Ashes

This week marks the beginning of Lent.  Most of our culture knows more about Mardi Gras than Lent, just as most of us would prefer celebration over repentance.  But both have their place in the seasons of life.  Lent reminds us of the 40 days Jesus spent in the wilderness being tested by temptation and purified and empowered by prayer.  Lent comes right before Holy Week and Easter as a time for people to focus on faith and remember all that Christ endured on the cross that we might know true forgiveness and love.  It also reminds us of the good news of the hope of the resurrection and new life.  Ashes have long been a symbol of repentance and humility.  From early times many Christians have used the ashes of burned palm branches from the previous Palm Sunday, to mark the sign of the cross on their foreheads as a symbol of repentance and prayer and as a witness of their faith.  Even more important than the roots of these wonderful traditions, is the power of prayer.  It is easy to look around our world and see great needs that touch our hearts.  But let us discover anew the power of prayer.  There is no power equal to the power of believers gathering together to seek God and pray. Challenge yourself to a special time of prayer for yourself and the needs around the world.  Discover a fresh renewal as we pray for our world and for our lives that we may be filled with God's love and empowered by God's Spirit to reach out with a whole new passion to others in need.  Open your heart anew to God's love and power.  Discover the power of prayer!
 
 (Verse of the week)
"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.  Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you.  You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all of your heart.  (Jeremiah 29.11)
 
(Prayer of the week)
Almighty and Loving God, thank you for the privilege and power of prayer. Help me to discover in prayer your great love and help me to let your power touch my life that I may face the challenges and adversities of life with hope and peace, and be a light in your world. 
Amen.
Have a great week!—Pastor TJ
 
(quote of the week)
A little faith and a great God is enough-- Alf Stanway
 
Listen to recent sermons by Dr. TJ Jenney at http://inspiresundaymessages.blogspot.com/
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