Olympic Image: Pierre de Coubertin Ashes: Jennifer Balascka Grace and peace be with you!
Friends, tomorrow is Lent (today is Mardi Gras!).
If you are around the 2nd St Business District tomorrow morning, stop by the Library and you'll see me in front with a container of ashes. Ashes may be worn on the forehead or the hand as a reminder of our "finitude." "Finitude" means that we are limited in our powers to save ourselves and our utter dependence on God's grace.
The tradition of ashes are an outward reminder of our condition. They are an ancient tradition going far back to Old Testament times. Remember when Jonah called for Nineveh to repent and turn to the Lord? They responded by putting on sackcloth and ashes.
Contemplating our finitude is important as we enter a new season of Lent. Letting go of our old ways can make way for a new way with Christ. What is standing in YOUR way? Pride? Netflix? Compulsive shopping?
The Olympics are a bit a distraction for me this Lent. But there are so many signs of Jesus Christ there too: examples of commitment, courage, hope, faith. Athletes' families traveled there to provide support. People who are setting aside political differences in favor of playing games. And then...the pride of representing your nation. Could these be signs of the Kingdom of God?
Hope to see you stop by the library tomorrow morning. I will be there from about 7:30 till 9:00AM, then on over to the church office.
Friends, don't forget next week from 6-7pm in the church we'll begin our Lenten study of the Psalms. We start on Wednesday evening. Bring a sack dinner, if you want and we'll talk about what we want to do for a meal together for the remainder of the weeks of Lent.
Today we'll meet at the church for yoga, starting at noon! Bring a mat and you will leave with peace of mind.
Tomorrow Exercise, Eat and Pray gets together at 9:00AM.
This Sunday, make sure you attend church for potluck. I don't know if it will be Olympic or Valentine-themed!
Lastly, I hope that your week is a blessed one. How about praying for these concerns to make it even better?
Travelers
Yvette - getting better!
Mary Rivera - intense hip pain (getting treatment today)
This troubled world and polarized nation
Folks struck with the flu
Teachers and students
Did I miss anyone? Please let me know what your prayer requests are.
Friends, may God bless you and keep you this week.
Love,
Pastor Amy
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