How is your Lent?
Dear friends and members of St. Matt's,
This week, I had a conversation with someone outside the parish who shared with me that they "hadn't gotten Lent off to a good start." They felt rather disheveled, like Lent sneaked up on them and they didn't have a chance to really think about what they might sacrifice, what they might take on, or what practice might lead them to God. And their response was something of a "well, I missed the boat, so I guess I should just let it go." And you might imagine my response was a, "No! That would be a missed opportunity!"
If you were here on Ash Wednesday, you heard me describe Lent as a season of growth. A time when we are called to dig deep, stretch outside ourselves, and journey toward the heart of God. There is no wrong time to start or re-start that journey. And even if you think you're a little late to the Lenten party, this really is a better late than never moment. God loves you and wants to be close with you, to share life with you, to bring you to grace. And there are lots of ways that you can participate in that process, even make it easier for God to reach you. So, if you haven't started yet in this season of Lent, don't worry - you can start today. Or tomorrow. Or as soon as you can pause long enough, breathe deeply enough, to find your way. And if you need help with that, my door is always open.
So, how is your Lent so far? Have you taken on a pattern of prayer or study? Have you given up something meaningful that will bring you closer to God? What have you done - what can you do - to make this a season of more? More growth, more connection, more love?
Our newsletter this week is literally filled with activities and good news about mission projects, worship, and opportunities to connect. Please take a careful look at all the ways to engage and explore in the coming weeks. I'm so grateful for the ways this community is growing and changing and for all that is ahead of us. May God bless you in the week ahead. I look forward to seeing you on Sunday.
Faithfully,
--Marissa +
Tags: Welcome from the Rector