6 March 2021 | Second Saturday of Lent | Eugene, Ore.

As I walk in desert places today under a clear, cold sky, I want to share with you some fruits of the practice of keeping a monthly day of recollection and one good resolution I have made this Lent to become a better preacher. Then we dive into Tolkien’s essay on literary theory, “On Fairy Stories,” and some delightful quotes from letters to his sons, Christopher and Michael, before tackling the first half of The Two Towers through the theme of “hiddenness.” As we read, we consider: what did the Prophet Isaiah mean when he sang, “Truly, Thou art a hidden god!” Why does God hide Himself at all? And what does Gandalf have to do with the Eucharist?   

Opening music: “Lament for Boromir,” lyrics by J.R.R. Tolkien, music composed and sung by Clamavi de Profundis, 2017. All rights reserved.

NOTE: Clamavi de Profundis is “a family that loves to sing together and record inspiring and uplifting music. Our music is influenced by classical and fantasy literature as well as cinematic, traditional, religious, and classical music.” I love their work! Check them out on YouTube here.

I also recommend the album “An Evening in Rivendell” by the Tolkien Ensemble - you can find it here. Happy listening!