Jesus intentionally pointed out cultural and political extremes to emphasize the radical, inclusive, and surprising love of God.
When we study these stories in their historical and cultural context, we see how they mirror the divisions many of us experience in our families, churches, and communities today. Jesus’ ministry was rooted in relationships. During Lent, we will travel with Jesus through Luke, exploring his relational ministry as an invitation to navigate the polarities in our lives with more faith, intention, and openness while living out the radical, inclusive, and surprising love of God.
Intention & Action
Luke 9:51-62
The “would-be followers” of Jesus have good intentions. They want to follow, but Jesus calls them to put their money where their mouths are. Somewhere between good intentions and impulsive action lies discipleship. On Ash Wednesday, we make a commitment to align our intentions and our actions.
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Stranger & Neighbor
Luke 10:25-37
This parable begins and ends with the question, “Who is my neighbor?” and the answer is, surprisingly, “the stranger.” The Samaritan, whose place of worship and customs are different from the scribe who questions Jesus, is both a stranger and a neighbor to the man who was beaten and left in a ditch. In our world, many of our physical neighbors are strangers to us, and many of our neighbors—those closest to us—feel like strangers in divisive political climates. If we align our intentions and actions, then maybe we need to reconsider who we consider “stranger,” and ask ourselves if we have acted as good neighbors.
Faith & Works
Luke 10:38-42
In many translations, Jesus says that “Mary has chosen the better part,” which has been used to create a divide between Mary and Martha. However, in the Greek, Mary has chosen the “good portion,” and Martha’s tasks are called “ministry.” Therefore, perhaps Mary represents our faith, our desire to know God intimately, and Martha represents our good works, our desire to transform the world. Both are needed, and both are good.
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Rest & Growth
Luke 13:6-9
The gardener in the vineyard knows the fig tree needs rest, nutrients, and time—and it also needs to produce fruit. Both things are true, which is also true for us. If we are always striving for more growth without taking time to rest, we will burn out. But if we are only ever resting, we won’t bear fruit or grow. The fig tree also teaches us that the in between time—of nurture before fruit—can be where transformation begins.
Lost & Found
Luke 15:1-7
Herding sheep is a never-ending task. As soon as one is found, another may go missing. Our lives have a similar ebb and flow—in one moment we might feel like we have it all together, and in the next, we’re struggling to survive. The promise of this parable is that no matter how “lost” we feel, the Good shepherd is by our side.
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Righteousness & Mercy
Luke 19:1-10
The crowds grumble at Jesus’ self-invitation to stay with Zacchaeus, and their righteous indignation isn’t without cause. As a tax collector, Zacchaeus has extorted money and acted in collusion with the empire, using his position to oppress his own people. It is important to call out oppression, and yet, Jesus offers mercy. That mercy then begets more mercy as Zacchaeus, unprompted, offers to return what he took, and then some.
Shouting & Silence
Luke 22:1-27
Jesus doesn’t instigate his own parade. Instead, just his quiet presence alone inspires the multitude to shout out and praise God. When the religious leaders try to silence the crowd, Jesus tells them that the noise level isn’t the point—even the stones would cry out if they were silent. It takes wisdom to know when our voice is needed and when it’s just noise.
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Agape Feast
In his final hours, Jesus redefines power through act of humility, including sharing a meal with his closest friends and those who will soon betray him. On Maundy Thursday, we will share a simple soup supper, hear the story of the Last Supper, and reflect on the power of humility.
Stations of the Cross
Covenant Choir and readers will lead a reflective service readings, prayers, anthems and congregational song centered around the Stations of the Cross as we are reminded of Christ’s great sacrifice and God’s love for us.
Grief & Hope
Luke 24:1-12
Grief is a healthy response to Jesus’ death and a valid way to enter worship on Easter morning. And yet, the women at the empty tomb are given hope amidst their mourning. The other disciples don’t believe the women’s message, but Peter, living in the in-between of grief and hope, runs to the tomb to see for himself. Grieving doesn’t have to make us hopeless. Hope can compel us to take action when we are deep in grief.
Alabama Arise Legislative Day
The Arise Legislative Day will take place Thursday, March 20, 2025 from 9:30 am to 3:00 pm in Montgomery at the Alabama State House (11 South Union Street) in Room 200. We need your presence to make sure our voices are heard as we advocate for a better Alabama for all! Please register online by March 12. Registration is required because seating is limited.
Legislative Day participants will learn crucial information about Arise’s legislative priorities, meet with legislators about improving the lives of everyday Alabamians, participate in a news conference to help amplify our message.
Daily Devotional
Copies of a Lenten devotional will be available in the Fellowship Hall and Narthex. If you would like a digital copy, please send an email.
Email the church office
Beginning with Ash Wednesday and concluding on Easter Sunday, this devotional follows Jesus through Luke’s Gospel. Each week offers commentary, poetry, visual art, hymns, and reflection prompts. We encourage you to walk through these weekly readings at your own pace throughout the season, following the rhythm that works best for you. The devotional features biblical commentary by Rev. Jeff Chu and Dr. Mindy McGarrah Sharp, and art and reflections by Steve Prince.
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