I always look forward to Lent (and I have been called weird for it, I have to admit). But there is something about Lent. Even though it is a time of preparation, like Advent, it feels very different. Maybe it’s the lack of twinkle lights? No?
In Lent, we truly have time to reflect on our lives of faith. It is a time of preparation as we walk with Jesus to the cross, remembering all that that entails, and preparing ourselves, once again, for resurrection. It is a time that can often feel dark and gloomy. Yet, it is a time for deepness in a way that we do not get to experience at other times of the year.
This Lenten season, we will dive into a series called “Everything In Between: A Lenten Series in Luke’s Gospel” by A Sanctified Art. We will look at stories that we are familiar with – the Good Samaritan, Mary and Martha, Zacchaeus, and several parables. Because we know these stories so well, we often lose the “shock factor” behind Jesus’ words. You see, Jesus’ ministry was rooted in relationships that disrupted the established social, political, and religiousdivides of his time. Jesus intentionally highlighted the cultural and political polarities of his time to emphasize the radical, inclusive, and surprising love of God. By studying these stories, we may see how they mirror many of the divides we are experiencing in the here and now.
I want to encourage each of us, as we enter both this season and this series, to use the resources we have provided for reflection and prayer. Lenten Devotionals, with themes that align with the sermon series, are available at church, and we will post a devotional thought each day on Facebook.
So, let our journey begin.
Ann
Comments