Lent 2 – Week of March 1st, 2026

Sunday, March 1, 2026
Readings: Genesis 12:1–4a; Psalm 121; Romans 4:1–5, 13–17; John 3:1–17

Reflection
God calls Abram to leave behind certainty and step into an unknown future, trusting a promise not yet fulfilled. This calling requires courage—the willingness to release what is familiar in order to receive what God is creating. Psalm 121 reminds us that we do not walk alone; God watches over every step. Paul affirms that this journey has always been rooted in trust, not in our own effort or achievement. Jesus tells Nicodemus that new life requires being born again—letting go of the need for control and allowing God to transform us from within. Necessary suffering often comes in the form of surrender, releasing the safety of the known so that we can step into the fullness of life God is offering.

Question for Contemplation
What might God be inviting you to release so that you can step more fully into new life?

Prayer
Calling God, give me the courage to trust you beyond what is familiar and to follow where you lead.

Intention for the Day
Take one step forward in trust, even if the outcome is not yet clear.

Monday, March 2, 2026
Readings: Psalm 128; Numbers 21:4–9; Hebrews 3:1–6

Reflection
When the people of Israel grumble and face danger, God provides a path to life through the bronze serpent—an unexpected source of healing. Psalm 128 reminds us that blessings flow when we walk in reverence and trust. Hebrews points to Christ as the faithful leader, the one who guides us through trials without failing. Necessary suffering often comes in the wilderness of our own lives, where fear and frustration tempt us to turn away. Yet God invites us to look beyond the immediate struggle, trusting that the way forward leads to life and restoration.

Question for Contemplation
Where in your life do you need to lift your eyes and trust God’s provision, even when the path seems difficult?

Prayer
Healing God, give me eyes to see your life-giving presence and courage to trust your guidance.

Intention for the Day
Notice one situation where frustration tempts you to give up, and choose trust instead.

Tuesday, March 3, 2026
Readings: Psalm 128; Isaiah 65:17–25; Romans 4:6–13

Reflection
Isaiah paints a vision of new creation, a world renewed and restored. Psalm 128 reminds us that joy and blessing flow from walking faithfully with God. Paul points to the promise of God, fulfilled through faith rather than works, showing that the path to life is rooted in trust. Necessary suffering is often the space where hope is nurtured, teaching us patience and reliance on God’s timing. Trusting God allows us to participate in the new life God is already bringing, even before we see it fully realized.

Question for Contemplation
How might you live today in the hope of God’s promised renewal, even amid current struggles?

Prayer
God of promise, help me trust in your work of renewal and walk faithfully in hope.

Intention for the Day
Take a small action today that reflects trust in God’s unfolding plan, even when outcomes are unseen.

Wednesday, March 4, 2026
Readings: Psalm 128; Ezekiel 36:22–32; John 7:53–8:11

Reflection
God promises to cleanse and renew, writing a new spirit within us. Psalm 128 reminds us that blessedness grows from faithful living. In the story of the woman caught in sin, Jesus demonstrates mercy and courage, refusing to condemn while calling for transformation. Necessary suffering often includes facing the consequences of our choices while trusting that God’s forgiveness opens the way to new life. Grace does not remove the need for accountability—it invites us to participate in restoration.

Question for Contemplation
Where might you need to receive or extend mercy today, trusting in God’s restorative power?

Prayer
Merciful God, renew my heart and help me offer grace to others as you offer it to me.

Intention for the Day
Identify one situation where judgment tempts you, and respond with mercy instead.

Thursday, March 5, 2026
Readings: Psalm 95; Exodus 16:1–8; Colossians 1:15–23

Reflection
The Israelites face hunger and uncertainty, yet God provides manna each day, reminding them to trust in divine care. Psalm 95 invites us to worship and listen, opening our hearts to God’s guidance. Paul proclaims that Christ holds all creation together and reconciles us, even amid trials. Necessary suffering often comes when we feel lacking or uncertain, inviting us to depend on God rather than our own strength. Trust opens the way for God’s provision and peace to shape our journey.

Question for Contemplation
What daily needs or uncertainties might you bring to God in trust today?

Prayer
Provider God, teach me to rely on your care and to receive your blessings with gratitude.

Intention for the Day
Offer one small worry to God and act in faith that your needs will be met.

Friday, March 6, 2026
Readings: Psalm 95; Exodus 16:9–21; Ephesians 2:11–22

Reflection
God continues to provide for the Israelites, teaching them reliance and patience. Psalm 95 calls us to worship and obedience, even when the path feels mundane. Paul reminds us that Christ reconciles all, breaking down walls and forming a community of peace. Necessary suffering often invites patience and trust, showing us that God’s provision is sufficient and transformative. When we participate faithfully in God’s care, our lives and relationships reflect reconciliation and blessing.

Question for Contemplation
How might patience and trust transform your current challenges or relationships?

Prayer
Reconciler God, guide me to trust your provision and live in peace with those around me.

Intention for the Day
Notice one moment where impatience arises, and respond with trust and calm instead.

Saturday, March 7, 2026
Readings: Psalm 95; Exodus 16:27–35; John 4:1–6

Reflection
God’s care for the Israelites continues steadily, even when their journey feels repetitive or challenging. Psalm 95 calls us to listen and worship, not merely follow rules. Jesus models this in his journey to Galilee, resting and moving with purpose, showing that faith involves both action and attuned attention. Necessary suffering can be transformed when we remain attentive to God’s presence, recognizing that daily care and small steps cultivate resilience and growth.

Question for Contemplation
Where might you need to pause and notice God’s presence in the ordinary moments of your day?

Prayer
Attentive God, help me recognize your care in the ordinary and walk faithfully in your guidance.

Intention for the Day
Pause intentionally today, noticing one ordinary moment where God is present and responding with gratitude.