A Forty-Day Lent Journey to the Cross

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 FORWORD

Dear Presbyterians,
Dear brothers and sisters in the Christ .

Greetings in the name of the Holy Triune God. This is the last foreword
I am writing for the booklet,“ A Forty- Day Lent Journey to the Cross”
. My time is getting closer and closer; something I look forward to with
excitement and confidence about the future of our Church. I thank God
who strongly laid on my mind to initiate the collective observance of
the Lent as a people and as a Church through the use of a common
spiritual guide. Through this daily guide, Lent services became a daily
practice, unlike before where the emphasis was on the Holy Week.
For each of the nine to ten years of my tenure; we have produced this
booklet to enable all Presbyterians observe the forty days of Lent with
passion and complete devotion. The Lent booklet written in simple
style and free prose offered every Presbyterian Christian adequate
spiritual information to pray and fast. For forty days; Presbyterians
commit themselves to fast, pray and offer alms. The booklet contains
the “Lent Challenge”. The Lent Challenge provides extra material to
keep the Christian spiritually engaged throughout the day in the Lent
season. It is usually very difficult to measure spirituality; but without
fear of contradiction and with humility; I can discern that the peace
we enjoyed often during those troublesome periods of our Church’s
life were solaced by our common Lent prayers. In addition; the great
leap in our congregational diaconal resources and overall stewardship
is the result of the forty days spiritual preparations. Some people have
doubted our spirituality, they have a right to their opinion; but as one
whom the Lord used to lead this Church in the collective forty days
prayer and fasting; I say with honour to God that our common successes
and collective resilience is as a result of our common prayers during
the forty days of Lent, Hence a mark of our spirituality . Indeed, no

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church can run itself only by money and human acumen. Try and you
will fail. Prayer works wonders. I believe the Lent booklet and its
collective observance shall be one of my lasting legacies, to God be
the glory.

Let me use this opportunity to thank our team for supplying the Church
with this jewel; “A Forty- Day Lent Journey to the Cross”. May God
reward you immensely.

As I write this last foreword, my recommendation is simple,

“Lent is a time of going very deeply into ourselves… What is it
that stands between us and God? Between us and our brothers and
sisters? Between us and life, the life of the Spirit? Whatever it is, let
us relentlessly tear it out, without a moment’s hesitation” (Catherine
Doherty).

“The ashes of a black cross on people’s foreheads symbolize our grief

for our sins and differentiating imperfect people from a perfect God”.
“Therefore I despise myself and repent in dust and ashes” (Job 42:5-
6).
PCC Fast:.” Fasting cleanses the soul, raises the mind, subjects one’s
flesh to the spirit, renders the heart contrite and humble scatters the
clouds of concupiscence, quenches the fire of lust, kindles the true
light of chastity.’’ - Saint Augustine.

PCC Pray: “For many grow languid in praying; and in the freshness of
their conversion they pray fervently, afterwards languidly, afterwards
coldly, afterwards negligently; they become, as it were, careless. The
enemy is awake; you are sleeping. Our Lord Himself, in the Gospel,
gave us the precept, ‘that men ought always to pray, and not to faint.’”
— St. Augustine

PCC give Alms:” No act of virtue can be great if it is not followed by

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advantage for others. So, no matter how much time you spend fasting,
no matter how much you sleep on a hard floor and eat ashes and sigh
continually, if you do no good to others, you do nothing great.” —
John Chrysostom

May the outcome of this Lent 2024 season inspire Rejuvenation across
our beloved Church. May our fasting restrain our gullibilities in the
quest for power and position as the elections draw nearer. Let our
prayers produce for us God chosen leaders.

May our almsgiving perfect our fast as intimated in Isaiah 58. Beside
alms; let us be rich in our stewardship to keep the Church going.

Fasting strengthens prayers, so my hope is that our strengthened and

prevailing prayers would make a difference as we seek justice, peace,
equity and fairness in Cameroon. Let us be united in spirit and purpose
that this year shall mark the end of extreme brutality and fatalities in
the socio-economic-political crisis in the North West and the South
West regions.

Lest I forget, pray for the National Pastors Retreat in the weeks ahead,
equally pray for their marriages, an area the devil is using to demean
the integrity of Pastors and slacken the pastoral voice.

The Synod Clerk and I are praying alongside you in your aspirations
and longing for the presence of God. I wish you a rich and inspiring
journey to the cross, then to the tomb and at last to the resurrection
morning.

Yours for the sake of the faith.

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 PREFACE

The Moderator of the Presbyterian Church in Cameroon (PCC), the

Rt. Rev. Dr. Fonki Samuel Forba has written an instructive foreword,
in which he emphasizes some very pertinent prayer points during this
season. Those prayer points should be added to the prayers which
come after the daily meditations.

There is a rich introductory literature about the Lent season from the
classics at the start of this booklet; it tells you everything you need to
know about Lent.

This booklet serves as a devotional manual with resources for personal

and collective devotions. This year, we have separated the Liturgy
for Ash Wednesday from day one of the Lent Season. We have
followed the texts in the Daily Bible Readings and Dairy for 2024 for
the meditations. The first Bible reading of the day is the text for the
meditation. The two other Bible readings is a verse by verse reading
of two biblical books. Keep yourself busy by following those readings
as your daily Lent Season activity. It would not be enough to get up
in the morning and do a meditation then stay unoccupied throughout
the day. We have used varied prayer resources to compile some of the
prayers in this booklet. Kindly observe the request for extemporaneous
prayers. The Lent challenge is an exciting exercise; prayerfully make
up your mind and practically drop 40 habits/attitudes; one per day
throughout the Lent Season.

We immensely thank the contributors to this year’s Lent booklet:

Dr. Lyonga Kharim-Charles (Medical Dr./YP Teacher PC Bastos -
Yaoundé).
Rev. Alota Victorine, PC Bambili.
Rev. Ngole Peter, PC Ekounou.

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Rev. Otia Joseph, PC CCAST Complex.
Rev. Elvis Shu Fon, PC Muea
Rev. Dr Tabi Pascaline, PC Molyko
Rev. Ngimbus Carolyn, PC Ekounou-Bertoua.
We enormously thank the Moderator for using us and other previous
contributors as part of his team for the Lent booklet [Link]
contribution of Presprint, Limbe has been and is invaluable.
We apologize for all the lapses, imperfection is a reality of our
humanity.

Every Blessings.
Yours by His Grace,
Rev. Emmanuel B. Masok
The Secretary, Committee of the Ministry.
January 15, 2024

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 WHAT IS LENT?

The death and resurrection of Jesus Christ are at the very heart of
Christianity. The good news of the gospel is that God has acted in history
to conquer evil and reconcile sinners to himself through the life, death,
and resurrection of Jesus Christ. For those who have been united with
this Jesus Christ who have submitted to Him as savior and Lord have
been united with Him in the likeness of His death and will one day be
united with Him in the likeness of His resurrection (Rom. 6:5). Lent,
therefore, is about living out our union with, and identity in, Christ. Lent
is first and foremost about the gospel making its way deeper into our
lives. On the Christian calendar, Lent (from Latin, meaning “fortieth”)
is the forty days beginning on Ash Wednesday, and leading up to Easter
Sunday. Sundays themselves are not counted in these forty days, as
they are generally set aside as days of renewal and celebration (“mini-
Easters” of sorts). The number forty carries great biblical significance
based on: the forty days of rain Noah and his family endured in the
flood, the forty years Israel spent in the wilderness, Jesus’ forty-day
fast in the wilderness, the forty days Jesus spent on the earth after his
resurrection, and so much more. Forty days has been used by God to
represent a period of trial. Testing, and preparation. Likewise, Lent is
a season of preparation and repentance, during which we anticipate the
death (on Good Friday) and resurrection (on Easter Sunday) of Jesus
Christ. It is this very preparation and repentance – aimed at grasping
the intense significance of the crucifixion – that gives us a deep and
powerful longing for the resurrection, the joy of Easter.

As the title of this devotional suggests, Lent is a journey to the cross:

meditating on our sin and weakness, looking to Jesus as our perfect
example and substitute, and being heightened in our worship of his
victory over Satan, sin, and death. On the cross, Jesus took our place
to appease God’s righteous anger toward our sin and rebellion. He

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was separated from God so that we could experience union with God.
He was crushed by God so that we could be adopted by God. He was
raised with God so that we too might be raised with God. The drama
of how this unfolded is the story of Lent. The Journey of Lent is to
immerse ourselves in this grand story so that it might increase our
appreciation of Easter and love for Jesus. May we mourn the darkness
in our hearts and rejoice in the light of God who came into the world
to save us!
(Culled from A Forty Day journey to the Cross, 2019).

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 LENT LIFE

Ash Wednesday
“Ash Wednesday, with its visible sign of dust and ashes on our
foreheads, is a forcible reminder of our own frailty and mortality and
sinfulness. We don’t like to remember those parts of ourselves, but on
this day, it is literally rubbed onto us.” – Paul J. Willis

Lent
1. “Think upon something ordinary that you do every day, and think
about God while doing it, in a way that ties into what you’re do-
ing. Or think of a place you come to regularly, and each time think
where Christ might be in this place, what Christ might do there,
or what you might be led to do for Christ”. – John Wesley, A Plain
Account of Christian Perfection:
2. “Lent is a time for discipline, for confession, for honesty, not be-
cause God is mean or fault-finding or finger-pointing but because
he wants us to know the joy of being cleaned out, ready for all the
good things he now has in store”. – N.T. Wright
3. “Lent is a fitting time for self-denial; we would do well to ask
ourselves what we can give up in order to help and enrich others
by our own poverty. Let us not forget that real poverty hurts: no
self-denial is real without this dimension of penance. I distrust a
charity that costs nothing and does not hurt.” – Pope Francis
4. “If the invitation of Lent is to practice abstaining from something
to focus more fully on who God is and how God is at work in
the world, then I need to fast from my dependence on criticism.”
Megan Westra
5. “I imagine Lent for you and for me as a great departure from the
greedy, anxious anti-neighbourliness of our economy, a great

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 departure from our exclusionary politics that fears the other, a
great departure from self-indulgent consumerism that devours
creation. And then an arrival in a new neighbourhood, because it
is a gift to be simple, it is a gift to be free; it is a gift to come down
where we ought to be.” Walter Brueggemann
6. “Lenten practices of giving up pleasures are good reminders
that the purpose of life is not pleasure. The purpose of life is to
attain to perfect life, all truth and undying ecstatic love – which
is the definition of God. In pursuing that goal, we find happiness.
Pleasure is not the purpose of anything; pleasure is a by-product
resulting from doing something that is good. One of the best ways
to get happiness and pleasure out of life is to ask ourselves, ‘How
can I please God?” and, ‘Why am I not better?” It is the pleasure-
seeker who is bored, for all pleasures diminish with repetition.”
– Fulton J. Sheen
7. “Before the time of the saving Cross, sin ruled over all the earth,
impiety prevailed, people revelled in the pleasures of the flesh.
But since the Mystery of the Cross was accomplished and the
torture of demons was destroyed by the knowledge of God, the
heavenly life of virtue has reigned upon the earth. Therefore,
the Fast is honoured! Abstinence shines in splendour! Prayer is
strengthened! The Lenten season testifies to these things, given to
us by our God, the crucified Christ, for the salvation of our souls.”
Ancient Liturgical Lenten Hymns:
Fasting
1. “Devils take great delight in fullness, and drunkenness and bodily
comfort. Fasting possesses great power and it works glorious
things. To fast is to banquet with angels.” St. Athanasius the Great
2. “One should not think about the doings of God when one’s
stomach is full; on a full stomach there can be no vision of the

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 mysteries.” St. Seraphim of Sarov, “The Spiritual Instructions to
Laymen and Monks”
3. “It is necessary for a Christian to fast, in order to clear his mind.
To rouse and develop his feelings, and to stimulate his will to
useful activity. These three human capabilities we darken and
stifle above all by ‘surfeiting, and drunkenness, and cares of this
life (Lk. 21.34).” St. John of Kronstadt, My Life in Christ
4. “The grace of abstinence has shone forth, banishing the darkness
of demons. The power of the Fast disciplines our minds. Lent
brings the cure to our crippling worldliness. Daniel and the three
children in Babylon were strengthened by fasting; one stopped
the mouths of lions, while the others extinguished the flames of
the furnace. As Thou saved them, save us also, O Christ our God,
for Thou art the Lover of mankind.” Ancient Liturgical Lenten
Hymns:
5. “Soul, in vain do you rejoice in not eating! For you abstain from
food, but you are not purified of passions. If you are not purified
of passions, if you have no desire for improvement, you will be
spurned as an untruth in the eyes of God. You will be likened to
evil demons who also never eat! If you persevere in sin, you will
perform a useless fast; Therefore, engage in constant striving so
that you may stand before the Crucified Saviour, or rather, may be
Crucified with Him Who was crucified for your sake.”
6. “Fasting makes sense if it questions our security, and if it also
leads to some benefit for others, if it helps us to cultivate the style
of the Good Samaritan, who bends down to his brother in need and
takes care of him. Fasting involves choosing a sober lifestyle; a
way of life that does not waste, a way of life that does not “throw
away”. Fasting helps us to attune our hearts to the essential and to
sharing”. Pope Francis, Homily, 5th March 2014

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7. “Fasting cleanses the soul, raises the mind, subjects one’s flesh to
the spirit, renders the heart contrite and humble scatters the clouds
of concupiscence, quenches the fire of lust, kindles the true light
of chastity.” St. Augustine
8. “Let us fast an acceptable and very pleasing fast to the Lord. True
fast is the estrangement from evil, temperance of tongue, absti-
nence from anger, separation from desires, slander, falsehood.
And perjury. Privation of these is true fasting.” Basil the Great:
9. “Let us enter the Fast with joy, O faithful. Let us not be sad. Let
us cleanse our faces with the waters of dispassion, blessing and
exalting Christ forever.”
10. “Let us begin the Fast with joy. Let us give ourselves to spiritual
efforts. Let us cleanse our souls. Let us cleanse our flesh. Let us
fast from passions as we fast from foods, taking pleasure in the
good works of the Spirit and accomplishing them in love that we
all may be made worthy to see the passion of Christ our God and
His Holy Pascha, rejoicing with spiritual joy.” Ancient Liturgical
Lenten Hymns:
Self-denial
1. “Self-denial means knowing only Christ, and no longer oneself.
It means seeing only Christ, who goes ahead of us, and no longer
the path that is too difficult for us… Self-denial is saying only: He
goes ahead of us; hold fast to him.” – Dietrich Bonhoeffer
2. “Gag your mind, over busy with its private concerns, and thor-
oughly prone to criticize and condemn your brother, by the practi-
cal means of showing your neighbour all love and sympathy.” (St.
John of the Ladder)
3. “Curb your tongue with rages to leap into arguments. Seventy
times seven in the day wrestle with this tyrant.” (St. John of the
Ladder)

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Repentance
1. “The door of divine repentance has been opened. Let us enter
with fervour, having cleansed our bodies, observing abstinence
from foods and passions in obedience to Christ who has called the
whole world to His heavenly kingdom, offering to the Master of
all this tithe of the year that we may look with love upon His Holy
Resurrection." Ancient Liturgical Lenten Hymns:
2. It is not repentance that saves me; repentance is the sign that I
realize what God has done in Christ Jesus. – Oswald Chambers
3. There is no justification without sanctification, no forgiveness
without renewal of life, no real faith from which the fruits of new
obedience do not grow. – Martin Luther
4. “All that a Christian does, even in eating and sleeping, is prayer.
When it is done in simplicity, according to the order of God,
without either adding to or diminishing from it by his own choice.”
John Wesley, from A Plain Account of Christian Perfection:
5. “The devil wishes to assure some people that there’s no need for
repentance, and others that there’s no hope for mercy. Some people
are deceived into thinking they are too good for the gospel while
others are accused into thinking they are too bad for the gospel.”
– Russell D. Moore
Forgiveness
“God never tires of forgiving us: we are the ones who tire of seeking
his mercy.” – Pope Francis
Grace
“The Grace of the Lord has shone forth, the grace which illumines our
souls. This is the acceptable time; the time of repentance is here. Let
us put aside the works of darkness; let us put on the armor of light, that
passing through Lent as through a great sea we may reach the third-

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day Resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Saviour of our souls.”
Ancient Liturgical Lenten Hymns:
Prayer
1. As for our great King, when we venture into His presence, let us
have a purpose there. Let us beware of playing at praying; it is
insolence toward God.” -Charles Spurgeon.
2. “O Lord and Master of my life, take from me the spirit of sloth,
faintheartedness, lust of power and idle talk. But give rather the
spirit of chastity, humility, patience and love to Thy servant. Yea,
O Lord and King, grant me to see my own errors and not to judge
my brother, for Thou art blessed from all ages to all ages. Amen.”
Ephrem the Syrian:
3. “Prayer is reaching out after the unseen; fasting is letting go of all
that is seen and temporal. Fasting helps express, deepen, confirm
the resolution that we are ready to sacrifice anything, even our-
selves to attain what we seek for the kingdom of God.” Andrew
Murray
4. Lord Jesus, you are my righteousness, I am your sin. You took on
you what was mine; yet set on me what was yours. You became
what you were not, that I might become what I was not. – Martin
Luther
5. “If I fail to spend two hours in prayer each morning, the devil gets
the victory through the day. I have so much business I cannot get
on without spending three hours daily in prayer. – Martin Luther
6. “O Lord, make this Lenten season different from the other ones.
Let me find you again. Amen.” – Henri Nouwen.

