To the People of God at Rose Park, Embody Christ Fellowship & Central Park,
Every season of the church year brings its own music. Advent and Christmas bring out the familiar Christmas carols. Lent invites us to sing the songs of the cross.
On the second Sunday of Lent at Central Park we closed our worship with a walk-up choir leading the congregation in singing “The Old Rugged Cross.” By the time we got to the fourth verse, I had become familiar enough with the bass part that I could lift my eyes off the music and look at the people worshiping in front of me. I saw tears in eyes and open-hearted singing. When we got to the words “... then he’ll call me someday to my home far away, where his glory forever I’ll share ...” my wife, Mary who was singing next to me suddenly became quiet and gripped my arm more tightly. I knew right away that she was thinking of her mom who passed away three years ago, who is already experiencing the glory of heaven.
It is amazing how the actions and words Jesus on the cross give us hope that there is more to life than meets the eye. By his death on the cross he has gained life for us, both for now and for eternity. The words of worship songs, both new and old, bring this truth from the page into our hearts.
This coming Sunday we will end our worship with “When I Survey the Wonderous Cross.” The first three verses invite us to meditate on the death of Jesus on the cross, setting aside our pride and desire for lesser things so that we can receive his great love. But the fourth verse is my favorite, “Were the whole realm of nature mine, that were an offering far too small, love so amazing, so divine, demands my soul, my life, my all.”
There is something about seeing Jesus give his all on the cross for us that challenges us to give our all as well. Leftover pieces of our time, energy and money are not enough to give to the one who gave his life for us.
As we journey together through Lent and consider these “Famous Last Words” of Jesus spoken from the cross, we are invited to see the fullness of his suffering and sacrifice for us. As we witness his death on the cross we are both challenged and empowered to walk in faithful obedience each day he gives us.
Together at the foot of the Cross,
Pastor Kevin Kleinheksel
SCRIPTURE READINGS FOR THE WEEK
Wednesday - Psalm 32:6-11
Thursday - 2 Corinthians 5:16
Friday - Luke 15:1-3,11-24
Saturday - Luke 15:25-32
Sunday - Psalm 23
Monday - Isaiah 43:16-21
Tuesday - Psalm 126:1-3
Photo by Alicia Quan on Unsplash