Sisters and Brothers,
Greetings in the Name of our Lord Jesus Christ.
As we enter this Lenten season, our hearts turn once again toward the cross! The symbol of suffering and shame. Lent calls us to slow down, to look within, and to walk more closely with Christ on the road that leads to Calvary and beyond.
The forty days of Lent, remind us that discipleship involves both repentance and renewal.
We are invited to 'give up' something for Lent as a form of fasting and denial, or alternatively to 'take on' an activity or action that will draw us closer to God.
During this Lenten season, ask yourself, how can I strengthen my faith? How can I live a prayerfully life that is shaped by prayer. In this world many people are restless with noise and haste, Lent offers us the sacred gift of stillness, where our hearts may once again be tuned to the voice of our Lord and Saviour.
To those among us who feel poor in spirit, burdened by worry, or alone; know that you are especially near to the heart of Christ. He who had nowhere to lay His head understands every hunger and every sorrow.
The Lord who was killed on the cross promises you His abiding presence. Let us be mindful, through prayer and action, to extend kindness and companionship to those we meet during Lent. Lent is not an end in itself.
Lent leads us to Easter. When the dawn breaks upon the empty tomb, we see the full measure of God’s redemption. The darkness is broken, death is defeated, and hope stands triumphant in the risen Christ.
As we journey together through these holy days, may we bear one another’s burdens with compassion. Pray for others and be willing to walk alongside someone in need. Remember with thanksgiving the victory of Jesus over sin and death.
My prayer is that each of you may know anew the life-giving power of the resurrection, not only as a moment in history but as a living reality that renews every heart and home.
May this Lent deepen your faith, and may this Easter fill you with joy.
May the phase from the Easter liturgy 'The Lord is risen' remind you anew of our belief and the response, 'He is risen indeed'. fill you with thanksgiving and peace. Amen.
Rev Edwin.
This letter is from our Focus No 361 church magazine.