Lent 2025: “Bless the Lent We Actually Have”
Lent marks the forty days leading up to Easter, mirroring Jesus’ forty days in the wilderness before his public ministry. Many people give up something, such as chocolate, soda, or social media, during Lent, or take up something new, such as a new prayer practice and devotion. Lent is a sacred invitation to recognize that God blesses our days while we long for God’s promised future, where there will be no tears, no pain, and no sorrow.
This sermon series, based on Kate Bowler’s Bless the Lent We Actually Have, invites you to understand that our actual days—ordinary, nothing special, uncertain, pain-filled, and medically challenged—might be blessed as God blesses each of our days just as they are.
Scripture: Psalm 51:1-6, 16-17
March 9 – “Blessed Are the Imperfect”
Scripture: Matthew 4:1-11
On the First Sunday in Lent, we reflect on our imperfect faith journey through Jesus’ temptation in the wilderness, showing how struggles and doubts don’t disqualify us from God’s blessing. Instead, they are embraced by God, who offers grace, strength, and redemption. Despite our challenges, we remain deeply loved and blessed by God.
March 16 – “Blessed Are the Curious “
Scripture: John 3:1-15
We explore the blessing of curiosity through Nicodemus’ encounter with Jesus. It emphasizes that asking questions and seeking deeper understanding is not a sign of doubt but an invitation to spiritual growth. God welcomes our curiosity and desires to reveal the mysteries of faith to those who earnestly seek./p>
March 23 – “Blessed Are Those Who Suffer”
Scripture: Romans 5:1-8
We explore how suffering leads to perseverance, character, and hope. Paul reminds us that hardship is part of God’s transformative work, deepening our faith and revealing God’s love and grace. Through suffering, we are invited to trust in the hope that it produces.
March 30- “Blessed Are Those Who Feel Alone”
Scripture: Psalm 23
We find comfort and assurance in God’s presence, even in times of loneliness. The imagery of the Good Shepherd reminds us that we are never truly alone, as God is always with us, guiding, protecting, and providing. The service is designed as a Taizé Service, with meditative songs and time for reflection, creating space for a quiet connection with God.
April 6 – “Blessed Are Those Who Mourn”
Scripture: John 11:17-37
We reflect on the story of Jesus weeping at the tomb of Lazarus, offering comfort to those who grieve. Mourning is not only a natural part of life but a space where God meets us with compassion, hope, and resurrection. Through Jesus’ own sorrow, we are reminded that God understands our pain and promises to bring healing, even in our darkest moments.
April 13 – “Blessed Are the Rejected “
Scripture: Matthew 21:1-11
We reflect on Jesus’ triumphant yet humble entry into Jerusalem, where both praise and rejection coexist. Through His example, we learn that true blessing often comes from embracing humility and standing firm in God’s calling, even in the face of rejection.
