can we believe in both Barbie and belovedness

On this first Sunday of Lent, considering 55 years of Barbie (and Ken) as contrast to our own creation... as well as times of trial and transformation, and the temptation to trust more in what we think we know than to believe we’re forgiven and beloved.

Particularly in context of ministry with older adults, I'm wondering about where we get our ideas of what it means and our projections about what it looks like to age?

We have baby dolls and Barbie dolls... what about a senior Sarah or elder Ed doll?

What do we think we know about aging?

Do we still believe we're created in God's image and that we're beloved?

Let us pray…

Come Holy Spirit, lead us deeper into the wilderness this Lent. 

“Lead us not into temptation… save us from the time of trial”

Have mercy on us this season as we examine our beliefs

and objects of our trust and devotion.

Help the unrealistic and untrustworthy desires in us die

as we prepare to embrace your promise of new life

and learn anew to love others as you have shown us how to love.