WEEK 1
DAY 1. THE ROAD TO JERUSALEM
From Max:
- The journey to the cross had begun long before leaving Jericho.
- The divinity of Christ assured the humanity of Christ.
REFLECT - To head towards Jerusalem is the first step to resurrection. While facing Babylon, Jerusalem remains at best, a postcard destination.
Discuss ~ Jerusalem is the place of willing crucifixion. What could this mean to you? Look up Luke 9:51-53, what happens when you decide to face Jersualem? How can you know you have done this?
DAY 2. MARY'S EXTRAVAGANT GIFT
From Max:
- There is a time for risky love.
REFLECT ~ We can build walls around our hearts but be careful not to build tombs.
Discuss - Jesus permits Himself to be touched by sinners, in fact welcomes them. Mary not only pours out her perfume but her person, restraint is absent. Look up Psalm 62:8 - why can we be open with God?
DAY 3. JESUS PURGES THE TEMPLE
From Max:
- Those closest to it (the Temple) may be the farthest away.
REFLECT - Jesus died for relationship with men not ritual from men.
Discuss - What does Micah 6:8 teach us about religion, and what does Luke 7:36-50 show us?
DAY 4. JESUS WASHES HIS DISCIPLE'S FEET
From Max:
- He offered mercy before they even sought it.
REFLECT - Mercy is not getting what you deserve, while grace is receiving what you don't deserve.
Discuss - Could you agree with the reflection above? Why/why not? Where is mercy absent, when have you seen it?
DAY 5. IN THE GARDEN
From Max:
- It could very well be that the hand that extends itself to lead you out of the fog is a pierced one.
REFLECT - Jesus models a death-defying hardship rarely (if ever) discussed in polite Christian circles. I can't consider lent without a Cross.
Discuss - Is this Gethsemane today? There is no death to self in the soul's travail without falling in the garden of suffering to my knees. Gethsemane is living the wish to be devoted to my Father first and foremost for the few and fleeting breaths that may remain in life.
How does Luke 9:23 both prophecy and echo Gethsemane?