LENT – SPRINGBOARD TO GROWTH

We have again entered the season of Lent.  The word Lent means spring, and according to the blessed groundhog, we might be seeing signs of spring early this Lent.   Lent developed as a time of fasting and preparation and teaching especially for those who would be baptized at the Easter Vigil, the night before Easter.  Lent was really designed for growth for new Christians and older Christians alike, all walking the journey with Jesus to the cross, to the empty tomb.  That’s our growth goal again this year. 

For the five Wednesdays of Lent, both at noon and in the evening, we are going to embark on a journey to deeper forgiveness; well, that’s the goal.  What do you think are some of the most significant forgiveness scriptures in the Bible?  I think one is about the forgiving judge and the unforgiving servant.  Another is about turning the other cheek, and forgiving and loving enemies.  These scriptures need working with so that they not just be about shallow forgiveness, but something deeper. I invite you to come out on Wednesdays as well as Sunday, as we reflect on our lives and the challenge and blessing of forgiving others.   Some talk about giving up something for Lent, and you can do that.  And you can also take on an extra discipline for Lent – like the Wednesday worship.   (And men will again be cooking soup for the Lenten supper.   Yum.)  

I’m really pleased that at least two of the smart short term goals will be initiated in Lent – like the prayer ministry that will be launched on March 7 with a prayer service at 5.30PM, and the first of the community potlucks.  I’m pleased that Discipleship will be hosting another Lifestories brunch (on March 15).   Lent sounds just incredible this year.  The Stations of the Cross banners again adorn our sanctuary walls.  There is the driftwood cross, and the new votive candles to light.   And April will lead us into another rich Holy Week and Easter. 

Pastor Tim.  

March 1—Matthew 4:1-11
March 8—John 3:1-17
​March 15—John 4:5-42
March 22—John  9:1-41
March 29—John 11:1-4

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