Monday, February 23, 2009

Old books . . . current books - all treasured


Bookshelf

by Robert William Service


I like to think that when I fall,

A raindrop in Death's shoreless sea,

This shelf of books along the wall,

Beside my bed, will mourn for me.
__________
“No man can be called friendless who has God and the companionship of good books.” ~ Elizabeth Barrett Browning



















Seguin Law Enforcement Honors












Each year, the Guadalupe County Sheriff's Department and the Seguin Police Department honor one of their own for outstanding service. This ceremony is traditionally held in one of the Seguin Churches and is sponsored by the Knights of Columbus. I've only been to four ceremonies: two at St. James Catholic Church, one at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church, and this year's at First United Methodist Church.

Sheriff Arnold Zwicke and Chief Kevin Kelso presented the awards.
These men and women who keep us safe and provide order in our town are persons of dedication and character. It was gratifying to see the Sheriff's Department and the SPD in attendance to honor one of their own.

Season of Epiphany Ending - the Journey Beginning

Epiphany Sunday (in the Methodist tradition) is the first Sunday in January.
Now, as we begin the Season of Lent, one could certainly feel 'the presence of the Lord' in worship service Sunday.
On Transfiguration Sunday, the Bell Choir's beautiful music above and behind us was stirring.
The Choir's voices were soaring and moving; the words of the hymns uplifting. My heart was full!


This is a busy season - yet it is a season of reflection that can be very calming - as we look forward to Easter.

On February 24th, the United Methodist Men will serve a Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper from 5:00-7:00 p.m. in the Great Room. Wednesday will be Ash Wednesday. I especially like that the three Methodist Churches in Seguin worship together.
This is a JOYOUS SEASON!

Hallelujah!

___________________

The Significance of Lent
Lent is the fourth season of the Christian year. Its length is the 40 days preceding Easter Day, not counting Sundays. This means Lent always begins on a Wednesday, known as Ash Wednesday. Lent commemorates Jesus’ fast and temptation in the wilderness of Judea Province, which, according to the Gospel, lasted 40 days. Just as Jesus confronted his temptations during these 40 days, Lent helps Christians focus on our most basic need as sinners: forgiveness.The only way our Lord’s forgiving power can become effective in our lives is by our taking the initiative to confront our sins, confess them and repent of them. In short, Lent is a season of penitence. Some Christians fast during Lent. This denial of bodily comforts can help encourage self-reflection about the need for Jesus’ forgiveness.