A Reflection for Lent

by Dr. Phil Jamieson, UMHEF’s President/CEO

Before it was called Christianity, before it became legitimate within the Roman Empire, our faith in Jesus was known as “the way.” In other words, the first Christians understood that central to their beliefs was a way to walk, a way to complete the journey. Unlike some contemporary understandings, this way is not a journey of self-discovery. Instead, it was the “way” of following Jesus. It was the “way” of coming to understand that a path has been established before us and that we are called to walk in this route. (Hebrews 2:10)

The path of Jesus is the way of the cross. (Matthew 16:24) In order to follow him, we will have to give up our own ways. We will need to begin to realize that the paths we so often choose do not get us to the place we want to be. Instead, most of us—at least me—take the long and winding road. We so often choose to walk along the edges, seeking to keep the true trail in sight, but still uncomfortable with yielding our freedom to go wherever we might choose. So how do we walk the actual way rather than the meandering to which we are prone?

Over the years, Christianity has recognized practices that help us better walk the direct route. Prayer, scripture reading, giving—all are disciplines that aid us in finding the true way. We at UMHEF are inviting you during this Lenten season to discover what is possibly a new way for you. The Stations of the Cross is an excellent practice to remind us that we are following our Lord and that is never without cost. We have prepared a free digital and printable download experience just for you. Please walk this journey and consider how you might truly give your own ideas away in order to discover the true way.

We are so thankful for your faithful generosity towards UMHEF. Giving of yourself provides a new way forward for others and it turns out to be one way to follow Jesus. Have a blessed Lent awaiting Easter, which is the end of all our journeys.