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 TABLE OF CONTENTS

FOREWORD..................................................................................... iii
PREFACE.......................................................................................... vi
WHAT IS LENT?............................................................................ viii
LENT LIFE..................................................................................... x m
Ash Wednesday Liturgy...................................................................... 1
Day 1: Wednesday, February 14 (Ash Wednesday)........................... 7
Day 2: Thursday, February 15.......................................................... 11
Day 3: Friday, February 16............................................................... 14
Day 4: Saturday, February 17........................................................... 17
Day 5: Monday, February 19............................................................ 20
Day 6: Tuesday, February 20............................................................ 22
Day 7: Wednesday, February 21....................................................... 24
Day 8: Thursday, February 22.......................................................... 26
Day 9: Friday, February 23............................................................... 28
Day 10: Saturday, February 24......................................................... 30
Day 11: Monday, February 26.......................................................... 33
Day 12: Tuesday, February 27.......................................................... 35
Day 13: Wednesday, February 28..................................................... 38
Day 14: Thursday, February 29........................................................ 41
Day 15: Friday, March 1................................................................... 44
Day 16: Saturday, March 2............................................................... 47

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Day 17: Monday, March 4................................................................ 51
Day 18: Tuesday, March 5................................................................ 54
Day 19: Wednesday, March 6........................................................... 56
Day 20: Thursday, March 7.............................................................. 59
Day 21: Friday, March 8................................................................... 62
Day 22: Saturday, March 9............................................................... 64
Day 23: Monday, March 11.............................................................. 67
Day 24: Tuesday, March 12.............................................................. 69
Day 25: Wednesday, March 13......................................................... 71
Day 26: Thursday, March 14............................................................ 73
Day 27: Friday, March 15................................................................. 75
Day 28: Saturday, March 16............................................................. 77
Day 29: Monday, March 18.............................................................. 79
Day 30: Tuesday, March 19.............................................................. 82
Day 31: Wednesday, March 20......................................................... 84
Day 32: Thursday, March 21............................................................ 86
Day 33: Friday, March 22................................................................. 89
Day 34: Saturday, March 23............................................................. 91
Day 35: Monday, March 25.............................................................. 93
Day 36: Tuesday, March 26.............................................................. 96
Day 37: Wednesday, March 27......................................................... 98
Day 38: Thursday, March 28 (Holy Thursday)............................... 100
Day 39: Friday, March 29 (Good Friday)....................................... 102
Day 40: Saturday, March 30 (Holy Saturday)................................ 104

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 Ash Wednesday Liturgy

The Salutation
Pastor : In the name of God the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit.
Congr : Amen.
Pastor : The grace and peace of God our Father and the Lord Jesus
Christ be with you all.
Congr. : And also with you.
Pastor : Our help is in the name of the Lord.
Congr. : Who Made heaven and earth.

The Invitation
The Pastor now reads the invitation and inserts the special sentence

The Opening Hymn

Hymn: CHB 229

A Penitential Psalm and Prayer

Pastor: Let us pray with Ps. 27:4-5 & 13-14
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
Congr.: As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be, world
without end. Amen.
Pastor: Let us continue to pray.
Holy and merciful God, we pray for your help in the power
of your Spirit, so that we can amend our lives and grow more
each day into the image of Christ. We confess that we do
not follow Jesus in all that we do. We love with condition.
Forgive our sins, and empower us to be imitators of Christ in
love and service, through the same Jesus Christ we pray.
Congr.: Amen.
Hymn: CHB 306

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Prayer of the Day
Pastor: Let us pray.
Lord God Almighty, teach us how to align our hearts with
yours. We choose to seek your face during this period of
Lent. Let pursuing you be the only goal in our lives even
in busy and stressful times. Open our hearts to receive your
revelation, through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord, who
lives and reigns together with you, O Father, in the unity of
the Holy Spirit, one God for ever and ever.
Congr.: Amen.

The Proclamation of the Word of the Lord

After reading a passage from the Bible, the Pastor gives an exhortation
or address

1st Lesson: Jl. 2: 12-19

2nd Lesson: 2Cor. 7:6-11
Pastor: Our text for meditation comes from 2Pt. 1:2-11
This is the word of the Lord!
Congr.: Thanks be to God.

Hymn: CHB 242

The Preparation of the Penitents
Pastor: The Pastor now reads two passages from the Gospels
concerning the authority given by Jesus Christ to pronounce
the forgiveness of sins in the name of the Holy Triune God.
Then he/she continues to say: Beloved in the Lord, as we
cannot know all our sins by ourselves except through the
word of God, let us listen to his commandments: God said all
these words: I am the Lord your God; you shall have no other
gods but me.
Congr.: Lord, have mercy upon us, and incline our hearts to keep this
law.

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Pastor: You shall not make for yourself a carved image, or any
picture of anything that is in heaven above, or that is in the
earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth; you shall
not bow down to them and worship them; for I the Lord your
God am a jealous God.
Congr: Lord, have mercy upon us, and incline our hearts to keep this
law.
Pastor: You shall not make wrong use of the name of the Lord your
God; for the Lord will not leave unpunished anyone who
misuses his name.
Congr.: Lord, have mercy upon us, and incline our hearts to keep this
law.
Pastor: Remember the Lord’s Day to keep it holy.
Congr.: Lord, have mercy upon us, and incline our hearts to keep this
law.
Pastor: Honour your father and your mother.
Congr.: Lord, have mercy upon us, and incline our hearts to keep this
law.
Pastor: You shall not kill.
Congr.: Lord, have mercy upon us, and incline our hearts to keep this
law.
Pastor: You shall not commit adultery.
Congr.: Lord, have mercy upon us, and incline our hearts to keep this
law.
Pastor: You shall not steal.
Congr.: Lord, have mercy upon us, and incline our hearts to keep this
law.
Pastor: You shall not bear false witness against your neighbour.
Congr.: Lord, have mercy upon us, and incline our hearts to keep this
law.

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Pastor: You shall not desire your neighbour’s house,
You shall not desire your neighbour’s wife, or anything that
is your neighbour’s
Congr.: Lord, have mercy upon us, and incline our hearts to keep this
law.
Pastor: Let us listen to Christ’s summary of the commandments of
God:
The Pastor now reads Christ’s summary of the commandments from
the Gospel according to St. Matthew.
Then he/she continues:
Pastor: If we say we have committed no sin, we deceive ourselves,
and there is no truth in us. But if we confess our sins to God,
we can trust him, for he does what is right, he will forgive us
our sins and make us clean from all our wrong doing. (1 Jn.
1: 8-9)
Therefore, let us now examine ourselves, and make our
humble confession to almighty God in silence.

Hymn: CHB 489

The Confession
Silence is kept for private confession of sins
After a considerable time of silence, the pastor prays a prayer of
general confession of sins
Pastor: Amen.
Pastor: Lord, have mercy upon us.
Congr.: Lord, have mercy upon us.
Pastor: Christ, have mercy upon us.
Congr.: Christ, have mercy upon us.
Pastor: Lord, have mercy upon us.
Congr.: Lord, have mercy upon us.

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Now all stand
Pastor: Before Almighty God, I ask each one of you: Do you, with
me, confess that you have sinned and do you repent of your
sins?
Congr: Yes, I do.
Pastor: Do you desire forgiveness of your sins in the name of Jesus
Congr: Christ? Yes, I do.
Pastor: Do you desire forgiveness, which I pronounce to you in the
name of the Holy Triune God, as God’s own forgiveness?
Congr: Yes, I do.

The Reconciliation
Pastor: This Pastor now pronounces the forgiveness of sins to the
repentant sinners, while at the same time he/she warns those
who are unwilling to repent and believe.
Congr.: Yes, I do.
Pastor: Lift us up. O God our Saviour.
Congr.: And let your anger cease from us.
A Hymn/Songs

The Imposition of Ashes

Pastor: Dear Brothers and sisters in Christ, let us ask our heavenly
Father to use this ash as the mark of our repentance and as
sign of our mortality.
Pastor: Prayer for a blessed use of the ashes
Congr.: Amen.
Pastor: As a sign of the spirit of penitence with which we shall keep
this season of preparation for Easter, I invite you to receive
on your foreheads the sign of the cross in ash, the symbol of
our salvation.
Congr.: Amen.

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The people now come forward to receive the imposition of ashes. At
the imposition the Pastor says to each one:
Pastor: Shun sin and be faithful to Christ. Remember that you are
dust, and to dust you shall return.
When all have received the imposition of ashes. The Communion
hymn is sung, in case the service continues with “The Celebration of
the Lord’s Supper”.
Or
In case the service does not include the “Lord’s Supper”. A chorus is
sung and the offering is given and received and the service continues
below

Closing Prayer
Pastor: Let us pray
Journey with us. O holy God, as we begin our way to the
cross. Sharpen our focus, that our attention may center more
on you than on ourselves. Lead us through the shadows of
darkness and prepare our hearts, that we might be a people
of prayer, ready to perceive and respond to your Son and
our Savior, Jesus Christ. In his name we pray. Amen. Our
Father…
Benediction
Pastor: The Lord be with you.
Congr.: And also with you.
Pastor: Let us bless the Lord.
Congr.: Thanks be to God.
Pastor: The peace of God, which passes all understanding, keep
your hearts and minds in the knowledge and love of God,
and of his Son Jesus Christ, our Lord; And the blessing of
God Almighty, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, come
upon you and remain with you always.
Congr.: Amen! Amen! Amen!

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 Day 1: Wednesday, February 14 (Devotion only)

Pray with Psalm 5:1-15

Confession
Holy and merciful God, we assemble this day by your own call, to
bring to mind the weakness of our witness as individuals, as families
and as the church. We call on you by the power of your Spirit to work in
us with your divine power, all things that pertain to life and godliness,
that we may refrain from grieving your Spirit, and putting the Lord
Jesus to open shame, and crucifying him afresh with our thoughts,
words and deeds. By these, we confess we have not loved as we ought,
have grown in divisions and bitterness, and have profaned your name
before the nations. Forgive our sins, and incline our hearts to behold
the Lord Jesus daily, that by this, we may be transformed into the
image you’ve designed for us in him. Through the same Jesus Christ,
we pray. Amen

Hymn: CHB 483

Prayer of The Day

Sovereign Lord, and Father of all light, you are the Lord of the
heavenly armies and the Lord of your church here on earth. Amidst
the noise and distractions of the world, the flesh and devil, we bow this
day before your call to retreat during this season of Lent. May your
light dispel the darkness in us, your love conquer the hatred in us, and
may this season be one where we contemplate and obtain the manifold
riches of your grace. Grant that through these; we shall be revived to
return to the world and serve you faithfully, worship you heartily, and
witness for you powerfully. Through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord.
Amen.

7
Text: of the Day
Read: 2 Peter 1: 2-11

Meditation: Escape this Corrupt World

1. The grace and divine power of the Lord Jesus Christ that has
granted to us everything that pertains to life and godliness. Physical
imposition of the ashes on our foreheads dear pilgrims, is not
enough. External rituals will not take us there. They are important
symbols, pointing us to the deeper reality of the grace of God at
work in us. By these we scream, “we are sinners who must change
and must change if and only if we deny ourselves and look to Jesus
to grant us divine power for long lasting repentance, and fruits in
keeping with salvation.”
2. Faith: to be successful in our duty to escape, we must build in this
season a faith stronger than before. In a world which preaches
faithlessness, so many relative truths which eventually contradict
each other and confuse everyone, our master calls us to escape this
corruption by anchoring our faith in the truth of the sufficient and
incorruptible word of God. May this bold proclamation this season
build faith in us and equip us mightily.
3. Goodness: may we employ and train ourselves in goodness. May
we, in fact, train ourselves this season to shock the world with
supernatural goodness in a world that seems to suggest that nothing
good can come from man anymore.
4. Knowledge: may we be equipped, not with worldly corrupt
knowledge that puffs up, but as in Isaiah 50: 4, with the kind of
knowledge on the tongue of the learned that speaks healing in time
and season. The knowledge purified by God in our baptized hearts
that restores, and builds and magnifies the name of our Lord.
5. Self-control: while worldly corruption seeks to give us pleasures

8
 without restraint that lead to excesses and destruction, may we
grow in disciplining our bodies, and controlling ourselves.
6. Perseverance: in a world that celebrates many who quit, may it not be
so with us. May we grow in the grace of perseverance. Our journey
to the cross is itself a race of perseverance; persevering 40 days
of fasting and praying and intensive Bible studies and meditation.
May these equip us for all of life, and not just this season.
7. Godliness: what more to say than that our lack of godliness is
what has put the cross to open shame and profaned the name of the
Lord? May our journey to the cross build in us at least the virtue of
godliness as an effective tool to resist the corruption of this world.
8. Mutual affection and Love: these last two we group. Because while
we can manifest the other qualities and weapons as individuals, it
takes the body of Christ to manifest these two qualities. If we are
to resist and escape the corruption of the world as a church, then
we must combat our divisions and internal hatred, one for another,
and manifest mutual affection and love. For united we stand, but
divided we fall. May this season of Lent bring the church to that
point of unity and mutual affection among her members, and may
these be weapons against the corrupt watching world.
Our Lent promise according to this text, dear pilgrims, is that
if we seek to walk in these things, we shall not be ineffective or
unproductive. As we come forward for the imposition of ash, may we
be genuinely intentional about repenting in order to be conformed to
this strengthened picture given to us by our Lord Jesus. And may his
grace avail for the truly repentant.

Let us pray:
Gracious Father, King Eternal, break, we pray, our hearts of stone.
Where we whither, where we falter deign to renew and make right.
Not by merit but by grace, draw us nearer to thy throne, which your
ever-loving presence shall renew and make us whole. May we keep

9
the world behind us as we press on towards your cross; cross today,
cross tomorrow, shall forever be our way! Keep us then oh gracious
Father, pure and meek and ever sure, by thy call, thy upward call, may
we rise to fall no more, in Jesus name we pray. Amen

Pastor: Let us pray:

Lord, we approach you with humble hearts. We deserve nothing yet
you shower us with unmerited grace and favour. Help us to draw near
to you and set our hearts on things above for the things of this world
are fleeting and deceitful. Keep us meek and focused as we journey
with Christ this season of lent, in Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

Other Readings
1st Lesson Joel 2: 12-19
2nd lesson 2 Cor 7: 8-11

Lent challenge
Give up complaining and focus on thanksgiving.

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 Day 2: Thursday, February 15

Pray with Psalm 22: 23-31

Confession
Holy Father, you are faithful but we are faithless, you are loving but
we act in hatred, you are good but we reveal to be wicked towards
our fellow men made in your image. Worse of all, we fail to be on our
guard regarding spiritual things, and hence bring calamity upon us,
our families and the church, your visible body here on earth. We come
with contrite spirits, that you may break our hearts, yes, but that you
may also heal the hearts you have broken, and restore to us the joy of
your salvation. Through Jesus Christ your son, our Lord and example.
Hymn: CHB 487
Prayer of the Day
Lord teach us to boldly and fearlessly seek your name's glory and enter
your kingdom at all cost. Teach us to magnify you for the benefits we
have that saints of old looked forward to, but only saw dimly. Open
our hearts to receive you confidently through the sufficient records of
your deeds in scripture, that by these we may walk by faith amidst the
sight of uncertainty in this passing world. Bless this day, and all our
endeavours, even as we desire all of Christ, for all of life. Through the
same Jesus Christ your son our Lord, who lives and reigns together
with you Oh Father, in the unity of the Holy Spirit one God forever
and ever. Amen.

Text of the Day

Read: Mt 11: 7-15
Meditate: Duty to Escape this Corrupt World: Be on Guard
1. Beware that you have a solid goal that pushes you through this
journey to the cross: our master asked the people what they came

11
 to see. He asked them if they came to see a reed shaken in the
wilderness? Did they leave their homes to go look at dancing
leaves or to go listen to the prophet and messenger of God? By this
we are called to beware of our objectives during Lent. We are not
observing this season for shallow reasons like leaves shaking on a
tree, but with solid goals about the kingdom and our personal and
family lives. Therefore search your goals as individuals, families
and churches. Do not be present throughout for the wrong reasons.
2. Beware of attractive and comfortable distractions: here our Lord
again asks if they came to see a man dressed in fine linen as in a
king’s court. As beautiful and as glorious as the king’s fine clothes
can be, yet God at several times chooses to display the wealth of his
Kingdom in unattractive people with camel hair. May we be on our
guard against the flashy and attractive. For these distractions may
have in them little or no treasure for our spirit man. And may we be
alert to the wealth in seemingly unappealing duties God assigns to
us in this season.
3. We therefore should beware that we do not despise preaching
and teaching from the ordained ministers at our service, and the
men and women of faith in good standing that God has put on our
way during this season. For they may not be dramatic like the Old
Testament prophets, but through the finished work of Christ they
have a more sure word of prophecy for us today, and we do well to
receive these with faith.
4. Beware of lukewarmness and lack of zeal: here our Lord mentions
that inasmuch as many despised the word of John, yet as many as
understood and received this word by faith, they Zealously sought
their way into the kingdom of God. And by so doing, our attitude
towards spiritual things ought to be as and brazen as the attitude of
these persons, rushing in and raiding the kingdom and laying hold
of its benefits. May the violent today take hold of all these benefits
too. And may we beware lest we get nothing by a cold and callous

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 approach to spiritual things.
Amen

Hymn: CHB 542

Prayer:
Lord grant we pray you, that throughout this season our hearts will
be set on the right things, discerning not from external flowers that
fade away, but from the substance of your plenteous revelation. That
through the grace of discipline, and wisdom, we may join the saints of
old to violently raid the treasures of your Kingdom. For this is pleasing
in your sight. May our treasure map therefore be found in our focus
on the redemptive work of your Son Jesus Christ, even as we look
forward to attaining the cross by faith. Through the same Jesus Christ,
and in the power of the Holy Spirit, we pray. Amen

Other Readings: Ez. 13: 1-16, Jn. 11: 17-27

Lent Challenge
Give up pessimism and become an optimist.

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 Day 3: Friday, February 16

Pray with Psalm 130

Confession
O gracious Father, our sins are right here before us. For any want of
conformity, Lord, we plead your mercy. And for all transgressions,
we plead your pardon. But even more, plead that through your love
you would show us our sin, show us our saviour and bless us with the
inclination and ability to glory in your will. For the sake of the cross
and its mission through us. We pray this through Jesus Christ, your
Son our Lord. Amen.

