Why does the season of Lent last 40 days? More than any other Biblical reference, Jesus’ 40 day experience in the wilderness is the backdrop for the 40 days of Lent. In this remarkable story we find invaluable insights about temptation, why it can feel so fierce and leave us feeling so frail. And we discover how we can resist it and grow healthier in the process.
Why are we the way we are? Why are we filled with potential, but also profoundly struggle? Why do we have a strong urge for freedom, but also find ourselves sometimes stuck? The famous story of Adam and Eve’s seduction in the garden is the place to go to discover answers to these questions and find hope.
The writer Simone Weil defines humility as “attentive patience.” How do we become people who practice what we preach, so attuned to others’ needs that we discover lives of uncommon purpose?
While moments such as David’s encounter with Goliath showcase him at his revered best, this tragic episode reveals just how flawed he could be. Here we learn about the dangers of power, the power of temptation, and the power to deal with both.
Sometimes the Bible, like life, just doesn’t make sense. We see this in two early experiences from Jesus’ ministry that showcase the mystery, mercy, and majesty of God–and give us clues that help us understand the things that perplex us.