THE POOR

The 4th Sunday in Lent

PROVERBS 14:31 (MSG)
You insult your Maker when you exploit the powerless;
when you’re kind to the poor, you honor God.

MATTHEW 25:40 (MSG)
I’m telling the solemn truth: Whenever you did one of these things to someone overlooked or ignored, that was me—you did it to me.

SUMMARY SENTENCE
Pay attention to the marginalized and you're paying attention to God.

PRAYER
Gracious God, you are worthy of all respect and honor. I admit that I at times disrespect you through my neglect of those who are poor and marginalized. It's not intentional but I'm either too busy or too concerned about the safety of the situation. Help me to honor you by attending to the needs of someone on the margins today. Show me the wisest way to do that. I pray this in the name of Christ Jesus who left his place of glory to become poor among us. Amen.

THE LORD'S PRAYER
Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your Name. Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. Forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us. Save us from the time of trial and deliver us from evil. For the kingdom, the power, and the glory are yours now and forever. Amen.