Lenten Devotional: March 30, 2026
- St Pete First
- Mar 30
- 2 min read
by Rev. Elyse Nielsen
Holy Week and Easter look different each year even while holding some of the same traditions. It is the nature of the church to be the same and yet different due to new people in attendance, what is happening in the world, and how the Holy Spirit is moving at the time.
Palm Sunday during covid happened outside in a sweltering, sweaty, sun-screened outdoor service. People were socially-distanced even outside. My Good Friday sermon was filmed "selfie" style in an abandoned Sanctuary.
This year, the St. Pete First Spring Picnic will be my first one here. From what others have told me, it once was held at a park, there was a potluck, and a simple egg hunt. Now we have Facebook promotional ads that are often effective so we expect many people from the community on top of our regular attenders. Bygone are the days of homemade deviled eggs and ham biscuits served on a picnic blanket.
How we do church is different, but loving St. Pete has not changed. Events like the Spring Picnic are a wonderful way to love our neighbors, demonstrate to people who may be distrustful of church that we are trustworthy, and offer family-friendly fun in a safe environment. The method is different, but the Spirit is the same. May we continue to have fun and fellowship with our neighbors, inviting them into a life-giving, life-changing relationship with Jesus Christ.
A Lenten Invitation from Pastor Bob
Set aside time each Monday for prayer. Step away from distractions and enter into God’s presence, remembering that apart from Him we are lost. Spend time not only in confession, but also in quiet listening for God’s voice.
Loosen the grip of sin through generosity. Release your attachment to the riches of this world and return your treasures to God. This is not to earn favor, but to free your heart from the hold the world can have on you.
Practice fasting on Mondays. Set aside the things that normally claim your attention and instead focus fully on God, offering Him your time, your thoughts, and your devotion.