The following is a reflection on Deuteronomy 26:1-11

At its core, this story is a liturgy – an act of worship. It refers to Jacob who went to Egypt and lived there as a sojourner. But it harkens back to Abraham and Sarah, and then moves forward to narrate the Exodus story. As the worshiper tells the story, they become part of it; the perspective shifts from “he” to “we” to “I.” By telling the story, the worshiper becomes liturgically part of God’s promised people.

We all have stories to tell about our lives. Some are painful; many are joyful. Telling our stories is a way for us to share who we are – where we come from and where we are going, and in the process we recognize where we are in the moment. Our stories – that is, our life story – affirms who we are as children of God and shapes who we become.

The first week of Lent is about identity; it’s a time for us to remember who we are and whose we are. It’s a time to rediscover what is central to who we know God to be and who we know ourselves to be, both as individuals and as a congregation.

In this rediscovery, we ultimately remember that our story is part of God’s story. That we are God’s people, and our stories are intertwined. As we share them with one another, we worship and glorify God. And we discover that God’s story continues to unfold in our lives.

Let us pray: God, we give you thanks for making us part of your story. Grant us a sense of wonder in this season, as we rediscover who you are and who we know ourselves to be. May we be assured of your steadfast, faithful presence in our lives. Amen.