Christ in the Wilderness by Kelly Latimore

 

Kindred in Christ,

Lent always begins in the wilderness.

Before Jesus began his ministry, he was led into the wilderness, where he fasted, prayed, and faced temptations—not of obvious evil, but of power, control, and certainty. He was asked to turn stones into bread, to take dominion over the world, to prove God’s faithfulness with spectacle. Each time, he refused. Each time, he let go. And in doing so, he emerged with a clearer sense of who he was and what truly sustained him.

This Lent, we, too, step into the wilderness—not as a place of punishment, but as a place of transformation. Our theme for this season is “Cultivating and Letting Go.” Lent is not just about giving things up; it’s about creating space. It’s about letting go of what holds us back—fear, control, distractions—and cultivating what brings life—trust, love, and justice.

Like the Israelites who brought their first fruits to God in gratitude (Deuteronomy 26), and like Jesus who trusted that we do not live by bread alone (Luke 4), we are invited to ask:
What do I need to release in order to grow?
What truly nourishes my soul?
Where is God calling me to trust more deeply?

Throughout Lent, we’ll reflect on these questions together in worship and community. I invite you to join us as we embrace this sacred season—not as a burden, but as an opportunity to grow in grace and community.

Let’s walk this journey together.

Alongside you,

Rev. Paul Ortiz