The month of March brings the beginning of the season of Lent. This 40-day journey that mirrors the 40 days Jesus spent in the wilderness invites us into a journey of self-reflection, prayer, temperance, and learning.
One of my favorite literary characters is J.R.R. Tolkien's beloved character, Bilbo Baggins, from "The Hobbit". If you’re familiar with “The Hobbit”, you know that Bilbo has a journey set before him that he is not especially eager to embark upon and is especially drawn towards the comforts of home and the security of his routine. However, equipped with the guidance of the Wizard Gandolf and the company of friends, Bilbo embarks upon a journey that would stretch him to his core and impact his world in profound ways.
It is often tempting to let this season of Lent pass us by, distracted by the security of our busy routines and the comforts of everyday life. I pray that as we enter into this season, we can mark it as special and, accompanied by the Holy Spirit and our Church community, we will dare to embark upon a journey that may even transform us in some ways.
In the month to come, there will be many opportunities for communal and personal journeying. I hope that you’ll join us and I pray that God blesses you in this season.
Rev’d Ben
Opmerkingen