Friday, February 20
Read: Psalm 51; Jonah 4:1-11; Romans 1:8-17
Generations are often defined by historical or technological shifts, but if you grew up in the church, your age can likely be identified by your Youth Group trends. You might belong to the era that first brought drums into the sanctuary or the one that never took off their WWJD bracelets. Perhaps your group debated the poetic lyrics of David Crowder (“unforeseen kiss” is the answer here, folks) or played “Oceans” at every single retreat for two years straight.
If you are in your mid-twenties, you likely remember the “Unashamed” movement. Sparked by the music of Christian rapper Lecrae and rooted in Romans 1:16, this trend emphasized a bold, vocal confidence of spreading the Gospel without fear of shame. The goal was to share your faith in any situation and to stand on the Word of God.
However, Paul’s original intent carried a deeper weight. When Paul wrote those words, the Gospel started with the literal shame and public humiliation of the Roman cross. To the surrounding world, there was nothing prestigious about following a crucified Savior. The “Good News” began in a place of deep social and physical disgrace. Though it may seem counterintuitive, this is where Lent finds its footing.
The Lenten journey is built upon these kinds of paradoxes:
- From darkness to light
- From graves to gardens
- From lament to joy
- From shame to resurrection
Throughout Lent, we witness God creating something out of what feels like nothing. We see Him reclaiming the places of our lives that feel the most broken or embarrassing. Perhaps the paradoxes you are currently living through are exactly where God is most active. If we are willing to accept the humility of the cross, we open ourselves to the power of His transformation.
Prayer:
O Lord, let us embrace the spaces that feel the most empty. Let us find your love and grace in the places we least expect. Help us to see you at work in the places where we doubt your presence the most. Amen.
Mr. Miles Barnhardt ’18 is Director of Student Ministries at Fairhope United Methodist Church in Fairhope, Alabama.
