Hello CMF,
Today is Ash Wednesday. On the liturgical calendar this is the time we remember that we came from the dust and to the dust we shall return (Gen 3:19b). We remember that we are sinners who serve a holy God. We are in need of his forgiveness and salvation daily.
It is also the first day of the 40-day journey to Easter, which we call Lent. Some may choose to fast today and on other days during the Lent to Easter season. This could be fasting from food to realize your greater dependence upon the Spirit, or it could be abstaining from something else that you believe is hindering your relationship with God and others.
What trips you up? What causes you to sin (misuse your human energies)? In what way might the Spirit be calling you to "starve" your flesh during Lent?
This Sunday we kick off our Lent to Easter 2015 series called, Upside Down & Inside Out. Each week we will be reminded that whatever God is doing, it isn't "same old, same old." This is good news! God wants to do a new thing.
Our Leader worship guide provides us with an outline of worship services and sermons that focuses on renewal for those who are already committed to Christ and the church.
In discussing this series with the Worship Team, we thought this was evidence that the Spirit is at work in our church, speaking to all of us. How is God speaking to us?
Well, you may recall that in January we talked about covenant and commitment as we instituted covenant membership at CMF. Committing to Christ and the church, or simply desiring spiritual renewal for ourselves and our church, is for everyone. We're all in need of renewal.
What does renewal look like for those already committed?
Our Lent to Easter series will focus our attention on our need to see how and where God is at work in our personal walk with him, and in the life of our church.
What is God doing? What does he want to do? Will we allow him to work? Will we join him?
This year I wanted to help us be intentional in how we pray during Lent. I have put together a CMF Lent to Easter Prayer Calendar. I hope it enhances your journey through this season.
I look forward to seeing everyone this Sunday as we begin our trek toward Easter.
Blessings,
Pastor David
NOTE: We had to cancel church last Sunday due to the extreme winter weather. I plan to preach the message Sabbath, Silence & Solitude after our current series.