Dear Friends,
In his book “A Long Obedience in the Same Direction,” Eugene Peterson teaches that the psalms were the “traveling songs” of the faithful pilgrims as they traveled to Jerusalem to the Temple. In the Temple, they received God’s forgiveness and were reminded of God’s mercy. I can picture those pilgrims singing the words of Psalm 105, recalling Jacob, Joseph, Abraham, and Moses. I imagine sharing those words lifted their spirits and gave them energy for the hard miles and dusty roads.
The story of the Exodus and God's acts that freed His people sustain me when my spirit flags. We remember these same mighty acts of God in our prayers over the bread and wine on Sunday. Psalm 105 reminds us that even before Jesus, God was working to bring about our salvation using flawed and frail people who grew into God’s leaders and servants.
Lent is approaching quickly. I’ve decided to reread Eugene’s book as part of my prayer and preparation for Easter. I’m ambitious in planning this before Lent begins because I usually resist this discipline. Lent typically teaches me how my best-laid plans often fall short. But long obedience in the same direction can’t help but get me closer to God, even if I take breaks on the way. The thought of pilgrims putting one foot in front of the other to get to Jerusalem and God’s mercy encourages me to try it, too.
During this Lenten season, we are called to sing our songs of praise, too, remembering in the wilderness that the journey may be long and the road uneven, but following the example of our forefathers and mothers, our obedience to God’s call will lead us to freedom, hope, and peace. Following, “we give thanks to the Lord and call on his holy name,” and we trust because God is “mindful of his covenant forever.” So, let’s keep walking, and I hope to see you at church!
Blessings,
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