Friends, the season of Lent is an invitation to reflect and discern our call as people of faith in the midst of the harsh realities of the world around us. Moreso, it provides an opportunity to act on God’s call to love our neighbor, seek justice, and strive for peace.
Given the circumstances of the past two months alone—the still simmering federal ICE occupation of the Twin Cities; our government’s military invasion of Venezuela and armed removal of its president; and now a new and costly war with Iran which may very well last for months, even years—we are surrounded by reminders of dust and death, ash and sorrow.
As difficult as it might seem at the moment, I am thankful for the lenten practices we are sharing at Cross. Wednesday soup suppers are a welcome opportunity to gather as friends and share a meal. Holden evening prayer, which follows, gives us an opportunity to bring our hopes and prayers, fears and concerns, before God in a gentle and faithful way. After Holden, there’s further opportunity for discernment and reflection by candlelight and conversation. In addition to Sunday worship and coffee hour, you are also invited to adult education at 11:00 as we explore Jesus’s call to Be Not Afraid through scripture, song, and sharing.
I hope and pray that together, our lenten practices will help point us towards the hope and joy of the coming resurrection.
Pastor Scott