We talk a lot about fighting for our freedom but Jesus offers us the freedom not to fight. As we consider the way Jesus used his freedom, to surrender, to allow himself to be arrested in the garden, even to willingly lay down his life, it should give us pause to ask ourselves how we are using our freedom.
Are we really free, or are we bound by our fears and our need for control and survival?
Do we use our freedom to fight for our own rights, or to sacrifice for the sake of others?
The structure of each week’s reflection is designed as a simple guide or liturgy for your own mid-week prayer time between now and Easter.
Opening Prayer
Scripture Reading & Reflections - video 1
Song of praise & commitment - video 2
Closing Blessing
Opening Prayer
God of the Wilderness,
As your Spirit led Jesus into the wilderness for forty days,
so lead me now into the wilderness of Lent which you have prepared for me.
Strengthen me in my weakness.
Have mercy on me and forgive me of my sins.
Teach me to depend on your grace.
And open my eyes and my heart
to receive the blessings of the wilderness
found in you alone.
Amen.
A Celtic Blessing
May the peace of the Lord Christ go with you,
wherever He may send you.
May He guide you through the wilderness,
protect you through the storm.
May He bring you home rejoicing
at the wonders He has shown you.
May He bring you home rejoicing
once again into our doors.