Dear church family

In the Church calendar, Ash Wednesday falls on 2 March this year, which marks the beginning of the LENT season. LENT is a 40-day period of reflection, repentance and renewal. Theliturgical colour is purple, signifying penitence and mourning. It is a time of deep spiritual reflection and honest heart-searching repentance. It is a season when we give ourselves devotedly to grow in Christlikeness. This growth in Christlike character requires spiritual disciplines in extended times of fasting, praying and reading the Scriptures.

At the Ash Wednesday service, the priest places some ash on our foreheads and says, “you are dust, and to dust you shall return” (Genesis 3:19b). This is a clear reminder that our bodies are frail and mortal. Because of sin, man has fallen short of the glory of God. But thanks be to God for the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. In Christ, we are set free from our bondage to sin and death.

During this Lent season, firstly, let us reflect and give thanks to God for the life and sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Jesus walked the way of the cross in submission and obedience to His Father’s will. May our hearts be ever grateful to Jesus and follow his example of humble obedience.

Secondly, let us repent of our sins as we open our hearts to the powerful work of the Holy Spirit. God will forgive us when we truly repent and have a transformative inward change of heart. May we seek to live a life of holiness and godliness.

Thirdly, let us renew our first love for God and our commitment to discipleship in the kingdom of God. Take time to slow down during Lent and spend time with Abba Father in the Word and in prayer. Be restored in your soul and inner being. May we grow daily in our relationship with God and in Christlikeness.

“Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me. Cast me not away from your presence, and take not your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and uphold me with a willing spirit.”   Psalm 51:10-12

Maranatha
Pastor John