Rocks and Stones

We are in Lent. It began with an Ash Wednesday worship with imposition of ashes and Holy Communion. Our pastor wore a purple chasuble, the color of the season. The cross was draped with purple fabric. The alleluias are gone. There are cement blocks with candles in front of the altar, which brings calmness and beauty to the space. And there are other things too. The bulletin board in the narthex looks brown and austere. And at the base of it is a painting of rocks and stones. You may wonder why.

Lent is a time the church sets aside for reflection and preparation. God’s people are invited to consider who we are and what God wants for us. In doing this stones can be helpful. One reason is they tell our salvation story. And another, they tell us how to live as God’s people. There is Jesus the living stone on whom we are invited to build our house. We remember how the devil tempted Jesus to turn stones into bread. And how Moses struck a rock for much needed water. Stone tablets have helped to shape our lives in ethical ways. Jesus called the disciple Peter the rock on which the church would be built. Stones are also understood as a symbol of God’s strength.

Stones can also be used to aid in prayer and meditation. As we hold them they can be a reminder of God with us. We can also use them as an object to hold our pain and sorrow. I know you could think of some other ways to do this too.

As we journey through Lent to Easter may the reminder of stones comfort, challenge, renew and transform us.

- Pastor Carol Janke (with art and design by Jean Hunter and Pastor Carol)