Lent 2010

The purpose of Lent is to prepare for Easter - through prayer, penitence, almsgiving and self-denial.  It makes us ready again to concentrate on the death of Christ, and the celebration of his resurrection. It is a spiritual discipline. Out of this season should come a realignment of our lives to God and God’s purposes.

For Lent 2010, we are making two resources available for use across the whole church: The Big Story and Count Your Blessings.

The Big Story as a manageable way to grasp the story of the Bible in its own words. We will take a 40-day express tour of the whole Bible. Along the way, we will see new insights into how the story fits together, and most importantly hear the voice of God bringing its message alive in our life.

You can get hold of a copy of The Big Story from GBC or buy it on line.

Then each day follow the reading guide so that you stay on-track. You can download the reading guide here.

Hints:

• Find a quiet place to read and pray.
• Read the Overview when you come to it.
• Read the Key Passage marked with the bus symbol.
• Let the words feed your soul. The purpose is not information-gathering but life-changing. Scripture is like a great symphony, let its music move you.
• If it helps, answer the questions. Some encourage you to meditate, other to imagine, reflect, pray.  But don't worry about the questions; concentrate on what God is saying.
• If it helps, have a read of John's blog for the day.  You can find it here.
• Finish with prayer. What can I thank God for?  What I have I learnt? What do I need to repent of? What do I need to do?

Don't let discovering The Big Story become a burden.  But do let it be a spiritual discipline.

Count Your Blessings, from Christian Aid, helps to make the almsgiving and self-denial aspect of Lent meaningful this year. Instead of giving up wine or chocolate, let's look again at the good things in our lives – and change the lives of others living in poverty across the world.

You can get hold of a copy of Count your Blessings from GBC or download it here.

Hints:

• Put up the calendar on your notice board or fridge and see the world afresh each day.
• Then record your responses daily in the boxes