As long as I live, Jesus, make me your servant,
to carry your cross and share your burdens and tears.
You saved me by giving your body and blood.
As long as I live, Jesus, make me your servant.
(Lord Jesus, You Shall Be My Song – ELW #808, v. 3)

On Ash Wednesday, I was asked, “What do you do for Lent?”

 

Now, I turn the question to you: What spiritual practices do you engage in for Maundy Thursday?

• • Sharing Holy Communion around a table after a meal
  • Stripping the altar
  • Foot washing
  • Departing in silence

And for Good Friday, what does your spiritual practice include?

• • Reading the Passion narrative
  • Draping the sanctuary in black
  • Abstaining from music
  • No preaching
  • Leaving in silence

As we approach the end of the Lenten journey and enter Holy Week, we reflect on Jesus embracing the role of a servant. He washed the feet of his disciples and gave them a new commandment: to love one another. He carried his cross to the crucifixion site, crying out and laying down his life for our salvation.

Holy Week is filled with reminders that we receive that same call – to love, care for, and serve our neighbors – alongside the disciples. We are reminded of the cost and gift of salvation, where not even the depths of hell could limit the depths of God’s love for humanity, the world, and all of creation.

Our Synod Staff is holding you – Rostered Ministers, worship leaders, worship attendees, visitors, and everyone working behind the scenes – in prayer as you lead your communities through the holy events of this Holy Week.

Holy Week Blessings,
+Bishop Dillahunt and the Southern Ohio Synod Staff