In Mark 8:34-36, Jesus says, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me and for the gospel will save it.”
This week, we’re diving into one of the most challenging yet transformative aspects of our faith: Forgiveness. Forgiveness isn’t just a nice idea; it’s a command from Jesus. In Matthew 18:21-22, Peter asks Jesus, “Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Up to seven times?” Jesus responds, “I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.”
Fasting and prayer are not about earning God’s favor; they are about drawing near to Him. James 4:8 promises, “Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you.” This Lent let’s embrace the joy of intimacy with God through fasting and prayer. Even when it feels challenging, remember that God sees your heart and honors your efforts.
Welcome to week 1 of Lent 2025! This year, we’re diving deep into what it means to walk with Jesus during these 46 days of reflection, repentance, and renewal. Each week, we’ll explore a different theme, grounded in Scripture, and we’ll share some practical ways you can apply these truths to your life. Whether you’re reading this with your morning coffee, during a quiet moment, or in between the busyness of your day, my prayer is that this series will inspire, challenge, and encourage you in your faith journey.
Lent, beginning on Ash Wednesday, marks a 40-day period of penitence and preparation for Easter, inviting Christians to self-examine, repent, and seek God’s forgiveness. The imposition of ashes symbolizes mortality and sin, reminding worshippers of Christ’s sacrifice. This solemn period encourages reflection on the need for genuine repentance and spiritual renewal.
Lent is a 40-day Christian season preceding Easter, focusing on self-discipline, reflection, and preparation for baptism and conversion. Originating from early Church practices, it encourages repentance and penitential prayer. Lent commemorates Jesus’ sacrifice, involving fasting and charitable deeds, while promoting humility and recognition of God’s grace amidst personal and communal need for healing.
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ, As the season of Lent approaches, we at Emmanuel Chapel invite you to join us on a transformative journey of faith, reflection, and renewal.…
The final week of Lent is called Holy Week and begins on Palm Sunday, which memorializes Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem (Matt. 21:1-11). The Holy Week commemorates the events immediately preceding the crucifixion. It is the most solemn time during the church year and we hold services nightly, marking the last days of Christ on Monday through Friday, with an Easter Vigil kept on Saturday; – an act of anticipation of the resurrection of Christ.