Life as exiles in the wilderness of this world is not easy or pain-free. We wait and yearn for our real home, the new promised land of heaven. God gives us His word to strengthen us in our time of waiting. When it comes to God’s word, Jesus mentions that a good teacher not only brings out new treasures but reminds people of old and rich treasures as well (Matthew 13:52).
Under this year’s Lenten theme of “Promised Treasures”, we will take a weekly journey to concretely see, smell, touch, and taste a number of biblical elements. Just as Israel wandered through the wilderness under Moses for forty years, awaiting the Promised Land, we await heaven in the wilderness of this life. In this vale of tears, we await our real home, the new promised land of heaven. Until we enter our eternal promised land, however, the Lord calls us to hold onto His promised treasures for us in Jesus!
This series will begin with ashes, then proceed to salt, water, light, bread, and finally, palms. Then, during Holy Week, the focus shifts toward water and blood, wood, fragrant oil, and finally, on Easter, milk and honey. All these beautiful Old and New Testament elements will remind you of God’s eternal love in Christ, fill you with renewed hope, and increase your joy, knowing that because we are His baptized children, God is near to us now more than ever. All of these things are His promised treasures to us!
Our Lenten Season begins with Ash Wednesday on February 22nd. Join us each Wednesday throughout the weeks of Lent as we have potluck suppers at 6:00 pm followed by worship services at 7:00 pm.
God bless your spiritual journey throughout the days of Lent.
Pastor Tuma