Self Deprivation or Faith Training: What is Lent?
As we draw close to Lent, Minister of Discipleship and Engagement Laura Campbell helps us explore how struggles and challenges in our lives become transformative starting points for spiritual growth. She illustrates how God provides a foundation and hope even when “life isn’t fair” and reframes Lent not as a period of self-deprivation, but as six weeks of faith training.
Sermon Reflections:
- When you think of a past struggle that you survived, what truth emerged from that experience that continues to shape your life today? How has that truth informed your faith journey?
- As Laura shares, “Lent is not a season of self-deprivation. Lent is a season of faith training.” How might viewing Lent as “training” rather than “giving up” change your approach to this spiritual season?
- In the sermon, we hear about times when the speaker told God what they would or wouldn’t do, only to end up following God’s call in those exact areas. Have you ever resisted God’s direction in your life? What happened when you finally surrendered?
- Laura shares how a community “descended” to help when she became a foster parent. When has a faith community surrounded you during a challenging time? How might God be calling you to be part of someone else’s support system?
- Jesus faced his most difficult moment at the Mount of Olives, where he could have easily escaped into the wilderness, but instead chose to walk toward the cross. Where in your life might you be standing at a similar threshold between escape and faithful obedience?
- Laura repeatedly uses the phrase “that’s a great starting point” when discussing challenges, vulnerability, and even confession. Which area of your life feels like it needs a new starting point right now, and how might God be inviting you into transformation there?