the month of January seems to have passed me by and my planner is ready to switch to February. When the page turns I notice two notations celebrating love. The first is February 14, named for the legendary St. Valentine who lost his life at the hands of the Roman Emperor Claudius. Claudius challenged St. Valentine to accept Roman paganism with Valentine attempting to convert Claudius to Christianity. Valentine would not relinquish his Christian belief, thus dying a martyr for his faith. Today Valentine’s Day is known to school children and adults alike as a celebration of romantic love. It is an entire day set aside to indulge in chocolate, enjoy the scent of beautiful roses, go out to dinner or send a note to that someone special.

The second celebration of love on the February calendar is not celebrated in such lavish and secular ways. It is a celebration of a love known for grace and forgiveness. Ash Wednesday falls on February 22 this year and is a more somber, symbolic observance. We receive the symbol of the cross through the Imposition of Ashes and begin our Lenten journey, reflecting on the last few weeks of Jesus’ life on earth. It is a time dedicated to remembering Jesus’ unconditional love for us; a love so great He took our sins upon himself and died for us.

Have you begun planning your journey for the upcoming Lenten season? Watch the bulletin for worship, study and fellowship opportunities. The Upper Room devotional material is also available at the church. I have yet to ‘MapQuest’ my specific route; however I hope we will journey together. Meet you at the cross.

Grace, peace and love,

Pastor Mary