Hymn: CHB 425

Prayer of the Day:

Father of pure light, shine in our hearts with the light of your truth.
Master of the tempest, anchor us on your solid rock, against the
tempests of diabolical worldviews, ideologies and false religions
seeking to derail your elect. God of beauty, God of love, we pray you
the beauty of your love to many a soul in despair, in this world of
hatred and ugly schemes. Use us, use even us to attempt these great
things for you. Through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord, who lives and
reigns together with you oh Father, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one
God forever and ever. Amen

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Text of the Day
Read: Mt 17: 9 – 13

Meditate: The Duty to Escape: Be on Guard II.

Today we turn to one such retreat Jesus had with his inner core disciples.
With Peter, James and John. On the day of his transfiguration. This is
what is happening to you right now, if you believe it. You are with
the Master, in his full glory, and he is showing this full glory to you.
Something the world cannot see, but that you behold through his word
powerfully preached to you, or as you genuinely meditate on it. And
yet in this corrupt world, we need caution in as much as we, like the
disciples have seen the fullness of his glory. So added to the guardrails
of yesterday, we have this last part of the list as we prepare to engage
this season;

1. Learn the virtue of discretion: Christ commanded them to sit

quiet for a time. Precisely, up to when he would be raised from
the dead. Yes, we do know the glory and the beauty of Jesus. Yes
we do preached on making sure we have a brazen zeal to go tell
about the King to the nations. And these are in our lists at least, in
yesterday’s list. But zeal without control makes us rather foolish.
And contradicts our pillars established on Ash Wednesday, where
Peter pleaded with us to add self-control as part of our virtues. To
this end then, the Master teaches us today, that we should learn the
Christian military virtue of discretion. May we learn to know when
to be silent about the things we see and learn from God.
2. Adopt the virtue of believing Discernment: Christ commands us
to a believing discernment. In a world where there is so much data
out there, in a world of conflicting worldviews, we need more than
discernment. We need baptized discernment. We need believing
discernment. We need the kind of discernment that comes to us from
the lips of our Lord himself. May we therefore with baptized hearts,
exercise the discernment our Lord demands. And may this help

15
 us shape a strong Christ-centred and Christ-revealing worldview
that will enable us to escape the corruption of this world, and then
conquer it anew for the one true King.

Hymn: CHB: 437

Let us pray
Lord it is thy will that we no longer regard things according to the
flesh. Grant that we may discern things spiritually at all times, looking
at the world through the lens of scripture and not the other way round.
Grant that we may learn to leave you to grow your word and revelation
in us to maturity, before we are able and at your command, to boldly
profess these truths to the world. We beseech you O Holy Father, that
all these cautions shall be to us pillars of cloud by day, and pillars of
fire by night. May your fiery angels stand guard at the gates of our
understanding as you did with Eden, so that no corruption will invade
us. These and many more we pray in the name of your Son Jesus, the
Christ. Amen.

Other Readings: Ez. 13: 17-23, Jn. 11: 28-37

Lent Challenge
Give up worry and trust divine providence.

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 Day 4: Saturday, February 17

Pray with Psalm 63: 1-5

Confession
We come broken to be mended, we come wounded to be healed, and
we come guilty to be pardoned by the blood of Christ the lamb. Just
as we, acknowledge our failure to witness, our denial of Christ in the
public square, our want of conformity to his image, and our deficient
love for our neighbour. Therefore, we plead with you, Father of all
mercies, to break us here that we may truly see the ugliness of sin, and
graciously, we pray you, grant that we may turn from this ignoble path
to the path of righteousness. This we ask, not according to our work,
but by the mercies of Christ. Amen.
Hymn: CHB 438
Prayer of the Day
Holy Father take, we pray you our feeble hands as we engage this
world. Grant that, your grace of perseverance will enable us to stand
in the day of adversity, and grant that we may bring the savour of your
grace to a distasteful dying world. May you teach us to cut Agag to
pieces, for the sake of not just ourselves, but for future generations.
May we grow to love covenantal faithfulness, even when the big
picture is not so clear to us. Teach us to acknowledge you as the chief
architect and Master of space and time. Through Jesus Christ your
Son, our Lord. Amen

17
Text of the Day
Read: Luke 13: 31-33

Meditate: Now, Press-on in the Power and Example of Christ

Himself
Today we watch our Lord himself exercising this resistance towards
the world system of his day, HEROD THE GREAT FOX.
Firstly, he demonstrates no fright or fear, no intimidation but rather
boldness. ‘Go tell that fox’ he says. The firmness with which he says
it tells of how ready and unafraid he was to face the world systems. In
this light, we too must cultivate such holy courage. His self-confidence
alone at this point of his utterance was certainly found to be offensive
and irritating to the Pharisees. In this way too, our confidence and
boldness will be annoying to those who seek to shut us up as the
prophetic voice of God, but we shall not be afraid of them.
Secondly, we see him calling a spade, a spade. Go tell that fox. He
does not sugarcoat or euphemize the situation or the king. His call
aptly describes the king. For as a fox, this shows how vile the king
was. We must be able to aptly describe vile as vile, and never parade
it as virtuous. For until we identify the true problem, we shall not be
fighting aright, nor escaping what we do not know.
Thirdly, see him reaffirming his mission. He must keep on driving out
demons and healing people today and tomorrow and the next day till
he reaches his goal. This is our call to press on. This is our mission, this
is why we must not be trapped by the corruption of this world. This is
why we need retreat moments like this. For covenant renewal and to
reaffirm our mission to the world. And what we see is that adversity is
rather an opportunity to reaffirm our mission and stay the course of the
ship! This did our Lord, and so must we!
Finally, read how he identifies smooth cunning hypocrites. Our Lord
says, for surely, no prophet can die outside of Jerusalem. And by
this, he is shooting the Pharisees straight in the face. He is somewhat

18
saying, “Are you, who countless times plot to kill me, really the ones
coming to warn me about Herod? Come on! You already know I said
in chapter 4 verse 24 of this same book of Luke that no prophet is
recognized in his home town. And you have countless times denied
me as one. Do you really think I believe you are now on my side?” So,
Jesus teaches us here to identify enemies masquerading as friends. He
teaches us here to beware of their tricks. They may come as wanting
to help, but in fact, it pleases them to use other names to shut you
up. How many times have you received such friendly warnings which
were rather enemy wishes for you to shut up? Amen.
Hymn: CHB 352
Prayer:
Blessed are you Lord for you do not leave us without example. By
your example, grant that we may see how attainable this high calling
is, how practical the wisdom is, and how compassionate you are to
us. Grant, we pray that we may be imbued with this sense of mission,
ready to press on come what may! Help us to be fearless, true, and wise
as we engage this world, and our enemies. Help us to read between the
lines of false friends, and to discern and reaffirm your will for our
lives. Through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord Amen.
Pray Further:
Individual focus:
For all forms of discouragements masquerading as encouragements,
deliver us Oh Lord from these snares. Expose these falsehoods, and
grant that we may pursue our unique callings as children, so we may
be blessed in the grand tapestry of your redemptive work of art. May
our candle stands shine brighter and brighter and never be corrupt by
the Nicolaitans. Through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord. Amen
Other Readings: Ez. 14: 1-11, Jn. 11: 38-44
Lent Challenge
Give up resentment and turn to forgiveness.

19
 Day 5: Monday, February 19

Pray with Psalm 84:1-4

Prayer of Confession
Gracious God our redeemer, we confess that we are not worthy to be
called your children. Severally, we have transgressed your precepts
knowing; thus taking for granted the sacrifice that Christ wrought for
us on the cross of Calvary. Deliver us from the compromise that we
shall forever draw near to Christ in his name we pray. Amen.

Hymn: CHB 513

Prayer of the Day

In a deceitful world where many are passing for truth, help us Holy
Spirit to harken to your voice and be deeply rooted in your word so
that we do not fall prey to the deception of the evil one, through Jesus
Christ your Son our Lord we pray. Amen.

Text of the Day

Read: Text: Gen. 3:1- 7

Meditate: Temptation is Deception

One of the characteristics of love is that love gives. If this is true, it
therefore means that love is expected to be reciprocated. The love God
had for man made him reveal his law to man (Gen. 2:16-17). We see
the first recorded lie of human history wherein Satan identifies his
deceiving nature (Jn. 8:44).
Satan tends to counterfeit even the instrument, love, given to man by
God. ‘…Did God really say you must not eat from any tree in the
garden?’ If we truly love God, we will be deeply rooted in his word
and through his Spirit identify the voice of the evil one when he shows

20
up with his deception. You shall know the truth and the truth shall set
you free (Jn.8:32). Satan tempts man with being a god. ‘Your eyes
will be opened’, Satan appeals to Eve’s lust for the flesh ‘the tree was
good for food’, lust for the eyes ‘pleasant to the eyes’, and pride of life
desired to make one wise. Man abuses the freedom given him by God
by choosing to fall to the deception of the devil (Jam.1:14). Anything
that is contrary to the will of God is temptation, which is deceptive and
whose repercussions are always negative.
When we stick to God’s word and make it a standard for our living, it
will spare us from the regrets of life. Amen.

Hymn: CHB 365

Prayer
Lord our God we stand to gain when we obey your word. Help us to
in our feeble nature to know we have what it takes to resist the devil
through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord. Amen.

Pray Further
God of mercy and grace we depend constantly on these divine virtues
of yours because we have constantly transgressed against you by
misleading and luring others into temptation. Grant us your grace we
beseech you as we attempt to stay aloft and to keep to your precepts
in Jesus’ name. Amen.

Other Readings: Ez. 14: 12-23; Jn. 11: 45-52

Lent Challenge
Give up hatred and return good for evil.

21
 Day 6: Tuesday, February 20

Pray with Psalm 119: 41-48

Confession
Merciful Father, with humble and contrite hearts we confess that we
have often not taken responsibility for our shortcomings. Rather,
we have shifted blames on others and even you when things did not
work out for our good due to our own neglects. Help us to be sincere
to ourselves in acknowledging that without you we can do nothing
through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord. Amen.

Hymn: CHB 363

Prayer of the Day

Help us omniscience God to know that we are nothing without you.
Draw us closer to you each time we feel tempted to leave your presence
due to our shortcomings. Amen.

Text of the Day

Read: Gen. 3: 8-19

Meditate: God Sees and Knows; Stop Shifting Blames!

No one likes to be tagged with disobedience; not even the disobedient.
This explains why many tend to shift blames on others when things do
not turn out in their favour. In our text, we see man fall short of God’s
expectation, but rather chooses to run away from his presence. God is
fully aware of the instructions he has given us as individuals. It is our
responsibility therefore to seek ways on how to please him with our
daily lives.
In an attempt to stay away from God, his unconditional love keeps
running after us, ‘But the Lord God called out to the man ‘Where are

22
you?’ Remember that the instruction not to eat of the tree of knowledge
of good and evil was given to man and not to Eve. How sad it was
that man allowed himself to be derailed! God expects us to assume
our responsibilities so that we can always have fellowship with him
(v. 8). Are we still where God positioned us? Are we carrying out our
assigned duties? The sin of guilt prompted Adam to shift the blame of
his disobedience to Eve and by extension God. We see Eve equally
shifts hers to the serpent; making it seem that the serpent played her a
fool. However, the soul that sins will die (Ez. 18:4b). If we all know
and accept our tasks, we shall be responsible to assume responsibility
of our actions at all times.
Let us return to God in our shortcomings; he will not cast us away.
Conflict in the society and other strifes will be minimised if we each
harken to our role. Amen.
Hymn: CHB 489

Prayer
Help us Lord to align to your will for us at all times and take
responsibility for our actions in the name of Jesus, our restorer. Amen!

Pray Further
Almighty God, help us not to use our positions to implicate those
under our leadership. Holy Spirit prompt us to come back to our
senses and learn to apologise when we wrong you and our fellow men.
Many people have been implicated Oh Lord by us because we failed
to assume our responsibilities. Holy Spirit refrain us each time we are
tempted to care less about the feelings of others and grant us a willing
heart to serve you faithfully in the name of Jesus. Amen.

Other Readings: Ez. 17: 1-10, Jn. 11: 53-57

Lent Challenge
Give up negativism and be hopeful.

23
 Day 7: Thursday, February 21

Pray with Psalm. 25:1-5

Confession
Forgive us Oh Lord where we have doubted your will for our lives.
We have often not been consistent in our confession about you as the
Messiah when the storms of life come heavily upon us. Guide us to
anchor on Christ and in him alone such that even when we cannot see
him nor feel his presence, may we learn to trust his heart for us for ever
and ever. Amen.

Text of the Day

Read: Mt. 16:21-27

Meditate: Get Behind Me Satan

Is it not amazing that the same Peter who in the preceding verse 16
confessed Jesus as the Messiah, the one who came to save, tries to stop
Jesus from pursuing and achieving his God given purpose? Jesus by
this time in his ministry knew that his disciples’ faith in him had grown
enough to accept the teachings of his death where he had to ‘suffer
many things’ (v.21).
The teachers of the law and the Chief Priests on their part are leaving
no stone unturned to eliminate Jesus for their self-aggrandizement, but
little did they know that God was working everything for the good of
mankind (v.21b). Peter, who at this time, out of ignorance, does not yet
understand the necessity of the crucifixion, as God’s plan to redeem
mankind, made it possible for Satan to use him on this occasion.
Though Satan did not understand Jesus’ going to the cross, he however
sought to regain his lost glory.

24
Satan uses Peter’s love for Christ to divert his attention. Be quick to
identify and rebuke those friends, family members and colleagues
who try to use their appeal like Peter to discourage us from taking the
Good News of Christ to the lost souls. Amen!
Prayer
Holy Spirit, keep us on the alert that we may not fall prey to the schemes
of the devil in our strive to pursue God’s purpose in our lives. Amen!

Pray Further
In times of trouble when the storms of life rage and thunders roll,
guide us to your wings, dear God. Like David help us maintain
positive confessions knowing that when we go through the valley of
the shadow of dead you are with [Link] pray through Christ. Amen.

Other Readings: Ez. 17: 22-24, Jn. 12: 20-26

Lent Challenge
Give up anger for patience and tolerance.

25
 Day 8: Thursday, February 22

Pray with Psalm 126

Hymn: CHB 455

Confession
Loving Father, we confess that we are unworthy sinners seeking for
repentance. We have often not sought your face in times of trials, but
sought refuge in your created things. Forgive us Lord and teach us to
pray always in Jesus’ name. Amen!

Text of the Day

Read: Lk. 22:31-34

Meditate: Strengthened to Strengthen Others

At Jesus’ Last Supper with his disciples, he teaches them servanthood
greatness. Unlike the kingdom of the world, where most leaders are
bossy and leadership full of ranks and authority, it is not so with the
Kingdom of God. Jesus, seeing what would become of his disciples
after he is gone, cautions them against those who claim to be God’s
servants, yet seek to be served. A good servant-leader must avail him/
herself for God’s service and in due time God will lift them up.
Satan used one of those closest to Jesus to deter him from his mission.
This explains why Jesus prays not only, for Peter, but the other disciples
too, to be strong enough to withstand the trials they were about to face
in the next few days. It is only in trying times that one’s faith in Christ
is seen. Jesus knew Peter’s strength was small (v.32) but he also knew
that Peter would be a veritable instrument amongst the people on the
day of Pentecost (Acts 2).

26
Satan uses our weaknesses against us. That is why we must always
pray and also pray for one another. Our restoration after our fall
should never be used to discourage us from doing God’s work. Christ
strengthens us so that we can strengthen others who are at the verge
of giving up on their faith. We later see Peter go any length for Christ
(Acts 14:22) and overcomes his weaknesses by faith in God. Amen.

Hymn: CHB 440

Prayer
Thank you Father for the comfort that comes from you. In our low
moments you have never left us alone. Help us to continually look up
to you, Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of our faith. Amen.

Further Prayer
As iron sharpens iron, so does one man sharpens the countenance of
another. We have received strength from you for the journey. Help us
to know that just as we have received, so we ought to give to others
through Christ our Lord we pray. Amen!

Other Readings: Ez. 17: 22-24, Jn. 12: 20-26

Lent Challenge
Give up gloom and enjoy the beauty all around you.

27
 Day 9: Friday, February 23

Pray with Psalm 22

Confession
Gracious God even with our emptiness we cannot still cease from
pride. See how you humbled yourself to the tune of humanity not as
a king but as a servant. A great example for us to follow. Oh Lord!
Help us to walk in your footsteps as we confess the sin of pride deeply
rooted in our hearts in Jesus’ name Amen.

Hymn: CHB 483

Prayer of the Day

Our great High Priest, our great intercessor and loving saviour.
You have already stood the gap for us all. The great call is for us to
acknowledge your redeeming sacrifice and lowly seek you as the way
to God. Bless us Lord as we patiently wait on you, the divine one.
Jesus, we make this prayer in your name. Amen!

Text of the Day

Read: Hebrews 2:10-18

Meditate: Jesus Suffered Temptation to Help the Tempted

In our text the author discusses how Jesus, the Son of God, suffered
temptation and became the perfect helper for those who are tempted.
The following key points highlight Jesus’ suffering in order to help us
overcome the temptations that come our way today.
Identification with humanity: The author emphasizes that, Jesus in his
mission to bring salvation, had to be made “perfect through suffering.”
By taking on human nature and experiencing temptation firsthand, Jesus
can fully empathize with our struggles and provide the necessary help.

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Conquering death: The passage states that Jesus’ suffering and death
on the cross destroyed the power of death, freeing those who were
held in fear of death. By undergoing crucifixion and conquering death,
Jesus paved the way for salvation and delivered believers from the
bondage of sin.
A compassionate High Priest: The author describes Jesus as a merciful
and faithful High Priest who is able to sympathize with our weaknesses.
Because Jesus himself experienced temptation, he understands the
struggles we face, and as our High Priest, he intercedes on our behalf
to help us overcome temptation and find forgiveness.
Victory over the devil: The passage highlights how Jesus’ suffering
and death didn’t just bring salvation to humanity but also defeated
the devil, who held the power of death. Through his sacrifice, Jesus
overcame the temptation of the devil and provided believers with the
means to resist and overcome temptation themselves.
Jesus remains the ultimate helper for those who are tempted. His
suffering, death, and resurrection not only redeemed humanity but also
enabled him to fully understand and assist those facing temptation,
providing the necessary strength and grace to overcome it.

