As we move into the season of March, we come to that incredible season of the church year that has a single light that shines within it. It is not the light of our goodness, but rather the light of Jesus Christ that has come into the world, and the world cannot, does not overcome it. (John 1) As we move into the season of Lent, we remember the extraordinary work of Jesus and bring ourselves to focus with the work that He did on our behalf.

Traditionally, during this season, Christians apply themselves to acts of charity, reflecting the work that Jesus did for us, or there are acts of sacrifice. The acts of sacrifice are the fasts that we do. These fasts are not done for us to gloat about, or to brag about, but they become the silent approach of the believe to the throne of God, as we remember what Jesus has done on our behalf. Our fasts become points during which we pray and meditate upon the work of Jesus Christ as He saves us. When the yearning for whatever is fasted rears its head, in spiritual discipline, it is set aside, and instead of partaking in whatever that thing is, we set it aside and we meditate upon the work of Jesus for our salvation. Perhaps we utter a small prayer that brings our focus back into the sacrifice of Jesus, and our redemption that flows from it.

Similarly, the church has applied itself to acts of charity and good works inspired by the Holy Spirit, and the work of Jesus for us. As Jesus cared for us, so we intentionally, purposefully love, and care for, one another. Zion’s Board of Evangelism is involved in this space this year, and would ask that you join them and myself, in caring for the less fortunate around us.

Through the Lenten season, The Board of Evangelism will be collecting specific items for OWL (Overnight Warming Locations) in our area. These are places that those who don’t have a place to go can go when it is cold. We are also coming alongside Oasis Women’s shelter in Alton as they reach out to those who have been so deeply hurt by the various sins that seem to permeate our lives so fully. Each worship service a specific call will be made for items. Below, you will find a list of dates and items to assist in this outreach to the community around us. Once the season of Lent is over, these items will be distributed out to the two organizations we are seeking to help. While we encourage you to bring the items suggested when they are, you are free to bring what you would like as you can. We don’t do this to the glory of ourselves, or to add polish to the name of Zion, but we do this remembering that when we were without a home, or a place to go, Jesus came to us and made us His brothers and sisters. Jesus reminds us in Matthew 12, that we are His mother, brothers, and sisters.

I look forward to walking with each of you as we follow that way of the cross, remembering how Jesus has carried us and brought us salvation. (Galatians 2:20)

Easter is coming,

Pastor Phil