Stepping into Lent, Facing Life’s Tests

​ALOHA kākou! Last Wednesday, we gathered to hear the ancient, sobering words: “Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return.” Ashes were traced in the sign of the cross on our foreheads—an outward mark of an inward truth. We were reminded of our mortality, yes, but also of our belonging. Yes, we are dust, and we are claimed.

THIS SUNDAY, we step fully into the First Sunday of Lent. The wilderness stretches before us. In worship we’ll hear of Jesus’ forty days of testing (Matthew 4:1-11), and we’re invited to examine our own hearts with honesty and courage. Lent is not a season of gloom, but of integrity: a time to lay aside pretense, to confess what burdens us, and to rediscover the freedom of living honestly before God. Jesus faced serious tests in the wilderness, and we too face crucial tests in life—how will we respond to them? With confidence in God’s promises, as Jesus did? Lent is not about perfection, but about courageously bringing our whole selves into the light and discovering God’s grace there. As we continue in this holy season together, may it become for us a time of clarity, renewal, and deepening trust in the One who leads us through the wilderness of life’s tests. Please join us this Sunday at 9 a.m. in the Chapel, or on Facebook Live.

LAST SUNDAY, we glimpsed glory one more time before the long, honest journey of Lent begins. In the Gospel account of the Transfiguration (Matthew 17:1-9), Jesus is revealed to Peter, James, and John in radiant splendor on the mountaintop. The vision sends them back down the mountain and onto the road that leads toward Jerusalem and the cross.

THROUGHOUT LENT, we have some good things planned to help us all experience a
meaningful season together at St. Timothy’s:

• On Wednesday evenings starting on February 25, in our Lenten Soup and Study series at 6 p.m. in Sumida Hall, we’ll use the book The Sign and the Sacrifice by former Archbishop of Canterbury Rowan Williams (copies are available for those interested). We’ll conclude our time with Compline. Please sign up on the clipboard in the chapel and let us know you’re coming, and if you can bring soup or bread.
• A five-Sunday series of Adult Classes led by Laurie Luczak will focus on “Ho‘imi Pono,” helping us to seek right relationships. Join us after worship every Sunday starting March 1 in the Vicar’s office.

Dear sisters and brothers, you are in my prayers, and I ask for your continuing prayers for St. Timothy’s Church, for our dedicated staff and devoted lay leaders and ministers, for your fellow members, and for your vicar. May God bless you and your loved ones always.  

Aloha Ke Akua!
Fr. Pete+