The worst thing is never the last thing . . .
Wednesday, March 2 is Ash Wednesday. Sunday, March 6 is the first Sunday of Lent. March 6 is also the first Sunday of in-person worship after we have been closed since Christmas. It is also the Sunday that we begin our six-week Lenten journey to Easter. This year we will combine Ash Wednesday and the first Sunday of Lent. If you are in church on Sunday, March 6, you will also receive the ashes as we normally do on Ash Wednesday. During our message, we will look at the significance of the ashes and what this six-week journey to Easter is about. Perhaps you will find a new way to experience the journey. Or, if you are traditional, maybe you will see it in the same way as you have before. I pray that God will speak to each of us during this Lenten journey in a way that is meaningful and Spirit filled.
Lent is time when we look at our faith practices and ask ourselves if we are doing what we need to do to be a disciple of Jesus Christ. What does the word disciple mean anyway? It means a follower or a student of a teacher, leader, or philosopher. I'd like you to think about this question: as a follower of Jesus, how come various Christian denominations have different doctrines? According to the Center for the Study of Global Christianity (CSGC) at Gordon-Conwel Theological Seminary, there are approximately 41,000 Christian denominations and organizations in the world today. REALLY? During this time of Lent and Easter, will we all be teaching the same message? Or will there be variations or even disagreements about Lent and Easter? As we think about what we understand and believe about Lent and Easter, what is the most important part of God's hand in this time of Jesus’ life to you? My favorite message is that “The worst thing is never the last thing. There is always hope,” by Frederick Buechner. (Last name pronounced Beek-ner) This message is meaningful for me because I believe that God gives us the opportunity to make choices, to emulate Jesus’ life and practice his teachings. But sometimes we just don't get it right (even after a few times of trying). No matter how many times we get it wrong, God is there – waiting for us – to get it right. God is meeting us wherever we are - helping us – if we would only accept God's help. The resurrection shows me that God never leaves us and that even with death, God can still prevail. May the Holy Spirit lead you through this Lent with an open mind, open Spirit, and open heart.
Shalom,
Pastor Rosemary