Saturday, April 5th
Steve Middleton
It seems to come upon us suddenly on the calendar. Unexpected and quiet.
Many people wonder where I’m going with life’s emergencies, phone calls, texts
and endless emails. Church at noon on a Wednesday seems so out of place.
Responsibilities are in no short supply. Life hinges on the timing, the meeting,
the plan and the outcome. My burdens are many and so heavy. Worries fill my
mind.
It is Ash Wednesday and Lent has begun. Anxiety of traffic and hoping it is light, the sound of gravel under my tires. The timelessness of the Chapel settles into my thoughts. Black robes and candles move toward the door as they have for over 200 years.Entering this quiet place, the liturgy, the prayers, the absence of bright colors lets you know that this day is different………..all is simple and dark. We are confronted with the ashes and the words, “Remember you are dust and to dust you will return”.
In Jeremiah, it is revealed how wisdom gives us insight into the plot that deceives and tries to draw us in. For God is a righteous judge and protects his own. He is quick to stand before us and intervene.
Psalm 7 encourages us to be obedient to God, seek righteousness and to call upon the Lord our God for protection, for he loves an obedient child.
Finally in John 7, Christ calls for those who are “thirsty to come unto me”. He gives the spirit of living water that comforts and fills the soul. What more can be given in such a world as protection and comfort of peace and security. We venture out as we test our wings and then we return home to that peaceful love.
I pray for our journey. Your brother in Christ.
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