Dearly Beloved,
Grace and Peace to you.
Preparing to descend into Lent,
its sorrows and surrenders,
the death that opens to new life,
we stand at the threshold
on this day named for shriving,
which means hearing confession,
and also imposing penance,
and also granting absolution.
All in one.
Even before Lent begins
we are shriven,
having confessed
and been offered a new way
and been forgiven,
before we even begin.
Eat those pancakes, then,
and parade with joy,
and tomorrow wear those ashes
as lovely adornment.
Walk gladly into the desert.
Embrace your cross with gratitude.
You are already risen.
+
Deep Blessings,
Pastor Steve
__________________
Steve Garnaas-Holmes
Unfolding Light
www.unfoldinglight.net
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