….think carefully about this Jesus whom we declare to be God’s messenger and high priest. Hebrews 3:1

“Do you know Jesus?” That was the question my sweet husband asked me over four decades ago while standing on the stairs of the school gym after only speaking with each other a couple of times before. I’ve shared this story in the past, so I’ll not get into details again, but the question has been on my mind a lot lately, and it seems an excellent segue into the Lenten season. Today is Ash Wednesday, the day we begin our spiritual journey to the cross. And what could be a more fitting way to spend these next few weeks than by getting acquainted with the man we know as Jesus.

When Ken asked me “the question,” I was taken aback. I felt it was a very personal question to ask someone he barely knew. Truth be told, he caught me at a distinct disadvantage. I was a Christian, raised in a Christian home. I thought I had held fairly well to correct religious practices throughout my life, though certainly I’d made my share of mistakes….including some pretty big ones. But I knew about forgiveness, so maybe I was a little too casual about my faith…no, maybe about it. I was!

Look straight ahead and fix your eyes on what lies before you….Don’t get sidetracked; keep your feet from following evil. Proverbs 4:25 & 27

So, did I “know Jesus?” The answer was no, I did not. But the question stirred a curiosity in me to learn. Our work was a detriment to church attendance, as Ken and I were both in the recreation business, and people typically chose to recreate on the weekend. We made arrangements for our kids to be in church and at youth group, but I think we let them down by not being there with them. And, of course, raising teenagers brought its own distractions. I found myself not really applying my thoughts to the idea of getting to know Jesus until our kids flew the nest.

I think this is true for a lot of people, but I see families at Aldersgate together, worshipping, learning, serving the community, and I realize we missed the mark when our kids were still at home with us. They grew up with a belief in God, but I don’t think it translated into a relationship. I regret that and am trying to set a better example with my life now. They say we get closer to God when we find ourselves in tough situations or we’re nearing the end of this life. It’s been my experience that it’s true. We seek God’s help when we need Him, but wander away when times get better. And as we age, we have a greater inclination to live a better life, knowing that the end is closer.

I wish I’d begun to really study Jesus sooner. I could have absorbed so much more, and perhaps I could better remember what I’d learned. But I guess the good part of my story is that, together, Ken and I have enjoyed our journey. We’ve experienced good times and not so good ones, but we’ve tried to keep our focus where it belongs. He still asks people if they know Jesus, and I’m very comfortable with the question now, because I can honestly say, “Yes, I do know Him. He’s my friend.” Do I know everything—not by a long shot, but I’m working on it every day. And so can you.

There are many ways to maintain a Lenten focus. We can sacrifice something we consider of value to remind us daily of His sacrifice for us. We can add a new facet to our lives that serves His purpose. We can fast, as He did, so that our minds become clearer and more open to the example He set. But I think the most important takeaway from this message is to spend time with Him.

I challenge you during this Lenten season to begin the journey or enhance the one you’ve already begun by genuinely getting to know this man, Jesus. His line of communication is always open, and He wants to talk with you.

…..Keep on seeking, and you will find. Keep on knocking, and the door will be opened to you. Matthew 7:7