[This column originally appeared in the March 23rd, 2017 edition of the "Hillside Happenings" email newsletter.]
A PASTOR'S PERSPECTIVE
by Rev. Andy Beck
I usually deeply appreciate Lent. Note I didn’t say I “enjoy” Lent. I do not think it’s something we can or should try to enjoy – Lent is at its simplest, a challenge. While some may say they enjoy the challenge of a new sport or adventure, Lent is neither of those. In some regard, Lent is a real challenge, that is, it rouses in us the question of our very existence.
Yes, Easter is approaching in the coming weeks, and even though there’s always a spirit of energy and excitement surrounding Easter, we’re not there yet. We’re still in the heart of Lent, and that means we’re still discovering ways to recognize God’s mercy in our lives, and seeking forgiveness from the God who saves. I trust that Lent is bringing special meaning to your religious practice this season, that your connection to the holy is discovering growing edges, and that God’s faithfulness to never leave you or forsake you is nurturing a deeper trust in God’s love in your life. We’re not to Easter morning yet, we still have nearly a month to go.
That said, and as a matter of clergy confessional, this year I’m ready for Easter. I’m ready for resurrection. I’m ready for the promise of new and abundant life. We’ve suffered loss together recently – a lot, and in many different forms. Loss is hard, it reminds us of our mortality. Loss is hard, it reminds us that we don’t always get our way. That’s why I’m ready for Easter, because even pastors need to be reminded of God’s promise of new life, redemption and salvation. I hope you lean on the promises of God as well, as we seek to...
Be Excellent To Each Other! <>< Andy
A PASTOR'S PERSPECTIVE
by Rev. Andy Beck
I usually deeply appreciate Lent. Note I didn’t say I “enjoy” Lent. I do not think it’s something we can or should try to enjoy – Lent is at its simplest, a challenge. While some may say they enjoy the challenge of a new sport or adventure, Lent is neither of those. In some regard, Lent is a real challenge, that is, it rouses in us the question of our very existence.
Yes, Easter is approaching in the coming weeks, and even though there’s always a spirit of energy and excitement surrounding Easter, we’re not there yet. We’re still in the heart of Lent, and that means we’re still discovering ways to recognize God’s mercy in our lives, and seeking forgiveness from the God who saves. I trust that Lent is bringing special meaning to your religious practice this season, that your connection to the holy is discovering growing edges, and that God’s faithfulness to never leave you or forsake you is nurturing a deeper trust in God’s love in your life. We’re not to Easter morning yet, we still have nearly a month to go.
That said, and as a matter of clergy confessional, this year I’m ready for Easter. I’m ready for resurrection. I’m ready for the promise of new and abundant life. We’ve suffered loss together recently – a lot, and in many different forms. Loss is hard, it reminds us of our mortality. Loss is hard, it reminds us that we don’t always get our way. That’s why I’m ready for Easter, because even pastors need to be reminded of God’s promise of new life, redemption and salvation. I hope you lean on the promises of God as well, as we seek to...
Be Excellent To Each Other! <>< Andy
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