Lent and Easter 2026

Lent and Easter with John. "The Light of the World"

2/10/2026

Let’s face it, to say that our world is troubled is an understatement. We’re more than troubled. We’re in darkness, floundering around trying to find our way. “Where is God?” is a frequent question that I hear; even ask it myself. Who can light the way so we can climb out of this darkness? The question has many answers from many people. In the U.S.A. there are those who assured us the right President (the one they support) is God’s man to lead us to the light. Others disagree, believing we’re on our own. And then there are those who still hope that Jesus is our light and will show the way. Despite circumstances, I am one who believes Jesus who said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness but will have the light of life.” (Jn 8:12). John was written to help us follow his light.

We often think of light as a contrast to darkness. But light is more than that. In Matthew, Jesus said, “my burden is light” (Mt 11:30). Light is in contrast to heavy or oppressive. Jesus, the Light of the World, not only shines in our darkness, but also lifts oppressive burdens, such as legalistic moral principles, or the burden of oppressive church and/or political leaders. Jesus came to set us free from all that is oppressive. A key litmus test for what is or isn’t Christian (by which I mean, in line with Jesus in the Gospels) has to do with its weight. If it’s heavy and oppressive, if it enslaves rather than sets free, it is not Christian. Read John with me and see.

The format of these devotions is based on the ancient way known as lectio divina (literally, sacred or holy reading). It’s a prayerful and slow reading with pauses for reflection and prayerful wondering. I use 5 stages, beginning with a period for silent preparation to be ready to hear God speak through this Word and concluding with a reminder that we must go out and obediently live the Word, that is, live more and more like Jesus. If you find it helpful, follow these 5 stages in a prayerful and hope-filled way.

Lent begins with Ash Wednesday, February 18. The first of daily devotions until Easter will begin that day. Join me in a journey with John to deepen your relationship with Jesus and how you live in the world today.

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Lent and Easter with John. "The Light of the World"

Lent begins on Ash Wednesday, February 18. Daily devotions with begin on that day and go through Easter Sunday, April 5. An introduction to this year's theme, "The Light of the World," will be posted on February 11. Stay tuned.

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