"Except a corn of wheat fall into the ground and die" (John xii. 24).

Death and resurrection are the central ideas of nature and Christianity. We see them in the transformation of the chrysalis, in the buried seed bursting into the bud and blossom of the spring, in the transformation of the winding sheet of winter to the many tinted robes of spring.

Psalm 48; Leviticus 7:22-8:17; Mark 2:13-28

Indeed, you are my lamp, O Lord, the Lord lightens my darkness.
2 Samuel 22:29

Christ says, "I have come as light into the world, so that everyone who believes in me should not remain in the darkness." John 12:46

Christ Jesus, let your light continue to be a beacon to us as we move from darkness to the hope and joy and peace of your light. Illuminate our way with your grace. In your name we pray. Amen.

Psalm 47; Leviticus 6:14-7:21; Mark 2:1-12

God saw my affliction and the labor of my hands. Genesis 31:42

Paul wrote, Be steadfast, immovable, always excelling in the work of the Lord, because you know that in the Lord your labor is not in vain. 1 Corinthians 15:58

Steadfast Lord, show us of small vision that our work for you is never in vain. Show us you are our rock and we know we can trust in you forever. Amen.