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The season of Lent is upon us next week. Here’s what I appreciate about this rhythm in our church life: It is a time for us to collectively lean into intentional spiritual practices that deepen our discipleship.
This 40-day season of prayer and fasting begins next week on Ash Wednesday. It is named after the tradition of marking our foreheads with an ashen cross. This mark does two things. It reminds us of our mortality and represents our desire for repentance.
Michael Kelley, Executive Director of the Rooted Network, has said, “The rhythm of repentance is essential in the life of believers, not just an initial response to the gospel, but a continual reorienting of hearts and minds in the ongoing journey of following Jesus.”
John Wesley would agree with him. The Methodist “way of salvation” teaches us that repentance is the doorway into the fullness of life that God has for us. If I am going to enter into all the good things God has for me – a greater love for God, others, and myself; a life of holiness; greater freedom – there is a threshold I must walk across. Repentance is how we take the first step toward the other side, but it isn’t always easy. You are not alone in this journey.
It is my hope that over the next 40 days to give you solid teaching from the Bible and our Methodist tradition on this spiritual discipline. The goal is to reclaim this practice in our personal and corporate life. Likewise, there will be a supportive community of people in our church experiencing this practice together on Wednesday nights through small groups. I encourage you to consider joining one of these groups.
Also, I pray our church encounters God in greater ways along the way. Now is the time for reflection, deeper contemplation, and greater awareness of our need for God. As we do this, we are reminded that our true hope is right around the corner.
Here are a couple of more things for you to consider this weekend.
1. Installation of new church leaders. The winter weather a few weeks ago prevented us from introducing to you our new church leaders for 2026. They officially started on their committees on February 1st. We will recognize these leaders along with all persons serving in leadership at CMC during both worship services on Sunday. Follow this link to see a full listing of our church committees. If you are reading this and you are one of these leaders, I hope you will be present for worship Sunday at one of our services so we can recognize you and pray for you. Finally, I want to thank all of those who are rotating off a committee this year. I appreciate your service on behalf of Christ and our church.
2. Bed Build on Monday. Here is your friendly reminder about the bed build scheduled for Monday. You can find all the details below about how to join us. I can’t wait to see you there and participate with you in this wonderful ministry that is making a tangible difference in kids’ lives.
See you Sunday!
Jimmy