Lent, like Advent, is a time of reflection and preparation. It mirrors the forty days Jesus spent in the wilderness preparing for His ministry. For Jesus, the question was, “What does it mean to be the Christ?” For us, the question is, “What does it mean to be a follower of Christ?”

In the early days of the church, Lent was a time of preparation for Baptism, a time to learn how to be a follower of The Way of Jesus—The Way of Love. Presiding Bishop Curry has said, “If it’s not about love, it’s not about God.” He has given us a seven step process to live more deeply into The Way of Love. This Lent, may we all strive to follow this path.

TURN (toward Jesus) and choose His Way

LEARN from Scripture, from the life and words of Jesus

PRAY intentionally dwelling in God’s presence

WORSHIP in community with others

BLESS by sharing faith and serving others

GO across boundaries, living like Jesus

REST in God’s grace and peace and be restored

This Lent, let this become your Rule of Life—the foundation and support of living into your Baptismal Covenant, for we are “Marked as Christ’s own for ever.”

In Christ’s love,
Nancy Young
National President