March 23, 2022

I get Spring Fever. In others words, I experience it, and I understand it. Don’t you? The itch to shuck off responsibility? The urge to go somewhere warm? The desire to not do what you have to do? In the movie Parenthood, Steve Martin is asked by his wife if he “has to” go on a business trip when their son has a game. Martin responds, “I feel like my whole life is have to.”

It is true that in this world, adults have to be adults. But as far as God goes, all “ought tos” and have tos” are off! Jesus did all the haves and oughts for us. As Paul says, “For Christ has already accomplished the purpose for which the law was given. As a result, all who believe in him are made right with God.” (Romans 10:4)

Time to go outside.

“Almighty God, whose blessed Son was led by the Spirit to be tempted by Satan: Come quickly to help us who are assaulted by many temptations; and, as you know the weaknesses of each of us, let each one find you mighty to save; through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.” (First Sunday in Lent – BCP)