Good morning,

The 40 days of Lent are an opportunity dig into the teachings of Jesus from the Sermon on the Mount. We can see his vision for the kingdom and are empowered to be formed more fully into his image.

{Check the bottom of this email if you missed info on what Lent is or how to observe it.} 

Week 2 Our Spiritual Practices are Not for Show

• Read ~ Matthew 6 & Psalm 91
• Reflect ~ What are my motivations for the good things I do?  {If you are fasting this Lent} Why did I choose to give this thing up? Am I making my fast a big deal before others? What would it look like for my desire to be my friendship and relationship with God rather than seeming like a 'good' or 'holy' Christian? What would I do differently? 
• Practice ~ Delete social media apps for a time and observe how often you think about wanting to be immersed in seeing and being seen. Choose a practice that is just between you and God - journaling, studying a book or passage, giving, specific prayer, etc. and keep it just for yourself and your friend Jesus.
• Prayer ~ Father, fill me with authenticity - especially when it comes to my life with You. Help me not to seek to project an image of myself for the accolades of others but find contentment in being my true self. Show me how to be humble, giving and fasting because it IS good and not so others will think I AM good. Jesus, I am so thankful my reward is in you - my closest friend, who loves me.  

3/16 Sermon reflection & discussion guide 

Lent 2025 Playlist

Lent 2025 Visio Divina prompts

Please reach out if you have questions about Lent, this series or would like to share about your own Lenten journey!

What is Lent?

The season of Lent is the 40 days leading up to the crucifixion of Jesus and a time to prepare our hearts for the celebration of his resurrection three days later. 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 a season of focus – focusing our attention and being intentional about the work of God in our lives.

Lent is a time we can strip away anything extra or false in our lives, allowing what is true to become clearer. We get in touch with our desperate need for Him -recognizing our mortality and our brokenness. The more we can grab on to this truth, the more fully He can piece us back together.

Caitlin