Welcome to Lent

February 18, 2021

Dear friends,

The anthem for Lent could be these words from the prophet Joel:

“Yet even now,” declares the Lord,“return to me with all your heart,with fasting, with weeping, and with mourning;and rend your hearts and not your garments.”Return to the Lord, your God,for he is gracious and merciful,slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love;and he relents over disaster (Joel 2:12-13).

Naturally these words have gravity for anyone who, like the prodigal son, has wandered away. Your Heavenly Father is gracious and he is here, waiting for you with open arms. He is here to clothe you in his best robe and to put a ring on your finger and to celebrate a feast at your return. Repent and believe! Come back to him!

But these words should also be weighty for you have not wandered away, for the life of a Christian is a life of repentance. Take the opportunity during Lent to discipline yourself. Pray. Give to those in need. Fast.

In addition to the good that you accomplish with prayer and charity, these disciplines are a kind of practice. You’re practicing self-denial, so that you can learn also to say no to the devil, the world, and your sinful flesh. Learn to say “no” so that your “yes” to Jesus and his Word and his promises is a “yes” of faith. When you practice, you are preparing to do battle with your enemies, with the enemies of your faith. You are preparing to stand firm in temptation so that you never lose sight of your gracious Heavenly Father. Also make sure you’re in church to be refreshed with the Gospel and energized to live in faith!

Then, sing this great Lenten hymn:

On my heart imprint Your image,Blessed Jesus, King of grace,That life’s riches, cares, and pleasuresNever may Your work erase;Let the clear inscription be:Jesus, crucified for me,Is my life, my hope’s foundation,And my glory and salvation!

And don’t forget! Come to Bible Study on Sundays! We’re starting up a new Bible Study this Sunday, February 21 on the basics of the faith. Bring a friend!

Choir is booting back up for Holy Week and Easter! Practices will be before the 5 midweek Lenten services at 6pm, starting Wednesday, Feb. 24. Join us in adding to the beauty of our worship!

Finally, Men’s Bible Study for February will be next Wednesday, the 24th @ 8pm!

God bless and keep you,

Pr. Buchs