I have this vague memory of Mrs. Miller's kindergarten classroom where we were all sitting near the windows on the tiled floor having show and tell. My friend Esther's dad was there, a big German farmer, and he put on a leather glove and reached into a box. What is it? What is it? What is Esther's show and tell?

All of us 5 and 6 year olds leaned in trying to be the first to see. With a big, broad grin, the man pulled out an ugly grey creature gripping her by the scruff of the neck. It had a pink nose and a long hairless tail . OOOOOH! It was an opossum!  This gruff man gently flipped the live creature over so we could see her belly. He told us to look closely. Nestled safely in a little pouch of her belly were babies!  Baby 'possums!
I probably don't want to know what Mr. Endress did with the opossums after show and tell, but I remember being amazed as we talked about how the mama kept her babies safely in her pocket.  On most of my of my encounters with these unattractive marsupials, my brain pulls open the file where that kindergartner saw her first mama opossum. Thank you, Mr. Endress!

The Bible has numerous places where images of creation are used to aid our understanding or provide poetic beauty. In the Luke 13:31-35 passage that Brother Mick will be sharing, Jesus draws on the idea of a mother hen. Once again God's mercy and compassion for people is expressed through Jesus as he desires to gather a murderous Jerusalem under his protective wings. Mick's message is called, "Driving My Dad."  (10:15am) Will I see you there?

There has been some work done in the Upper Room (9am) this week,

so I'm not sure if it will be ready for us or not. I'll be there with you to determine if we can meet in this place or need to find a different spot for this week. 

Some of you are entering that time of midterm exams with spring break close enough to smell. I will be praying you think clearly, remember what you've studied, and face exams, projects, and presentation with calm and confidence. 

This Sunday is the second Sunday of Lent.... We will take courage and wait on the Lord. 

Prayer for today: Bless the Lord, O my soul! You cover yourself with light as a garment and ride the wings of the wind. I will sing to the Lord! 
Merciful God, you desire for us to snuggle safely under your wings.  We are caught up in our busyness and lifestuff; who has time to do that?  Yet you tell us to come, and you will give us rest. Yes, we need that; we do! Let us heed your gentle voice and be comforted and filled. Come Kingdom of God. Be done will of God, on earth as it is in heaven. In Jesus' name. AMEN.  

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Without question or doubt, you are loved by God, and I love you too!
Love and Light,
carol

"Always remember who you are, whose you are, where you are going, and what you believe, because it does make a difference! Oh, and don't forget to attend a church of your choice this weekend." jd