Sunday, March 13
Lent 2 Reflection Guide – When Our Shelter is Torn Away
Opening
Who do you know that you would identify as having a comforting presence? How does that person demonstrate comfort?
Scripture
Luke 13:31-35
Scripture Reflection
For many of us, God is our safety and security, so when our safety is ripped away, it can feel like it rips God away from us in the process. Whether our homes, our churches, our communities, or our relationships have been made unsafe by violence or betrayal, feeling God’s presence can be a challenge. But we are assured that God also knows intimately that same struggle. When Jesus returned to Jerusalem, which should have been the safest and most welcoming place to the son of God, he faced suspicion, aggression, and eventually, crucifixion. Yet even in the least safe place, Jesus longs to create safety for us, gathering us in like a mother hen under her wings.
Moment of Silent Reflection
Spend one full minute in silence as you consider the scripture and reflection.
Turn to Wonder
When the Pharisees suggest that Jesus should leave, how does Jesus’ response indicate that he does not feel threatened? What does this reveal about Jesus’ mission?
Re-read Luke 13:34; Read: Isaiah 31:5, Psalm 91:4. What do we learn about Jesus’ mission and desire from these verses? What does this reveal about God’s nature?1
Read Jeremiah 22:1-5 and Psalm 118. How does Luke 13:35 seem to contain both a threat and a promise?2
How does it make you feel that no matter how much you believe you have failed or messed up, God still desires to gather you up for your protection and care?
Closing
Close your time together in a manner that is typical for you. Consider sharing joys and prayer concerns, then close in prayer.
God of Hope,
We give you thanks that you promise to never leave us or forsake us.
Help us run to you in our weakness.
Empower us to repent as people of hope
that you will redeem all situations for good.
Amen.
1Even to the wrong and unwilling, God desires to extend to them relief, protection, and care.
2The Jeremiah passage indicates a threat of desolation if there is no repentance. Psalm 118 is a psalm of victory, trusting in God’s steadfast love.