Lenten Devotion

March 18th

On Sunday, we heard the text from Genesis 21 about Hagar and Ishmael. In the first part of this story, we learn that Hagar and Ishmael are forced into a journey by Abraham and Sarah after  Isaac was born. Hagar and Ishmael were out in the desert and felt very alone. They were scared and hungry. 

When have you been afraid?

What are some of the things you do when you get scared?

As the story continues, Hagar is crying to God for help. God comforts her and when she opens her eyes she notices a spring of water close by. God provided for them in their time of need. God is with us today when we are feeling alone or scared. This time of constant news about the changing world with the COVID-19 outbreak can be a time of anxiety. School is on break, people are working from home, people are staying inside, and many aren’t following their normal routine of work and school. God is with each of us in this uncertain time. We are part of a family who cares about us - our family living in the same place and our church family who is praying for everyone during this time.

This story is one that you can’t find in the Spark Story Bible. The complete chapter is online at here. Read either verses 9-21 or the whole chapter. 

Where did you see God in your life this last week?

What are ways you can be an angel to others this next week?

Prayer

Dear God, Thank you for the journeys in our life. Thank you for reminding us that you are with us in the times when things are not going well and the times when things are going great and all the times in between. Help us remember to look for the angels in our lives who remind us God is with us today. Help us be angels to those we meet. Be with all the people caring for others in their journeys. In your name we pray, Amen.

Optional Activity

Draw a picture of an angel and hang it in your room or somewhere in the house. When you see the angel, be reminded of those people who are angels in our world today and think of how you can be an angel in someone’s life.