Dear Friends,

We have begun the season of Advent. 40 days of prayer, fasting, and devotion as we prepare for the Passion of Christ and the resurrection of Easter. If you were not able to attend the Ash Wednesday service, we will have the take-home elements of sea glass available on Sunday which reminds us of our brokenness. Please take a moment to read the following passages: Joel 2:1-2, 12-127, Psalm 51:1-17, 2 Corinthians 5:20-6:10, and Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21. They are the scriptures that set up the season of Lent and guide us in our walk with Christ. I hope you are able to daily: pray, read scripture, journal, offer acts of service, and witness to your faith. Your fast may be turning off the TV or electronic device while you take a moment with the Lord in prayer and meditation. Maybe your service is returning the basket to the store or collecting canned and boxed food for the food pantry. We have been limited in public discussion but find a way to share your faith by telling someone what Christ means to you. Let us devote ourselves to a holy lent.

This Sunday we will hear the Apostle Paul’s thoughts on the character and attitude of Christ from Philippians 2:3-8. Take a moment and read ahead. Think about the selfless act of Christ to leave heaven and put on a mortal body. He came to teach, heal and show us the way to the Father. How are we becoming the image of Christ for the world to see? What attitude adjustment do we need to be more like Christ? We’ll talk more about this on Sunday.

God bless us every one, Pastor Mark