Hymn: CHB 483

Prayer: Thank Jesus Christ for being the pioneer of your salvation.
Thank him for perfecting you daily and declaring you his brother and
sister. Tell him how much he matters to you. Pray for all those who are
suffering persecution and rejection for the sake of the gospel. Amen.

Other Readings: Ez. 18: 1-18; Jn. 12: 20-26

Lent Challenge
Give up jealousy and pray to appreciate.

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 Day 10: Saturday February 24

Pray with Psalm 1

Confession
In this season of penitence, Yahweh we are guilty to the point of
prayerlessness. But because of the solemn invitation offered to us,
we are encouraged to draw nearer to you. Our pride is alarming and
exaggerating yet we are amazed that it means nothing to you. Great
forgiver, forgive us as we pray in Jesus’ name. Amen!

Hymn CHB 513

Prayer of the Day

Our only help is you, the Messiah. Your only prospect for us all is as
simple as humility and obedience. We daily struggle to meet up with
this spiritual need but the temptations of the world keep us aback.
Pull us towards you by the power of the living gospel. In Jesus’ name.
Amen!

Text of the Day

Read: James 4:1-10

Meditate: Submit to God and ask for His Help

Beloved, in Christ Jesus, submission brings us unto a platform of
humility. And humility is the highest strength that can project us into
dimension of extraordinary deliverance.
In our text, we are encouraged to submit to God, recognizing that
many fights and conflicts arise from our own desires and pursuits of
worldly pleasures. Rather than relying on our own strength and selfish
motives, we are urged to seek God's help by asking him. However,

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it is emphasized that we should ask with proper motives, aligning
ourselves with his will and not just to satisfy our own desires.
James also highlights the importance of separating ourselves from the
ways of the world and being a friend of God rather than the world.
It is implied that God longs for our loyalty and devotion, and being
entangled with worldly pursuits can create division and enmity
between us and God.
We are then reminded that God gives us more grace and shows favour
to the humble. Therefore, we are encouraged to humble ourselves
before God, resisting the devil's temptations and submitting to God's
will. By drawing near to God, purifying our hearts, and mourning over
our sins, we can experience the transformative power of his grace. In
doing so, we can expect God to lift us up and provide his help.
How can one draw near to God? James gives us five practical ways:
1. Submission to God (4:7): Yield to his authority and will, commit
your life to him and to his control and be willing to follow him
2. Resist the devil (4:7): Don’t allow Satan to entice and tempt you
with vain things of the flesh that will make us become enemies with
God
3. Wash your hands…and purify your life (4:8): Be cleansed from sin,
replacing your desires to sin with your desire to experience God’s
purity.
4. Grieve and mourn in sincere sorrow for your sins (4:9): Never be
afraid to express deep heartfelt sorrow for what you have done.
5. Humble yourself before the Lord and he will lift you up (4:10): We
need to recognize that our worth comes from God alone and not
from material possessions. To be humble means working with his
power according to his guidance, and not with our own independent
efforts.

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We are encouraged to submit to God, ask for his help, separate ourselves
from worldly desires, and humble ourselves before him. Through this
submission and reliance on God, we can experience his grace and find
the strength to resist temptation and grow closer to him. Amen.

Hymn: CHB 422

Prayer
Our living God, haven invited us to the place of humility and obedience.
We have not promise to response later, we have done so now. Accept
us and our positive step as a result of your word in Jesus’ name. Amen!

Pray further
• Pray for the church of God that we may not fall into temptation
• Pray for the spirit of obedience
• Pray for the spirit of selflessness

Other Readings: Ez. 18: 19-32; Jn. 12: 27-36

Lent Challenge
Give up gossip and control your tongue.

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 Day 11: Monday, February 26

Pray with Psalm 43: 3-5

Confession
O Lord our God forgive us our lack of faith: many times, we have
doubted your directives and sought the counsel of men because they
sooth us. Forgive our lack of courage to take the bold step of faith.
Yes! Father forgive us and grant us boldness to step out in faith. Amen.
Hymn: CHB 290
Prayer of the Day
O God, you saved and delivered all mankind by the cross and passion
of your Son Jesus Christ. Grant that by steadfast faith in his sacrifice,
we may triumph with him in the power of his victory; through the
same Jesus Christ, your Son our Lord, who lives and reigns together
with you, O Father, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever
and ever. Amen.
Text of the Day
Read: Hebrews 11:8-10
Meditate: Abraham, the Link Between Faith and Obedience
Hebrews chapter 11 tells us what it means to have faith and obtain
life. Those with true faith accept God’s word and obey, focusing on
assurance about what we do not see, looking beyond the situation as it
can be perceived by natural vision. By exercising this kind of faith the
ancients gained the warm commendation of God.
Hebrews 11:8-10 indicates Abraham’s immediate obedience to God’s
call. The words “to go out” are to be construed, not with “called” but
“obeyed.” They specify that in which his obedience was shown. The
idea is, “when he was called, he obeyed to go out”. Abraham obeyed
God’s call at great personal sacrifice! It tells us what he did; more
importantly, it tells us why he did it. And it clearly shows us that

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OBEYING God doesn’t always work out the way we think it will.
Faith in God’s provisions sees something more than solidity in material
things. There is a different standard of value than gathering things on
earth. Christians look forward to our eternal home where there is no
more pain or suffering, where there is rich fellowship with God.
Abraham is exhaled in scripture as “the father of all who believe”
(Rom.4:11), and is revered by nearly one-half of the world’s population
being held in high esteem by Jews, Muslims, and Christians. James
2:23 records the fact that Abraham was called “Friend of God.” Faith
took him from worshipping local gods to worshipping the one true and
living God!
Our text reveals three essentials of faith: faith obeys God’s call, lives
as an alien in this world, and overcomes insurmountable problems by
God’s power. Abraham’s faith was expressed in his obedience to the
call and so once again we see the clear link between faith (Gen.15:6)
and obedience (Heb.3:18-19). Abraham was saved by faith alone but
faith that saved him showed itself to be genuine by his obedience. Our
obedience does not save us but it does demonstrate that our faith is
saving faith.
According to Thomas Watson, Abraham was a great self- denier; he
left his kindred and country and was willing to travel to any place
where God would have him. Whence was this? It was from his faith.
“By faith Abraham obeyed and went out, not knowing where he went.”
Therefore, he who believes that Christ and heaven are his – what will
he not relinquish for Christ’s sake? The stronger a Christian’s faith is,
the more eminent will his self- denial be. To God be the glory. Amen.

Prayer: (Extempore)
Other Readings: Ez. 20: 1-9; Jn. 12: 37-43
Lent Challenge
Give up sin and give time to prayer.

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 Day 12: Tuesday, February 27

Pray with Psalm 77: 1-2; 10-15

Confession
O Lord forgive us our many useless and faithless complains. Forgive
our forgetfulness of your mighty work and of the good promises in
your holy word. We are too slow to remember your goodness but too
fast to complain, rather than calling on you. We pray you, out of the
abundance of your mercy and in the name of Jesus Christ, forgive us
again. Amen.

Hymn: CHB 429

Prayer of the Day

Almighty God, whose most dear Son went not up to joy, but first
he suffered pain, and entered not into glory before he was crucified.
Mercifully grant that we, walking in the way of the cross, may find it
none other than the way of life and peace; through Jesus Christ, your
Son our Lord, who lives and reigns together with you, O Father, in the
unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

Text of the Day

Read: Exodus 17:1-7

Meditate: Don’t Put God to the Test, Just Trust and Obey
Testing God by doubting his powerful presence to provide exposes our
spiritual immaturity but enhances God’s patience and grace.
Time after time the Lord leads his children into difficult circumstances
in order to test their hearts. Certainly, by this time the Israelites should
be confirmed in their assurance of God’s gracious and powerful
presence with them to fully provide and protect them on their journey

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from Egypt to the promised land. But sadly, they failed to respond in
faith and submission to the leadership of Moses and Aaron. Instead
they tested God by their grumbling and complaining. We put God to
the test:
- when we doubt his kindness in any given situation
- when we question his providence
- when we grumble and complain under the weight of a trial.
- when we openly accuse him of leaving and deserting his people
- when we think we deserve better circumstances than God has given.
It was the presence of the Lord that gave Moses the strength and
confidence he needed as he led the people of Israel during their
wilderness wandering. He had a difficult task, leading a thankless
army of former slaves whom he was trying to build into a nation, but
he persevered because the Lord was with him. The events recorded in
these two chapters reveal to us what the presence of the Lord means to
God’s people and their leaders as they are on their pilgrim’s journey.
The whole History of the wandering in the wilderness is a good example
of longsuffering of God with a people who constantly tempted and
provoked him. The wording of Ex.17:1 makes clear that the Israelites
did not camp at Rephidim of their own volition but of God’s, and
therefore one is forced to conclude that once again God had led them
directly to a place where there was no drinkable water.
C.W Powell wrote; if you are in a hot spot:
a. You are either there because of disobedience or obedience. If
disobedience, then you must repent and find the way of obedience.
b. If by obedience, then the trial is from God and you are to bear it
patiently.
c. Either way, you must not blame God. Their murmuring showed their
unbelief either way; murmuring is always sinful and wicked and
it means that you either are not taking responsibility for your own
disobedience, or you are complaining about the way God has led
you- frightful sins either way.

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Why did God directly lead Israel to another place of no water? The
answer is: for the same reason he brings us into places of need: so that
we will call upon him in our weaknesses and he will be glorified when
he delivers us. The Lord says, “call upon me in the day of trouble; I
shall rescue you, and you will honor me.” (Ps.50:15). So if you are in
a place of trouble, before you do anything else, call upon the Lord. If
you have been grumbling, confess that to the Lord and ask him to be
glorified through the trial that you are in. “Take care, brethren, that
there not be in any one of you an evil, unbelieving heart that falls away
from the Living God.” Grumbling stems from “an evil, unbelieving
heart.” Unbelief tests or tries the Lord (Ex.17:7; Ps. 95:9). Inspite of
the many mercies, when problems arise, unbelief challenges God by
asking , “Is the Lord among us, or not?” In other words, unbelief asks,
“if God is really here and cares about us, how can he let this happen?”
Unbelief doubts God’s sovereignty, his power, his wisdom, and his
love. It removes God from his rightful place as judge and puts him
on trial, while I judge him, questioning his ways of dealing with me!
It stems from the pride of thinking that I know better than God what
would be best for me.
When you are waterless in the wilderness, do you blame others for
your problems or do you cry out to God? Men have spiritual thirst
for pardon, holiness, and salvation. Learning won’t satisfy this thirst.
Riches or pleasure won’t satisfy it either. Only the Lord Jesus Christ
can quench the longing in your heart. To him be the glory! Amen.

Prayer (Extempore)

Other Readings: Ez. 20: 10-20; Jn. 12: 44-50

Lent Challenge
Give up selfishness and practice selflessness.

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 Day 13: Wednesday, February 28

Pray with Psalm 74: 1-3, 10-11

Confession
O Lord our God, you always work for our good. Yet, in our sins we
render your deeds of no effect. We pray you to forgive our inefficiency
and our stubbornness to sin. Forgive us all our sins O Lord and guide
us in the way upright; through Christ we pray. Amen.

Hymn: CH 417

Prayer of the Day

God of mercy and compassion, it was your will that your Son should
suffer for our sake, in order to break the power of the enemy over
us; grant that we may obtain the grace of rising again with him, who
together with you, O Father, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, lives and
reigns for ever and ever. Amen.

Text of the Day

Read: Isaiah 5:1-7

Meditate: Responding to God’s Provision

The symbolic song in Isa. 5:1-7 illustrates that the Lord Almighty
provided for Israel, gave them all they needed to prosper and produce
justice and righteousness; but instead Israel produced bloodshed and
cries of distress, which will therefore prompt the judgment of the Lord
Almighty, resulting in the destruction of the house of Israel and the
men of Judah. This is the plain apparent meaning of the text, but it
requires further consideration in regards to its proper application and
modern-day relevance.

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Isaiah is only second to the Psalms in regards to its quotation in the
New Testament, which at least reveals that the value of its teaching is
beyond its immediate audience. Appropriate application is clarified by
observing the inherent theological principles through the immediate
teachings of the text. A summary of those teachings is as follows: 1)
God provided for Israel. 2) God’s provision was purposed in equipping
Israel to produce good fruit-such as justice and righteousness. 3) despite
God’s provision Israel did not produce good fruit, but produced bad
fruit-like bloodshed and cries of distress. 4)the description of God’s
judgment upon Israel will consist in his removal of their protection
and their favorable conditions.
From a New Testament perspective, the Christian understands God’s
provision with an emphasis on Christological fulfillment. Jesus has
provided salvation for God’s people. In an even more generalized
sense, in light of Christ, God has provided for all people. Forgoing the
theological discussion of the extent of the atonement, it is nonetheless
beyond contention that Jesus’ atonement has global significance. All
people are called to have faith in Jesus Christ, for in Jesus, God’s
provision is realized and actualized for man’s equipping to do good
works.
Isaiah 5:1-7 has provided a moving picture of the glorious provision
of God that man has spoiled in search of self-gratification. Such
an offense will not stand against the righteous Lord Almighty, and
judgment unto destruction is inevitable. However, Christians can
boast in the provision of Jesus Christ. He is the full fruitfulness of
God, utilizing the same imagery, Jesus is the wine of God. Therefore,
as followers of Jesus, Christians are called to fruitfulness through faith
in Jesus Christ. Once a person has faith in Jesus, he or she is united to
Christ, where God’s wine is poured out through them unto the world.
Faith in Christ reckons the believer as “the wine of God,” where the
believer’s fruitfulness is continually accomplished by living in Christ.
As Wilhelm commented, “like Christ, we are the lifeblood of God’s
mercy for the world, offering justice instead of violence, generosity

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instead of greed.” The believer’s fruitfulness is a means to an end, and
that end is the vessel of God’s joy(wine) unto the entire world for the
further emanation of his glory. Amen.

Prayer: (Extempore)

Other Readings: Ez. 20: 21-32; Jn. 13: 1-11

Lent Challenge
Give up giving up and persevere till the end

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 Day 14: Thursday, February 29

Pray with Psalm 2

Confession
O God, every day we crucify your Son anew whenever we return to
the sin we once repented from. Every day we ask for forgiveness and
every day we repeat the same sin. Forgive us this great sin. Through
Jesus Christ we pray. Amen.

Hymn: CHB 440

Prayer of the Day

Almighty God, accept the repentance of us, your servants, whose lives
are not in accordance with our faith; may we begin again through the
power of the Holy Spirit, the Comforter; through Jesus Christ, your
Son our Lord, who together with you, O Father, in the unity of the
same Spirit, lives and reigns for ever and ever. Amen.

Text of the Day

Read: Mk 12:1-12

Meditate: The Rejected Cornerstone

The Gospel of Mark is exploring the question, who is the Christ?
Our story today, in chapter 12, is part of Jesus’ response. The passage
today shows us two things about Jesus and who the Christ is. Jesus
mixes metaphors in this passage and each metaphor gives us a slightly
different aspect of the Christ.
First, he is the vineyard owner’s Son.
Second, he is the rejected cornerstone.
What does the vineyard represent? The vineyard is an image that runs
throughout our whole story and it goes all the way back to the promise

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that God made to Abraham. Israel is blessed to be a blessing to the
nations. They are like a vineyard planted in the world so that they can
produce the sweet wine of God’s grace so everyone can see who God
really is. The religious leaders are supposed to be working this field
for this purpose.
Jesus is saying the exact same thing that Isaiah said to the people
of Jerusalem back when Hezekiah was the king. It says “And now
I will tell you what I will do to my vineyard… I will break down its
wall, and it shall be trampled down… for the vineyard of the Lord of
hosts is the house of Israel…he expected justice, but saw bloodshed;
righteousness, but heard a cry!” (Isa. 5:5-7)
Now, in Jesus’ day, the king of Israel is Herod and the religious leaders
are in charge of the vineyard. Jesus is accusing them of the same thing.
They have completely forgotten their purpose and spend all of their
time oppressing the poor and trying to protect themselves from Rome.
Then Jesus quotes Psalm 118 and says,” The stone the builders rejected
has become the cornerstone.”
What is the cornerstone? The cornerstone concept is derived from the
first stone set in the construction of a masonry foundation, important
since all other stones will be set in reference to this stone, thus
determining the position of the entire structure. Jesus is the rejected
cornerstone. In other words, Jesus is accusing the religious leaders of
building their whole system on the wrong thing. How have the leaders
done as tenants of God’s vineyard? What is Jesus really accusing them
of? We have to remember that this is all about the temple and how they
have distorted the worship of God.

What kind of wine do you suppose they were growing in God’s

vineyard? Upon what cornerstone do you think they were building the
religious and political systems of Israel? 2000 years later, I believe
Jesus still asks us the same questions. What kind of wine are we
producing in God’s vineyard? On what cornerstone are we building

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our lives? What is the cornerstone that Jesus lays down for us? Prophet
Micah says, “To act justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with
your God.” (Mic 6:8) This Lent; we are asking the question, WHO IS
CHRIST? Today we learn that Jesus is the vineyard owner’s Son. God
has entrusted this world and the church to us. We are blessed to be a
blessing to the nations, so that all people can see the love and grace
of God through us. This is not our property, we are working for God
to serve the world, not to serve ourselves. We also learn that Jesus is
the cornerstone. Our lives are not built upon our ability to do the right
thing. Our churches are not built on bricks and mortar, wood and steel.
Our foundation is Jesus Christ. He laid down his life for us, so that we
might have forgiveness and know the love and grace of God. And it is
through the power of his resurrection and the Holy Spirit that we can
be good tenants and builders together. Amen.

