The End is Near!!!

Thank heavens...thanks goodness it's almost over. The end of Lent is near and Easter and the promise of our salvation from ourselves is near. I'm tired. I'm done. I'm ready for this moment of forgiveness...of self realization and renewal. Every year Lent nearly does me in. Remember that I'm Lutheran at heart and teter on the Martin way of self examination. Is this horrible? Is this detrimental? Perhaps. But I know that as I make this journey, I'm truly doing the work to learn, to become and to be the servant and loving person God designed me to be. As we experience Holy Week we journey with all Christians in the way of joy and discovery in this moment of amazement and celebration in the moment of realization of love for all people. Christ only wants us to love and embrace each other. Join with me as we wait for a renewed love for all people in servanthood and respect.

Spring Plantings

I've just planted my spring garden. I got dirty with stuff under my nails and everything...wonderful! I'm looking at those little seedlings and thinking, "when will you produce?! When will I see the fruits of my labor." I think of the tilling, the sweat, the wishing and dreaming of what I might 'get' from this gardening action. How can I not compare this planting to the work done in relationships, in meeting new people and the simple act of investing in just living.

During this season of Lent so much work is done to grow and become...will I see a result? Will I 'be' something new after all this work? Or will I just be the same as before...dormant and deaf? After I plant something I find myself checking on the plants every morning. I actually speak to the plants and think silently..."are you happy and content? Do you have enough water, sun and nutrients?" Why wouldn't I wonder the same about myself? Do I have enough strength, study and umph to continue to grow and actually produce? I must remember to love, condition and listen (as I think my plants do) so I may grow and be fruitful for those around me.