March 30th Virtual Worship
Go directly to Worship Service Video
Worship Team: Sarah Haas, Marc Hayden
Music Ministry Team: Kristin Petty
If you wish to see more information about giving or to checkout our new Online Giving process, visit our GIVING page.
Key Notes from the reading & sermon:
Scripture Lesson
Sunday, March 30, 2025 Fourth Sunday of Lent
Scripture Reading: Mark 12:41-44
Sermon: All She Had
Mark 12:41-44
He sat down opposite the treasury, and watched the crowd putting money into the treasury. Many rich people put in large sums. A poor widow came and put in two small copper coins, which are worth a penny. Then he called his disciples and said to them, “Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put in more than all those who are contributing to the treasury. For all of them have contributed out of their abundance; but she out of her poverty has put in everything she had, all she had to live on.”
Key Idea of the Sermon
Jesus is loyal to the reign of God not to Rome, which is why a Roman cross awaits Jesus on the Friday of Holy Week. The teachings of Jesus we will study during Lent have added weight because they are spoken in Jesus’ final days. In the Temple for the Festival of Passover, Jesus is presented three questions that are meant to trap him—questions about loyalty, resurrection, and what matters most. He answers so wisely that Mark concludes this section by noting: “After that no one dared to ask Jesus any question.” Now, Jesus is free to offer his own teaching rather than simply respond to questions asked. Today’s passage is an inspiring example of the essence of discipleship.
Questions for Reflection
• This story highlights Jesus’ abiding trust in God that allows him to be fully present in each moment. In that moment in the Temple Jesus is paying attention to what is going on around him and sees and shares a living example of discipleship. Are you paying attention to the active presence of God moment by moment in your life?
• Spiritual practice is meant to focus our attention on God in the present. What are you finding helpful to calm your busy mind so you can stay focused on the mystery and wonder of life in each moment? • Ultimate loyalty to and trust in God are on display in the “poor widow”. How does trust in God ease your fears about having enough?
A Spiritual Practice to Try
Some give up an unhealthy habit during Lent, others take on a healthy spiritual practice to grow closer to God during Lent. Choose one or the other that is most helpful to you and stick with it. If you need help reach out to your pastors.
If you need some guidance or support, you may reach me at pastormarc.friedensucc@outlook.com
