I Thirst

One of the final sayings of Jesus causes me to think about my actions. When I hear the words, I thirst, I realize I need to see how I respond to the suffering Christ. Would I bring wine to the lips of crucified One? Would I remain invisible as part of the crowd? Would I hide as did the disciples? Would I be courageous in the face of anger and violence or would I seek to protect myself, my energy, my time? When I see the simple words from John 19, I have to wonder if I see Jesus around me: the broken man in need of money for the hotel, the harried cashier, the undocumented worker, the angry teen or any number of folks. Maybe the question is not whether I see people around me. Perhaps I need to allow God's Spirit more entrance into my heart, as Jason Detra so eloquently put it during yesterday's service.

Speaking of Jason, go to Facebook and search for Exercise Your Heart. While the FB page is new, I like how Jason wrote the 4-part premise:
1. Cardio workout 15 minutes a day
2. Heart healthy meals
3. Do a good deed
4. Exercise your time with God.
I thought Jason's words were compelling as he testified about God's presence in his life.

On the journey,
Alecia

Lenten Journey

I just read a wonderful description of the meaning of Lent on our website. Scroll down to the bottom of the page and in the "Journey to Easter" you will see the line for more information as to the meaning of Lent. Click and you will read an easy to understand version of the meaning of Lent.

I am reminded how beauty is an avenue to God. Each week I am drawn to the newly created banners that remind us of the last sayings of Jesus. I use the word drawn purposefully. I find that simply being quiet before the banners is a good way for me to move into the silence of the season. I resonate with each phrase as I sit in the sanctuary. Even on Sunday mornings a glimpse at one of the phrases propels me into a reflective place. I hope it is that way for you.

On the journey,
Alecia

Act of Mercy

I am struck by the act of mercy by Simon of Cyrene. In the horror of the mob scene, trial and walk to golgatha, there is an act of kindness shown to Jesus. Simon of Cyrene takes the cross arm from Jesus' shoulders. He bears, if you will, Jesus' burdens. The gospel writers do not record him speaking, yet Simon says volumes in his act of mercy. He reflects Jesus by his actions.

I have often thought during Lent about which character of the passion best represents me. Everyone betrays Jesus at some point. Are my shortcomings best reflected in: Peter or Judas? Would it be more accurate for me to think in terms of the other disciples, the religious leaders or the high priest? Perhaps I am more in line with the Roman soldiers-- gambling with my faith or the mob and civic leaders who are just trying to keep the peace. Are you Simon? I realize my answer changes each year as I continue to journey towards Jesus and the cross. I have certainly found myself in alignment with Peter and civic leaders at various points.

So who in the story would serve as a good representation of you? Wrestle with this question as you continue your journey.

On the journey,
Alecia