As we continue on our journey toward Resurrection Sunday, we may have discovered some attributes that we no longer wish to carry with us as we seek to follow Jesus. We may also have been pleasantly surprised by some of the ways that we have already been following Jesus. We may have discovered new spiritual disciplines that suit our lifestyle better or may have decided to continue with our previously chosen disciplines of prayer, fasting, and giving.

 

For me, it is always a blessing that our journey from Jesus’ temptation on the way to the cross and ultimately to the resurrection occurs in the springtime. I can see this transformation most clearly as I view the manifestation of spring in my surroundings and see the resurrection beauty that rises from the darkness of Jesus’ denial, scourging, and crucifixion on our way to the empty grave where the grave cloths have been cast aside and the angels proclaim: “Why do you look for the living among the dead? He is not here, but has risen.” See Luke 24:5b.

 

Each year, we begin this Lenten journey on Ash Wednesday while it is still winter. The natural world around us usually looks devoid of life and color. By the time we near the empty tomb though, life is erupting all around us. Daffodils, crocus, and early garden vegetables such as lettuce, spinach, and peas poke their stems up through what looked like barren soil just days before.

 

Wherever you may find yourself in your walk, take a minute to stop and look around you at the renewal of the earth. Consider the grandeur of God’s grace in His bringing back to life a stagnant faith or a lackadaisical attitude toward the work that Jesus has called each of us to do.

 

As we keep our eyes on Jesus, may we find our steps to be made sure, our direction more clear, and acceptance of our flaws and faults to come more easily as we stand on the promises of God - “There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has set you free from the law of sin and death.” See Romans 8:1-2.

 

Please feel free to invite others to the upcoming special worship services this month - Maundy Thursday and Easter Sunday or to attend Bible Study on Wednesdays at 2:00. You will continue to be a blessing to others in so many more ways.

 

Let’s do ministry together!

 

You are loved,

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Pastor Karen