Lent is a season of renewal (just like spring)!

Dear Friends in Christ,

One of the things I like the most about this time of year is the anticipation of what is to come. Winter has certainly been very present with us this year, but spring is coming. With spring comes warming temperatures, more sunlight and longer days.

Spring Training for baseball has also begun and while the Tigers are enjoying the warmth of Florida, we too will be basking in warm sunlight. Things are beginning to ramp up on farms all around us as the spring plantings begin soon. The promise of renewal, of life and spring hangs in the air like a fresh peach hanging in the sun, full of moisture and goodness. Can you tell I am ready for warmer weather?

Also, this time of year we are in the season of Lent. Lent is a preparatory season too, as we remember in anticipation of the empty tomb of Easter. Lent is a penitent season as we contemplate the Cosmic Christ and the implications of His saving grace on our lives and the lives of those we love. Lent is a season of renewal (just like spring) where we are once again marked with the ashes. Lent is a season of remembrance as we remember the gift of baptism and the implications of a world so much in need of the baptismal promise.

I am so looking forward to just being here these Wednesdays in Lent and not traveling around the conference. We will be focusing on Jesus together. We will enjoy the fellowship of community and great food. We will remember, we will repent and we will be renewed by the Love and Grace of Jesus Christ. I am so proud to be your pastor.

Peace,
Pastor Bob