Sunday is the first Sunday in the season of Lent.  Lent is the 40 day time period leading up to Easter which begins on Ash Wednesday.  The 40 days do not include Sundays.  In ancient times, this was a season of preparation for baptism and a time to reflect on and repent of sins that had been committed. It is a season symbolized by fasting, prayer and self-denial.  The color for Lent is purple.

How many times have we found ourselves entering a situation, trying something new, going somewhere we have never been before or experiencing something different with your mind made up one way only to experience the opposite?  And then when questioned about the experience, you find yourself saying "it's not what you think it is"!  Whether the response is one of enthusiasm, excitement or disappointment, you found the experience to be very different than what you anticipated.  New foods?  Marriage?  Highly publicized excursions to foreign lands?  New stores?  Books and movies?  Bungee jumping or sky diving?     

Throughout Christendom, we have found story after story of persons who have walked away from all types of opportunities sharing the feedback...."It's not always what you think it is".  This week there is a rich young ruler who comes to Jesus with a checklist of the good he has done in life only to walk away from hearing Jesus say..... "IT'S NOT ALWAYS WHAT YOU THINK!"  

So how should we respond to that and what should we do?  What are our options and alternatives?  Or are there any?  Let's see what we can come up with on Sunday.  Join us at 9 or 10:30 a.m..  ALL are welcome.