Pastor Tim Perlick

 Hi everyone,

This weekend marks the end of Epiphany and the beginning of Lent with Ash Wednesday.  

Attached are some reflections as we prepare to step onto the mountain with Jesus and his favorite apostles!

Since Wednesday is also Valentine's Day, the cartoon below can prepare you to impress your Valentine by ordering a "Lenten" dinner...

Pastor Tim

"God has led you to the desert, and spoken to your Heart."

Mount of Olives Lutheran Church

3546 E. Thomas Rd

Phoenix, AZ 85018

602-956-1620 office

Reflections on Stepping onto the Mountain

Embracing Transformation in Preparation for Lent

Brothers and sisters in Christ, as we stand on the cusp of the Lenten season, our Scripture readings for this Sunday illuminate the path ahead – a path of transformation, revelation, and ultimately, preparation for the sacred journey towards Easter. As we enter this weekend, let us reflect and discover what God is revealing to us about our own individual and collective transformation as we enter Lent.

The story of Elijah's ascension into heaven in 2 Kings 2:1-12, and his passing of the mantle for Elisha, speaks to the inevitability of change. Like Elisha, we too must embrace the passing of one season to make way for the next. As we enter Lent, we leave behind the distractions and busyness of everyday life, preparing our hearts and minds for deeper reflection and spiritual growth.

In 2 Corinthians 4:3-6, Paul reminds us that the Gospel message, though seemingly hidden to some, shines brightly for those who believe. As we embark on our Lenten journey, let us shed the veils of doubt and cynicism, opening our hearts to the transformative power of God's Word. This season is an opportunity to seek deeper understanding, allowing the light of Christ to illuminate the hidden corners of our souls.

In Sunday’s Gospel message (Mark 9:2-9), the experience of Jesus, Peter, James, and John on the mountaintop offers a glimpse of Christ's divine glory. This moment of revelation serves as a reminder that even in the midst of our Lenten sacrifices and self-reflection, we can encounter God's presence and be bathed in the light of his love.

As Jesus’ followers, we are also called to step onto the mountain, for this is where transformation begins.  These passages invite us to see Lent not just as a season of sacrifice and hardship, but as a transformative ascent. Just as Elisha embraced his new calling, we are called to shed old habits and embrace new spiritual disciplines. Just as Paul urges us to see through the veil, we are invited to deepen our understanding of faith. And like the disciples on the mountaintop, we are encouraged to seek moments of revelation and encounter God's presence in our lives.

Preparing for the Journey:

As we begin this Lenten journey, let us:

• Embrace Change: Let go of attachments and distractions, making space for spiritual growth.

• Seek Clarity: Read scripture, meditate, and engage in prayer, allowing God's light to illuminate your path.

• Practice Self-Reflection: Examine your actions, thoughts, and motivations, seeking opportunities for repentance and renewal.

• Serve Others: Extend acts of kindness and compassion, embodying the love of Christ in the world.

Remember, Lent is not a solo journey. We travel together, supporting and encouraging each other as we climb the mountain towards Easter. With each step, let us transform ourselves, allowing the light of Christ to shine through, and emerge from this season renewed, ready to celebrate the joy of his resurrection.

May this Lenten season be a time of transformation and renewed faith for each of us. Amen.