No RSVP required…Every year on Ash Wednesday, we are offered an invitation to the observance of a holy Lent. What we are really invited into, is a period of deeper discipleship. A time to pick up some of the tools that deepen our faith, stir us to action, and help us grow in our knowledge and understanding of our Lord Jesus Christ. The acceptance of this invitation will cost us a bit of time and perhaps some resources, but I would suggest that the benefits far outweigh the costs. So, I encourage you to pick up some of the tools: prayer, fasting, self-examination, and reading and meditating on God's word. Perhaps some of you have already made a list of things that you're going to do (or not do as the case may be). Perhaps you'll choose a book of the Bible and study it. Why not set a timer on your phone to remind you to pray every day. Maybe some of you will choose to “fast” and go without food for a day. Maybe you have made the decision to “fast” from Facebook or the TV. I'm not saying you need to do it all! Nor am I saying that you have to do it perfectly. It might help to think of it as a journey, not as a task or list things to accomplish! (Just say no to the mean voice that whispers that you are a failure at keeping Lent correctly.) In addition, I would encourage you to participate in some of the opportunities that we will have during the season of Lent. Certainly, you can join us on Sunday mornings for Bible study, or you might invite a friend (or family member) to walk the stations of the cross at noon on Wednesdays. So, go ahead...pick up some tools and use them…and let’s grow as disciples and followers of Jesus. It’s an open invitation: no RSVP required. Blessings,
Matthew+ Almighty God, whose blessed Son was led by the Spirit to be tempted by Satan: Come quickly to help us who are assaulted by many temptations; and, as you know the weaknesses of each of us, let each one find you mighty to save; through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen. (BCP p.218) | 
