The Story Continues

Written by Pastor Jenny Arneson

Read by Bill Anciaux

“We beg you as Christ’s representatives, ‘Be reconciled to God!’” 2 Corinthians 5:20b

Today is Ash Wednesday, which begins the 40-day season of Lent.  This is a season for prayer and soul-searching.  In Lent, we are asked to look deep within ourselves to find those places where we need to seek forgiveness, repentance, reconciliation, and healing.  Lent is also a time we remember the life, teaching, suffering and death of Jesus so that we can more fully celebrate his resurrection on Easter.  

Our theme for Lent this year is The Story Continues…  Not too long ago, we celebrated the humble beginnings of the Jesus story, which started in a stable.  During Lent, we will allow the story of Jesus to continue as we make the journey with him to the cross.  We will also reflect upon and share our own stories during Lent.  

When you tell the story about yourself or your family history, what do you highlight?  What do you celebrate about your story?  Are there pieces of your history that you skip over in telling your story?  What is it about your story that you would rather ignore?  Where is God in your story?

One thing the pandemic has shown us is how much our stories intertwine with one another and that there are common threads throughout our stories.  The pandemic has taught us the importance of listening to and hearing the stories of each other.

So, what’s your story?  How will you share it?  How can your story offer hope to others?  How do you allow your story to continue?

Lots of questions…But in these days of Lent, I invite you to reflect upon and ask questions about your own story.  Perhaps write your story down for yourself or for others.  And may our story draw us closer to God and one another.

Gracious God, we know that our story continues as we follow the story of Jesus to the cross.  In this season of Lent, may we turn to you for strength and courage.  Thank you for continuing to write our story as you journey with us, offering us your love and grace each day.  Amen.