Dear Friends, As many of you begin your Lenten journey tomorrow, we want you to know that the North American Lutheran Church (NALC) is fervently praying for you and your congregation in this busy and chaotic time. So much is happening in our world, and in moments like these, it seems as if new things are thrown our way at lightning speed. As we prepare our hearts for the road ahead, may we remember that our hope is in Jesus. In the trials and tribulations to come, let us confess together that although we are but dust and to dust we shall return (Genesis 3:19), death has no sting, and hell has no victory (1 Corinthians 15:55) all because of the path that Jesus paved for us.

A Few Words About Lent As we approach Ash Wednesday and the beginning of the season of Lent, it seems worthwhile to say a few words of introduction regarding this historic, often misunderstood observance. Without presenting a detailed explanation of the development of Lent, it is enough to say that a time of repentance, reflection and renewal has been practiced by Christians as a 40-day season (excluding Sundays) from the fourth century to the present day. Lent had its roots in baptismal preparation, fasting before celebration of Easter, and renewed baptismal commitment for those who had fallen away from the faith. Historically, Lent has been associated with the three spiritual disciplines of prayer, fasting and almsgiving (see Matthew 6). Lutherans have often focused their observance on growing deeper in the Word of God, study of Luther’s Small Catechism, and reflection on one’s sinfulness, repentance and renewal through God’s grace and forgiveness. What is important, for Lutherans, is that Lenten observance be seen as a gracious gift for renewal and spiritual refreshment, not a good work to please God or earn His favor.

Still Looking for a Lenten Devotional? The North American Lutheran Church (NALC) presents He Has Done It, a Lenten devotion written by the executive staff. This year's devotional is based on the two-year daily lectionary provided in the North American Church's Devoted to Prayer daily prayer and reading guide, which is also an adapted version of the daily lectionary in the Lutheran Book of Worship, Year II. We pray the Scriptures, reflections and prayers in this devotional will deepen the Lenten journey. There are several ways to access the 2022 Lenten devotional: download a copy or receive daily messages. For details on how to access this Advent devotional, visit thenalc.org/lent.

Learn more about the Lenten Devotional

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