Lent 1 Devo

“Transformation: The Radical Love of Christ”

Luke 18: 18-29

Devotional

A Brief Introduction:

During the season of Lent our weekly parish devotional is going to be a bit different. Instead of a daily scripture passage with reflection and questions, there will be one devotional with a spiritual practice you to engage for the entire week. Perhaps one day during the week you would like to invite others to your home for a lite meal to reflect on the scripture together. Perhaps you would like to read it every day on your own and see what new ways God speaks to your heart. Let us seek transformation anew this Lenten season. 

Scripture: Luke 18: 18-29

Read the scripture daily. Read it slowly. What is God bringing to your attention through this passage? 

Questions to consider: 

• How would you introduce yourself to a group of people you were meeting? Probably name, occupation, a bit bout our families. How would you introduce yourself to others as a follower of Christ? 
• What holds you back from following Jesus with all you have and all you are?
• How is your faith noticeable in your life?
• How has Jesus transformed you? How is Jesus continuing to transform you?

Spiritual Discipline. Fasting

Fasting – to give up something for a set period of time in order to concentrate more fully on God. This can be food (for a set period of time such as a meal or a day), TV, reading, etc. 

Scripture: "When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show others they are fasting. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, so that it will not be obvious to others that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen; and your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.” (Matthew 6:16-18)

Spiritual Practice: 

• Abstain from food, drink, shopping, desserts, media, etc for a set period of time one day a week. During this period of time focus on God.