In the tradition of many Christians, the season of Lent has been a time to “give something up.”  Usually it’s giving up something that’s bad for us anyway, like chocolate.  But the idea behind it is that every time the person yearns for chocolate, she will think of her sacrifice for God.  Or he will remember those less fortunate than himself: those who have nothing to eat, let alone chocolate.

As Lent approaches (Ash Wednesday is early – February 6 this year), I try to make a change in my behavior that will allow me to spend more time in a spiritually connected way to God.  I strive to add an hour a day to my devotional time, to occasionally attend a special spiritual event in someone else’s church, or to participate in a different religious tradition.  I invite you to consider doing something similar.

Here at Central Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), one of our traditions for Lent is to hold special gatherings for worship and fellowship on Sunday evenings from 6 until 7:30 from February 10 through March 16.  Once again this year, we will be led by guest preachers who are also friends: some long-time and some new.  Our “high” holy days will be the Maundy Thursday Communion on March 20 and the Easter Sunrise and Festival Services on March 23.  These times to be together are some of the ways that your church is inviting you to make a change.  You are invited to spend more time with God by sharing in these community gatherings, or by giving something up or by adding some more prayer time to your days.  You are, of course, also invited to study Unbinding the Gospel with us, by reading it and also by attending a discussion group.

As the ancient hymn reminds us to pray:

Make a change for God…for good.

Pastor Paul