The Lenten Devotionals Companion Series | Beholding the Countenance of Christ

Lent invites us to slow down and pay attention to Jesus. Rather than rushing toward the Cross or the resurrection, we are invited to linger with Christ and observe His actions, choices, and responses along the way. As we “fix our eyes on Jesus” (Hebrews 12:2), we begin to see His countenance revealed through humility, faithfulness, love, and trust in the Father.

Each week, watch the Scripture passage that accompanies the Lent devotional and join us in Beholding the Countenance of Christ through the passion narrative to Easter Sunday.

Simple, reflective, and rooted in Scripture, these readings invite us to slow down, fix our eyes on Jesus, and behold His countenance through the journey from Ash Wednesday to Easter—His invitation, expression, presence, compassion, and blessing.

Watch the series and experience Lent as the passion story unfolds in God’s Word.

Ash Wednesday | His Invitation: The Face of Christ Calling Us to Return

Joel 2:12–13; Matthew 4:1–10

At the beginning of Lent, we are not met with condemnation, but with a gracious call to return. God’s face is already turned toward us in mercy, and in the wilderness, we behold Christ’s steady trust as He lives by every word that comes from the mouth of God.

May this passage remind us that returning to God begins with His kindness towards us.

Palm Sunday | His Expression: Jesus’ Face Set Towards the Cross

Matthew 21:1–11

As Jesus enters Jerusalem to cries of “Hosanna,” His expression remains humble and quietly resolute, choosing obedience over escape as He continues towards the Cross.

May this passage draw us into humble trust as we follow Jesus, even when the way forward is not easy.

Maundy Thursday | His Presence: Intimate Nearness in the Upper Room

Mark 14:17–25

On the night before the Cross, Jesus did not withdraw or create distance, but stayed close, shared a meal, and gave Himself to those He loved. As He broke the bread and shared the cup, His countenance was revealed in attentive, generous, self-giving love that remains, even when the cost is high.

May this passage draw us into the faithful presence of Christ and the peace of being loved to the end.

Good Friday | His Compassion: Love Poured Out Through Suffering

Mark 15:29–39

On the Cross, Jesus remains open and faithful in the midst of deep suffering, bringing His anguish honestly before God and bearing pain in love for the sake of others.

May this passage draw us into trust that holds nothing back from God, and into the compassion of Christ that does not turn away.

Easter Sunday | His Blessing: Resurrection, Peace and Restoration

Matthew 28:1–10, 16–20

After the resurrection, Jesus comes near with reassurance and blessing, meeting fear with peace, restoring relationship, and sending His followers forward with hope and purpose.

May this passage draw us into the steady peace of the risen Christ, and into a life made new by His restoring presence.