From this mornings service at Saugatuck Congregation Church:

God of Wilderness Places: Honestly, the season of Lent can feel like a bit of a downer. It’s tempting to skip to Easter; to focus on the positive and the pressing, and to ignore our shadow side. But then, even Jesus took time in the wilderness: time to face his demons and listen to you. And you stayed with him, right? When we resist such wilderness moments, when we surround ourselves with distractions, avoid self-reflection and decline your call, forgive us, we pray. Help us to open our hearts to you. Give us the humility and courage to confront our ‘growing edges,’ trusting that you walk with us as we grow. Amen.