There’s an old saying about the month of March, “In like a lion, out like a lamb.” I remember my children in preschool focusing on this with arts and crafts, and they would make puppet faces for both a lion and a lamb that they played with. When this phrase is used, it is typically referring to March beginning with weather that comes in as a strong and powerful Winter but then transitions to a mild and gentle Spring. “In like a lion and out like a lamb” can also describe Jesus’ experience during Holy Week, and some believe the origins of this phrase actually came from that Biblical understanding.
During Lent, we will be doing a sermon series that will explore Holy Week. It will begin with Jesus coming into Jerusalem like a lion, a king, with his triumphal entry. (Don’t worry, we will still wave palms and shout “Hosanna!” on Palm Sunday!) Throughout Holy Week, the last week of Jesus’ life, many events took place until Jesus experienced his arrest and trials. Jesus chose to become
the “sacrificial lamb,” on our behalf, being crucified for the atonement of the sins of the world. Yet in the Biblical story, and in our lives, it doesn’t end in death, but in life! Jesus rose again, triumphant as king! (Hallelujah, Amen!) New life in Christ and eternal life are available to everyone through Jesus Christ! Jesus is both the “Lamb of God” who takes away the sins of the world and the “Lion of Judah”! (see Rev. 5:5-10)
During Lent, we focus on our need for new life within, our continual sanctification, and eternal life through Jesus. The beginning of Lent occurs on Ash Wednesday, March 2nd. There is an imposition of ashes that reflects humility, repentance, and even our own mortality. It’s a reminder that we have a need for a Savior! Lent is a time determined by the Church for reflection, preparation, and participation. Throughout Lent, we focus on growing in our faith and devotion while also determining to repent. We participate in practices over 40 days such as fasting, prayer, increased reading of Scripture, and increased giving (sometimes referred to as almsgiving). When we participate in Lent, with a seeking and repentant heart, we draw near to our Lamb of God, Jesus Christ. I invite you to prayerfully consider participating in Lenten practices this year. Take the time, and experience the new life that Christ offers. I invite you to journal about your experiences through Lent and consider sharing your reflections and experiences with your faith family. March is ushering in Lent, “In like a Lion, and out like a Lamb,” and we remember that Jesus continues to be for us the Lion and the Lamb! Praise be to God!
Shalom,
Pastor Sherry
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