Sunday, February 22
The practice of a 40-day preparation period began in the Christian church during the third and fourth centuries. The number 40 carries biblical significance based on the 40 years Israel spent in the desert and Jesus’ 40-day fast in the wilderness. The 40 days of Lent begin on Ash Wednesday and continue to Easter, not counting Sundays.
Sundays in the Lenten season are considered feast days, like mini-Easters, so in lieu of our normal devotional rhythm, on Sundays, you will find this invitation to rest and feast in community with the people of God.
First Sunday in Lent
Welcome
On this Sabbath day, close your eyes, take a few deep breaths, and settle your body. Remember, he gives to his beloved rest. The truest thing about you today is that you are held in the love of God. Rest in that love.
A Liturgy for Resting in God
by Thomas À Kempis (1380–1471)
Excerpt from Every Moment Holy, Volume III
Grant me, O most loving Lord,
to rest in you above all else—
above all creatures,
above all health and beauty,
above all glory and honor,
above all power and dignity,
above all knowledge and cleverness,
above all riches and art,
above all fame and praise,
above all sweetness and comfort,
above all hope and promise,
above all gifts and favors that you can give,
above all happiness my mind can feel;
above all that is not you, O God.
Anything you bestow on me
or reveal to me or promise to me
is too small and unsatisfying
if I do not see or meet you in it.
For surely my heart cannot truly rest,
or ever be fully contented,
unless it rest in you.
Amen.
Sending
We hope to see you this morning as we gather together for worship, prayer, and the reading and preaching of God’s Word.
May you welcome the people who will be a part of this day. May you greet God in ordinary and hidden moments. May you gratefully live the life that God has given you. May you know and claim that you are loved.
In the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit, Amen.
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