This week, in our Lent devotions, we have been reminded of Jesus’ deep compassion for sad, grieving, hurting people – and so too, Jesus’ compassion continues to extend out from the cross to the entire world. Here in Lent, we remain “stretched by the cross” to break through barriers and help others move from surviving to thriving. We continue our 40×40 Lenten drive for Lutheran World Relief Care kits, the heartfelt ministry with our Afghani family, and our special offering & prayers for the people of Ukraine. Last Wednesday, we were inspired by a Scribe & Pharisee being stretched by the cross. If you missed it, you can still find the drama posted on our Youtube channel. Next Wednesday, at 6:45, we hear from Mary of Magdala and Simon Peter. There is also a Wednesday noon prayer service w/ Holy Communion. On Sunday, we again light 4 prayer candles of H.O.P.E. and add the Outreach “O” letter to our expanding cross at the altar. We have another “Justice Moment” as the entire congregation continues to prepare for the big Nehemiah Assembly on April 4. For this 2nd Sunday in Lent, we are reminded of God’s ancient promise of hope for a childless Abram & Sarai; and we hear Jesus’ determination to bring hope in people’s lives on his way to the cross in Jerusalem, in spite of threats & warnings. The words of Psalm 27 ring out in our ears & hearts: “The Lord is my light & my salvation – whom then shall I fear? The Lord is the strength of my life – of whom shall I be afraid?” Again, worship concludes with the moving processional “cradling” of the cross (made of wood from the Cross-Tree which once stood at our LS entrance).
