Vicar's Corner
March  2010

I knew I was standing at the place where he died. I could feel it in the air, under my feet and deep in my heart. On a cold Iowa day, I stood alone on a quiet abandoned road and recognized the picture in the yellowed newspaper article showing the place where my father died. I knew the picture well, but the place itself was familiar in ways I cannot explain. It was a journey of 50 years and countless prayers. It was a journey that brought new life to my heart.

As March begins we are in the midst of our Lenten journey. The veiled cross holds mystery that waits to be revealed. We know the story that is about to be told. We know the sorrow and pain all too well. We have journeyed through it many times and each time there is mystery.

During this season of Lent we hear God’s promise of love over and again as stories of covenant enter our worship. God promises to love us, no matter where we journey. That love is familiar in ways we cannot explain. It is a sweet promise, a sweet mystery, as we see our own story with new eyes. Promise and mystery make interesting companions. Together they encourage us to face each new day and to seek deeper understanding.

In early April we will find ourselves standing where new life is given. The veil will fall away and exuberant alleluias will burst from our hearts to fill the air. Countless prayers have helped us imagine this place – it will be familiar in ways we cannot explain.

May our journey be blessed,

LouAnn+