Sunday 3rd March 2019

Transfiguration of Jesus
Lectionary Bible Readings
Exodus 34:29-35, 15, Psalm 99,
2 Corinthians 3:12-4:2, Luke 9:28-36 (37-43a)

“Listen to him.”

Such a short, simple command. And yet also so difficult. So much distracts us from even hearing, let alone following, Jesus’ voice. It might be the glory of opportunities or persons near us. Or perhaps it’s the challenges or suffering we and those we love are enduring. Or maybe it’s the day-to-day cares of work and family and all the activities that make up even the most ordinary of lives.

Yet the command persists: “Listen to him.” Why? For he is the one that offers us an identity that transcends opportunities or challenges or suffering or activities. He is the one who invites us into the same identity that was given to him: beloved child. He is the one who includes us in his mission to share God’s love and blessing with all the world. That’s why we listen.

http://www.davidlose.net/2013/09/luke-9-28-36/

6^th March 2019

Ash Wednesday Lectionary Readings
Joel 2:1-2, 12-17 or Isaiah 58:1-12, Ps 51:1-17, 2 Cor 5:20b-6:10, Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21

What is Ash Wednesday?

Ash Wednesday is known as the first day of Lent for many Christians worldwide. It is the beginning of the Lenten fast. The Lenten fast lasts for 40 days (excluding Sundays) and ends on Holy Saturday, which is the day before Easter Sunday.

The name “Ash Wednesday” is derived from the custom of marking foreheads of the faithful with blessed ashes as a sign of penitence and humility. The Lent season has been a time for self-examination and penitence prior to Easter for many centuries. 

                                                            https://hightonstlukes.unitingchurch.org.au/archive-pages/ash-wednesday-service/