First Lutheran Church of the Trinity
First Sunday in Lent
Sunday, March 10, 2019
Lent begins with a solemn call to fasting and repentance as we begin our journey to the baptismal waters of Easter. As we hear in today’s readings, now is the acceptable time to return to the Lord. During Lent the people of God will reflect on the meaning of their baptism into Christ’s death and resurrection. The sign of ashes suggests our human mortality and frailty. What seems like an ending is really an invitation to make each day a new beginning, in which we are washed in God’s mercy and forgiveness. With the cross on our brow, we long for the spiritual renewal that flows from the springtime Easter feast to come.
Readings and Psalm
Joel 2:1-2, 12-17
Return to the Lord, your God
Psalm 51:1-17
Have mercy on me, O God, according to your steadfast love. (Ps. 51:1)
2 Corinthians 5:20b–6:10
Now is the day of salvation
Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21
The practice of faith
First Lutheran Church of the Trinity 