Lent
“A journey, a pilgrimage! Yet, as we begin it, as we make the first step into the ‘bright sadness’ of Lent, we see - far, far away - the destination. It is the joy of Easter, it is the entrance into the glory of the Kingdom.”
- Alexander Schmemann.
The death and resurrection of Jesus Christ are at the heart of the Christian gospel,
and Good Friday and Easter are two of the most significant celebrations of the Christian year. Lent is a season of preparation and repentance during which we anticipate Good Friday and Easter. Just as we carefully prepare for big events in our personal lives... Lent invites us to make our hearts ready for remembering Jesus’ passion and celebrating Jesus’ resurrection (From The Worship Sourcebook).
- LENTEN MEDITATION -
“Lent is like an ellipse: It is a single entity with a double focus. The Forty Days are (1) a time for a probing consideration of our human condition, including sin and its deadly consequences for both individuals and society, and (2) a time for an equally intense consideration of the new possibilities offered to us in Jesus Christ and their implications for practical living...We begin by stressing penitence: an acknowledgment of our rebellion against God and our alien- ation from God’s whole creation. We move on to the fruits of repentance: the amendment of life that results when we turn around and by God’s grace head in a new direction.”
- Laurence Hull Stookey, “Calendar: Christ’s Time For The Church”
- PRAYER -
God in Trinity, Creator, Savior, Giver of life and truth, reveal the possibilities within us, that we may attain to the fullness of our humanity. Hear this prayer for your love’s sake. Amen.
REMEMBER – Today is a feast day! Sundays are in Lent, but not of Lent. Break your fast, eat, drink, and be merry for Christ is risen.
- Constitution -
to this week’s scripture readings by clicking here. This link will also allow you to read the selected passages.