There is great reward when we embrace others in need and equip them with skills (not handouts) so that dignity and sustainability can be passed on to others!
We are so honored to journey with you through Lent this year.
Throughout Jesus' adult ministry He had human and godly experiences that express the implications of “For God so loved the world he gave is one and only son….” He gave the world His son because His son would ultimately reconcile humanity to himself and commission His movement through His disciples.
We are so excited to journey with you as we reflect on Christ's life, His example for us to follow, and how World Changers in Africa are experiencing a God-filled HOPE that inspires us all! Stay tuned over the next few weeks to see how these World Changers have experienced some of the same things Jesus experienced . . .
Explore Weekly Devotions
Week 1: What's under the ashes? (Feb 17)
Week 2: Finding Her True Identity (Feb 24)
Week 3: From Despised to Deeply Loved (March 1)
Week 4: Drawing in a crowd (March 10)
Week 5: Being the bullseye (March 17)
Week 6: He was rejected (March 24)
Week 7 Part 1: Inspired by Jesus' Encouragements (March 31)
Week 7 Part 2: Good Friday (April 2)
In the scriptures fasting is often depicted as going without food, but at its core fasting is intended to take our eyes off of our physical needs/desires and to help us fix our attention on God. Giving up some things that we often depend on (e.g. caffeine, television, social media) can help us to better refocus on our Creator and what He has for us. Here is a good resource about fasting:
The Lenten season is focused on preparing for Easter; Ash Wednesday is February 17th this year and is the day that marks the beginning of that journey. Around the world Christians from various denominations may choose to commemorate the day by fasting, having a time of prayer, having their forehead marked with ashes, or beginning a time of abstaining from a particular food, beverage, or activity until Easter, all in recognition of Jesus’ great sacrifice for us.
The ashes used on Ash Wednesday often come from the palm tree leaves that were burned after last year’s Palm Sunday. It reminds us that the original celebration of Palm Sunday gave way to the crucifixion that took place less than a week later. We reflect on our shortcomings as people who can at one time give praise and then soon become people who neglect the Savior. We are people who will one day return to the dust, but there is good news in that we can receive forgiveness and are encouraged to reflect on God’s grace and the power available to all who surrender to Christ.
James 4:6-10 says it well: “He gives grace generously. As the Scriptures say, 'God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.' So humble yourselves before God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Come close to God, and God will come close to you. Wash your hands, you sinners; purify your hearts, for your loyalty is divided between God and the world. Let there be tears for what you have done. Let there be sorrow and deep grief. Let there be sadness instead of laughter, and gloom instead of joy. Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up in honor.”
