March 9, 2025

I see the cross, and think of the man who died there. I think of the blessings that have come my way. I think of and pray for each of you … wondering what your day will bring. I look around my moderately cluttered office. I have lots of “art work” from people who have been gracious enough to share their “craft” with me. I so admire people who can take a brush or a pencil or a hammer … and create beauty for us to enjoy. There is one “craft” that we all share: “the art of giving back.” It’s what this season of LENT is all about —— “giving back” from the very heart of who we are. We may not think we have a lot to give … but we do!! Maybe it’s a little time … some loose change in our pocket. A phone call … a knock on the door. A visit to the nursing home … a little extra in the “love bucket” … or just taking the time to listen to someone who has a story to tell. Holding her hand … sharing Communion at midnight … kneeling in silence and saying an extra prayer. Yes, Jesus gave it all … that we might know the power of “giving back” to someone else. When we look at the cross … we discover what it means to be rich. Love and peace … Don