Lent: Practicing the Way of Jesus
Community Group Leaders: Want to download this content for your group? Access the printable PDF here!
Overview
The season of Lent marks 40 days of preparation leading to Easter. It is a reflection of Jesus’ time in the wilderness as His heart was prepared for ministry. This year, we want to walk in the way of Jesus as we prepare our hearts for the transformation that comes from the death and resurrection of Jesus.
When Lent begins on February 18, we will be learning the ways of Jesus by each choosing one spiritual practice from John Mark Comer’s, “Practicing the Way” resources. As you consider these practices, ask God to reveal the area where He wants to call you into deeper transformation.
Key Scriptures
“Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.” Ephesians 5:1-2
“Therefore I urge you to imitate me...” 1 Corinthians 4:16
The Eight Practices
Sabbath—Find rest for your soul through a 24-hour time period set aside to stop, rest, delight, and worship.
Prayer—Pursue a deeper life of union with God as you communicate and commune with Him.
Fasting—Awaken your body and soul to your deep hunger and need for God.
Solitude—Pursue spiritual health by reducing distractions and noise.
Generosity—Live according to God’s design and discover the joy of generous giving.
Scripture—Rediscover how to engage Scripture as an apprentice to Jesus.
Community—Find intimacy, joy, healing, and commitment in a new kind of family.
Service—Embody the self-giving love of Jesus, overlapping with those on the margins.
Resources
Each practice comes with a series of videos to watch and a free digital companion guide to download. Follow the links provided, and select “Run Practice” to begin your chosen practice. You’ll be asked to create an account to access the free resources—see the “Getting Started” section below for step by step directions. Printed books are also available for purchase. We’ve provided links to these books via Amazon at Gracemariettachurch.org/Lent. Work through the materials at your own pace during the season of Lent, meeting with your Community Group to discuss your experience and encourage one another.
Getting Started
Create an account on www.practicingtheway.org.
You will receive a confirmation email. If the button in the email doesn’t work, scroll down and click on the linked text below.
Once you have logged in, select “Courses and Practices” from the lefthand menu.
Select the practice you want to run and choose “Preview Course.”(Previewing the course allows you to access and download all the course materials. If you choose to “run” a course, you’ll be asked to set up the course for a group instead.)
Bookmark the preview page to return to as you continue through the course!
Week 1 Discussion
Which of the eight practices do you want to press into this Lent, and why?
What has your experience been with this practice in the past? What resistance or obstacles have you encountered?
What are you hoping God will produce in your life and your heart through this practice?
What is your plan for beginning to work through the materials? What will your weekly rhythm be?
How can we be praying for you during this season?