The Gift of Ash Wednesday

One of the gifts of following the church year is joining with Christians throughout the world in worship.  Together we repent, rejoice, grieve, act, contemplate, praise, and give thanks.

Today is Ash Wednesday which means millions of Christians are renewing our commitment to repentance.  What a powerful thought (!)--even more powerful if we follow through.

In worship on Sunday we talked about acknowledging our sin to God.  Confession and repentance are paramount in the life of a Christian.  We also remembered the good news:  God's love is bigger than our sin.  Thanks be to God! 

At our drop-in service today, we've read scripture, prayed, and imposed ashes.  Some of you have shared tears; others have shared hopes for renewal and growth.  I am praying for you.  Scottsville Baptist Church:  Praying with and for you is one of the great privileges of my ministry.  Thank you.

May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.  2 Corinthians 13:14

You're Normal, Pastor!

During Lent our congregation joins with the Methodists, Presbyterians, and Episcopalians for worship and a simple meal on Tuesday nights. Last night was our night to host, so it was my turn to preach.

On Sunday I preached on forgiveness; however by Monday I was picking at an old wound again.  I confessed as much during my Lenten sermon and one of our deacons piped up "You're normal!"

This made me smile--not because I'm proud of my sin--but because he recognized I struggle just like everyone else.

Part of helping one another grow as Jesus' disciples is saying "me too" to one another.  It reminds us we're not alone--not even the pastor.