Lent is a season in the church year centered on fasting, prayer, and repentance. Ash Wednesday reminds us of our finitude. The following 40 or so days invite us into a time of wilderness, which is symbolic of Jesus’ experience in Matthew 4. Holy Week prepares us for the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ….
“Who do you say that I am?” Jesus asks his disciples in Matthew 16. A few guesses are thrown out before Peter responds, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.” He answers the question correctly and taps into the fascinating theological arena of Christology. (This interaction is celebrated in the church calendar…
The central focus of Epiphany is the physical manifestation of God in Jesus. We celebrate this by remembering different revelations of Christ: the wise men’s inspired journey, Jesus’ baptism, and his first miracle. This feast day is often a larger celebration than Christmas in many cultures, and for good reason. The Incarnation has incredible implications…
Maybe like me, your first introduction to a labyrinth was the 1986 film starring David Bowie. This isn’t exactly what I’m referring to here when I say labyrinth. They’re actually an interactive instrument for prayer! Aaron and I had not visited one before until a few weekends ago we explored two in Lexington. Similar to…
Prayer is a wonderfully mysterious spiritual practice. When I’m not sure what to or how to pray, prayer books have been useful guides. They’ve helped broaden my gratitude, petitions, and lament. And just like the Psalms, they’ve opened my eyes and heart to emotions and experiences I don’t have words for, yet. I’ve mentioned a…
The Examen prayer is a contemplative practice to reflect on (to examine) your day in light of God’s presence. This is a practice I’ve been using in recent weeks, as I approach my 25th birthday, and I’ve found it helpful and comforting. “…to pay attention, this is our endless and proper work.” — Mary Oliver…