Prayer: (Extempore)

Other Readings: Ez. 20: 33-44; Jn. 13: 12-20

Lent Challenge
Give up harsh judgments and give compliments

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 Day 15: Friday, March 1

Pray with Psalm 31: 19-24

Confession
Many times, we find it difficult to be patient in suffering, even when
the suffering works for our own good. In impatience, we renounce
you, we make faithless decisions which negatively affect us and our
neighbours. Heavenly Father forgive us because of your compassion
for us, and in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.

Hymn: CHB 29

Prayer of the Day

Almighty God, may your grace turn us from our evil ways to walk in
the ways of your love, so that we may deny ourselves and take up our
cross and follow Christ our Lord, who together with you, O Father, in
the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God for ever and ever. Amen.

Text of the Day

Read: Romans 5:1-5

Meditate: The Results of Justification

In every part of life, actions have consequences. If you stay up late
on Saturday night, you will be sleepy in church on Sunday morning.
If you walk onto a bus, you will go where the bus takes you. And in
the spiritual realm, it is no different. If you sin, you will suffer. If you
obey the Lord, there will be blessing in your life. If your mind dwells
on evil and wicked things, you will be tempted to sin. If you socialize
with bad company, your morals will be corrupted. If you trust in the
Lord, he will make your paths straight.

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In our text, we will see some consequences to actions. “The Results of
Justification.” Though there are many, Paul gives us only three here.
Paul begins with a statement about justification. He writes, “Therefore,
since we have been justified by faith,…” this is as if to say we have
been declared righteous. Here it is a perfect tense. A past action
remains true today, with present results. Paul is writing to an audience
of those who, he assumes, have believed in Christ. The idea here is
that believers are counted righteous apart from any righteousness that
we perform. It’s not giving in church; it’s not serving in church; it’s
not helping our neighbour in distress. None of these things justify us
before God. We are saved by grace alone through faith alone in Christ
alone as revealed by scripture alone to the glory of God alone. Then,
being justified will bring about a few results. Justification brings…
1. Peace with God (verses 1-2a). We are not talking about some
inner peace that brings tranquility into your life. Paul is talking
about having peace with God or better still being at peace with the
sovereign Lord of the universe! This kind of peace is vertical peace,
not an inward peace that you feel. Now, there are many people who
think that they are at peace with God when, in reality they are not.
It’s because the wrong question is being asked. Which is, “Are you
at peace with God?” That makes it subjective, but the question of
this text is…”Is God at peace with you?” since justification comes
from God that means he is at peace with you. Not the other way
round. Peace with God only comes through our lord Jesus Christ,
through his shed blood on the cross. The only way to be made right
before God is to believe in his Son.
2. Access to God (verse 2a). God, the Father, is full of mercy and
grace. But Jesus is the one who brought his grace to us. He brought
it to us through dying on the cross for our sins, and thus, becoming
our mediator, has brought us to God. Indeed,… now through Jesus,
we have access to God. Here is the good news! By God’s grace,
through Jesus Christ, we can stand in God’s presence.

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3. Joy in God (verses 2b-5). Before we were justified, the glory of
God was a terrifying thing. Because, God’s favour wasn’t upon us.
We didn’t rejoice at the glory of God. We rejoiced in our own sin.
When God is your enemy, there is no joy in him! But when you
are at peace with God, when you enjoy access to God, then there
is great joy in God. justified sinners long for the glory of God to
be spread throughout the earth. That is why we pray, “Thy will be
done, on earth as it is in heaven.” Because of our justification, we
have joy in God. We have joy in his glory, but also, we have joy
in our trials, because our trials are paths to experience God’s love.
We can rejoice in our trials because we know what they produce!
Suffering produces endurance. Endurance produces character.
Character produces hope. Hope brings no shame.
This sounds a bit like James, “count it all joy, my brothers, when you
meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith
produces steadfastness. And steadfastness has its full effect, that you
may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.” (James 1:2-4). And
when it comes to our faith, if we suffer a bit today, our faith will come
back a bit stronger tomorrow. Faith in the crucified Christ is all that
we need to be justified by God. Justification automatically makes us
citizens in the kingdom of heaven and by virtue of being citizens, we
enjoy the righteousness and peace from God through Christ and joy in
our fellowship with the Holy Spirit. To God be the glory. Amen.

Prayer: (Extempore)

Other Readings: Ez. 24: 15-27; Jn. 13: 21-30

Lent Challenge
Give up revenge and give tolerance

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 Day 16: Saturday, March 2

Pray with Psalm 25: 6-14

Confession
Heavenly Father in the name of Jesus Christ forgive our stubbornness
when we refuse to let go in order to be reconciled with our neighbours.
Out of pride; we refuse to imitate you and to accept the ministry of
reconciliation you have given to us through Christ. In the sincerity of
our hearts; we pray you to forgive us. In Christ’s name we pray. Amen.

Hymn: CHB 306

Prayer of the Day

We pray you, Almighty God, look mercifully on your people, that by
the glorious passion of your Son, our Saviour, they may be preserved
evermore; through the same Jesus Christ, your Son our Lord, who
lives and reigns together with you, O Father, in the unity of the Holy
Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

Text of the Day

Read: Romans 5:6-11

Meditate: Hope Secured by God’s Love

Paul assures Christians that their future is secured by God’s love based
on its timing, its demonstration, its salvation, and its boasting.
Today many of us experience anxiety: feeling uneasy and apprehensive.
Overwhelmed by future uncertainty. This passage of scripture teaches
us that despite living in a world full of chaos, our hope is “secured by
God’s love.”

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Because we have been justified by faith; we have peace with God. We
have access to God. We rejoice in hope. Why can we rejoice in hope?
It’s because hope does not put to shame, because the love of God has
been poured out within our hearts. (v5) in verse 6, Paul gives several
reasons why we are secured by God’s love.
1. The timing of God’s love.
“For while we were still weak, at the right time…” “at the right
time” actually is the word of promise: like God’s timing concerning
when Isaac would be born, God’s timing of his love toward
us was preordained, prepared, and purposeful. While we were
weak—powerless-helpless-without strength. While we were yet
sinners(v8)-failure to meet religious or legal expectations. While
we have all sinned and fallen short of the glory of God. (Rom. 3:23).
While we were enemies-by nature children of wrath (Eph.2:3)-
enemies in mind and in evil deeds (Col.1:21). So while we were all
of these, God chose to love us. He determined, he resolved to love
us unconditionally. Therefore, you and I are assured that we will
never be outside of God’s love.
• Do you ever feel you are not good enough to be loved by God?
• Do you ever feel like you need to perform to earn and keep God’s
love and favour?
• He had no false expectations because he had zero expectations
So not only can we be assured of God’s love by its timing. We can
be assured because of its demonstration.
2. Demonstration of God’s love (v.7-8)
Paul helps us understand the superiority of God’s love by comparing
it to man’s. He describes man’s love as hardly, scarcely, rarely,
would dare. Humanly speaking, “for a good man someone would
dare to die.” But God demonstrates his love by providing ample
evidence beyond reasonable doubt that God has established his
love toward us. God’s love is greater, superior, and incomparable,
in that while we were still sinners Christ died for us, the ungodly.

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3. The salvation of God’s love (v.9-10).
In his opening words of verse 9 Paul used ‘since, therefore’. This
is Paul’s way of introducing a “lesser to greater” argument. The
logic is this: regarding salvation, if God has already done the more
difficult task, He must certainly do the easier task.
The GREATER task is to justify the sinner. Justification is a gift by
grace alone. To redeem sinners, Jesus voluntarily gave his life. He
was not forced. Justification required redemption. Christ purchased
us through his blood. Justification required propitiation. The wrath
of God was completely satisfied by Christ’s blood sacrifice. The
LESSER task is to save sinners from God’s judgment.
So if God has already completed the most difficult task,-declaring
us righteous (not guilty) through redemption and propitiation, and
reconciling us from enemies to friends, how much more secure
is God completing the easier task of shielding us from future
judgment?
4. Boasting of God’s love (v.11).
When we appreciate God’s timing, God’s demonstration, and God’s
salvation, we cannot help but respond by boasting. Christ declared
it. “It is finished.” The game is over. The battle is won. Because we
did nothing, and God did everything, we can rest assured that our
hope in God’s future promise is sure. We are united in Christ, our
saviour and Lord permanently. Nothing can separate us.
There are two groups of people today. Some of you are in the first
group.
• You have experienced the most important day of your life and
have gone from death to life. You have received God’s gift of
salvation. You were redeemed, purchased by God. God’s wrath
over you was satisfied by Christ. To you, I pray, be secured in
God’s love. Never doubt your future hope made sure by God’s
love. God loves us at our worst. While we were yet sinners

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 Christ died for us. We have been justified and reconciled. Jesus
paid it all. So, let him who boast, boast in the Lord.
• If you are in the second group you have not yet seen the most
important day of your life. You have not experience the new birth
that comes from God’s spirit. You remain responsible for the
penalty of your sin. You are under the wrath of the one Holy God.
You are his sworn enemy, and at any moment, you will fall into
final judgment and the condemnation of the literal, physical, and
eternal hell. To you, I plead with you. “Be reconciled with God.”
cry out to him and acknowledge your helpless state. Repent and
confess your sin. Beg for mercy that his death absorbs the wrath
of God that should rightly fall on you. Relinquish control of your
life, and recognize Christ as Lord. Do not leave today until you
are reconciled. To the glory of God. Amen.

Prayer: (Extempore)

Other Readings: Ez. 33: 1 -9; Jn. 13: 31-35

Lent Challenge
Give up hurting words for kind words

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 Day 17: Monday, March 4

Pray with Psalm 91

Confession
Almighty God, we confess that our doubts and fears override our hope
and faith in you. Forgive us when we lose sight of the joy of your love
and instead fall into despair and faithlessness; therefore we plead with
you;

Hymn: CHB 482

Prayer of The Day

May our praise never cease in every season of doubts. May our works
be unending, may our love for you find new depths. Dear God, bring
new hope and healing to the hopeless and helpless. Dear Lord, we
believe in you, we believe that we are secured and hidden in you
and no real harm can come to us with you as our Rock and salvation
through your Son Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Text of the Day

Read: 1Kings 19: 1-8

Meditate: “A Letter from Jezebel”

Fear is one of the greatest weapons the devil uses to overcome
Christians. God had used Elijah to perform credible miracles on mount
Carmel. Elijah commanded fire which consumed the sacrifices on the
alter. He killed the prophets of Baal (1kings 18:36-40), he made rain
not to fall for three days and a half year and made the rain to fall again
Jezebel was not intimidated by the miracles of Elijah. She wrote a
letter through a messenger to Elijah saying ‘’ may the gods deal with
me, be it ever so severely, if by this time tomorrow I do not make your

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life like that of them’’ Dear brothers and sisters in the Lord, the devil
is not afraid of miracles, your anointing or how holy and righteous
you are. He is not even afraid of your commitment in Christ. He will
still come around to destroy you. Elijah was caught up in his unguided
moment by Jezebel through a letter.
Jezebel is both a person and a spirit. The spirit of jezebel is manifested
in various forms. She painted her face to seduce Jehu (2kings 9:30-
37). If you are seductive and involved in sexual promiscuity then
you need deliverance because the spirit of Jezebel is manifesting in
you. She killed the prophets of the Lord (1kings 18:13). The spirit
of Jezebel is operating in whoever wants to stop revival, whoever is
a hater of prayers, manifestations of the gifts of the Holy Spirit, that
individual is Jezebel in disguise.
We are told that when Elijah saw the message from Jezebel’s messenger,
he ran. Certainly, the messenger carried a letter to Elijah, Elijah knew
that a document is very powerful and important. He knew that once a
document is written, it has to be executed. Herod asked for a document
(Mark 2:5) to confirm the birth of the Christ. John the Baptist was
beheaded because of what was written about him. Herod simply acted
based on what was written about Elijah by Jezebel (Mark 9:11-13:
1kings 19:3). Things don’t just happen to people. Things happen to
people as it has been written concerning them. Whatever is happening
to you is a result of a document consciously or unconsciously written
against you. Turn to God because only him can cancel every document
written against you (Col 2: 13-15).
Elijah was empowered by God with bread and water for his journey.
Believers need a daily spiritual empowerment from Jesus Christ who
is the bread of life, so that they can sail through their Christian journey
on earth which is full of demonic attacks. With Jesus on our side, we
shall do all things as he strengthens us. Amen.

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Prayer points
 Pray against hidden documents against your marriage, business,
fiancés and children and the church.
 Every conscious or unconscious document written against your
life and the church expire by the blood of Jesus Christ.
 Renounce all forced relations, agreements and covenants written by
Jezebel spirit
 Ask God to purify you of all pride, selfishness and “Jezebelic”
attitudes in your heart and fellowship.
 Pray for God to reveal and thwart any “Jezebelic” schemes, plans
and devices in your gathering.
 Send out the fire of God to destroy every stronghold of Jezebel in
the church.

Other Readings: Ez. 33: 10 -20; Jn. 13: 36-38

Lent Challenge
Give up sadness for joy

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 Day 18: Tuesday, March 5

Pray with Psalm 15

Confession
Oh Lord God, many times we are deaf to the words of your gospel. We
find it difficult to believe and remain in Christ forgive our stubbornness
and help us to remain in Christ: therefore, we plead with you:

Hymn: CHB 29

Prayer of the Day

Heavenly Father, just as Christ remained in you, help us to remain
connected to you the source of our lives so that we can bear fruits in
Jesus Christ. Help your children to imitate your character and nature
and walk by them, through Christ our Lord, Amen

Text of the Day

Read: 1 Thessalonians 2:13-20

Meditate: “The Life of a Believer”

Scripture encourages us believers in Christ Jesus to constantly do a
reality check as to our spiritual stand (2 Corinthians 13:5), lest he who
thinks he stands falls (1Corinthians 10:12). From our text of reflection
today, we can bring out some characteristics of a true believer which
can help us to re-examine our spiritual walk so that we can make
amends and adjustments;
• They live in perpetual gratitude to God (v13) how often do we thank
God? Or are we constantly asking and forgetting to be grateful and
thankful do we thank him even for other fellow believers? Do we
thank God for his word of God and its working power in the life of
others or even in our life?

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• True believers receive the word of God, not as fabrications of man
but as the truth; the very word of God to them. Do we choose to
select the word of God? Do we receive some and reject some?
When rebukes come, do we attack the vessel used or do we receive
in good faith like true believers should?
• The word of God works effectually in their lives, can the word of
God be visible in our daily living? Or is it only seen when we quote
scripture?
• True believers also suffer persecutions like those who trod the path
before. How do we react when persecutions show up? Do we keep
pressing forward? Do we give up? The church in Thessalonica did
not give up neither did the ones in Judea before them.
• They always long to be with other believers; how often do we long
to be in fellowship of other believers? Or do we feel bored in their
presence? Whose company do we prefer? That of fellow believers
or those that are not in the faith?
• Their joy and boasting is only in bringing others to Christ. What
gives us joy most? What do we boast in?. Apostle Paul’s joy and
boast was in the believers he has brought to Christ.
• They keep looking forward to the return of their Master and what
they will present to him. Do we long for the return of Jesus Christ?
Or the thought of it frightens us? Do we look forward to his coming,
or are praying that he should not come now?
Let us examine our lives and make sure we are not just in church but
are truly in Christ.
Amen
Pray (Extempore)
Other Readings: Ez. 33: 21 -29; Jn. 14: 1-6
Lent Challenge
Give up hate for love

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 Day 19: Wednesday, March 6

Pray with Psalm 162

Confession
Almighty God, we confess to you that we have sinned exceedingly in
thought, word and deeds. we have neglected opportunities to do good
to others; we run after vain and perishable things and forgot the things
which are eternal; therefore, we plead with you:

Hymn: CHB 241

Prayer of the Day

God of mercy and compassion, it was your will that your Son should
suffer for our sake in order to break the power of the enemy over us;
grant that we may obtain the grace of rising again with him, who
together with you, O Father, in the unity of the Holy spirit, lives and
reigns for ever and ever. Amen.

Text of the Day

Read: Mt 19:16-26

Meditate: ‘’Who then can be Saved’’

The difficulty Jesus is talking about the rich being saved is because
the abundance of wealth distracts many rich people from God. Wealth,
works and strict adherence to the law of Moses become their focus,
whereas their focus should be based on God’s kingdom (Mt 6:33).
The rich man thought he could inherit salvation by merely observing
the laws and deeds. There are many today who erroneously think that
they are saved because they attend church services regularly, pay their
tithes and church contributions, their positions as elders and Pastors.
No! eternal life is not giving to us based on our works or positions

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in the church. Cornelius was a man of good works but he was not
saved until Peter preached the gospel to him in order for him to receive
eternal life.
Without the message preached, without you believing the gospel that
Jesus came, died, was buried and on the third day, he rose again from
the dead, it is impossible for you to get eternal life. Eternal life is
not given by your resources or strict adherence to the Mosaic law or
by your works. Eternal life is found in God’s Son and nothing else
(1John 5:11-13). This life can only be made available to anyone who
is willing to receive and believe in his Son (John 1:12; John 3:3-6).
So, to have eternal life, you must have the Son of God and not just the
demonstrations of miracles. Miracles without having the Son is fake
or counterfeit. To sustain or maintain eternal life, you must continue
to follow Jesus.

Questions for Reflection

1. Can eternal life be given by works and adherence to Moses’ laws?
2. What is eternal life (John 3:16; 1John 5:11-13)?
3. How can you gain eternal life (1Cor 15:1-4)?

How you can receive Jesus Christ as Lord and Saviour?

 Admit your need (I am a sinner)
 Be willing to turn from your sins (repent) and ask God for
forgiveness
 Believe that Jesus Christ died for you on the cross and rose from
the grave
 Be baptised and recieve forgiveness and the gift of the Holy
Spirit.

