Lent Day 41, Monday, March 30, 2026

“Read John, Chapters 18 and 19”

Today’s challenge for Lent is another simple one: read chapters 18 and 19 of John’s Gospel. The purpose of this challenge is clear. It is meant to help us remember and better understand God’s work.

Holy Week, the week leading to Easter, has begun. We have six days to prepare, and during this time, we are called to remember one of the most difficult moments in the life of Jesus. Unlike Christmas, the traffic is no worse, and the stores are not overflowing with last-minute shoppers.

Instead, many people treat Easter as just another day off from work, or perhaps an excuse to enjoy a big meal with friends and family. In our area, Easter weekend often feels like the perfect beach weekend, and many people will head from inland homes to the barrier islands. Plans are being made for free time, but not always for time with the Lord.

Today’s challenge is meant to help us prepare our hearts by reading the story of Jesus’ betrayal, suffering, and death. Given to us in all four Gospels, the story is essential because it reveals God’s incredible and unconditional love for humanity.

God does not endure this suffering so that we can simply enjoy another holiday or another day at the beach. While God is certainly glad to give us beautiful gifts and joyful days, God is even more committed to giving eternal life to His people. That is what Easter is about.

No matter how much or how little we have done during Lent so far, each one of us still has six days left to focus, reflect, contemplate, and give thanks.

Begin this week by reading John, chapters 18 and 19. Try to read them straight through without interruption. It will likely take about ten minutes, perhaps a little more. Most importantly, do not let yourself be distracted. Find a quiet moment, open your heart and mind, and pay attention to what God may be saying to you.

“...It is finished...” (John 19:30, NRSVue)