Lent is a time of reflection and preparation for the climactic event in human history — Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection. This year, our little community is trying something different. We will be examining one of the seven last statements of Jesus during our weekly Thursday night gathering from now until Easter.

What makes this special is that a different member of our group will be facilitating the sharing and discussion each week. The week prior to the discussion, that member is responsible for praying and reflecting on Jesus’ statement for that week — kind of like a week-long Lectio Divina centered around one of the seven last words of Jesus.

Also, in preparation for Lent, I handed out copies of two great lectures by Father Thomas Hopko called The Word of the Cross.

I’m really looking forward to what God is going to reveal to our group through our group. And the opportunity to stand silently with my friends in the shadow of the cross and listen for the next seven weeks… I am so stoked!