The following thoughts have been gleaned from
“Ashes to Fire”.
The seasons of Lent and Easter (that
right folks, Easter is almost here) include the
most powerful parts of the story of Christ’s
redemption. Lent was originally developed as
a time where people prepare for initiation into
church fellowship during Easter. It is also when
church members can be restored to fellowship
though both prayer and penance.
Lent is forty days of preparation for the
great celebration of Easter. It is a time for our
whole church to commit to a common goal
built on forgiveness and understanding as
represented by the work of God, our Christ.
Throughout history, many different types of
people have become committed to worship
during this season. By accepting God’s way
of transforming love and sustaining strength,
Easter makes all of his children both free
and disciplined in the ways of Christ. As we
recognize that the world has always been
a confusing and brutal place, we must all
remember that the powers of prayer and
worship have not changed.
Thus, the recovery of the discipline and
celebration of the Lent-Easter Season is part
of our being faithful to our evangelical calling
and United Methodist heritage. Lent is not
merely “giving up something“, but is instead
answering the call of true participation in the
mystery of God’s love and in Christ for us and
the whole world.
I pray that this Lenten Season will be a
time of true spiritual growth and meaningful
pilgrimage for us all. Ash Wednesday service
will be February 22nd. I invite you all to
join us at the chili supper that the Children’s
Council will be providing prior to the Ash
Wednesday Service at 7:00 PM.
