Lent 2021

Ash Wednesday is on February 17, 2021. We will be gathering to worship in the Sanctuary at 7:00 pm ( it will be livestreamed for those who cannot attend in person). It is the beginning of Lent. Lent is an ancient tradition practiced by Christians throughout the world. The word simply means spring in Latin. For Christians in America this word now means a new season, not one centered on the weather patterns, but a new season in the life of a Christian. Indeed, the entire Christian Calendar is supposed to be a cycle which teaches us to tell time not according to secular work or school calendars, but according to the church. Lent is intended to replicate Jesus 40 days in the desert. It is a time of sacrifice and denial as we prepare ourselves for the day of the resurrection. In order for that to be true, then we must actively engage in these traditions. treating them like duty or an obligation misses the point. We don't keep traditions for the sake of the tradition. We keep the tradition for the ways in which they help us to grow in Christlikeness. This year I really want us to focus not merely on the self denial, but also on that which we add. If we are denying ourselves some sort of food, when we experience the craving, let us pray. If we are denying ourselves an entertainment, lets add praise or study. The point is not to inflict pain, but to make us more like Jesus. Since we have our Ash Wednesday Service this week, our Life Together Study will be delayed by a week. If you are behind, you can watch the recap videos here. Additionally, I continue the daily study at 10:00 am, but we will also have a short devotional uploaded to Facebook and to Youtube daily at 6:00am. These will be pre-recorded so that you can use them in your devotion throughout the day. Looking forward to seeing everyone tomorrow. God Bless, Pastor Ryan