When Lent begins I am generally asked by my more "traditional" Baptist friends, "Why would you dare celebrate that "Catholic" thing called Lent?" I will leave it to my Catholic friends (of which I have many) to defend their own ideas about this sacred and ancient time of year. I am quite certain each group of Christians have their own nuance to add to the season. As a Baptist I believe Lent is a wonderful opportunity for renewal and revival; a time to consider God's grace, love and mercy. Lent is a time to pray, fast and seek the face of God while looking forward to the celebration of the resurrection of our Lord at Easter!I hope you will take the time to celebrate Lent with me this year. I hope you will fast from food at least one day a week and use the time you would have eaten to instead pray and meditate upon God's Word. I hope you will be more intentional about your prayer life and time in God's Word. I hope you will diligently seek God and believe He will reward you for so doing (Hebrews 11:6)!
As protestants, and Baptists in particular, we have "40 Days of Purpose" along with a myriad of other special "seasons" of church life. Who of us hasn't been, or should I say endured, an "Arise and Build" type capital campaign? While each of these "seasons" has a raison d'être how can we begrudge ourselves the opportunity for an even greater blessing during Lent? Don't miss out on your chance for a fresh start through spiritual renewal during this Lenten Season of 2014!
Pastor James
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