Two disciples of Jesus in whom all hope had been extinguished were walking into an uncertain and unknown future…their hopes were dashed…

Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of Lent: a season of rest, reflection, repentance, reconciliation, and restoration. It is a time to slow down from our fast-paced lifestyle and find hope and healing in Christ in the midst of our own brokenness.

Lent Devotional | Ash WednesdayPreparing for the MarathonIn their hearts humans plan their course, but the LORD...

Seeing the face of the risen Christ brings peace and assurance. His authority calms our hearts, reminding us that the One who defeated death now rules with compassion and strength. Since His authority is firm, our hope remains strong. And because He is with us, we can move forward confidently, trusting that His resurrection power keeps restoring and renewing us.

Good Friday draws our eyes from ourselves and fixes them on Jesus. At the Cross, we see compassion deeper than sentiment and steadfast in suffering. He does not stand at a distance from human pain; He enters it fully. He bears rejection, abandonment, and He remains.

On Maundy Thursday, we remember Jesus doing much the same. Being present. Showing up. No matter what lay ahead, He stayed at the table. He took bread, gave thanks, and offered Himself in love. In the giving and receiving, His face turned toward His disciples, attentive and faithful.

This Palm Sunday, consider how you might slow down and surrender the distractions—both good and bad—that keep you from seeing what Jesus has done for you. Prioritize time to worship in church where the power and promise of the Cross and resurrection are expressed with joy.

The season of Lent is a time where we are invited to consider in what ways our attention has strayed from God’s countenance and to follow Jesus’ example of seeking God’s face, rediscovering the peace that comes with putting God back at the center of every part of our lives.