Lenten Devotions

During Lent, Christ Our Shepherd delivers a series of devotions to our email list.  Following the introduction below, you will find links to view each message from 2024.  If you would like to view our lenten devotions from 2023, then please click here

Having completed the church season of Epiphany, Christians turn the page to Lent.   White and green vestments yield to purple.   Accordingly, biblical tales of Jesus’ ministry beginnings give way to talk of deeper purpose and sacrifice.  Same incredible story, but a new chapter is ready to unfold.

Culturally, we just wrapped up the Superbowl.  So, football season is officially over.  What will sports enthusiasts turn to next?  A new chapter.

Likewise at COS, we’re facing significant new chapters.  First, Pastor Miriam’s retirement on April 15 signifies the close of one amazing chapter of pastoral faithfulness and our prayer for God’s provision for the next.  Additionally, the Sanctuary Renewal Project marks the close of a 30+ year chapter for our Sanctuary as we get ready to embrace fresh possibilities.   Likewise, as we journey with Jesus this Lent, our Lord challenges the world to adopt the revelation of his New Commandment and New Covenant.

Systems health experts contend organizations are wise to lean into the mixture of emotion, anxiety, and hope involved in new chapters.   Logistics of transition are hard enough. (Where will the pews go?  Who will cover Pastor Miriam’s duties?  How specifically do I love my neighbor?) However, the psychology of new chapters might be the greater challenge.   (I’m struggling to trust Jesus’ promise that a good day is defined more about my love sharing than resume building.   I feel like I’m on a roller coaster—at one moment scared about the upcoming change, the next moment I’m excited).

Yes, at first commencing new chapters might sound easy.  Just turn the page and start.  But, each one of the new chapters is deeply packed with meaning and nuance, especially recognized within their larger wonderful stories.   So, we’re thankful this Lent we can walk with our faithful Co-Author, as the Lord leads us through these days and ways of new chapters.

That is why our Lenten journey for 2024 is entitled, “New Chapters:  Hope in Co-Authoring Life Stories with God.”   Each week, we’ll dive into one of the new chapters we face. In doing so, God will help us better see how we fit into God’s amazing story and the pages of our purpose.