A Heavy Season; A Heavenly Hope

Dear Faith Family,

We are now entering into the season of our church calendar which is simultaneously heavy and incredibly sacred. Lent is 40 days, which reflects the time that Jesus spent in the wilderness to undergo the travail of temptation. In observing Lent, we enter into that wilderness with the Pioneer and Perfector of our Faith so that we, too, might be refined.

If we are to be raised with Christ on Easter morning, we must be crucified with Christ. By faithfully honoring this season, we choose to follow our Savior into darkness, mourning, and reflection on the sin and brokenness which sent him to the cross in the first place. Observing Lent is, truly, a difficult and holy choice.

However, we are also not left hopeless. We may walk through shadows, but we can also follow the example of Jesus, who kept his eyes fixed on the heavenly hope that was on the horizon before him. We know how the story ends–hallelujah!

While the world might want us to revel in sin, we know that the Lord has ushered in a new reality, the Kingdom of God, which welcomes all and which will surprise us in ways beyond imagining. This is why we have chosen the theme of “Kindom/Kingdom.” We are kin because of Jesus, who is also the King of this new, beautiful reality. Christ is in this community, and we will be continually transformed by his presence.

May this season of Lent bring us nearer to the heart of God. Know that you are covered in prayer and that you are, now and forever, beloved. 
 
In Christ,
Pastor Lindsey
 
 
Church Wide Study in Matthew: “Kindom/Kingdom”

We will explore the Gospel of Matthew in our Lent worship series “Kindom/Kingdom,” with small group sessions running from February 22 to March 22.

  • Mondays at 6 pm in the Oasis Room (led by Rev. Dan Jenkins, before Meditative Worship)
  • Wednesdays from 9:30-10:30 am in Rooms 22/23 (led by Randy Border, beginning March 4)
  • Thursdays at Noon via Zoom (led by Mandy Schiller for virtual participation)
  • Thursdays at 7 pm in Holy Grounds Cafe (led by Pastor Abby, ideal for beginners)
  • Fridays from 9:30-10:30 am in Rooms 22/23 (led by Paula Fultz)
Resources will also be provided for existing small groups to engage with the material.
 
 
“A New Playlist” Self-Guided Video Study

In this video series by Pastor Jacob Armstrong, participants learn to cut through life’s distractions to hear God clearly, emphasizing that saying “no” to worldly demands can lead to better “yes” decisions.

This self-guided study includes short videos and reflection questions for personal reflection or with anyone of your choosing.

Leanne Gruss will facilitate the study and provide information on accessing materials and communication.