that God will come to the rescue. Like the Hebrews we wait for one to deliver us. Imagine you are present with the disciples and early followers of Jesus at the time of his arrest and trial. The world comes crashing in and the unthinkable happens as Jesus is convicted and crucified before your eyes. While you hope for a different future, all seems lost. The questions are never ending and what was certain now seems impossible. In your confusion you witness the followers of Jesus holding on to the words of Jesus for there must be more. You wait for God to come to the rescue. Here’s hoping today is bright, filled with all possibility. For you, life is all you hope for and your dreams are being realized. Then take time to celebrate and whisper a prayer of gratitude to God. May you live in the moment and encourage others today. Who knows, one of the people who crosses your path today may long for God to come to the rescue. Listen with your heart and speak words of compassion. On the other hand, if today is one where you’re anxious and life seems uncertain, then hold on to hope. As you wait on God to deliver, choose to trust and your anxiety dissipates. Peace will guide your thoughts. As you wait, be glad and speak of God’s greatness for He is relentless and He will rescue you. SCOTT ALLEN Lecturer College of Theology & Christian Ministry