From Pastor Bob

The son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you; I am no longer worthy to be called your son.’ But the father said to his slaves, ‘Quickly, bring out a robe – the best one – and put it on him; put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. And get the fatted calf and kill it, and let us eat and celebrate; for this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found!’ And they began to celebrate. (Luke 15:21-24, NRSV)

Are you doing “anything for Lent”? Last year, I heard that some of you gave up things like chocolate, television, pastries, cola – even Facebook – while others fasted, going without solid food for one day a week. Intentionally going without something important to us can be a good experience because it reminds us of how we have grown dependent on the things of the world while neglecting the source of what we really need. I also know that some of you took part in Lenten studies, and this is good, too, because it provides opportunities for spiritual growth. I pray that each of you will find some way to make this coming season of Lent different and meaningful.

As for myself, during this time of Lent I plan to follow the book of daily devotions based on the writings of Henri Nouwen, which will be made available free by our Worship Committee. (I encourage you to pick one up in our sanctuary when they become available toward the middle of February.) The other thing I intend to do is reread a book called “The Return of the Prodigal Son”, also by Nouwen.

I have often concentrated on the parable of the prodigal son during Lent. I think that, like Henri Nouwen, I’ve come to see the Prodigal Son as each of us, in some ways, at some times. Oh, maybe we haven’t squandered our share of the family fortune in the quest for a good time, but I do believe that we each leave for the far country when we pursue fulfillment in the things of this world at the expense of our relationship with God and the risk of our promised inheritance.

Lent, which begins on Ash Wednesday, February 22, is a good time to take a hard look at the map and see just how far we’ve wandered. Easter is only six and a half weeks later, but that still gives us time to travel home from the far country, back into the arms of a gracious, loving parent.

May this upcoming season of Lent be a meaningful time of renewing an understanding of your dependence on God for everything that really matters, and your return home. And may it prepare you for a wonderful Easter celebration of the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Grace and peace,