Sunday Calm: Reflecting on the First Stretch of Our Lenten Journey

​As we navigate the first 22 days of Lent, our hearts and minds have been immersed in a tapestry of themes, each day unraveling a new layer of spiritual insight. From the profound to the personal, these themes have guided us through a reflective passage of growth and understanding.
 
On Day 17, we contemplated "The New Commandment," a call to love one another as Jesus loved us. This powerful message, delivered on March 4th, reminded us of the selfless, sacrificial love that is the cornerstone of our faith. It challenged us to extend this love beyond the comfortable and familiar, reaching out to those who may seem least deserving.
 
Day 18 brought us to "Gethsemane's Lesson," where we stood witness to the vulnerability and steadfastness of Jesus in the face of impending suffering. In the quietude of Gethsemane, we learned the value of surrendering our will to God, even when the path ahead is shrouded in uncertainty.
 
The theme of "Betrayal and Arrest" on Day 19 exposed the harsh reality of Jesus' experience and the human capacity for disloyalty. It served as a mirror, reflecting our own moments of betrayal, whether through action or inaction, and urged us to seek forgiveness and reconciliation.
 
"Peter's Denial" on Day 20 was a poignant reminder of our own frailties. Peter's story is our story—full of good intentions yet susceptible to fear and failure. It's a call to recognize our weaknesses and to find strength in the promise of redemption.
 
On Day 21, "Jesus Before the Sanhedrin" highlighted the courage it takes to stand for truth in the face of false accusations and hostility. It inspired us to hold fast to our convictions and to bear witness to our faith with integrity.
 
Finally, Day 22's theme, "Jesus and Pilate," brought us face-to-face with the stark contrast between worldly power and spiritual truth. Pilate's encounter with Jesus was a profound exploration of authority and authenticity, urging us to discern and embrace the eternal over the ephemeral.
 
For this Sunday's reflection, as we're in the midst of Lent and have been exploring themes of love, betrayal, and the trials of Jesus, a fitting scripture to reflect upon is Luke 9:23-24, which says:
 
"Then he said to them all: 'Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me. For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will save it.'"
 
This passage invites us to consider the depth of commitment and sacrifice that following Jesus entails. It's a call to introspection and a reminder of the transformative power of self-denial and the pursuit of spiritual truth over worldly gains. As we continue our Lenten journey, this scripture can serve as a guiding light, encouraging us to embrace the lessons of Lent with an open heart and a willing spirit.
 
Closing Prayer: In the stillness of this Sunday, we thank You for guiding us through Lent's first 22 days. Grant us the courage to embrace Your teachings and the strength to walk in Jesus' footsteps. Bless our reflections, turning them into actions that honor You. As we move forward, keep us in Your loving presence. Amen.