Each year we hold an Ash Wednesday service outside around a fire at the waterfront in the backyard of a church member. It is a very beautiful service of repentance, recommitment, and communion. After the final “amen” we then proceed with the roasting of marshmallows and the consuming of s’mores. Not very “Lenten” I know, but who can resist with the fire at hand.
Last night, for the first time, we began the service as usual, and then, the raindrops began to fall. We quickly moved everything inside to the screened in porch. And, we began again, with the lights turned down and candles on the altar table. The service was lovely and moving despite the disruption.
After the service, we noticed that the fire out by the seawall was still burning, wood aglow. And the rain had stopped. So, conditions now permitted the making of s’mores. That part of the evening went on as usual, to the delight of the young people present!
Lent begins with the story of Jesus being led by the spirit out into the wilderness for 40 days. We can imagine that his expectations mirrored the experiences of other prophets before him who had spent time in the wilderness. Yet Jesus’ 40 days of temptation, and his ministry, unfold in unique ways that no one would have expected. With trust and faith, Love surprises, and, eventually, delights us.
As we think about our journey through Lent, and through life, things usually don’t unfold as we expect them to. There are twists and turns along the way. Adaptability is called for. Flexibility is an asset. And if we pay attention and remain faithful, we will end up where we need to be, and we will appreciate the arrival, and hopefully, even the journey.
Prayer: We pray for the presence of divine Love to lead us through Lent. We pray for openness on the journey. May we relinquish our desire for control and trust God’s imagination and design. Amen.
Lakewood United Church of Christ 