Lent is a spiritual season, and it’s upon us. The word “Lent” comes from the word for “lengthening” because indeed the days are growing longer. For me, this seasonal change brings hope. With the longer daylight, winter is loosening its grip, and I can anticipate spring. That fills me with hope.
But Lent involves much more than a lengthening of days. It is a spiritual season that prepares us for the climax of the Christian faith and our ultimate hope. We look toward the resurrection of Jesus. When Jesus rose from the dead, He proved that He is who He said He is. He is the Son of God that takes away the sin of the world. He has done what He said He would do. His life has been given as a sacrifice to bring us back to God and now gives us the victory of life with Him forever. Because He lives, we will live!
But we don’t just jump to the resurrection. Certainly, Jesus didn’t. He went through the path of the cross. Sacrifice marked his steps. And with each step we see more deeply His love for us.So, we too, take a journey together with Jesus and better notice who He is. John the Baptist introduced Jesus with the words “Behold, the Lamb of God that takes away the sin of the world.” Today we don’t use the word “behold” very often. But we do say, “Take another look.” Is there something we might have missed before? Yes. Take a another look at Jesus. Slow down to take a closer examination. Hear him invite you to look at things differently in your world and change the way you are thinking about God and his Kingdom. When we do, our hearts change and our actions follow.
But we don’t just jump to the resurrection. Certainly, Jesus didn’t. He went through the path of the cross. Sacrifice marked his steps. And with each step we see more deeply His love for us.
Lent is a season of repentance! Repent literally means “change your mind” or “change your thinking.” Each Wednesday in our Lenten services, live at Noon and streaming online, we will take another look at Jesus that leaves us with a new way of thinking. Every day we have devotions to read called “Lamb of God” written by Lutheran Hour Ministries. Throughout the Lenten season, take time each day in prayer and reflection as you read devotions. They are available in printed form at both campuses and in the King of Kings app. We invite you to share some of your perspectives by leaving comments after reading each devotion in the app.
Won’t you join me and all our church family as we “Take Another Look” at Jesus! We will leave with a change in the way we think!
Pastor Roger Theimer
