As we journey through the Lenten season, let us remain focused as stated in Romans 12:12:
“Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, and faithful in prayer.” The six-week series based on the
book “An Unlikely Lent” is being provided by Pastor Kathee and the first session considered the
perspective from Mary of Bethany. The crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus are at the heart of
the story of Easter, but the resurrection was not witnessed in isolation; it unfolded before a
crowd. The stories of those women and men in the crowd as identified in the series can teach
us much today. It can help us step into the story of Easter at a different level, including aspects
that have been overlooked.

We also had a baptism and two families join us as new members and an individual join us as an
associate member on February 22. We welcome them to our Immanuel family as members
although they have been attending for quite a while. Welcome.

As indicated, we can be joyful in hope and faithful in prayer as we step further into the story of
Easter. The focus on hope is further expressed in Isaiah 40:31: “But those who hope in the Lord
will renew their strength. They will soar like eagles…” We have the comfort of knowing that our
hope lies in Jesus, our Lord and Savior.

Your Friend In Christ,
Larry Moehnke