Marking Time: Forming Spirituality through the Christian Year

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Mark i ng T ime : Formi ng Sp i r i tua l i t y through the Chr i s t i an Year

God, [15] and saying, “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel.”

c. Luke 17.20-21 (ESV) – Being asked by the Pharisees when the kingdom of God would come, he answered them, “The kingdom of God is not coming with signs to be observed, [21] nor will they say, ‘Look, here it is!’ or ‘There!’ for behold, the kingdom of God is in the midst of you.”

3. Its meaning in Jesus’ history : His teaching, exorcisms, miracles, and mighty works done among the people

4. The Season of the Church Year : Lent, the Ministry of Christ. The Lenten season, a forty-day period starting on Ash Wednesday and ending on Thursday of Holy Week, calls us to reflect on Jesus’ suffering, crucifixion, and death. Following our Lord, let us prepare ourselves on the way of the Cross for full obedience to God.

5. As to Spiritual Formation : In the person of Christ, the power of the reign of God has come to earth, and to the Church.

E. Holy Week : the Lamb of God

1. Biblical framework : As both High Priest and Paschal Lamb, Jesus offers himself to God on our behalf as a sacrifice for sin, and as victorious Lord who destroys death and the grave.

2. Exemplar Scripture references