Thursday--Promises
‘Prepare the way of the Lord,
make his paths straight,’ Mark 1:3b
Yesterday we began the “forty days” of Lent. This season of the church year is variously observed. For some early Christians it was a time of preparation for membership in the community. Study of the life of Jesus and the doctrines of the church occupied these converts’ time as they awaited initiation into the community. For some Lent is a time of penitence. As the church prepares to celebrate the life changing events of our Lord’s death and resurrection some set aside special times for reflection and sacrifice. In either case the gospel of Mark offers a valuable resource. Understanding who Jesus was and is was the purpose of the gospel writer. That same understanding is that for which new converts and life long followers of Jesus seek. The Lenten season beckons this work, this study, this journey. As John the Baptizer quoted the prophet Isaiah, it is time to prepare. It is time to make the way clear, the paths straight.
What disciplines will you promise for this season?
How will you observe Lent? How will you seek your Lord? How will you make this journey?
Lord Jesus, we begin today our journey. We would prepare your way. We would know you in a new and deeper sense. We would be faithful followers. We ask your presence, your blessing. Amen
‘Prepare the way of the Lord,
make his paths straight,’ Mark 1:3b
Yesterday we began the “forty days” of Lent. This season of the church year is variously observed. For some early Christians it was a time of preparation for membership in the community. Study of the life of Jesus and the doctrines of the church occupied these converts’ time as they awaited initiation into the community. For some Lent is a time of penitence. As the church prepares to celebrate the life changing events of our Lord’s death and resurrection some set aside special times for reflection and sacrifice. In either case the gospel of Mark offers a valuable resource. Understanding who Jesus was and is was the purpose of the gospel writer. That same understanding is that for which new converts and life long followers of Jesus seek. The Lenten season beckons this work, this study, this journey. As John the Baptizer quoted the prophet Isaiah, it is time to prepare. It is time to make the way clear, the paths straight.
What disciplines will you promise for this season?
How will you observe Lent? How will you seek your Lord? How will you make this journey?
Lord Jesus, we begin today our journey. We would prepare your way. We would know you in a new and deeper sense. We would be faithful followers. We ask your presence, your blessing. Amen
No comments:
Post a Comment
Comments are moderated and will appear after they are approved.