For millions of Christians today is the observance of “Ash Wednesday,” the beginning of 40 days of Lent (excluding Sundays) leading up to Easter. A day of austerity, fasting, and abstinence for many, today starts a period of introspection, confession of sin, and prayer as we proceed to the joyful celebration of Jesus’ resurrection on Easter Sunday. Often people receive ashes on the forehead as a mark of humility and reminder of the constant need for God’s forgiveness. I like the Ash Wednesday prayer in The Book of Common Prayer, “Almighty God, you have created us out of the dust of the earth: Grant that these ashes may be to us a sign of our mortality and penitence, that we may remember that it is only by your gracious gift that we are given everlasting life; through Jesus Christ our Savior. Amen.” And then, as the ashes are imposed, the words, “Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return.” How do you see yourself and the Lord today?... Read more here

The funeral of my mother-in-law had the grace of God written all over it! From encouragement of family and friends, to the always poignant spiritual lift of the Scriptures, to the warmth of familiar surrounding, the event was filled with grace! More than twice the number of people expected to attend actually showed up! Even the typically rainy western Oregon weather changed and we had sun for the outdoor, graveside service, yes, in Oregon in the winter! Another experience of grace! And, getting anywhere we needed to be in 10 minutes, with no concern for traffic or parking, was a great change from Washington! For those of you who prayed and remembered us at this tough time, thank you so much! God’s presence was truly experienced. “Let not your heart be troubled; believe in God, believe also in Me.”
John 14:1... Read more here

I recall a radio personality once saying that hard winterd do terrible things to cars and good things to neighbors! With the record snow falls here in the Washington DC area this winter, I have engaged more with my neighbors, over the snow shovel, digging out a driveway, and being helped to retrieve a car snowed in at an airport parking lot. Tell me your stories … how has snow affected you, and your neighbors?... Read more here

My mother-in-law, June, passed away last Wednesday and my wife and I are making plans to be at her memorial service next week in Oregon. She had Alzheimer’s disease and had been in a memory care facility. Life is so short! We would appreciate your prayers as we travel, officiate at the memorial, and settle her affairs. John 14:2 Jesus said, “… I go to prepare a place for you ….” As a Christian, what comfort I have in knowing what Jesus has done!... Read more here

Bearing the Sword
One of the reasons a military is needed is to subdue evil. Bad guys are out there and our defense forces (along with police and other agencies) protect us. From the playground to the battleground there are those who needlessly hurt others.
As the Apostle Paul says in reference to government’s intervention, “ … if you do what is evil, be afraid; for it does not bear the sword for nothing ….” (Romans 13:4).
But with that amazing protective force military services provide there is also a great force to provide help and healing. Just take a look at www.defense.gov to see the amazing things our service members are doing today in Haiti. Those whose business is war can use their skills to save and protect life from disasters.
A colleague once served on the hospital ship USNS Comfort and he can tell you firsthand about responses to needs in crisis.
As you pray and give regarding the needs in Haiti, I suggest you also remember the responders, all the service members and civilians who respond to the staggering need around them.
Compassion fatigue need not win. Let’s support our team in Haiti.
Sometimes a sword becomes a scalpel.... Read more here