In our OT lesson today, we see God promising Abram (Abraham) once again that he will enjoy numerous offspring. So what's the big deal? Why is this promise so important? Let's face it. We've all grown skeptical of promises, even God's promises, because we've all been burned more than a few times and have broken a few promises ourselves. And what's this got to do with Lent with its emphasis on self-examination, confession, repentance, and self-denial? Check out what Fr. Maney has to say about it all and see what you think. Lectionary texts for today are Genesis 15.1-12, 17-18; Psalm 27; Philippians 3.17-4.1; Luke 13.31-35.