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 Prayer points
 Thank God for the great plan of redemption through his Son Jesus
Christ
 Pray and ask the Holy Spirit to make God’s word in your mouth to
be cutting and penetrating as you preach to the unsaved.
 Pray and ask the Holy Spirit for effective strategies for soul winning
 Pray for God to confirm his word with signs and wonders as
evidence of the power of the gospel
 Pray and break every controlling influence and strong hold of the
devil over people we want to win for Christ.
 Pray and bind demons that blind and bound the heart with darkness
stopping them from receiving God’s word.

Other Readings: Ez. 33: 30 -33; Jn. 14: 7-14

Lent Challenge
Give up worry for peace in the Lord

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 Day 20: Thursday, March 7

Pray with Psalm 118

Confession
Almighty and merciful God, forgive us as we have forgiven others.
Forgive our laziness to pray at all times, study and meditate on your
word, through Jesus Christ, Amen

Hymn: CHB 128

Prayer of the Day

Loving and powerful God, you are present everywhere, you know us
more than we know ourselves. Father do not take away the Holy Spirit
from your children. Stir in us the gifts of the Holy Spirit to use them
for your glory.
Help your children by being filled by the Holy Spirit so that unclean
spirits will not have a place in your children. We ask this in Jesus
Christ’s name, Amen.

Text of the Day

Read: Mt 12:43-45

Meditate: “Maintaining Your Deliverance”

Jesus Christ says ‘believers will be given the power to perform
miracles, they will drive out demons in my name, they will speak in
strange languages (Mark 16:17). The text says that when an evil spirit
goes out of a person, it travels over dry places looking for a place to
rest and if it fines non, it comes back to the place where it left and if
the home is unoccupied, it goes back and brings seven other demons
worse than itself and the condition of the person is worst. Brethren
learn the following from this message.

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- Satan or the evil spirit does not give up on someone. He looks for
an opportunity to destroy believers (John 10:10, 1Peter 5:8)
- Satan is an unclean spirit. He lost his original purity and holy nature.
He has become a perfect enemy to purity and holiness, maligning
all that love it and would promote it.
- Wicked and profane sinners have this unclean spirit in them. The
lust of pride and unbelief, malice and revenge, enemity, hypocrisy,
lust for fame, and sexual immorality, embezzlement fills their heart
and practices. Man’s heart was God’s house by creation, it is now
taken by Satan by those who allow him through sin.
- That Satan through the preaching of the gospel will be cast out of
man
- That evil, when unrestrained, multiplies. when we don’t guard
ourselves against evil, when we allow evil to gain a foothold in our
minds, our hearts, our lives, in the church and we don’t work by the
power of the Holy Spirit to restrain it, evil will multiply from ‘0ne
man to two men, to three women’’, sexual immorality will become
normal. Those who maintain purity, spirituality or godliness will
become victims.
Questions for Reflection
1. How can an evil spirit enter into a Christian (Gal 5:19-21, 1Cor6:9-
11, Rev 21:7-8)
2. How to prevent the unclean spirit into your body or life (repent and
turn to God, accept Jesus as Lord and saviour and follow him (1Cor
15:1-4)
3. Pray without ceasing (Lk 18:1, Mk 14:37-38)
4. Fast and pray (mark 9:29, Is 58)
5. Reason with God (Is 1:15-18)
6. Make God your hiding place (Ps 91:1)

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7. Resist devil and be humble (Jas 4:7-8)
8. Spend time on God’s word (Ps 107:20, John 6:63)
9. Depend on the Holy Spirit (Gal 5:16; Eph 5:18)
10. Select leadership from spirit filled members (Acts 6:1-7; Ex 18)
Pray: (Extempore)

Other Readings: Ez. 34: 1 -10; Jn. 14: 15-21

Lent Challenge
Give up complaints for contentment and gratitude

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 Day 21: Friday, March 8

Pray with Psalm 142

Confession
Almighty God, we come before you seeking your mercy for every
wrong, we have done. Forgive our trespasses and remember them no
more, through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord. Amen.

Hymn: CHB 352

Prayer of the Day

Heavenly Father, we pray you to open the eyes of our understanding to
comprehend the mystery of the sufferings of Jesus Christ. Cause us to
feel the pains so that we may be motivated to witness for you even in
the face of adversity, through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord. Amen.

Text of the Day

Read: Acts 8:1-8

Meditate: “Persecution Serves to Spread the Word”

The outbreak of the Anglophone crisis has caused the internal
displacement of many Christians. As a result, the Presbyterian Church
in Cameroon and other denominations in the French speaking regions
have experienced a growth in their sizes and number of congregations.
This has resulted to the spread of these churches to many other
locations that might not have been without the crisis.
God uses the persecution and suffering of his people to spread the
truth of Christ and to bless the world (Luke 21:12–13). Without doubt,
the suit against us as a church and against some individuals will serve
to advance the cause of Christ and his kingdom. Be encourage from
Acts 8:1–8 that God rules over the sufferings of the church and causes
them to spread spiritual power and the joy of faith in a lost world. It

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is not his only way but it does seem to be a frequent way. God spurs
the church into missionary service by the suffering she endures. The
great persecution as a result of Stephen’s death scattered the church
from their comfort zone, from Jerusalem where they enjoyed sweet
fellowship, breaking of bread and love from their beloved brothers and
as they moved, the word and power of God spread beyond Jerusalem.
We are being scattered today by the Anglophone crisis, job search,
disasters, posting and transfers even to location we never dreamt of.
Will the word of God spread and people experience the power of God
because of this our move irrespective of the circumstances that made
you move?
Philip and the other disciples never misused this opportunity (Acts 8:4-
8). They preached the word of God wherever they went as the Holy
Spirit led them. Therefore, we must not judge too quickly the apparent
challenges of the church. If you see things with the eyes of God, the
Master strategist who cannot lose because he is omnipotent, what you
see in every setback is the positioning for a greater advance and a greater
display of his wisdom, power and love. Amen.

Prayer Points.
1. Pray that we will not only desire to be in places that are
comfortable but where God will use us for his glory.
2. Like the Disciples our displacement will lead to the spread of the
gospel and many will experience the power of God through us.
3. Pray that in the face of trial and persecution, God will give us a
sound mind to focus on him and not on the situation.
4. Pray that persecution will not intimidate the Pastor’s prophetic
voice.
5. Pray for Christians who are being slaughtered by religious fanatics.

Other Readings: Ez. 34: 11 -16; Jn. 14: 22-26

Lent Challenge
Give up pressure for prayers

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 Day 22: Saturday, March 9

Pray with Psalm 7

Confession
Almighty God, we confess our unworthiness. We have hardened our
hearts and have chosen to follow the ways of the world instead of
following your instructions. We have chosen the wrong paths even
when your righteous path is glaring to our sight. Help us to follow
Christ who is the way, the truth and the light, therefore we plead with
you;

Hymn: CHB 323

Prayer of the Day

Almighty God, we ask for your mercy on us, for the sake of your Son
Jesus Christ who suffered on the cross for our sake. Grant us a heart
that is obedient to your word so that we may enjoy the blessings of
your kingdom through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord Amen.

Text of the Day

Read: Mt 16:1-12

Meditate: “Be on Your Guard Against False Teachings”

Jesus performed many miracles that could convict anyone willing to
believe in him. The rationale of a miracle is to lead people to God. The
blind received their sight, the lame walked, those with leprosy were
cleansed, the deaf could hear and the dead were raised back to life yet
the Pharisees and Sadducees asked for a sign to qualify Jesus as the
Son of God. These religious leaders could not see the miracles and
accept Jesus as the Son of God because they had blind spiritual eyes,
deaf spiritual ears, and hard spiritual hearts. Nobody needs a miracle
from him his biological father to accept him as such, nor do we need

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someone to convince us of our parents. It comes naturally from birth.
The religious leaders could interpret physical signs but not spiritual
signs about the end of the age. Jesus said to John’s disciples that the
blind see, the lame walk indicating that the signs are evidences that
Jesus is the Son of God.
Jesus warned his disciples of the false teachings of the Pharisees and
Sadducees, he compared their false teachings to leaven or yeast. Their
false teachings were subtle but very dangerous if not discerned. We
should not think that false teachers come from far, they will come
from “church people.’’ Run away from anyone who convinces you not
to pay your tithes, run from anyone who convinces for an uproar in the
congregation. Such are the fake teachers of today. They come to you
in sheep clothing but inside they are voracious wolves.

Tips on Knowing a False Teacher

1. Test all teachers (1John 4:1)
2. Test every teacher through scripture
3. Test every teacher by his fruits (Mark 16:19)
4. Know the word of God
5. Build a good relationship with the Holy Spirit (John 14:26)
6. Trust in God with all your heart
7. Be prayerful
8. Desire the Spirit to discern the kind of spirits in operation

Prayer Points
 Lord deliver us from every fake prophet manipulating us from
righteousness
 Father established us in your power and your word, that will help us

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 discern fake prophets around us
 Lord destroy and put to shame every evil devices of fake prophets
in your church

Other Readings: Ez. 34: 17 -31; Jn. 14: 27-31

Lent Challenge
Give up bitterness for joy in the Holy Spirit

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 Day 23: Monday, March 11

Pray with Psalm 122

Confession
Heavenly Father you are holy and righteous but we are sinful and full
of evil. We have received your word, even your word made flesh, Jesus
Christ, but remained stubborn and hardened to accept your will. Have
mercy upon us, in the name of Jesus Christ our saviour and redeemer.
Amen.

Hymn: CHB 210

Prayer of the Day:

Heavenly Father, as we meditate upon your word, draw us closer to
you that our hunger and thirst will be satisfied through Jesus Christ
your Son our Lord who lives and reigns together with you O Father, in
the unity of the Holy Spirit, One God for ever and ever. Amen.

Text of the Day

Read: Amos 8:11-12

Meditate: Spiritual Famine

Have you been hungry to the extent that you feel that all your strength
is gone? Many of us believers have experienced a kind of void or
emptiness in our lives which can best be explained by our failure to
attend the midweek fellowships or Sunday Services. Yet, often, the
preaching of our Pastors may not be taken seriously by some. God in
our text promises to send a famine, not of food or water but for his
word. Why? Because many have lost their appetite because of sin. Like
in the wilderness, Israel ate and loath manna from heaven. In the time
of Amos, prophecy (the word of God) was very common until people

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were not eager for it anymore. While there is still good preaching in
our pulpits, let us not become weary of the word of God. Let us remain
steadfast to study and meditate upon it that our lives’ challenges will
come under the authority of the word before the days come when there
will stagger, wander, searching for the word of God.

Prayer
God our Father, give us grace not to become weary of your word, in
the name of Jesus Christ our Lord and saviour. Amen.

Other Readings: Ez. 36:1-15, John 15:1-10

Lent Challenge
Give up craftiness for sharing.

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 Day 24: Tuesday, March 12

Pray with Psalm 37:25-29

Confession
Lord our God, we thank you for your compassion towards us. Forgive
us we pray, where we have not been compassionate to others and
where we have thought more of ourselves, through Jesus Christ your
Son our Lord. Amen

Hymn: CHB 29

Prayer for the Day

God of all providence, in you all our needs are met in Christ Jesus our
Lord. Supply all our needs we pray you, according to your glorious
riches in Christ Jesus who lives and reigns together with you, O Father
in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God for ever and ever. Amen.

Text of the Day

Read: Mk. 8:1-9

Meditate: Compassionate God

Beloved in the Lord, there is an amazing truth about God that he does
not care only about our spiritual needs but also about our physical
wellbeing. Here Jesus sees his followers in dire need. Three days,
they had been without food. The need was real and waving it aside,
they would faint on the way especially as some were from afar.
Unfortunately, they were in the desert with no shops nor streams. Only
seven loaves of bread of the disciple’ supply was left. With this, Jesus
gave thanks and broke the bread. It was distributed with the fish to the
people until seven baskets of left overs were collected.

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Beloved, whenever we are in need, God is aware of it and ready
to satisfy us. It is amazing that he doesn’t give just enough for the
moment but even more than we ask or imagine. If God used the ravens
to feed Elijah, then he can perform any miracle to supply our needs.
He says “ask and it will be given to you” (Mt. 7:7) and again he says,
“until now you have asked nothing in my name. Ask and you will
receive that your joy may be complete” (Jn 16:24). Trust in the Lord
with all your heart and make a request to him. In Christ Jesus, all your
needs will be satisfied.

Prayer
Heavenly Father, you feed the birds and clothe the flowers. Give us a
sure faith that in you all our desires will be satisfied according to your
gracious will in Christ Jesus our Lord. Amen.

Other Readings: Ez. 36:16-32, Jn 15: 11-17

Lent Challenge
Give up grudges for reconciliation.

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 Day 25: Wednesday, March 13

Pray with Psalm 119: 1-8

Confession
Heavenly Father, you have laid down your precepts for us to diligently
obey them. We confess our failure to obey your word and even when
we obey; we have not done so willingly. Create in us a clean heart O
God and renew a right spirit within us, in the name of Jesus Christ
your Son our Lord. Amen

Hymn: CHB 302

Prayer of the Day

Our Father and our God, in our service to you and humanity, we pray
you, give us grace to serve with a true and loyal spirit for the glory of
Jesus Christ your Son our Lord, who lives and reigns together with
you O Father in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God for ever and
ever. Amen

Text of the Day

Read: John 10:17-25

Meditate: Willing Obedience

Beloved in the Lord, there are times that we may obey out of coercion.
Sometimes, the one before us may be so authoritative that saying “No”
may be very difficult. In such a case, even when we obey, its not out of
our will. But Jesus out of his own free will choose to obey the Father
as the sacrifice for our salvation. Willingly, he gave up his glory for
sinful humankind. This attracted the Father’s love towards him.
Beloved in Christ all of human life is supposed to be an act of willing
obedience to God our Creator. Obedience does not only attract God’s

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love towards us but also shows our love towards him. To joyfully say
yes to the will of God is suppose to be our utmost desire every day.
Sometimes it may seem very difficult to accept and do God’s will.
At such moments, we must not forget that even Jesus as the Messiah
(Christ) had suffered before entering into his glory (Lk 24:26). On this
note, therefore; Jesus saw his glory through the cross. He considered
the pains not worth the glory. As children of God, we must always
think of our benefits in obeying God. They attract us to obey willingly
for the glory of God. Let’s commit ourselves to obey God no matter
the circumstances.

Prayer
Heavenly Father, renew our wills from day to day. Blend it O God
with yours and take away all that makes it hard to say “Thy will be
done”, through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord. Amen.

Other Readings: Ez. 36:33-38; Jn 15:18-25

Lent Challenge
Give up noise for silence

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 Day 26: Thursday, March 14

Pray with Psalm 11

Confession
Our Father and our God, we confess our many sins towards you. Our
faith has been weak, our love has been cold and our service poor.
Forgive us we pray for the sake of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Hymn: CHB 323

Prayer of the Day

God of all creation, give us grace that with endurance, we will do great
things for the glory of your name, through Jesus Christ your Son our
Lord who lives and reigns with you, O Father in the unity of the Holy
Spirit, one God for ever and ever. Amen.

Text of the Day

Read: Jn.13:16-30

Meditate: Prepared for the Worst.

Beloved in the Lord, there are many strange things in this passage and
they reveal to us the heart of Jesus towards humanity. It reveals that
every disciple of Jesus was chosen with a mission and Jesus knew that
mission even before choosing each one. For Judas Iscariot, his sole
mission in this high apostolic calling was to betray Jesus (V.18) yet,
he uses this as a revelation and confirmation of his real identity(V.20)
Jesus knew even the time that he was to be betrayed and told Judas to
do it quickly. Even when Judas was revealed as the traitor by giving
him a piece of bread and even telling Judas to do it quickly, none of the
disciples understood Jesus. Beloved, this reveals to us how Jesus was
prepared for his mission. Our preparation for every task determines

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how we will react to challenges that come our way. Those who will
fulfil their divine mandate must have a proper wilderness experience
to grapple with the challenges that will arise in the promised land. The
successes of many is never that they did not face obstacles but how
prepared they were to overcome difficulties. Whatsoever be our task,
let’s get prepared for it and whatsoever challenges arise, lets remain
focused and unwavering.

Prayer
Heavenly Father, make us strong and focused as we do your will that
unwavering, we will fulfil our divine mandate, through Jesus Christ
your Son our Lord. Amen.

Other Readings: Ez. 37:1-14, Jn 15:26—16:4a

Lent Challenge
Give up guilt and accept that you are loved by Jesus and he has forgiven
your sins. Today is a new day and your past is behind.

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 Day 27: Friday, March 15

Pray with Psalm 8

Confession
Holy and righteous Father, we confess our sins against you and against
our neigbours. Have mercy on us, through Jesus Christ your Son our
Lord. Amen.

Hymn: CHB 28

Prayer of the Day

Our God and Father, help us by your Holy Spirit, to glorify you in our
thoughts, words and actions and also to love one another, through Jesus
Christ your Son our Lord, who lives and reigns with you, O Father in
the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God for ever and ever. Amen.

Text of the Day

Read: John 13:31-38

Meditate: The Glory of God and the Command to Men

Beloved in the Lord, in arid regions, wells are common. Sometimes
people have to accept the pain to dig deep just to have water. Once
they have it, their joy is complete. Jesus in our passage sees the cross
as the means through which God is glorified. He therefore accepts
finite pains for the sake of the infinite glory of God. If God his Father
is glorified, then Jesus through his obedience is also glorified. As Jesus
obeys the Father, he draws all men to God and so is glorified. This
means that there are challenges at times which God wants us not to
pray and rebuke, but to accept and go through. In them, he is glorified
and we are edified.

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Beloved, as Jesus knew that his time with the disciples was now very
short, he gave them the command of love to love one another. Paul
says, “If I give all I possess to the poor and give over my body to
hardship that I may boast, but do not have love, I gain nothing” (1 Cor.
13:3). Love (agape) gains for believers the recognition that we are the
followers of Christ. It is the distinguishing mark of our Christianity. As
believers, God is glorified when we accept his will over our lives and
when we love one another. Amen

Prayer Points
• Lord search me, and take anything that will make me abandon you
• Lord help me that as I put my hand on the plough I will never look
back.
• God reinstate those who have denied and abandoned you, bring
them back to the cross of Calvary, in the name of Jesus. Amen.

