Yesterday began the 40-day period known as Lent, a period of time traditionally set aside in the life of the church for self-examination, fasting, and repentance leading up to Easter. As a community, IKON, created an outdoor prayer labyrinth that led us down Dolores Street (which means “street of sorrow” from its Spanish origin), and culminated with a “mountaintop” experience as we reflected on the Transfiguration at the top of Dolores Park overlooking the city. It was a beautiful moment as people finished their journey praying for the city, praying for newness, for God to awaken their souls to the possibilities that await.
Several people have asked, “What do you do during this Lenten season? What rhythms do you practice or participate in?” So, I’ve compiled a list of resources both new and old that I will be participating in this year.
LENT FOR EVERYONE is a devotional created and written by N.T. Wright that walks through the Gospel of Matthew. Included within the daily readings is a reflection by Wright and concludes with a prayer. I have never walked through this resource before and this is my first year engaging with the Gospel of Matthew during Lent. Two days in and I’m already pretty excited about the listening and reflections that have taken place. You can check out the reading plan for free on YouVersion and join me!
LET YOUR LIFE SPEAK. Every year during Lent I read two books that have become very important to me. This first one is Let Your Life Speak by Parker Palmer. Not a typical “Lenten” reading or understanding of Lent, it has taken me deeper into the inner-journey of understanding not only my calling as a pastor, but the truest side of vocation and a growing sense of self-awareness.
IN THE NAME OF JESUS. Henri Nouwen constantly challenges me in the strangest ways, and every year a new angle of understanding the life and leadership of Jesus comes to light through this short reflection. I have been reading this since it was first introduced to my by one of my college professors. I am challenged by Nouwen’s words, disagree with his words, agree with his words, and am changed by his words differently every single year.In The Name of Jesus.
FALLING UPWARD. A new addition this year to the reading schedule is Falling Upward by Richard Rohr. It was recommended to me by several of our leaders at IKON and is a book that a couple of our neighborhood groups will be journeying through together this Lenten Season. I’m looking forward to picking it up and journeying along with them.
What are some of your Lenten rhythms? What are you currently walking through that has been a challenge? If you haven’t had a chance to figure out your rhythm for 2012, join me in walking through this list.
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