In this E-pistle:

Journey to the Cross

The Wide World of Sports 

Wednesday is Ash Wednesday, for many of us the beginning of a journey to the cross.  For some Lent is nothing more than six long weeks of going without some favorite food or pleasurable experience for some reason long since forgotten (and, hence, Fat Tuesday, Mardi Gras, a last chance to indulge). As we have incorporated the practice of Lent into the Presbyterian Church in the last 30 years or so, we have focused more on Lent as a spiritual journey, a time to reflect on and grow in faith.

Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of Lent and is so named for the imposition of ashes, a sign of penitence, in some traditions.  At Park we do not impose ashes, but, rather, come to the Lord’s Table to receive sustenance from the Meal he shares with us.  I can only encourage you, and encourage you I do, to join us next Wednesday, 7:00 p.m., as in worship we begin our journey together. 

The second thing I encourage you to do is to find some companions for the journey.  Our Lenten Small groups and ABC are designed to provide that company of friends.  You may register for a small group using the form in Sunday’s bulletin or by signing up in the Gathering Room for the group of your choice.

The Wide World of Sports:  So much for sports being a refuge from all the cares and concerns of the world.  This week we have watched Michael Waltrip become the Barry Bonds of NASCAR by pouring steroids into the gas tank of his race car.  Or something like that.  (Read all about it)  

There are no short cuts, no enhancers (save the Lord’s Table!) on the journey to the cross. 

Then we hear Tim Hardaway’s ugly rant about a gays in the NBA.  (Read all about it)

Of course, we live in a world of sexualized politics and politicized sexuality, but the venom of hate is simply unacceptable.

People poisoned by hate cannot endure the arduous journey to the cross. 

On Sunday we will talk about those who are on the side of the truth.  They are those willing to risk a journey to the cross.