Sunday Songs...
The content highlights two inspirational songs: "A Thousand Years" by David Hodges and Christina Perri, expressing timeless love and enduring patience, and "Go the Distance" from Hercules, by Michael Bolton, portraying determination and perseverance in pursuing one's dreams. Both emphasize love, hope, and resilience through life's challenges.
A Story: Noticing
This Lent, children's stories are shared on Saturdays. This week features "Noticing" by Kobi Yamada, encouraging appreciation of God's beauty and possibilities around us.
Anticipation
The author reflects on discovering emerging stems during a walk, symbolizing resilience and beauty in nature, rekindling memories of past Springs, and expressing joy and awe in God’s creations.
A Faithful Witness: The Gift of Hospitality
The author reflects on the life and hospitality of their Auntie Tonita, who welcomed many into her home, demonstrating kindness and support throughout her life. Through personal anecdotes and experiences, the narrative emphasizes the importance of hospitality, especially as it relates to empathy and reconciliation, and inspires others to extend this gift.
In Reverence (Again)
The author reflects on attending Ash Wednesday service and cherishing early mornings spent in solitude with God. Despite distractions and anxieties, they express gratitude for health, family, and friends. They highlight the importance of prayer for others and view Lent as an opportunity to strengthen their spiritual practice.
Ana, Be Eyes for Me
In a tender exchange between a caregiver and a curious three-year-old named Ana, they discover the hidden life of a mole within the earth. As Ana learns about Mole’s features and habitat, she expresses wonder at the creature. When they encounter a trapped mole, the significance of life and death unfolds, evoking both curiosity and care in Ana.
A (Lenten) Prayer for New Beginnings
The poem reflects a deep longing during the bleakness of winter, expressing a desire for spiritual illumination amidst apparent death. The speaker seeks help in recognizing the potential for new beginnings and growth, emphasizing hope in God's promise of renewal. It highlights the beauty and grace found in each season.
The Faithful Witness of Sisterhood
International Women’s Day celebrates women’s contributions and advocates for their rights and equality. The author reflects on the struggles women face globally, inspired by activists under authoritarian regimes. She highlights the importance of hope and resilience, emphasizing that small acts of kindness can create significant change in community and justice.
Walking with a New Friend
The author recalls a transformative day with friends in New York City, where they helped a lost woman find her way to Penn Station. Through this act of compassion, they reflected on their shared faith and commitment to loving others. The experience highlighted the joy of serving and the importance of kindness during the Lenten season.
Lenten Faith
As Lent begins, we embark on a sacred journey reflecting on repentance, restoration, and our walk with God. Amid struggles and darkness, we encourage each other, fostering hope and reconciliation within our communities. This season invites us to renew our faith, discover God's love, and embrace the transformative power of the resurrection.
The Ash
The poem reflects on the cyclical nature of destruction and renewal. It captures the despair of endings alongside the hope for new beginnings. Amidst sorrow, the imagery of buds and embers symbolizes the potential for rebirth and light, emphasizing resilience and the continuous journey toward renewal despite challenges.
Lent Begins Tomorrow
This Lent, we encourage you to be a faithful witness to God's beauty in everyday life. Our blog will share stories of commitment, empathy, and transformation. Reflect on how to observe and appreciate the world around you, fostering a deeper understanding of your faith and inspiring action. Join us on this journey.
Explore God's Beauty: Contribute to Our Lenten Blog
The 2025 Lenten theme, "A Faithful Witness: My Lenten Walk," invites reflection on Jesus' journey to Jerusalem and the beauty of faith in daily life. Contributions to the Lenten Blog are encouraged to share experiences of faith, empathy, and inspiration. Guidelines for submissions emphasize brevity, originality, and appropriate crediting.