Third Sunday in Lent

Rooted in God as a Call to Humility

Exodus 20:1–17
John 2:13–22

by Lyn Rush

“I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of slavery; you shall have no other gods before me.”

Exodus 20:2–3

Last year, I began my work as a Young Disciples Ministry director where I can spark faith and as our curriculum title said “Spark: Activate Faith.” I was still recovering from long-haul COVID, and it had taken such a toll on my lungs that my pulmonologist advised me not to work, especially around germ carriers. However, I was determined to see God at work again in my life. I continue to trust and surrender it to our Creator God to let me live and be well again. I uphold Exodus 20:2, “I am the Lord your God.” I am grateful and talked with my family about attending church life again, putting aside the rest my doctor advised me. I am grateful for the flexible grace-filled work life at the church.

In our Young Disciples Ministry, the power of God is apparent when we fully acknowledge the presence of one another. For example, in this post-pandemic time, our youth assistants stepped up for our Sunday school and parents are helping, as well as other church leaders to participate in the faith development of our younger generations.

In my past missionary life, God was always at the center whether I experienced culture shock or testing of faith, personal growth, or nurturing communities. So, in my ministry as a Young Disciple Ministry director, I encourage and recognize the need to draw near to God. Today, let us claim the first commandment to love and uphold God in the highest as a crucial call to humility, continue to breathe, practice mindful rest, look around to serve, and look up in the sky acknowledging our wonderful life with our Creator. I am hopeful with the Holy Spirit beyond time and space.

Prayer: God of wonder, we give you thanks that you claimed us as your beloved children. Guide us and protect us from all harm. We trust and surrender all to you, our Redeemer. Amen.

Lyn Rush is a first-generation Filipino immigrant currently serving the Young Disciples Ministry director at Vancouver First UMC, Vancouver, Washington.

Photograph is from the 2024 Prayer Guide.