3rd Sunday of Lent

Read Joshua 3:7-17 - Joshua guides the people as the priests stand in the river holding the Ark

Yes, be bold and strong! Banish fear and doubt! For remember, the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.

Joshua 1:9 (TLB)

Carol Harrison, from Saskatchewan, Canada, stood staring at the far side of the 604-foot-long swinging pedestrian bridge that spanned a wide river far below. Her fear of heights kept her rooted in place, unable to enjoy an adventure. Her daughter promised not to make the bridge swing too much and encouraged her to face her fears by taking a few steps out onto the bridge. Carol Hesitated a few minutes longer. The bridge appeared sturdy with thick, metal handrails. She watched someone stride across without pause or concern. The bridge swayed less than Carol expected.

One step at a time she began to move toward the other side. She paused in the middle to survey the wonderful view only visible from this new perspective. Then she completed her journey to the other side - one step at a time.

In Joshua 3, God commanded the Israelites to cross the Jordan River so they could enter the Promised Land. God instructed the priests to step into the river. They obeyed God's command to stand still in the raging flood waters before God miraculously stopped the river's flow and the people crossed on dry ground. We face many frightening moments, most of them beyond our control. Placing our trust in God helps us to conquer those fears and move forward.

Prayer: Dear God, give us courage to face our fears and to trust that with your help, we can move forward - one step at a time, in Jesus' name. Amen.