March 21

Becky Hudak served as the chair of Camp Fowler’s master plan committee, is a kitchen volunteer, and currently serves on the board of trustees.

John 12:27-33

In this passage Jesus has been sought out by the Gentiles, and this is his last public discourse. Jesus is both troubled by the weight of the sin of the world and keenly aware of his impending death. He doesn’t shrink from his father’s will but instead says, “No, for this purpose I have come to this hour” (v.27, emphasis added). He has come to glorify God’s name. He puts Satan on notice, saying, “The ruler of this world will be cast out” (v.31). Jesus is clear about his purpose: he has come to prepare the way for us. He says, “When I am lifted from the earth, I will draw all men to myself” (v.32).

Christ’s sacrifice, so long ago, still holds both promise and instruction for us today. The promise is that he has paved our way by his death on the cross. We continue to face challenges that draw us away from God’s purpose and plan for his world, but we are also left with some instructions. I am reminded of Micah 6:8: “[W]hat does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?” For me, this means to work at a food pantry, advocate for fair wages, provide children with a safe and exciting week at Camp Fowler, and give thanks each day for the incredible gifts I have been given by God. What does the Lord require of you?

Prayer: Lord, thank you for your amazing sacrifices of love and generous gifts of grace. Help us to be bold and energetic in our service for you. Amen.
The 2015 Lenten reflections were submitted by staff, volunteers, board members, campers, and friends who have spent time at Camp Fowler in New York.

For this year’s Lent devotions, the days follow the Common Lectionary texts. Each author was invited to:
Read the passage.
Read a couple passages before and after the assigned day.
Do something else for the day, keeping the passage in mind.
Find a word/phrase/concept that connects with your own experience. Reflect on that.
You are encouraged to do the same.