Second Sunday in Lent

WesleyMen Lenten & Easter Devotionals 2025

Gospel Lectionary

Luke 13:31-35 New Revised Standard Version

³¹ At that very hour some Pharisees came and said to him, “Get away from here, for Herod wants to kill you.” ³² He said to them, “Go and tell that fox for me, ‘Listen, I am casting out demons and performing cures today and tomorrow, and on the third day I finish my work. ³³ Yet today, tomorrow, and the next day I must be on my way, because it is impossible for a prophet to be killed outside of Jerusalem.’ ³⁴ Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the city that kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to it! How often have I desired to gather your children together as a hen gathers her brood under her wings, and you were not willing! ³⁵ See, your house is left to you. And I tell you, you will not see me until the time comes when you say, ‘Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord.’ ”

Reflection

Migration, whether by choice or necessity, is never easy. It is a reality that has shaped human history, and the Caribbean is no exception. It carries risks, uncertainties, and deep emotions. Some leave with hope; others with heavy hearts. Some arrive with joy, others with fear of the unknown. Yet, Jesus reminds us that no matter where we go, God’s presence goes with us. The image of the mother hen gathering her chicks speaks volumes about the nature of God’s love. It is protective, compassionate, and nurturing, but also requires a willingness to be received. How often do we resist God’s loving invitation to be gathered under His wings, preferring to go our own way or be distracted by other things? Jesus’ sorrow for Jerusalem invites us to reflect on our own openness to His love and His ways.

Many migrants struggle to secure employment and provide for their families. They often experience prejudice and struggle to adjust to new customs. They face loneliness and the pain of being away from loved ones. The passage shows Jesus in a similar hostile environment, yet He desired to provide comfort and protection. We are called to extend our arms to those who feel lost, offering them refuge in our communities and churches. Jesus’ unwavering mission despite rejection, also reminds us to persist in acts of kindness and compassion towards those who hurt us.

Although migration presents challenges, it also brings benefits, especially when migrants find acceptance and opportunities. Migration often requires individuals to step out of their comfort zones, adapt to new environments, and face challenges with courage. This builds resilience, problem-solving skills, and a stronger reliance on God’s guidance. Over time, they develop new abilities, gain confidence, and grow in faith as they witness God’s provision in their journey. While the initial transition can be difficult, access to more stable employment, better wages, and opportunities for education can lead to financial security. With time, migrants can support their families, contribute to their communities, and achieve a better quality of life.

As believers, we can play a vital role in ensuring that migrants experience these benefits by being instruments of God’s love and provision.

Call To Action

Whether you are someone who has migrated or are part of a community that has welcomed migrants, you are called to show compassion, support, and love remembering that the same may happen to us or a loved one at any time. Reflect on how your faith has guided you in your personal journey and consider how you can support others on theirs. Reach out to those who may feel alone or displaced, offering words of encouragement and prayer. Offer practical support as James 2:15-16 challenges us to do, by providing food, shelter or financial assistance when needed. Extend spiritual and emotional care to help strengthen their faith and sense of belonging. Live out Proverbs 31:8-9, “Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves; ensure justice for those who are perishing. Yes, speak up for the poor and helpless, and see that they get justice.”

Prayer

Dear God, we lift up those who have migrated in search of a better life, those who are uncertain of their future, and those who long for a place to call home. May You surround them with Your love, grace and peace and may our hearts be open to welcome them. Gracious God, You are with us in every journey, in every transition, in every place we call home. Be with those leaving the Caribbean in search of new beginnings and those arriving, hoping to build a future. May they feel welcomed, supported, and be assured of Your presence. Help us to be agents of Your love, offering hospitality, encouragement, and peace. Heavenly Father, give us hearts that welcome the stranger, hands that offer help, and voices that advocate for justice. May we reflect Your love in all we do. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Mr. Anthony Seale, WesleyMen Regional Leader Caribbean and Methodist Church in the Caribbean & the Americas (MCCA)