LENT: THE BEST OF OURSELVES

INTRODUCTION

Along with Valentine’s Day, this Wednesday will be Ash Wednesday, the beginning of Lent–a time for us to grow in faith and deepen in love for Jesus–as we await the celebration of his resurrection on Easter morning. For this season, my Lenten reflections have been inspired by Joshua Long on an Artists for Joy podcast with Merideth Hite Estevez (March 2023). His personal artist’s oath includes a statement that deeply resonated with me:

“I am called to follow Jesus, not for the sake of helping others believe like me, but to help me be the best version of myself for the world.” *

I will revisit and reflect on the life and teachings of Jesus—with the hope that I can keep evolving into “the best version of myself for the world.” Though I will be writing each reflection for my own spiritual discernment and growth, I would love to learn if you glean a different lesson or insight from the passages we will read—the stories and teachings of Jesus that inspire us to live in love. I hope that you will find this time of Lenten contemplation and community a gift for your spirit.

Our passage for Ash Wednesday will be Matthew 4:1-11.

(Reflections will begin on Ash Wednesday, then every Sunday, Tuesday, and Thursday through Lent.)

*This podcast may be found at https://artistsforjoy.org/
Photo by Karen