Other Readings: Ezekiel 37:15-28, Jn 16:4b -11

Lent Challenge
Give up fear for faith in God

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 Day 28: Saturday, March 16

Pray with Psalm 89:1-7

Confession
Good and holy Father, in your holiness, we see our sinfulness. We
confess our weakness to overcome temptations which you have given
to us grace to endure. Have mercy upon us for the sake and the name
of Jesus Christ your Son our Lord. Amen.

Hymn: CHB 525

Prayer of the Day

O God our heavenly Father, your only Son Jesus Christ endure the
cross and scorned its shame, Give us grace that as believers in Jesus
Christ, we too will overcome the challenges of the Christian faith with
endurance through the same Jesus Christ your Son our Lord who lives
and reigns with you, O Father in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God
for ever and ever. Amen.

Text of the Day

Read: 2 Cor. 4:11-15

Meditate: The Rationale to Endure as Believers

Beloved in Christ, the challenges of the Christian faith are enormous
and many times aimed at breaking down the believer to give up on his
saviour. After listing some of his challenges, the apostle Paul tells us
why we should endure as believers. When we believe, we speak of the
things that we believe. Trials and temptations come therefore as a test
of faith. But since we believe, we hold on to God. The one in whom we
believe cannot disappoint us. His life is at work in us and so we endure
in order not to bring shame on Christ. Beloved in the Lord, we endure

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to be raised with Christ on the last day. By his power, God raised the
Lord from the dead, and he will raise us also. Not just to be raised but
to enter into his presence. The eternal bliss of God’s presence gives
believers the courage to endure everything. Gold must be purified
in fire before it can be of greater value and appreciated. Often, the
challenges that we undergo become lessons and reasons for others to
thank God. We therefore have to endure because it strengthens both us
and many especially those who are standing because we are standing.

Prayer
Heavenly Father, help us to stand and not fall, to endure and not give
up, that our faith and those of others may rejoice in the strength of
your Holy Spirit, in the name of Jesus Christ your Son our Lord. Amen

Other Readings: Ez. 39:21-29, John 16: 12-15

Lent Challenge
Give up excuses and put in effort relying more on God’s grace

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 Day 29: Monday, March 18

Pray with Psalm 121

Confession
Lord Jesus, thank you for coming to earth, to suffer and walk the
way to death for our sake. We pray you to pardon us where we have
abandoned and retreated, where we were discouraged and did not walk
in your path. Help us to be still and know that you are God. Look upon
us with mercy, in the name of Jesus Christ we have prayed. Amen.

Hymn: CHB 128

Prayer of the Day

Almighty God, creator, redeemer and friend, we thank you for your
word to us. Teach us by it to remain faithful to you in all circumstances
and be patient in the face of trials through Jesus Christ who lives and
reigns together with you O Father, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one
God forever and ever. Amen.

Text of the Day

Read: Num 21:4-9

Meditate: Be Patient in the Face of Trials

The normal tendency in life is that when things are moving on well
and smoothly, one will hardly hear of complains fights or quarrels.
But immediately trouble, or poverty or sickness sets in, we develop an
automatic character of finding and or putting blames on those around
us. Sometimes, we become even wicked, and impatient that in blaming
others, we make our problems worse. Sometimes, we do not even try
to find out what may be the cause or even seek the face of God for
direction but get into sweeping conclusions that are not true.

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This was a similar situation with the children of Israel as they travelled
from Egypt through the wilderness. God had promised to deliver Israel
from bondage, made them the promise of giving them the land flowing
with milk and honey, promised to provide all their needs and to deliver
them from their enemies. All these promises; God was unveiling and
fulfilling in the life of Israel gradually. On the other hand, Israel soon
became impatient and turned against God.
But what really caused Israel to disrespect God? What made them speak
against God and his servant Moses? They grew impatient because of
the route decided by God to lead them through (v4). Going round or
using the longer route to the Israelites was a great burden because
perhaps there was a shorter route, and they did not understand why
God preferred them to use that route. To this, they became angry and
reigned curses on the Lord’s servant and on God. They detested the
food God had been providing for them and regretted leaving Egypt.
They wished they were never liberated from bondage. God reacted to
this act of impatience by the Israelites by sending snakes to bite them.
Yes, dear brothers and sisters in the Lord, what is our mode when
we face challenges? Which type of words do we speak? In whom or
what do we put our trust? Do we get back to the vomit we threw out?
Sometimes, God wants us to go round. What is our reaction in such
moments? Going round may mean, to slow down, it may mean to go
through some rough roads just to test our patience. It may be in the
form of sickness, a business slow down and more.
We must learn to exercise patience for it is a Christian virtue. Therefore,
in a world like ours, where all things are getting out of normalcy, be
patient, wait on God, be still and see what he will do. Be careful not to
sin when faced with difficulties for they are meant to build us and not
to break us. Amen

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Prayer
Gracious God, open our eyes that we may see how much we have
destroyed ourselves by our lack of trust and confidence in you. Accept
us who return to you and bring about our restoration; bring about the
restoration of Cameroon because of your love, in Jesus Christ our
Saviour. Amen.

Other Readings: Ez. 43:1-12 and Jn. 16:16-24.

Lent Challenge
Give up human applause and seek divine approval

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 Day 30: Tuesday, March 19

Pray with Psalms 1

Confession
Forgive us dear God and king and give us new life in Christ. That the
price which Jesus paid for us we will not take for granted. Have mercy
on us where we have not been humble, where we have not shown love
and where we have sought to satisfy our selfish desires and ambitions
against your will, through Jesus Christ who gave his life as a ransom
for us. Amen
.
Hymn: CHB 238

Prayer of the Day

Almighty God our heavenly Father, we pray you look graciously on
your children, for which Jesus Christ did not hesitate to drink the cup
of suffering for their sake and to pay the price we could never pay.
We pray through him who together with you and the Holy Spirit is
worship forever and ever. Amen

Text of the Day

Read: Mk 10:35-45

Meditate: Greatness through Service

In our society today, many people think when you walk around with
your shoulders high, expecting people to greet you first, waiting to be
served, hailing oneself or becoming popular makes them great people.
Rather, true greatness comes through service. No doubt someone has
said, those who fight for leadership positions are not true leaders.
Yes, dear brothers and sisters, many people hope for greatness but
few are ready to serve. Service leads to greatness. Jesus calls it the

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suffering of service. It is very strange that even the disciples of Jesus
scrambled for great positions among themselves. By asking Jesus to
permit them (John and James) to sit at his left and right in heaven.
This is similar to the question the disciples asked Jesus in Mt 18:1, the
argument among them in Mk 9:33ff. They like us today also longed for
great positions. But Jesus’ response-can you drink the cup I drink? To
be great is to serve and not to hunger after great positions.
Mostly, we want to make a name with our positions. We are choked
up with I am the this of that organisation but do no service to back it
up. Dear people of God, whoever wants to be great must learn to serve
all. for true greatness is seen in our services, learn to serve for even the
Son of man came not to be served but to serve and to give his life as a
ransom. Make yourself great in the kingdom of God by serving those
in your care and around you. Amen

Prayer
Almighty God our heavenly Father, you are great and beyond compare.
You are the source of true greatness. We humble ourselves so that we
may do away with pride and the attitude of dominating others; that we
may serve each other and in turn be made great by you alone.” Who
is the source of true greatness. We pray through Jesus Christ your Son
our Lord, who lives and reigns together with you oh Father, in the
unity of the Holy Spirit. One God forever and ever.

Other Readings: Ez 47:1-6a and Jn 16:25-33.

Lent Challenge
Give up envy and be confident that you are blessed

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 Day 31: Wednesday, March 20

Pray with Ps 71:1-6

Confession
God our Father, we admit that we have turned our loyalty from you to
human beings and our worldly possessions. By our lack of faith, and
total confidence in you, we have taken our hearts and eyes off the cross
to sources that cannot help us. Have mercy on us Lord and lead us to
walk in the light of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen

Hymn: CHB 430

Prayer of the Day

Most holy, most merciful and most loving Father, we acknowledge
the perfect plan you have for us and we beseech you, let your will and
your will alone prevail over our life and keep us safe from all human
schemes against us, through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord. Amen

Text of the Day

Read: Jn. 11:47-84

Meditate: No Evil Plan can prevail over God’s Plan

Do you know that many of those who smile at you are most often the
same people who plan all sorts of evil against you? When they say “I
am happy for you”, the actual thing in their hearts is, “so this one is
still alive” or “what does s/he want to show.” But do you know what,
in all their evil plans, their decisions will only be stepping stones for
us in the name of Jesus.
Our text present Jesus and the authorities at the time. Their function
was to protect and ensure the wellbeing of those under them but they
rather made plans to kill Jesus because of the things he had done

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(Jn 11:45-46). They discussed amongst themselves and agreed to
eliminate Jesus. The High Priest Caiaphas made pronouncements
which had been made by the prophets of old not knowing they were
only facilitating God’s salvation plan.
We must learn to trust only God and not be moved by the happenings
around us. Yes, we may suffer, may become sick, may become poor, we
may even face death, all these are for a purpose. For Christ suffered, he
felt pain, he was persecuted and even killed but it was all for a purpose.
Let them make their evil plots. Let them say all the evil they can say,
let them hold as many meetings as possible, none of it will prevail
against you. Remember scripture says, ‘no weapon forged against you
will prevail…’ Is 54:17. If God permits trouble on your way, it is for a
purpose. Keep trusting only God for he alone knows the future he has
for us (Jer. 29:11). Amen.

Prayer
Almighty God, all power belongs to you. Fill us with your power that
we may be able to do your will in this earthly life full of temptations,
persecutions and suffering. Give us grace to follow in your footsteps
no matter the circumstances so that at the end, we may receive that
which you have promised for those who love you; through Jesus Christ
your Son our Lord. Amen

Other Readings: Ez 47:6b-12 and Jn. 17:1-8.

Lent Challenge
Give up impatience and believe that God’s timing is perfect timing.

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 Day 32: Thursday, March 21

Prayer with Psalm 132:7-9 &12-16

Confession
God our Father, we are here because we desire to know you more and
to be like you. But mostly, our human frailty overshadows our spirit
and causes us to sin. We pray you Father, to have mercy on us and give
us grace to see the light of Christ, the greatest High Priest, and to live
in righteousness and peace. Amen

Hymn: CHB 361

Prayer of the Day

Our heavenly Father, we acknowledge that it is not by might, nor
power but grace that has brought us thus far. Thank you, dear Lord, for
making us partakers of your new covenant. Make us to carry on in the
likeness of Christ to the end and to live in obedience to Jesus the most
High Priest. Make us new in our thoughts, works and words through
Christ our Lord. Amen

Text of the Day

Read: Hebrews 7:1-14

Meditate: The Superiority of Jesus’ Priesthood

Dear brothers and sisters, the letter to the Hebrews, whose author
is not known, presents Jesus to be a “better” version of everything
recorded in the Old Testament. He is a better sacrifice, better High
Priest, who brought a new dispensation of a better covenant and a
better way of life than what existed before. To this, he is superior to all
things created, that existed and that are existing.

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In our text, Melchizedek is presented as a man who was a king and a
priest (two offices in one). A man whose mother, father or family line is
not known, whose beginning or end is not revealed. All that is recorded
about him is that his name (Melchizedek) means righteousness and he
ruled or served in Salem which means peace. And that Abraham paid
a tenth of his plunder to him.
The description given Melchizedek present him as a figure representing
Jesus Christ. The one who existed from the very beginning (Jn1:1),
greater than the levitical priest and also superior to any king who ruled
before and now. Yes, Jesus’ priesthood is superior to all. Unlike other
priests,
- Jesus’ priesthood was/is not based on the law which stipulated that,
priests are chosen only from the tribe of Levi.
- He was/is not guilty of sin that he has to perform sacrifices to
cleanse himself like others Lv. 4:3ff.
- Jesus lives forever. He does not die
Dear household of faith, Jesus is superior not only over priestly
functions, but over all things. In the face of all the odds we face,
Jesus is superior over them all. The political atmosphere may seem
uncontrollable in the eyes of men Jesus is superior over it. Economic
hardship, natural calamities, family problems, marital issues, business
challenges, just to name but these; Jesus is superior over them all.
As we journey with him in this season, we must recognize that he is
more than able to solve our challenges. His superiority means he is all
we need. Therefore, we just need to surrender to his priesthood and he
will take charge. Try it and see what he will do. To God be the glory.
Amen.

Prayer
Almighty and merciful God, we acknowledge that all that we have and
all what we are belongs to you; you are the source of every good gift.

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We are at your feet Lord. Renew your blessings upon us, bless us with
righteousness and peace, through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord, who
lives and reigns together with you O Father in the unity of the Holy
Spirit, one God forever and ever. Amen.

Other Readings: Lev 1:1-9 and Jn 17:9-19.

Lent Challenge
Give up blame and live in humility and grace and take responsibility
for your actions.

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 Day 33: Friday, March 22

Pray with Psalm 110:1-5

Confession
Heavenly Father, hear us as we seek your mercy upon our lives this
day. We beseech you to forgive our weaknesses and keep no record of
our sins. Renew us that our worship may be acceptable to you, through
the merit of your Son Jesus Christ. Amen

Hymn: CHB 447

Prayer of the Day

Ancient of days, the God who knows the end from the beginning,
who is the same from generation to generation. Once more we have
gathered to seek you in your word which will never pass away. We put
our trust and confidence in you and in Jesus Christ who is High priest
forever and ever. Amen

Text of the Day

Read: Hebrews 7:15-22

Meditate: Jesus Christ better is High Priest Forever

Dear people of God, let us reflect on these questions in our hearts.
In the face of trials, persecution, hardship, sickness and even death,
where do we run to? Is it to Jesus or in some powers that cannot even
give us solutions but deceit, or to our money that will pass away or
we look up to men who will pretend and mock us behind us? We must
learn to always look up to the one who lives forever.
To be High Priest forever means the priesthood of Jesus will never
come to an end it is everlasting. It is eternal and brings us a better hope
that draws us near to God. It means our expectations will never be cut
short.

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Dear brothers and sisters, our text re-echoes Ps 110: 4. In verse 17 and
21, stating that “You are priest forever”. This is a statement indicating
permanency of Jesus’ priesthood.
Jesus is not descended from the tribe of Levi; he was not a slave under
the law but a fulfillment of the law. Jesus was without sin but suffered
the course of sinful people to death. Jesus was raised to life and now
sits at the right hand of God. He is now our everlasting Priest.
A Priest from the order of Melchizedek, whose beginning and end
is not known and who is righteous and gives peace. He is the one
chosen not by the law but by oath (v22). He is the guarantor of a better
covenant. Jesus is the surety of our salvation. He is the one able to
save us completely. Yes, he is Priest forever. As we continue to journey
in this earthly life, no matter the mess we may find ourselves in, the
intensity of the problems that comes our way, Jesus our everlasting
Priest is ever present to give us a new and better hope.
Therefore, take the bold step, build some more courage, look to the
cross and see the one who hang on it as a sign of victory. He is eternal;
he has never failed and will never fail. Just keep trusting and he will
see you through. Amen.

Prayer
We thank you heavenly Father for your grace. We thank you for giving
us access to you through Jesus Christ. By this, we are more humbled
and pray that your grace may continue to abound, through Jesus Christ
your Son our Lord, who lives and reigns together with you O Father, in
the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God forever and ever. Amen.

Other Readings: Lev 8:1-13 and Jn 17:20-23.

Lent Challenge
Give up resentment. The only person you hurt by holding on offence
is yourself.

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 Day 34: Saturday, March 23

Pray with Psalm 40:5-10

Confession
God of love, mercy and compassion, here we are at the foot of the cross
yearning for mercy upon us. We confess our sins and empty ourselves
before you. Grant us a chance to be called your children again and
lead us through life challenges that we may be made perfect when you
come again, through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord. Amen

Hymn: CHB 135

Prayer of the Day

Almighty Father, the God in whom we move and have our being,
thank you for your faithfulness and for sending your dear Son to be
the perfect sacrifice that sets us free. May glory, honour, adoration and
thanksgiving be yours forever and ever. Amen

Text of the Day

Read: Hebrews 7:23-28

Meditate: The Priesthood of Jesus brings Perfection

A careful reading of Ex. 29:38-66 and Lev 4:3ff present us the
functioning of levitical priest and how they had to offer sacrifices to
cleanse themselves first before those of other people. This makes us to
understand that these Old Testament priests were in themselves sinful
and because of this, they faced death (physical and spiritual).
Our passage discusses how Jesus as the eternal High Priest is able to
save completely those who come to God through him. It emphasizes the
superiority of Christ priesthood and highlights his ability to intercede
for believers by offering himself as a perfect sacrifice for sin. Verse 20

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presents Jesus as a High Priest who truly meets our needs. One who
is holy, blameless, pure, set apart from sinners and exalted above the
heavens.
Have we not been too comfortable in sin for a long time? Is it not time
we step out of our comfort zones and strive genuinely for perfection?
If we truly are serving a perfect Priest, who has made all things perfect,
then what is stopping us from being like him? May God grant us grace
to always strive for perfection. Amen

Prayer
Almighty God, you are all that we need. You guide us. Provide for us,
forgive us, make us holy, and answer our prayers, through Jesus Christ
your Son our Lord. We cannot thank you enough for all that you do for
us, for it is beyond measure. To you belong all glory, all power, and all
majesty forever and ever, in Jesus’ Name we pray. Amen.

Other Readings: Lev. 8:14-17 and Jn 17:24-26.

Lent Challenge
Give up gossip. Control your tongue and minimize contact with people
who are negative, toxic and bring down others.

