During the season of Lent, we follow Jesus into the wilderness (Luke 4:1-13). The wilderness is often remembered as a deserted place of hardship and trial. The wilderness has functioned in this way, and Jesus’ experience in the wilderness was difficult. But the wilderness is more than just a barren place. Jesus may have gone to the wilderness precisely because, throughout scripture’s story, God has used the wilderness to transform God’s people.

This year we follow Jesus into the wilderness, and we invite God to challenge & change us. We pray that we will emerge from our Lenten journey through the wilderness filled with the Holy Spirit, just as Jesus was before us.

Lenten Sand Table

In the glass lobby behind the fellowship hall there is a Lenten sand table. Stop by anytime that the church is open to experience a little piece of the wilderness; light a candle, say a prayer, or write a message in the sand. The sand table will have different suggested activities throughout Lent, so stop by often to see what’s happening in the wilderness.

Currently beside the sand table is a piece of art created by Juli McKendree. Juli reminds us that the wilderness comes in many forms—physical, emotional, relational, spiritual, and more. Juli’s art highlights the wilderness-like feeling that comes from gun violence, food insecurity, and other social challenges. It is meant to be experienced while listening to the song which you can play below. On the back of the artwork are some articles that explain the background for the song and her artwork, and some of these articles are also below.

• Song: Kevin Morby – “Beautiful Strangers”
• Background on the Song: Article 1 and Article 2