February 2012 - Notes from Pastor Jim

Can It Be?

It hasn’t been that long since we put the Christmas decorations away, has it? Can it be, then, that Lent is close at hand? Yes it is possible. Ash Wednesday and the beginning of Lent fall on February 22 this year. It is then, with the sign of the cross traced upon our forehead, we will join other faithful Christ-followers on a 40 day journey that ends at the cross of Jesus.

On the Sundays in Lent we will use the season of Lent itself be the thematic guide in our worship.”LIVING LENT” will challenge us to go beyond a cursory observance of Lent – more than just giving up chocolates for Lent. We’ll explore how Lent can make a meaningful difference in how we live during Lent and beyond.

During our Wednesday evening worship services, we let the traditional “Stations of the Cross” be our devotional guide. During previous seasons of Lent we have displayed small Stations of the Cross banners on the sanctuary walls. This year we will use them to tell the story of Jesus’ suffering and death. We will consider one or two stations per week.

I know there’s still a little time before February 22, but why not circle that date right now. Commit to “Living Lent.” Walk with other pilgrims the Stations of the Cross.

Pastor Jim