Reflections for Lent

Mark 15:24 NRSV

And they crucified him and divided his clothes among them, casting lots to decide what each should take.

As I write, it is December 6th, the first day of our Grace production, Return to Bethlehem. Today was spent working with friends as we “dressed the sets" to resemble the town of Bethlehem. I admit, I was thinking, “This is crazy! We’re preparing to celebrate the birth of Jesus, and I need to think about His journey to the cross? This feels rushed like everything else!” But really, how can we think of one without the other? 

When we observe the season of Lent, we are journeying to the cross with the baby in the manger. This precious gift from God—His son—who was and is God with us, was born as a helpless infant, born to experience humanity so that through His example, we may come to know how to “live in love” with one another. 

Through His words, we may find direction, comfort, and peace; through His sufferings, we may trust in a Friend who understands our own suffering; and through His resurrection, we may know that God our Father waits with a place prepared for us by the baby born in Bethlehem who now sits at His right hand. 

~Polly Hargrove~ 

Dear God, thank You for the incredible gift of Your son, Jesus—for His willingness to suffer and die for us, and to prepare a place for us to be welcomed into Your presence. In His name we pray, Amen