Skip to main content

A Lenten Journey of Growth

 


Life is full of in-between moments—those sacred spaces where we are no longer who we were but not yet who we are becoming. These transitions can feel uncertain, yet they are where deep transformation unfolds.

 

Lent mirrors this experience, inviting us into a season of reflection, surrender, and renewal as we journey toward Easter. In Luke 2:52, we glimpse Jesus’ own growth:

 

"And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man." (Luke 2:52)

 

This verse holds profound wisdom for our own seasons of change. Lent calls us to grow—deepening our relationship with God, others, and even ourselves.

 

Lent is not just about giving something up; it is about being formed. Like a seed buried in the soil, we are invited to open space in our lives for God’s shaping work.

  • Growing in Wisdom – True wisdom is more than knowledge; it is the ability to discern truth and live it out. Lent invites us to seek wisdom through Scripture, prayer, and reflection.
  • Growing in Stature – More than physical growth, stature speaks to character. Lent challenges us to develop patience, humility, and self-discipline—virtues that shape who we are becoming.
  • Growing in Favor with God and Others – Our growth is not just personal; it transforms our relationships. Lent calls us to extend grace, seek reconciliation, and serve with love.
  • Surrender Control – We are invited to trust that God is working in the waiting.
  • Cultivate Patience – Growth takes time. A reminder to be patient with ourselves and God’s timing.
  • Stay Rooted in God – Anchoring ourselves to Jesus our hope.

 

Liminal spaces can be uncomfortable, requiring us to let go of the familiar while trusting in what is to come. Whether we are facing personal transitions, spiritual struggles, or simply the call to deeper faith, Lent teaches us to embrace the process:

 

Just as Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, we, too, are invited to grow in this season, trusting that God is shaping us into people of deeper faith, grace, and strength. As Easter approaches, may we step forward not just having walked through Lent, but having been shaped by it—trusting that every in-between moment holds the promise of resurrection and new life.

 

How are you growing in wisdom and stature?


Comments

Popular posts from this blog

October Newsletter

  SHANNON’S CORNER The Saga Continues… The trip to Malaysia consisted of a two-day spiritual retreat with the theme of ‘Come Away With Me’ and a six-day conference with about 230 missionaries who serve in some aspect of translating the Scriptures. One of the many people who I met was a missionary who served in Cameroon for many years and now is in a new role. As he was sharing, most his words were very negative and depressive. I encouraged him to sign up for a time of prayer and care. At the end of the retreat, this missionary shared with me that he did have a session and I could see that his whole countenance changed, and he was hopeful. His new word he used to describe where he was now is ‘delightful.’ Our time there was creating a safe space for these missionaries to have a place to share what they are struggling with and to connect with Jesus. One missionary is at a crossroads in her life. Another finds himself in the midst of betrayal. A missionary is in a new role as a caregi...

August Newsletter

  SHANNON’S CORNER Camp News! Cherry Run Camp is my green pasture and quiet waters where the Lord continuously restores my soul.  This camp was even more special as I was invited to be the missionary in residence for the nine days of camp. Sharing with all age groups about missions and how as believers and followers of Christ we are all called to go and make disciples by sharing the Good News of Jesus Christ. It was a week that was fulfilling to be with my family and the family of God as we fellowshipped one with another. As missionaries, we first need to make connections and build relationships with people before sharing the Good News. The youth were given the mission to level up: 1) make connection by introducing themselves to people and making them feel welcomed; 2) ask the person what they need prayer for; 3) the youth to pray with the person on the spot; 4) the youth to share their testimony; and 5) the person is asked to share their testimony.  The yo...

January Newsletter

    SHANNON’S CORNER Winter Blast… Brr. It’s cold outside.  Winter is not a favorite season for many people, but I love winter. There is a beauty in the dormant, snow covered, and coldness of winter that embraces and permeates us to the depths of our bones.  It reminds me of the Lord’s love that embraces and permeates us to the depths of our heart and soul.  The snow brings a smile to my face as I delight in the quietness, calming, beautifying, and a slower pace.  Recently, I was talking with someone in Louisiana who was going to be making a snowman and snow angel with his granddaughter.  What playfulness and awe to experience the Lord’s beauty. Community is so important to our lives that even the Lord noticed how alone Adam was in the garden that He made Eve.  It is where you are seen, known, and find belonging.  It has been something I have prayed for, asked you all to be praying for, have sought after in ...