Pastor Elizabeth Rheinfrank
“You shall be called the repairer of the breach, the
restorer of streets to live in” (Isaiah 58:12).
Dear Friends in Christ,
Lent is a season of reflection and spiritual renewal. The ashes of Ash Wednesday
serve as a reminder of our mortality and of the promises we make when we affirm our
baptism: to live among God's faithful people, to hear God’s Word and receive the
Lord's Supper, to proclaim the good news of God in Christ through word and deed, to
serve all people following Jesus’ example, and to strive for justice and peace in all the
earth (ELW p. 236).
In Isaiah 58, one of the texts appointed for Ash Wednesday, the prophet Isaiah
criticizes those who wear ashes and participate in rituals of repentance while
simultaneously ignoring God's demands of justice by oppressing the most vulnerable
in society. In contrast, those who come to the aid of the poor and marginalized will be
like "a watered garden, like a spring of water, whose waters never fail ...You shall be
called the repairer of the breach, the restorer of streets to live in” (Isa. 58:11-12
NRSV). The ashes of Lent remind us that our lives are not our own. In baptism, we are
united with Christ in his death and resurrection. As Christians, we are called to die to
ourselves and live more fully for God.
In preparation for this renewal, many Christians take up the three traditional Lenten
practices of prayer, fasting, and giving generously to people in need. These practices
help to prepare our hearts for Christ on Easter. If you do not already have a regular
spiritual practice, Lent is a great time to start. Many people find it helpful to use a
devotional booklet that includes daily readings, reflections, and prayers for the Lenten
season. Booklets are available on the table in the Chapel, and I encourage you to pick
one up and use it as part of your daily Scripture reading and prayer.
On the First Sunday in Lent (March 9th), the Christian Education Committee will host a
Lent Event for all ages in the Undercroft from 9-10 AM. This event is a wonderful
opportunity for our congregation to come together and learn more about the Lenten
practices of prayer, fasting, and giving generously. We will be creating illuminated
manuscripts (painted prayers) and assembling church busy bags for the kids.
Everyone is invited to attend!
As we embark on this Lenten journey, may the Holy Spirit be our constant guide and
source of strength!
With you in Christ,
Pastor Elizabeth Rheinfrank