Do you remember when, as a kid, you would have “growth spurts?” They were these seasons, perhaps a few weeks or a few months, when your growth just seemed to take off. I think we have spiritual growth spurts. There seem to be times in our lives when our spiritual growth plateaus and other times when we are growing deeper in our faith everyday. Sometimes the seasons of dramatic spiritual growth come as a result of a significant life event or challenging circumstances. But sometimes these seasons of growth come as a result of an intentional decision to immerse ourselves in our spiritual journey. There are times when we choose to dive deep into our own spiritual growth through a dedicated season of prayer, fasting, worship and the study of God's word.
Next Wednesday, February 26th, is Ash Wednesday. Ash Wednesday is the first day of the season of Lent. For centuries Christians all around the world have observed Lent as a season of preparation for the celebration of Easter. In some Christian traditions Lent is observed by choosing to “give something up.” While there can be some spiritual value to sacrificing something during Lent as a reminder of Christ's sacrifice for us, I believe God is calling us to something deeper. I believe this year God is calling all of Rock Church to an intentional season of spiritual growth in the weeks leading up to Easter.
The season of Lent is 40 days long (not counting Sundays) to remind us of the 40 days Jesus spent in the wilderness preparing for his public ministry. I want to invite, even challenge, every one of us to make Lent an intentional season of spiritual growth. But rather than give something up, I am encouraging us to take something on. That might mean that for these 40 days you will take on additional prayer time or an additional Bible reading plan. Or it may mean committing to join us once a week for Rock House of Prayer on Thursday nights or a day of fasting once a week.
So beginning next Wednesday we will launch a Rock Church 40-day season of growth. We will kick it off with a special Ash Wednesday service at 6:45 pm at our Plaistow location. This is open to everyone from all campuses and all of our communities. I feel strongly that God is calling us to this intentional season of growth. I can't speak for everyone, but I can tell you that our family has been through a tough season. But I am convinced that what the enemy intended for harm God will use for good. And I believe God is calling us to this season of growth to prepare us for the great things he has in store for us! I believe the Holy Spirit is already beginning to move and I can't wait to see what God is preparing to do.
So mark your calendar and join us for this important Ash Wednesday service as we launch into this season of spiritual growth.
God bless,
Pastor Steve