Hey Cross Point,
Rea and I are fired up for Lent! Which sounds really weird, especially if you knew the church that I grew up in. If you’re not familiar with what Lent is, I get it. I didn’t understand until a few years ago after Rea shared with me what it’s all about. She helped me appreciate the slowing down and creating more space as we move toward Easter. If you’re unfamiliar, Lent represents the forty days leading up to Easter, between Ash Wednesday and Good Friday. It’s time to intentionally reflect on the significance of Christ’s sacrifice and rest in the fullness of his love. Historically, Lent is associated with fasting, deliberately giving something up to create more space and make more room for the work of the Spirit in our lives.
Last November, I started to feel a stirring that this is a year for Cross Point to observe Lent. I believe this is important for a few reasons, (1), In a time of uncertainty, there’s great stability in being a part of something followers of Jesus have practiced for well over a thousand years. (2) In a time of division, we find great unity in all of us focusing on Christ at the same time, together. (3) In a time of distraction, where we’ve consumed so much media and news, there’s great value in de-cluttering our hearts to make space for God. (4) In a time of social-distancing, this is something we can do no matter where we are, whether we’re more stay-in-place or all over the place.
So, Rea and I want to invite you to observe Lent with us this year. We’ve put together a page of resources where you’ll see more about how we’ll do this together. You can find that information below. And we want to hear your stories! As you see God working in your life, you can share that at crosspoint.tv/shareyourstory and we’ll celebrate together. We love you, Church! We can’t wait to see what God does as we seek after Him together in this season!
Prayerfully,
Kevin & Rea Queen
HERE’S WHAT IT WILL LOOK LIKE
MONTHLY
On the Sundays leading up to Easter, we’re going to be teaching through the 7 Signs in the gospel of John.
WEEKLY
You’re invited to fast and pray on Wednesdays. Starting on Ash Wednesday, there are 8 Wednesdays leading up to Easter. Historically, Lent involves abstaining from something (sweets, social media, etc.). You’re encouraged to be open to however God directs you, but the Cross Point-wide invitation will be to fast and pray on Wednesdays. You can also stay tuned into your campus Facebook Groups as we will have opportunities to create a sacred space on Wednesdays to come and pray.
DAILY
Scroll down to find a digital copy of a 40-day devotional to read through the gospel of John together. Each day you’ll be provided with daily scripture, key verse, directed prayer and space for taking any notes. We’re excited about what happens when we get people in the Word.
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HERE ARE THE NUMBERS
Research has shown that when people get in the Bible four times a week, there are incredible results.
