02-23-23

ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHINGS
​February 23, 2023
When I used to run long distances, I would try to run two or three larger races each year. Sometimes there would be a thousand participants, but occasionally I would run a half marathon or full marathon with 3,000 or even 5,000 runners. At those big races, you are placed in a starting group (a corral). I remember running the Walt Disney World Marathon with 22,000 people, and it took me nearly 25 minutes to cross the starting line after they said, "Go!" It is hard to just stand there, not moving. Then I began to walk ever-so-slowly, eventually moving to a light jog all the way to the starting line. Finally, at about the first mile marker, things opened up and I could actually start running. But that time of waiting—waiting to cross the start line—is hard.

As a staff here at Cypress Creek Christian Church, we have been talking about Ash Wednesday for quite some time. Mariah had agreed to preach months ago, and more than a month ago, Paula checked to make sure we had plenty of ashes. We were focused on Ash Wednesday, but we had to wait—shuffling, moving ever-so-slowly to the actual service and the beginning of Lent. Not to overdo the metaphor of running, but the race to Easter has started. It is time to put forth your best effort in the practices of this Season—prayer, silence, worship, confession, pilgrimage, etc. We’ve crossed the start line, and so it is time to really begin.

Be encouraging, Gracious God, as you always are. Let me hear the whisper of your Spirit and feel the nudge of your loving kindness. There are things to explore and learn in this Season of Lent, and much of it requires some intentionality. With your help, I believe I am up for the task. Amen.