Word for the day by Christian Education Forum

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  Great Lent -An Invitation for Transformation

John 2:1–11
Theme Verse:
 Jesus did this, the first of his signs, in Cana of Galilee and revealed his glory, and his disciples believed in him. (Jn 2:11)
The Great Lent begins 20th February, with the service of reconciliation known as Shub’kono (Syriac for ‘reconciliation’). The Sunday before is commemorated as Kothine (Syriac name for town of Cana) Sunday. In Lent, we meditate on the life and ministry of Jesus Christ, leading to His crucifixion. Fasting and prayer are practices that turn our physical life and spiritual eyes toward the mysteries of God. Jesus’ public ministry began with the wedding at Cana. The purpose of Lent is to understand the healing and salvation offered to us by Jesus Christ, the Great Physician. The healing is part of reconciliation with God. The Sunday meditations leading to Palm Sunday are on the miraculous healings of Jesus. For what purpose did Jesus choose to heal or perform miracles during his earthly ministry? It was meant to reveal to us His glory, the glory of the Only Begotten Son (Jn 1:14). In Cana, He revealed Himself publically. The beauty is that it begins at a wedding banquet; at a celebration. God wants us to see that He is the God of good things. God created and He saw that all was good (Gen 1:31). Sin and the power of Satan keep us as slaves, but Jesus Christ came to free us from that bondage leading to death. This calls for celebration!
Throughout the Bible we see descriptions of faith practices. We are familiar with worship, prayer, fasting, etc. But what about “feasting”? Is celebration a part of spiritual practice? It may be hard to believe but joyful celebration is an expression of our faith, provided that we understand the boundaries allowed for it. When the Lord of Creation is in our midst, we can only shout with songs of praise. So let us approach the throne of God, joyfully bringing sacrifices of praise and thanksgiving.
Prayer
O God of Reconciliation, turn our eyes to your lovingkindness, turn our hearts to your grace and mercy, move our hands and feet to the Cross of Your Salvation. And lead us to reconciliation with You and also with our brothers and sisters. Amen

 
Rev. Jeswin John
Vicar, St. John’s MTC Michigan
 

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