I was talking with a friend the other day about New Year’s Resolutions and I told her, “I do not make
them anymore because it is June before I realize we are in a new year.” I know this may sound strange
because I have already gotten used to writing 2026 when I need to use a date. My reality is: one year ends in
the busy season of Advent and then the Christmas season ushers in the New Year. Then the busy days of
Epiphany come upon us. We step into the busy season of Lent and then Easter. After the Easter Season, we
look towards Mother’s Day and Father’s Day and (oops!) I realize it is June and I’m left wondering where the
time has gone.
Don’t for a moment believe this phenomenon of “losing my years” just started recently and can be
attributed to some ailment, because this has been happening most of my life. I remember about 25 years ago,
I was standing in a store as a much younger me, trying to remember everything I needed to purchase when
my phone rang. My dear friend was on the other end and asked me if I was okay. I responded with hesitation
as I answered in the affirmative. “Why do you ask?” She kind of stretched out the word ‘well’ and went on to
explain I had forgotten her birthday. I denied forgetting and reminded her it was on June 20th to which she
responded, “Linda, it’s July 2nd.” I had not forgotten when her birthday was, but I did forget what day I was
participating in. I learned two things from this encounter. The first being to set reminders on my phone (thank
God for google calendar) and the second was how hopeless I was in paying attention to little details. (She has
forgiven me!)
I know for myself I need to spend more time in appreciation of the moments within my days, not just
recognizing what day it is, but. I may not be able to give you the date and time when you ask but I pray I can
set aside my own schedule and just be in the moment with you.
I believe this is what the season of Lent is trying to teach us as well; to be in the moment with Jesus. To
consider Jesus’ sacrifice and embrace the wonderment and joy of Easter. To truly spend time with God to
clean out our own schedules so we can be fully present and fully appreciative of what the cross accomplished
for us.
Don’t rush through these next few months. Don’t ignore Lent. Instead, spend time this Lent being present
with God so we may be able to better rejoice at Easter. “I have said these things to you so that my joy may be
in you and that your joy may be complete (John 15:11.)”
Blessings,
Pastor Linda
Pastor Linda’s Cell Phone: 585 330-0618
Pastor Linda’s Office e-mail: pastorlinda11@gmail.com