February is almost upon us as I write this article. It seems like Christmas and New Years were so long ago. As the months change, we are looking forward to Lent and Ash Wednesday. This year Ash Wednesday falls on February 14th which is also Valentine’s Day. What an appropriate day for both holidays. As sinners we commemorate Ash Wednesday but we also remember God’s love for us as He forgives us. Jesus begins the Lenten walk so we can be forgiven and go to heaven, through faith in Jesus’ death and resurrection, when our bodies are no longer useful on earth.

This year we will have two identical services on Ash Wednesday February 14th, one at 3:00 P.M. and one at 5:00 P.M. Both will have the imposition of ashes on the foreheads of those who want it and we will come to the Lord’s Table for Holy Communion. The 3:00 P.M. service will allow people who can’t drive in the dark to attend while it is still light out. Everyone is welcome at either service.

For the remainder of Lent we will have one service each Wednesday at 5:00 P.M. Most of those Wednesdays will be during daylight savings time so it will be lighter later. During succeeding Wednesdays, we will also be considering the topic of ‘Crossroads’. Often in life we come to crossroads and have to make a decision on which way to tum. During Jesus’ passion, many people had to decide on what to do and which way to tum. We are confronted daily with similar decisions that often exert considerable pressure on us. Often we choose wisely but at times, we make the wrong choice and follow the wrong road. These decisions seem devastating but that is why Jesus came and followed the road that God the Father laid out for Him. When we admit we are on the wrong road, repent, back up and change direction or go on a different road, God forgives us and welcomes us back.

During Lent we will contemplate the direction we are going and will ask God to redirect us where we have gone astray. God pays the price for our wrong direction by having Jesus die for our sins and rise again to give us new life.

Because of the solemnness of Lent, there is little rejoicing and flowers will be absent from the alter. Let us be faithful in observing the Lenten season and help others to get ready for God’s gift of forgiveness for us.

The church also recently signed up for a clothing bin to be placed in our parking lot. All types of clothing, shoes, sneakers, belts, purses, blankets, towels, sheets, curtains, and even stuffed toys will be accepted to be given to needy people who can use it. We will be able to access the box at any and all times for people locally that need clothes. Jesus has assured us:
“In as much as you have done it to one of the least of these,’ you have done it unto me.”

There are many ways that we can serve Jesus by fulfilling His command. The quilters have done a magnificent job with the quilts and will warm the hearts and bodies of many people. The food pantry also reaches out and serves many needy people in the area. Please keep up the good work and continue to grow in faith and love for our Lord Jesus Christ.

May God bless you and keep you in His care,
Pastor Weikart