Lent is a season of reflection and renewal—a 40-day period in the liturgical calendar, from Ash Wednesday through Holy Saturday, when Lutherans focus on the life and ministry of Jesus. Throughout his time on earth, Jesus embodied humble service, showing us what it means to love through action. In this seven-week series (from the first Monday in Lent to Easter Monday), we will explore the ways Jesus served others and how we are called to follow his example. Together we will reflect on his acts of compassion, humility and sacrifice.
Jesus served boldly, even when it was difficult. This week, we reflect on what it means to serve with courage—standing up for what is right, speaking truth in love and answering God’s call even when it feels daunting.
Scripture
“God did not give us a spirit of cowardice but rather a spirit of power and of love and of self-discipline. (2 Timothy 1:7).
“Let us not grow weary in doing what is right, for we will reap at harvest time, if we do not give up” (Galatians 6:9).
Pastoral perspective with Drew Tucker
Have you ever been afraid to do the right thing, to speak up when something wrong was happening? That’s a common experience. That’s also why it’s such an uncommon gift for God to give us a spirit of power, love and self-discipline. God encourages us to be brave. More than encouragement, God gives us the Spirit to help us act boldly and faithfully.
During the Lenten season, we often focus on giving up something. Consider, for the rest of the season, also taking on a commitment to boldness in speaking for justice. Remember that God has given you the Spirit to confront the fear that prevents you from acting for others. Be brave, for God is with you!
Small act of service
Perform one small, intentional act of courage today—speak up when you witness an injustice, stand up for someone being spoken about unfairly, start a difficult but necessary conversation with grace or say “yes” to an opportunity that stretches you.
Closing prayer
God of all, you took great risks in creating humanity. You took the greatest risk of all by becoming human in Jesus. Remind us that you’ve called us to be faithful risk-takers too. Remind us that we’re not alone in speaking the truth in love and that you are with us through the Spirit. We pray all this in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
