On Ash Wednesday, March 5, we will begin that long, arduous journey of forty days through Lent. The forty days of Lent, which do not include Sundays, mirrors the experience of Jesus in the wilderness. Jesus wandered into the wilderness, where he faced questions of temptation, while also clarifying his calling. He emerged from the wilderness to begin his ministry of compassion, commitment, and concern for others.
Lent is a journey of reflection and repentance. We step into the wilderness, where we take time to listen to ourselves and to God, to survey the world around us, and to ask important questions about faith and life. This journey yields clarifying answers as we return to what is truly important and as we discover more of God’s calling for our lives.
We venture into the wilderness because it is where we find Jesus. Jesus does not sit high without regard for the needs of others. Jesus goes to the places where there is need. We step into the wilderness to better understand our needs, and the needs of this world, which are brought into focus by God’s grace.
This journey allows us to prepare ourselves for the events of Holy Week and for the celebration of Easter. Lent is the fast before the feast! It teaches us and guides us, so we are open to the love of Christ, which surprises us on Easter.
We enter this journey together as we gather on Fat Tuesday for our annual Pancake Supper, Ash Wednesday for the imposition of ashes, and each Wednesday for our Lenten Lunches. Together, we will reflect on the Passion of Christ, as Jesus drew near to the suffering of others to provide comfort, healing, and forgiveness. It teaches us about the love of God, and enables us to share that love with others!
We begin this long, arduous journey, which slows us down and keeps us focused on the steadfast love of God!
-Tripp