The Journey Toward Easter

The death and resurrection of Jesus are a big enough deal that they shape every week for Christians. Friday is a fast day all the year long because Jesus suffers and dies on Friday. Sunday is a feast, even in the midst of fast, because Sunday is resurrection day. Any of us who are honest know that time doesn’t heal all wounds. But those of us who trust that the world changed in 33 AD know that time has been redeemed. Easter is a big deal.

Which is why we take 40 days to get ready for it. Lent is the 40 day season of reflection and preparation for the death and resurrection of Jesus. It is a time of repentance, of considering Christ’s sufferings and rethinking how we are called to take up our own crosses. Some of us give up things like chocolate or television during this season as a sort of fasting, and others try to integrate something new into our lives, like visiting folks in prison, sewing clothes, exercise or prayer. It is a good season to rethink how we live and let some things go… or maybe even develop some new holy habits.

As we move toward Easter together, I’ve joined some other Christian writers and speakers this year to share daily meditations on “The 40 Day Journey.” I hope it’s good news to you as you travel.