We ended Epiphany on the Mount of Transfiguration, Jesus fully revealed as God’s Chosen One, and his Father’s voice declaring, “Listen to him.”
We’ll begin Lent on another mountain, listening to Jesus reveal the Father’s vision for his people:
Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.
Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied.
Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy.
Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.
Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.
Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.
We will end Lent on yet another mountain, at the feet of the crucified body of the One perfectly embodies these words.
Between now and then, “I invite you…to the observance of a holy Lent: by self-examination and repentance; by prayer, fasting, and alms-giving; and by reading and meditating on God’s holy Word. And, to make a right beginning, let us know pray for grace, that we may faithfully keep this Lent” (BCP 2019).
In this way the Holy Spirit will ready our hearts for the Lord’s work in and through us.
Your Pastor in Christ,
P.S. I apologize for the livestreaming issues that you’ve experienced over the past several weeks. We have learned that Beville’s WiFi network no longer supports livestreaming. While we’re exploring alternatives, livestreaming will not be available until further notice. We will continue filming and posting the services online as soon as possible Sunday afternoon.
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