From the Pastor

Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they neither toil nor spin, yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not clothed like one of these. But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which is alive today and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will he not much more clothe you—you of little faith?     – Matthew 6:28 - 30

 

Greetings Church Family and Friends, 

 

In March as the days grow longer, I pray that hope springs up in us in a way that makes us ready for what is to come in our world, our community, and even what God wants to do in us, for us, and in using us. With Spring comes the season of Lent. The word Lent originally means forty, signifying the 40 days Jesus was in the wilderness without distractions to strengthen Him. Jesus gave up food, daily relationships, and a “comfy” place to sleep, finding Himself relying on God for His strength and energy. 

Do you know, as a congregation, there is a worship word we give up for Lent? The word is, “Alleluia.” Why? Alleluia comes from the Hebrew Hallelu-Ya, “Praise the Lord!” And, the 40 days of Lent remind us, not only of Jesus’ 40 days in the wilderness; also, the 40 years that the Israelites roamed in the desert awaiting the help of the Savior. It was difficult for them to find “Praise” in their lives. 

And so, with rich biblical and historical relevance, Lent has become an amazing season to turn our focus away from “creature comforts” (screen and TV time; late nights; trashy/mindless books; even rotten attitudes) to intentionally wander awhile in a spiritual desert, thoughtfully, with Jesus, just talking with and being with Him.   

Lent encourages introspection and observation. I love the passage from the Gospel of Matthew about worry, and how it reminds me to put things in perspective. I often feel there are things I can control, and things I can’t. Mostly, I can’t. Moreover, as Ash Wednesday, Lent, Maundy Thursday and Good Friday remind us, it’s best to turn toward God and remember to put our trust in God’s will, rather than our mortal wisdom.

As a congregation, mysteriously and wonderfully, we have been brought together at this time and this place by the movement of God’s Spirit in our lives, let’s take this season of Lent, March 5 -Ash Wednesday through April 18 – Good Friday, and the budding promise of Spring to pause, breathe, and settle. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Join a 6-week Small Group at SUMC. 

• Sit in the sun and be comforted. As you do, remember Jesus’ time in the desert. Pray for stamina for yourself and our congregation.

• Walk near the ocean or the river listening to its movement. Pray that your spirit will be renewed for life and endurance. 

• Help someone accomplish something that has no benefit for you. Pray, and remember how much God has done for you.

• Use the Lenten Preparation Guide found at sebastianumc.org to give ideas about how to use this season to come closer to God.

Check out the Thursday News and Updates on our Website and Facebook for “Ways to Fast and Why.” 

We are exactly where we are meant to be in this moment, and God is with us. Blessed Lent! 

With more love than you know… Joy, Joy Pastor Alexis