Lenten Quotes for Preaching & Reflection (2024)

My niece, Mara, and I used to get deep into competitive rounds of "Go Fish."

As a Spanish native who spent a year in the US when she was eight, Mara didn’t know the exact word for "excited" when she sensed victory was near, but she knew how to describe exactly what "excited" felt like: "I am feeling very hot and nervous!"

Thanks to Mara, "hot and nervous" is now part of my family’s lexicon—but not always to describe a happy feeling of excitement.

We also use it to describe when we’re feeling anxious, worried, or on edge.

I confess I feel hot and nervous this Lent—and not in a good way—with the war in the Middle East showing no signs of letting up, North Korea making more noise about nuclear weapons, the climate crisis not receiving the attention it requires, and perhaps the most consequential presidential election in American history to be held later this year.

Today's free download of quotes feels especially timely and needed.

The authors remind me of the most important aspect of Lent: that we, like Christ, are to die to self for the sake of others, out of love.

When we uphold love as the most important action we can take—love that promotes respect and dignity and cherishes all children of God—we can count on consequences and pushback from our friends, families, parishioners, and fellow church leaders.

When I remember that the call is to love others as Jesus loved others, even when it comes at a personal cost, I feel less hot and nervous and more serene and connected to Jesus.

I pray these quote offer you similar comfort, wisdom, and guidance this Lent and throughout 2024.