Saturday, February 20, 2010

Stumbling to Jerusalem


Foot Against the Stone
Originally uploaded by auntjojo

Psalm 91 promises that the angels will attend to those who trust in God. You "will not strike your foot against a stone." The Lord is our refuge. We can rest in the shadow of the almighty. For any of us who have suffered or come to harm, what do these promises mean?
Satan throws this verse in Jesus' face. "Jump off this mountain top. The angels will attend to you." Jesus does not deny God's promise, but refuses to test God. And continues to walk forward towards Jerusalem and the cross. A place where the angels seem utterly absent.
In Lent, we are not reminded of God's protection. Not in the traditional sense. Rather, we are reminded that God walks with us in our suffering. Jesus stumbles and falls on the way to the cross. And Lent calls us to stumble along with him. The Christian journey is not always easy. As we mature in our faith, our lives grow in direct contradiction to the sinful structures of this world. We, too, march towards Jerusalem.

1 comment:

Unknown said...

JoAnne,
Love your pictures and your thoughts. Having heard the scriptures you've referenced this last week read this morning--it was neat to see and read your take. Not only are you vulnerable in starting a new discipline, but you are vulnerable when you do here for all to see.

Loved the thoughts about first fruits. Blessings on you!
Nancy G