Use this devo as you are able, in whole or in part. Don’t feel compelled to read it all. Simply read and meditate upon whatever catches your attention. The goal is enjoying time with God through His Word and in prayer. Questions about the devotional elements?

Call to Prayer

Prayer of Confession

Crucified Savior, on this dark day it seems crass and opportunistic to think of your death as an advantage to me. And yet, we call this Friday good because through your death, my old self is crucified, put to death, buried with you, and no longer rules. Today, I dedicate my life as an offering of gratitude to you. Amen. (Prayer based on the Heidelberg Catechism, Question 43)

*Prayer borrowed from Philip Reinders’ Seeking God’s Face: Praying with the Bible through the Year

Lent Devo: Backyard Pilgrim

Throughout Lent this year we will follow along over the next 40 days with quotes from Backyard Pilgrim by Matt Canlis which gives us a daily Bible Path (the story of God’s redemption) and Parish Path (a literal path through town where you can walk and ponder what God has shown you through his Word).

Day 38: “The Eve of Easter’s Eve” | Read: 1 Corinthians 13:12; Jeremiah 6:16

BIBLE PATH

Two verses bookend our Bible Path today on this “Eve of Easter’s Eve.”

The first verse is the goal of this pilgrimage in Christ. The final verse is the road to get there.

Meditate on them and do something in response. By now you’ve discovered that reading the Bible is not just a mental exercise; it’s meant to get you on your feet.

The Goal

For now we see only a reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known.(1 Corinthians 13:12).

The Path

This is what the Lord says: “Stand at the crossroads and look; ask for the ancient paths, ask where the good way is, and walk in it, and you will find rest for your souls. But you said, ‘We will not walk in it.’ (Jeremiah 6:16).

PARISH PATH: 

Save this Parish Path for Saturday Evening.
Take a look at the weather and plan a late night stroll accordingly. 

As you travel a now familiar parish path, pray. Pray your favorite Bible verse back to God. Lean into Jesus’ amendment of Psalm 31: “Father, into your hands I commit my spirit.” (Luke 23:46). Lean into your identity as God’s beloved child. Who you are is safe with the Father, secured by the Son, and sealed by the power of the Holy Spirit. Entrust tomorrow into God’s hands.

Pray: Father, forgive me for thinking I can save myself. I give you my spirit now, as I live, so that I will be practiced in returning it to you the day I die. Give me the humility and the hope to trust you as long as I have breath, even to the moment that I don’t. Thank you for filling me with your Holy Spirit right here on earth, even as you promise to do so one day in heaven. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

And in the morning, as dawn breaks on Resurrection Sunday, complete your pilgrimage. Rise up a beloved child of God.

Sermon Devo

Our series in James has concluded. Stay tuned for what’s next! 

(p.s. I’m pretty excited about it!)

Evening Prayer of Examen

• Where did you move with or feel close to Jesus today?
• Where did you resist or feel far from Jesus today?
• Where is Jesus leading you tomorrow? Ask for joy as you follow him.

Benediction