From the Pastor's Desk

Lent is here! Easter can’t be far away. Ash Wednesday is March 5th and you can learn more about worship opportunities for Lent in this issue of the Progress. Would you like to start your day with Scripture and a special Lenten prayer? I have frequently talked about Lent in the Progress, but to my discredit, have not always provided you with resources to participate in Lent at home. I suggest you read and recite a Bible passage to start your day. Here are some classics:

Monday: Psalm 86:5-6 You, Lord, are forgiving and good, abounding in love to all who call to you. Hear my prayer, Lord; listen to my cry for mercy.

Tuesday: Psalm 86:11-12 Teach me your way, Lord, that I may rely on your faithfulness; give me an undivided heart, that I may fear your name. I will praise you, Lord my God, with all my heart;  I will glorify your name forever.

Wednesday: Matthew 16:24 Then Jesus said to his disciples, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.”

Thursday: Psalm 51:10 Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.

Friday: 1 Peter 2:24 “He himself bore our sins” in his body on the cross, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; “by his wounds you have been healed.”

Saturday: Psalm 51:7 Cleanse me with hyssop, and I will be clean; wash me, and I will be whiter than snow.

Next, read this prayer each and every morning before you start your activities of daily life. Together, we will prepare our hearts and minds for the good news of the gospel celebrated at Easter. 

God of all joy, fill our souls to overflowing with the fullness of your grace. In this season, remind us of your triumph over the tragedy of the cross, and your victory for us over the powers of sin and death, so that we may reflect your glory as disciples of Jesus Christ, our risen Lord. Amen 

Pastor Pat