Prepare for Lent
Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,
February 25, Ash Wednesday, begins our preparation for Easter by observing and committing ourselves to a deep period of moderation, fasting, reflection, repentance, and spiritual renewal. Ash Wednesday is the gateway for us to step into the realm of the reign of God. It is an invitation to enter into a spiritual searching, struggling and encountering of the love and light of our God through Jesus' Sacrifice.
The dark and cold days of our western hemispheric winter are lengthening. The heavy snow cover is melting away. The troubles of our country are complicated with a crumbling economy and a future that looks bleak. Yet, the encounter with our Loving Savior allows us to come out of this experience with the full confidence that you and I are a beloved children of the most high God by the merits of Jesus Christ's sacrifice. You and I have a new future by God's promises and actions on our behalf. You and I have a new past. Because of His atonement and sacrifice, our sins are erased forever! You and I can face the future with a new confidence.
Lent gives us forty precious days to examine ourselves in His presence. Indeed, Lent is a time for spiritual renewal. Let us step into it just as we are. Let us invite Christ to pour upon us His forgiveness and blessings.
The message of Easter is one of hope, restoration and renewal. We are living in unprecedented times of need not only as country but also as a world. Let this time of Easter celebration ring throughout the Elgin District as we focus on the centrality of the message of resurrection and renewal! Let us fine tune our Spiritual Disciplines as we begin the journey on February 25. Let us not forget to reach out to those in our communities who are in need both spiritually and physically. To those families that have lost their homes, their employments and are finding it very difficult to make "ends meet", let the Church be a gateway for restoration, renewal and a helping hand. Let Christ be seen through our words and deeds of kindness and our commitment to live justly. Let our prayers and acts of service abound.
Shalom!
Rev. Oscar N. Carrasco
Elgin District Superintendent
