Mark Johnson | February 25, 2019
The theme for our observation of Lent this year is “Cultivating and Letting Go.” It reminds us of the simple arithmetic of spiritual progress. We move forward upon the challenging path of Christian maturity by the negative forces and habits we are willing to abandon and the positive forces and habits we are determined to put in their place.
This season, we not only ask, “what will be give up for Lent,” but also, “what might we pick up.” Guiding this process, will be the well-researched and psychologically sound insights of Brene Brown and her book, The Gifts of Imperfection. As we move through Lent 2019 with the scriptures, prayers, songs and opportunities of worship soon offered, we pray for God’s Spirit to free us from what pulls us down and liberate us to what promises to lift us up. As we await the celebration of resurrection, may we walk with Christ, to “repent and believe” and be further transformed by the abundant and eternal life he offers to us.
Here's Brené Brown's TED Talk where she discusses her research into shame and resilience:
March 5 • Shrove Tuesday
Join us for a pancake dinner as we fellowship together before the beginning of Lent.
March 6 • Ash Wednesday
We begin this season of contemplation together with dust and ashes as we hope for transformation.
March 10 • First Sunday of Lent
Compassion Over Perfectionism (Luke 4:1-13)
Guidepost 2 - Cultivating Self-Compassion: Letting Go of Perfectionism
March 17 • Second Sunday of Lent
Authenticity Over Approval (Luke 13:31-35)
Guidepost 1 - Cultivating Authenticity: Letting Go of What People Think
March 24 • Third Sunday of Lent
Resiliency Over Powerlessness (Luke 13:1-9)
Guidepost 3 - Cultivating a Resilient Spirit: Letting Go of Numbing and Powerlessness
March 31 • Fourth Sunday of Lent
Gratitude Over Scarcity and Fear (Luke 15:1-3, 11b-32)
Guidepost 4 - Cultivating Gratitude and Joy: Letting Go of Scarcity and Fear of the Dark
April 7 • Fifth Sunday of Lent
Rest Over Seeking Status (John 12:1-8)
Guidepost 7 - Cultivating Play and Rest: Letting Go of Exhaustion as a Status Symbol and Productivity as Self-Worth
April 14 • Palm Sunday
Calmness Over Anxiety (Luke 19:28-40)
Guidepost 8 - Cultivating Calm and Stillness: Letting Go of Anxiety as a Lifestyle
April 21 • Resurrection Sunday
Celebration Over Control
Guidepost 10 - Cultivating Laughter, Song, and Dance: Letting Go of Being Cool and “Always in Control”
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