Saints Notes   February 16, 2010

February 17 is Ash Wednesday - we mark the occasion by moving our Thursday Chapel service to Wednesday.

Pastor David Shadday from St. Paul's Lutheran Church (an Association congregation) traditionally comes in to lead worship.

It's an opportunity to re-orient ourselves for Lent and recognize the sacrifice made by our Savior on our behalf.  Near the end of Chapel, students and faculty have an opportunity for the imposition of ashes on their forehead or hand - marking us with a cross in ash made from burnt palm leaves (representing our sin and the reversal of regard for Christ from the victorious Palm Sunday entrance into Jerusalem).

At that time, Pastor Shadday picks up his guitar and sings as students, faculty, and staff process forward for the ashes.  The song is 'Quiet Contemplation.'

Quiet contemplation - what a great idea for all of us on a daily basis.  It can happen during our personal devotion, prayer, or Bible time.  In my lifetime - perhaps my most focused quiet time has been on a long distance bike ride where the rhythm of the ride lends itself to more introspection.

As we enter another Lenten season, my prayer for you is some quiet contemplation in your life - a time to pause and reflect on the love we have received through the grace of God through His Son, Jesus.

You are invited to join us - Chapel starts tomorrow around 10:25 in the Ruth Lilly Auditorium.