As we approach the season of Lent—a time of repentance, reflection, and renewal—Isaiah’s ancient words speak with startling clarity:  “Surely he has borne our infirmities and carried our diseases… he was wounded for our transgressions, crushed for our iniquities; upon him was the punishment that made us whole, and by his bruises we are healed.” These verses, written centuries before the birth of Christ, invite us to see the heart of the gospel: the self-giving love of God revealed in the suffering servant. Isaiah paints a picture not of a triumphant conqueror, but of one who enters fully into the pain, sin, and brokenness of humanity—not to condemn, but to redeem. During Lent, we are reminded that the cross is not an accident of history; it is the deliberate path of love. Jesus does not stand at a safe distance from our struggles. He steps into them, bearing the weight of our failures, our griefs, and even the wounds we inflict on one another. In doing so, he transforms suffering into the very means of our healing. For the United Methodist tradition, which emphasizes both personal holiness and social holiness, this passage calls us to two responses: Personal repentance —acknowledging the ways we have turned from God and receiving the grace Christ offers. Compassionate action —joining Christ in bearing the burdens of others, especially the marginalized, the hurting, and the forgotten. Lent is not merely about giving something up; it is about taking something on—the posture of Christlike love that Isaiah describes. As we journey toward Good Friday and Easter, may we remember that the One who was “wounded for our transgressions” is also the One who makes us whole. Here is a question for you to reflect upon: As you enter this Lenten season, what burden will you allow Christ to carry for you—and whose burden will you help carry in his name?
Work on our Capital Campaign projects was deferred during the winter months. When the weather warms, work on the roof and lighting of the front of our church will commence. In addition, we have decided to use the additional funds that were raised to refurbish as many outside doors as funding allows. The first doors to be refurbished are the ones at the entrance to Asbury Center. The doors on Scott Road also need attention so we hope we will have enough funds to complete that project. Finally, we are anxious to see our new landscaping in full bloom this spring. It is interesting to note that our new sign has caught the attention of another Pittsburgh church, and they are interested in installing a similar sign. 
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