Lent Guide | Week 7
Theme: Loneliness
In the beginning, the Divine looked upon humanity with delight. And yet, no creature fit with humanity; there was no partner suitable to push the bounds of flourishing to their fullest. And so, in a moment of wonder, the creator God brought life from isolation.
We are created to dwell for union with God and one another. This week reminds us of both the pains of the great divorce and God’s heart for renewal in all of creation.
How to use this guide?
Each week offers a guiding theme for prayer for you to put into practice through daily movements of prayer and reflection (presence, formation, renewal, gratitude).
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May my attention lead to adoration. Amid the silence, may I encounter your presence?
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As you attend to each day’s scripture, consider who you’re becoming and where you want to see God’s life released in your life.
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Do it again in our time Lord. Let us not miss this moment to participate in your renewing love.
(Consider journaling about where you’re most hopeful for renewal.)
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Receive this moment as a gift - take in the sounds, sights, and smells around you. Savor them and give thanks for God’s great gifts.
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Sunday, April 10th, 2022 - Palm Sunday Psalm 31:9–16
May we pray for God’s delivering power to hold and lead us into life in Jesus’ name.
Monday, April 11th, 2022 - Luke 22:54–65
The Apostle Paul tells us that in Jesus, our weakness is not the end of us; instead, it is the beginning of God’s strength. As you consider Peter in this episode, think about your own weaknesses, and offer them to God for his healing, blessing, and strengthening.
Lord Jesus, taking my shame, knowing me fully, and still loving me so; help me learn and name my weaknesses and learn your saving and strengthening power.
Tuesday, April 12th, 2022 - Luke 22:66–23:1
Lord Jesus, You experienced in person torture and death as a prisoner of conscience. You were beaten and flogged and sentenced to an agonizing death though you had done no wrong. Be now with prisoners of conscience throughout the world. Be with them in their fear and loneliness, in the agony of physical and mental torture and in the face of execution and death. Stretch out your hands in power to break their chains. Be merciful to the oppressor and torturer and place a new heart within them. Forgive all injustices in our lives and transform us to be instruments of your peace, for by your wounds we are healed. - Amnesty International
Wednesday, April 13th, 2022 - Luke 23:2–25
It is easy to scandalize people in power, and they often aid in that ease. But consider the weight on a human soul of deciding what’s right and what will serve their base, colleagues, or constituents. These women and men bear God’s image and are worthy of dignity. Hold a person of power in your heart and Jesus would and pray God’s mercy over them.
Thursday, April 14th, 2022 - Luke 22:14–38 Maundy Thursday
A prayer: As we take in your life as our own may we remember that you did not come to be served, but to serve and give your life as a ransom for all. Lord Jesus, empower us to give as you gave and give still. Amen.
Friday, April 15th, 2022 - Luke 23:26–46 Good Friday
How do we pray our way into Jesus’ death? Return to his words in verse 34, asking, “who is this that prays over me?”
Saturday, April 16th, 2022 - Luke 23:50–56 Holy Saturday
Gather yourself to a moment of stillness, feel the isolation, and allow your mind to ponder, “Jesus is dead.” Consider journaling what comes to mind.
Sunday, April 17th, 2022 - Luke 24:1–12 Easter Sunday
This is the beginning of the story. As you delight in life with family and friends, bring this question with you, “what is Jesus opening to me this season?” He is Risen!