Wed., March 23: “Good soil”

Lenten Devotional 2011

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Lenten Devotional 2011How can I prepare myself to be “good soil”?

Many years ago I worked with a woman I didn’t get along with. I had lots of good reasons to dislike this woman. She made my life miserable and I nursed that resentment for years. Then one day, I realized that the anger I was carrying was hurting me more than it was hurting her. Bitterness was flavoring all the gifts God had given me, and was keeping me apart from Him. I resolved to treat the woman as I would anyone else, and the next day, I simply said “Good Morning” to her. The look of shock on her face was incredible (and admittedly gratifying), but better still was the relief I felt from having this burden of resentment lifted from me through God’s grace.

I pray that I may not be consumed by the worries of this life, but be “good soil” to receive God’s Word.

Genesis 41:18-28
Psalm 72
1 Corinthians 5:6-6:8
Mark 4:1-20

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In this week’s newsletter, Mother Liz celebrates Earth Month alongside Eastertide, noting how resurrection speaks not only to humanity but to “the groaning of the whole creation” and God’s determination to make all things new. She observes that when Mary Magdalene mistakes the risen Christ for a gardener, we glimpse the deep interconnection of all beings—and when we touch creation’s wounds with reverence and compassion, we meet God. Quoting Robin Wall Kimmerer, the rector reminds us that “when we work to heal the earth, the earth heals us,” and invites us to deepen our love and commitment to our fragile, beautiful planet.

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