Welcome to week two of our Lenten journey. I am praying for you as you continue your heart’s preparation. If you are just joining us or are wondering what Lent is all about, scroll to the bottom of this email.
I AM
We are studying the 7 statements Jesus makes in John beginning with this phrase – ‘I am’. The best way to get to know someone is ask them to tell you about themselves. With these words, Jesus identifies himself fully – he tells us who he is. Once we understand this it changes everything.
Week 2 “I am the light of the world.” – Jesus
- Read ~ John 8 and Exodus 13
- Reflect ~ How is Jesus shedding light for me recently? When has his illumination of something been a painful experience? Where might I be living in darkness or as blinded?
- Practice ~ Spend some time in physical darkness. Perhaps fast from any artificial light for an evening. Allow the time in shadow to increase your love of his light.
- Prayer ~ God, source of all light, by your Word, you give brightness to my soul.
Pour out your illumination on my path; show me what I cannot see as you guide my way. Help me not to be content only to look upon your light, but also to walk in it.
2/25 Sermon reflection & discussion guide
Lent 2024 Visio Divina prompts
Both playlist and prompts will be added to each week, so keep checking back! Please reach out if you have questions about Lent, this series or would like to share about your own Lenten journey!
Caitlin
What is Lent?
The season of Lent is the 40 days leading up to the crucifixion of Jesus and his resurrection three days later and a time to prepare our hearts. This season has been observed by Christians all over the world for over 1,000 years.
The purpose of participating and engaging in this time of preparation is to come closer to Jesus. It is really a season of focus – focusing our attention and being intentional about the work of God in our lives.
Lent can be full of some very hard truths. We take stock of our souls and are honest with ourselves. We dig in and face pain and some things that aren’t comfortable. JRR Tolkien said, “You can only come to the morning through the shadows.” Our faith offers us hope because it does not avoid hard things, it moves through them. Jesus, our Savior does not opt out or choose another way, he meets death head on for us.