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 Day 35: Monday, March 25

Pray with Psalm 13

Confession
Dear heavenly Father, we confess our sins of anger, greed and
betrayal. We are not perfect beings and our righteousness is like filthy
rags before you. We have sinned in thoughts, words and in deeds and
have refused to serve you the way you want us to. We have walked
in darkness rather than in light; we have called upon the name of the
Lord in vain but have not departed from doing wrong. Indeed! You are
forgiving and merciful Lord, forgive us, we pray you in Jesus name.
Amen.

Hymn: CHB 136

Prayer of the Day

Lord, we cast out the spirit of indignation from us and we desire to be
rekindled by the Holy Spirit who will enable us copy from the woman
with an alabaster jar of oil. We stand against the spirit of greed, pride
and double standards. The distractions of this world has blinded our
eyes not to see your goodness that is why we serve you at our finger
tips. May we be fully involved in your word and grow spiritually so
that we will not betray you but will recline on the table with thee when
you shall come again. We will continuously seek your face and receive
a double portion of your grace in Jesus’ name. Amen

Text of the Day

Read: Mk. 14:1-26

Meditate: Apply the Doctrine of ‘Christ Crucified to Your Life’

We have been travelling with Christ for thirty-five days now and we

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get to the peak of our journey. The Passion Week is so named because
of the passion with which Jesus willingly went to the cross in order
to pay for the sins of his people and it contains several memorable
events. Holy Week ushers us in Jesus Christ triumph over death.
Jesus Christ entered Bethany and had a friendly meal with Simon the
leper. In his house, a woman with an alabaster flask of ointment of pure
nard came in, broke the jar and anointed Jesus’ head. The reaction of the
people at table was not the best as they were indignant and grumbled
of the high quality of the perfume. But Jesus reprimanded them and
ordered them to leave her alone. This woman is a perfect example on
how we should give to the Lord. David said in (2 Sam.24:24b) “I will
not offer burnt offerings the Lord my God that cost me nothing”. Her
gift to the Lord was costly and Christ’s body sacrificed for us on the
cross is costly. We must give God our best for a divine recognition.
From the narrative, Judas Iscariot was one of those who grew
mad at the woman for wasting such a huge sum of money. It was
this occasion that stimulated Judas to carry out his betrayal scheme
that he had already conceived in his heart. We should always take
control of our thoughts before they control us. Paul told the church
in Philippi to always think on what is good, true, honourable, just,
lovely, commendable, excellence and worthy of praise. Despise Judas
Iscariot’s schemes, Jesus remained focus on his mission.
His disciples asked him where he will celebrate the Passover and his
response to their question showed that Christ was ready to fulfill his
mission. At table Christ brought the issue of betrayal and even the one
who was to betray him asked questions. Many of them were sad when
told that he will be betrayed. Christ knew exactly who will do it that
is why he said “One who is dipping bread with me”. It is very true
that your enemies are members of your household (Mtt. 10:36). Don’t
allow yourself to be used by the devil as he did to Judas Iscariot.
At the table he blessed the bread as his body and the cup as his blood
signifying he was the sacrificial Lamb of God. He instituted the

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sacrament of the Lord’s Supper and told his disciples that he will never
drink it again until the day he will drink it anew. He knew his physical
presence will depart but his spiritual body will not. Lets continue to
abide with him. Amen.

Hymn: CHB 143

Prayer
Lord, help us to be loyal to your will and function according to your
biddings. We receive grace to subject mammon spirit and betrayals
under feet. Turn our eyes from looking at vanities and give us life in
ways. We are not perfect beings but weak children in this world. Direct
our footsteps in the right direction that the world may know and see
Christ through us. As we subject to your will, your grace will follow
us. Amen

Lent Challenge
Give up comparison for self-confident. You have a unique contribution
to make and there is no one else like you

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 Day 36: Tuesday, March 26

Pray with Psalm: 102:1-12

Confession
Holy and righteous Father, we cannot justify ourselves before you and
claim to be innocent; we confess our sins of betrayal and denial and we
confess our sin of ingratitude. Your sacrifice on the cross has not been
valued by us and in light of the sacrifice we see the hatefulness of our
sins, but your mercy is great and wonderful. We give a kiss of betrayal
everyday and still see ourselves better than Judas Iscariot. We cry for
mercy to you Lord. Amen

Hymn: CHB 128

Prayer of the Day

Father in heaven all honour and glory be ascribed to thee O God.
Help our unbelief and may we remain prayerful so as to overcome
the temptations and traps of the wicked one. Our spirit is willing to
be in your presence but the flesh man keeps disturbing your plan in
our lives. By your spirit in us we overcome the plans and tricks of the
enemy in our lives. We remain firm and focus in your presence and
may the spirit of prayer not depart from us. We pray in Jesus Christ
name. Amen.

Text of the Day

Read: Mk. 14:27-52

Meditate: While We were yet Sinners, Christ died for Us

Dear God’s people, Jesus in this first segment of our text, predicted
that the disciples will deny him when arrested. But Peter refused
vehemently and promised to follow him to the end. Jesus Christ was
ready to fight alone because he had seen the frailty of their human
hearts. Peter’s firmness is unquestionable and must be appreciated.

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He demonstrated this in (Jn. 6:68b-69). When everyone was leaving,
Peter remained firm on Christ and had no other person to turn to except
Christ.
In the second segment of our text, Jesus took his inner core disciples
(Peter, James and John) to Gethsemane for prayers. While he was
praying his disciples were sleeping. Sleep is good but sleeping during
prayers time is detrimental to our spiritual growth. Christ prayed setting
a perfect example for us his followers; prayers should not be a routine
but a passion for our spiritual lives. The world we are today needs men
and women to pray without ceasing (1 Thes. 5:17). Stand up in prayers
and God will continue to fight the seen and unseen battles.
Beloved, in the third segment of our text, the one who dined together
with Christ betrayed him with a kiss. This marked the betrayal of trust,
confidence and hope in humans. If Judas Iscariot betrayed Jesus then
brothers and sisters will do same to us. It is good to be at peace with
each other, but curse is the one whose trust is in man (Jer.17:8). Be
careful; the kiss of betrayal is real and very common nowadays. From
Judas Iscariot, we learned to work on our ego and mind set. Our hearts
needs total renewal if not we may end up worst than Judas Iscariot. We
pray for grace to resist the tricks and evil traps of the evil one. Amen

Hymn: CHB 150

Prayer
Dear God and Father, many a times we blame Judas Iscariot for
betraying Christ. Our outward behaviour proves us guilty of denying
him. Help us to pray and never get weary less we fall into temptation.
The temptation of denying you many a times is high, the charming
nature of the world is strong, deceitful trends are alarming but we shall
overcome through Christ who gives us strength. Amen

Lent Challenge
Give up doubt and believe God has opened for you that which is
beyond anything you could imagine.

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 Day 37: Wednesday, March 27

Pray with Psalm 35: 19-23

Confession
Lord we confess our sins of disrespect and short sightedness to you.
We have done wrong in your eyes and not worthy to be called yours.
Many a times we misrepresent you in this sin sick world. We are full of
pride, hate, malice, jealousy backbiting and slandering. The world is
still in much darkness because the sons of God have failed to take their
course. Forgive us Lord, we pray you in Jesus’ name. Amen

Hymn: CHB 125

Prayer of the Day

Holy Father, our lives are nothing without you. We receive grace to
remain steadfast in your vineyard. The accuser of brethren does not
easily give up but we do. We therefore pray for firmness and the ability
to follow in your will accordingly. In the midst of our challenges and
troubles, may we not be defensive and offensive; rather we want to be
receptive and correct our faults any time pointed out. A willing spirit
to do your will is our desire, we pray in Jesus Christ’ name. Amen

Text of the Day

Read: Mk. 14:53-72

Meditate: Know When to Keep Silent

Jesus Christ is seen in the Sanhedrin where the Chief Priest, the elders
and the scribes came together seeking testimonies in order to accuse
him. When no clear accusations could be found, those who had evil
motives against the innocent Jesus generated false testimony in order
to promote their cause. Jesus had done nothing that would call for the
death penalty under Roman law. Christ was not guilty and one of his

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strong points was silence. He responded to the High Priest question
accordingly.. “I am, and you will see the Son of Man seated at the right
hand of power, and coming with the clouds of heaven.” According
to their misunderstanding, Jesus spoke blasphemy by claiming to be
the Son of God. The truth is that they were speaking blasphemy by
assigning Jesus’ works to the devil. The High Priest became mad at
him and needed no further evidences and decided to hand him over to
be condemned. Dearly beloved, we need to be honest, steady, firm in
our decision to serve God. If not the accuser of brethren (Satan) may
win the case against us.
As predicted by the saviour, it definitely came to past. All of Jesus’
disciples ran away but Peter kept following even from a distance.
Even though, scripture was fulfilled, Peter kept a determined faith.
How many times have we missed the way and have bothered to
repent. Peter realized himself when the cock crowed and wept bitterly
indicating that he was remorseful. We need to take responsibilities of
our actions and stop being defensive. As Christ did not defend himself,
you also should not defend yourself. Admit your faults and move on
guiltless. Amen.

Hymn: CHB: 330

Prayer
Lord God, we receive grace to function as your child. The challenges
of this world are alarming and temptations trending. Our strength is
failing but we trust your power and grace. Help us to excel in your
name and show the world that we serve a powerful and living God.
You are the Messiah and will never abandon yours. As you kept silent
when accused, we pray to remain silent when persecuted, the world
behind us and Christ in front us. Amen

Lent Challenge
Give up failure. You may experience failure, but still fare forward

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 Day 38: Thursday, March 28

Pray with Psalm [Link]-15

Confession
Heavenly Father, forgive our sins and do not keep a record of our
wrong. We have done smelly things in your eyes. The essence of your
death has been watered down by our deviant ways. We have been too
artificial and not real in our salvation. Despite the Lord’s sacrifices
for us on the cross, we have refused to shine the light as he wants us
to. We have strayed from the truth and more often we do things that
are not pleasing in your eyes. We are ashamed of our short comings,
forgive us Lord. Amen

Hymn: CHB 150

Prayer of the Day

Heavenly King, we thank you for your love, care and constant blessings.
Enable us to consult you in issues of soul winning. We will not concert
for people’s downfall; rather teach us to work for one another’s
progress. Keep us from falling into any kind of sin or running into any
form of danger. The forces of this world are strong on your church, the
truth is not accepted and those who stand on the naked truth are hated
for doing so, teach us to remain strong and follow the perfect example
of Jesus Christ. Amen

Text of the Day

Read: Mk. 14:12-26

Meditate: Jesus is truly the King: Honour Him as such

Jesus’ accusers had no rest and they concerted to accuse him by all
possible means. When the cunning question of “are you the king of
the Jews” was asked? a wise response was given, “you have said so”.

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This left the Chief Priest and teachers of the law confused and in order
to wipe their shame, they asked irrelevant question which yielded no
fruits. Many a times when we are accused we should avoid fighting
back. Sometimes, we need to baffle people with our responses.
It was a custom in the Roman government to release someone during
the Passover feast. This was done in order to appease the most radical
Jews of the Roman Empire who were in Jerusalem at this time. Pilate
tried looking for ways to release Jesus but the nationalistic emotions
of the multitudes were running high. As Governor of the region, Pilate
had to compromise with the intense Jewish multitudes in order to
prevent riots in the city. His compromise sent Jesus for crucifixion.
Many a times, the people’s opinion differs but we need to stand on
what is right.
Sometimes people reject us for no good reasons note that in this life
not every one will hate you as well as love you but you need to remain
steadfast. People will mock us, some will call us names; others will
question the authority of our God. We should not defend ourselves.
With all the controversies, the people still hail him as king of the Jews.
Whatever God had programmed for you will come to fulfillment if
only you remain steadfast and align to his will. Amen

Hymn: CHB: 128

Prayer
Lord, we refuse to be partakers of evil. No matter the distractions of
this world, help us not to mock at our God. You are our uniting force
and present help in times of trouble. Transform us completely that we
become holy and faithful to your will. We pray to remain focused and
abide in you. Amen.

Daily Readings: Ex. 12:1&3&6-7&11-14&25-27, Mk:14:12-26

Lent Challenge
Give up pride. Blessed are the humble

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 Day 39: Friday, March 29 (Good Friday)

Pray with Psalm 69:1-21

Confession
Dear God and Father, our sins are like filthy rags before thee. We have
done things which are not pleasing in your eyes. We got so many stains
on our garments. Hurts of yesteryears are still piled up in our hearts.
Much hypocrisy is practiced today. We cry to you for mercy. Our sins
are red as scarlet but mercy will make it white as wool. Amen

Hymn: CHB 138

Prayer of the Day

On this day that our saviour was crucified we pray to crucify the flesh
that is at war with the Spirit. May our devotedness to our God not be
questioned. Help us to remain steadfast and faithful to you Lord not
minding the pains we may be going through. Lord of Host our cry this
day is a cry of victory and can only advance in your kingdom if we
subject to pain. We crucify the flesh in reverence of you. Amen

Text of the Day

Read: Heb. 9:24-28

Meditate: Return to God

Jesus’ death on the cross is real and sincere. He did this for the salvation
of our souls. He did not enter in temples built by human hands; he
entered into the holy temple to make things better for us.
His sacrifice is genuine and he did it once and for all. In the days of
Moses, the priest usually got into the temple to make atonement for
the sins of the people. Here, they sacrificed lambs, rams, bulls in their
numbers. The flowing of the animal blood signified the sins of the

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people were forgiven. And this was done on periodic basis. From time
to time they entered the temple to make atonement.
Christ did it once and for all. How many rams do we have to offer?
How many bulls and lambs can we give? The price he paid for us is too
costly. Therefore, we should stop crucifying him many times. Christ
will not die the second time. We have already been bought with the
special blood of Jesus. We are destined to live once and after death,
we face judgment. Thus, let’s live righteous; crucify the flesh so that
even when we die it will be to the glory of God.
We will face judgment after death meaning there is no repentance in
the grave. We should live at our best. Christ did his best to set us free,
so, we must follow in his footstep in order to make heaven.
He will come the second time not to die for us but to happily take those
who are waiting for him. Many a Christians today are not eagerly
waiting for the Lord. They go about planning many activities and even
swearing not to forgive people as if they control the clock. Its best to
plan well but we should think of death and eternity. Remember, our
text says in vs 28 “So Christ, having been offered once to bear the sins
of many, will appear a second time, not to deal with sin but to save
those who are eagerly waiting for him.
Hymn: CHB 136
Prayer
Dear God, after celebrating you for your goodness in our lives and
after you rebuked us we mounted a self defense mechanism. That is
why we cry ‘crucify him’ even at our own detriment. We have taken a
lot of things for granted. Help us to subject ourselves under correction
and enable us to live right under your influence. We ask this through
the merits of our beloved saviour. Amen
Daily Readings: Hos.6:1-6, Mk.15:21-41
Lent Challenge
Give up self-pity. God comforts us in our sorrow

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 Day 40: Saturday, 30 March

Pray with Psalm 88:1-12

Confession
We have done wrong and have done things that are not pleasing in your
eyes. We nurse bitterness within us. Many a times our physical presence
misrepresents us and we do things that even heaven is ashamed of us.
We are sorry for misrepresenting you LORD. It’s because of your love
that we are still alive and looking healthy. Continue to lead us we pray
you in Jesus’ name. Amen

Hymn: CHB 138

Prayer of the Day

On this day with tears in our eyes not mourning for the death of our
Lord but crying that we are not willing to change, help us to be dead
to sin and alive in Christ Jesus. We shall definitely excel because
you ordained us. Enable us to dedicate ourselves to you for divine
transformation and direction. Lord as we prepare to celebrate the
resurrection of Jesus Christ, may we resurrect ourselves from our
waywardness. Amen.

Text of the Day

Read: Jn. 19:31-37

Meditate: Lay Down Your Life for Your Fellow Man

The people followed rules and regulations so closely but were not
devoted to their God as they ought to. If they had followed Christ
closely as they did to the laws, then they wouldn’t have harmed him.
They started breaking the bones of the thieves to facilitates their dead
but when they arrived to the saviour, He was already dead. This was

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a fulfillment of scripture as seen in Ex. 12:46. Jesus was indeed the
Passover lamb and has died for us once and for all. Jesus’ death on the
cross was not for nothing. It was for our salvation and to fulfill his love
into the world.
The one who experienced his death narrated the story as seen and
this should helped build our faith in Christ Jesus. A flow of water and
blood at the same time signifies he was hypovolemic. Those who were
flogged would often go into hypovolemic schock, a term that refers to
low blood volume in other words, the person would have lost so much
blood. The results of this would be:-
1. The heart would race to pump blood that is not there.
2. The victims would collapse or faint due to low blood pressure.
3. The kidneys would shut down to preserve body fluids.
4. The person would experience extreme thirst as the body desire to
replenish lost fluids.
There is evidence from scripture that Jesus experience hypovolemic
shock as a result of being flogged. He suffered from hypovolemic
shock that is why he cried out “I thirst”. The piecing of his side was
for the fulfillment of scriptures (Zec. 12:10). All what happen was a
fulfillment of scripture.
Spiritually the blood is for redemption to deal with sins (Heb. 9:22)
for the purchasing of the church (Acts 20:28). Water is for imparting
life, to deal with death for the producing of the church (Eph. 5:29-30).
The Lord’s death takes away our sins and imparts life into us. Because
Jesus shed his blood to accomplish a marvelous redemption for us, we
can be forgiven and cleansed of all our sins. We can never praise and
thank him enough for the redemption aspect of his death.

Hymn: CHB 128

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Prayer
Lord your sacrifice for us on the cross cannot be taken for granted. We
thank you for your precious blood shed for us. The water from your
side will keep on imparting the church positively. May your love for
us never depart and may your power rest on us. We are experiencing
today because of you and we shall face tomorrow because of you. We
thank you Lord for thy blood and water in our lives, we are redeemed,
cleansed and imparted by your special blood and water. Amen

Lent Challenge
Give up retirement. As long as you keep breathing, you are here for a
reason

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