Lenten Journeys can be Powerful

Lenten journeys can be powerful. The readings we hear during worship in Lent are often full of things that are hard for us to hear. The reality of human frailty is brought to the forefront. Our collective and individual weakness to temptation and sin are on display. The brokenness of our lives and the lives of those we know are right in front of us always, but especially highlighted during this season. Together we are going to Calvary, to the Cross. The journey is not supposed to be easy. Our own crosses of sin and regret are opened during this season more than any other time during the church year. The journey shows us just how unworthy we are for the grace that is bestowed by our Loving Savior, Jesus Christ.

The world we inhabit is broken. There is a hunger that we all are feeling these days. We are anxious about what tomorrow is bringing. We notice that so much of what was, is in decline, and is being replaced by something that is unrecognizable. Institutions of the past are being recreated in new and inventive ways, for many of us this is not good news. Life is hard enough without the reality of bedrock beliefs being under assault.
This leads us to fear and anxiety, often followed by anger and disappointment. We feel disconnected from God and community.

Jesus Christ knows and feels our pain and suffering. Jesus knows our anger. Jesus experiences our disappointment. Like a balm on an open wound however, Jesus is here to soothe our grief over what we are losing. Jesus calls to us, touches us with the same love and grace that He has for our entire lives. We come to understand the old words of the prophet Isaiah that the things of "this world will pass away, but the promise of God is permanent." Jesus walks with us on our journey.

During Lent we are encouraged to bring our fear, anger, sin, regret, and disappointment to the Cross of Jesus. We walk slowly and intentionally to the reality of Golgotha and once there we can lay our burdens at the foot of the Cross. Jesus offered himself for the taking of those things that burden us and keep us from God. "Take my yoke upon you," Jesus declares, "and I will give your rest." Rest in the Grace, sisters and brothers. Walk with me to the Cross and together let us find the empty tomb of Easter. I am so proud to be your pastor.

Pray, Worship, Study,
Pastor Bob