Lent is an important season in the liturgical year as it mirrors many biblical themes. It begins on Ash Wednesday, a day where we remember our mortality. Many choose to fast or give up a habit while others take on practices of faith like Bible study or volunteering. Lent culminates in Holy Week as we follow Christ to the cross. On Good Friday, the sanctuary is stripped of color, light, life, and sealed as the tomb. Sunday morning, the tomb is found to be empty and we celebrate the risen Christ and our lives in him. Taking the journey of Lent into the darkness allows us to contrast that with the light and joy of Easter.
Karl Barth, a great 20th century Swiss theologian, wrote that the cross would cast no shadow were it not for the light resurrection morn; but resurrection morn is only known in this world through the shadow of the cross.
During Lent we enter into the shadow of the cross so that we can be witnesses to the light of the Resurrection and rejoice in our own lives taking place in God.
Concord's special Lenten Services:
Ash Wednesday: February 17, 7PM
Maundy Thursday: April 1, 7 PM
Tenebrae (Good Friday): April 2, 7 PM
