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Beloved, as we begin our journey toward the Cross, we often look to the traditions that mark our path. In Galaxidi, Greece, the Associated Press recently captured a vibrant and chaotic scene known as the “Flour War.” Residents celebrate the start of the season by pelting one another with bags of dyed flour, a colorful and exuberant display that signals the arrival of Lent. While such outward celebrations are filled with energy, they lead us into the sacred, inward work of the traditional 40-day period of fasting and repentance. This is our time to prepare our hearts for the ultimate celebration of the death and resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ. You can read the full report on this unique tradition through the Associated Press here:
The Scriptural Mandate for Sacred Music
In our walk of faith, our African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church Hymnal serves as an essential companion. I personally recommend that you acquire a copy of one of these wonderful hymnals; the “old hymns” found within its pages are truly invaluable for our prayer life. They provide us with the language of the soul, echoing the instructions given to us by the Apostle Paul in the book of Ephesians:
“Speaking to one another with psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit.Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord, always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.”— Ephesians 5:19-20 (NIV)
A Treasury of Penitential Hymns
Within the AME Hymnal, the topical index points us toward a specific collection labeled “Hymns of Penitence.” These are familiar hymns for this season of repentance, carefully selected to guide us as we turn our faces back toward the Father. As we navigate these forty days, let these songs be your guide:
• “Bless the Lord of my Soul”
• “The Lord and Father of Mankind “
• “Pass Me Not O Gentle Savior”
•Meditation: Jesus, Lover of My Soul
Though Lent is a season of deep repentance, it is also a season of profound thankfulness. We are invited to reflect on the goodness of a God who loves us and cares for us through every trial. This brings to mind a cherished hymn by Charles Wesley, “Jesus, Lover of My Soul,” which beautifully captures our reliance on Christ when the world feels overwhelming:
“Jesus, lover of my soul, let me to thy bosom fly, while the nearer waters roll, while the tempest still is high; hide me, O my Savior, hide, till the storm of life is past; safe into the haven guide, O receive my soul at last!”
When we feel the “tempest” rising in our own lives, we find security in His presence. Our absolute favorite version of this hymn is performed by Rev. James Cleveland and the Voices of Cornerstone. I invite you to listen and let the message wash over you: [Jesus Lover of My Soul – Rev. James Cleveland] (https://youtube.com/clip/UgkxzLaumKqNlb318u5snTKSv6QZFVXIRE6j?si=NskhdTisGjooE x_9)
Finding Peace in Repentance
In this season, we are going to repent and be glad in our hearts! We need not be weighed down by the “storm of life” or the weight of our own anxieties. Instead, we are called to bring everything to God, exchanging our worries for His supernatural rest. The Apostle Paul reminds us of this beautiful transition from anxiety to peace:
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”— Philippians 4:6-7(NIV)
May you find that peace which transcends all understanding as you walk with Him this season.
We Love You,
Pastors Willie and Rochelle McIntosh
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