Carry On | Lent Devotion Week 5
Theme: Learn
Getting Started:
Sometimes, people get nervous to be involved in learning more about faith, Bible, or Christian life. They stay away from learning opportunities so they don’t feel embarrassed. But then they never get to learn and get over feeling like they don’t know anything! That there’s always more to learn and no one is any better or more worthy because of what they know. Committing to lifelong learning helps us continue to not only grow in faith, as our mission states, but carry on the work of Jesus Christ as we learn and grow as he called his disciples to do.
Verse:
Colossians 3:14-17
Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony. And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in the one body. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly; teach and admonish one another in all wisdom; and with gratitude in your hearts sing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs to God. And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.
Learn More:
While much of the book of Colossians focuses on the mystery of Christ and a moral life of faith, it reminds the reader that some of our greatest work is to “let the word of Christ dwell in your richly” through worship, relationship, learning, and even healthy conflict (that’s what it means to “admonish one another in all wisdom” – disagree thoughtfully and respectfully). Even our disagreements and debates are to be done in Jesus’ name and in the praise of God. Learning is an essential part of our spiritual formation.
Reflect:
What’s one question of faith you feel like you can’t answer? How might you start figuring the answer out?
What’s the last thing you learned about the Bible, Jesus, or our faith traditions that really made you stop and think? How did you learn it? Who can you talk about it with so you can keep learning?
Learning doesn’t just happen in classes. What can you learn from serving at The Open Door, Treehouse, Homework Help, or Lutheran Social Service? Connect to those programs and start learning!
Think of a friend, family member, church connection, or coworker who seems to know way more about faith then you. Take a deep breath… and then ask them how they learned what they know. Do they have suggestions for books or activities? Make sure to thank them for their input and support.
Respond:
Find a new learning opportunity and go for it! Maybe it’s something at Easter, something through our partnership with The Vine, a book you’ve been meaning to read, or even just re-investing in something you’re already doing (maybe JAM, confirmation, OWLs, or your Life Group). Set goals for yourself to stay on track and keep yourself accountable. Take notes on some of the most exciting things you’ve learned. Dare to share those things with someone!