The season of Lent has arrived, Almighty One. For some during this almost year-long pandemic, it feels like Lent never ended last year. So many losses and lives upended. May we not lose sight of the stories of illness and death as well as those of lovingkindness and courage and hope. Let us begin our journey through this sacred season with our gaze turned always toward you and our life committed to sharing in the interconnectedness with all your people, Holy God. Amen.