Leaning in
As we lean into Lent, we’re invited to increase our attunement to our own mortality and meditate on the sufferings of Christ. But sometimes, even just our own human frailty can yield spiritual insight. Amy White Ziegler invites us to consider the gift of stillness — something she became intimately connected with during a rough bout with pneumonia a few years ago.
“There was nothing to plan; each day was the same, one long blur of lying on the couch, staring at a ceiling fan. But during those interminable days I learned that life goes on without me.”
March has begun, and that means it’s time to celebrate Women’s History Month! Let’s start off by highlighting a few particularly remarkable women whose stories inspire us to live better and more faithful lives.
“From 8th century Germany to 19th century Pennsylvania, these women lived with a boldness and dedication to Christ that made a mark on the world around them. What good things might God have for us to do in this time, in these days?”
You’re Invited!
Join us for Weekly Prayer. Click here for more information.
Join us for a conversation with Gordon T. Smith! Even if you haven’t participated in our book club on Your Calling Here and Now, we hope you’ll join us for a live discussion with the author himself on March 15. Register here.
Women’s History Month sale at InterVarsity Press. As part of their Women’s History Month celebration, IVP is offering 30% off select books by women authors. If you check out the list, you’ll find a number of authors who have been featured previously on podcasts (like this one and this one and this one) or in written articles (like this one and this one and this one). So dive into some good books — free US shipping is included!
It’s not too late to join The Franciscan Way for Lent! This season of Lent, walk the way of the cross with Francis and Clare of Assisi as our guides. Each week, you will be invited to take a walk in your neighborhood for an hour while listening to an audio guide that features stories, prayer practices, and space for reflection. You’ll receive a Lenten devotion and be invited to participate in several online gatherings of prayer and reflection including a short Ash Wednesday prayer service on February 22. Sign up now!
Four More Things We Loved This Week
“I used to write my name in it every time I read the book. I probably had 10 signatures there.” This podcast conversation about Madeleine L’Engle’s A Wrinkle in Time highlights one woman’s very personal experience and the book’s appeal for many of us.
Are you still looking for a Lenten practice? This online devotional from Biola is an annual tradition for many, combining Scripture, art, music, poetry, and reflection. (Check out this lovely meditation from March 1 with English professor Dr. Maria Su Wang.)
Did we create fewer memories during the pandemic? Some say that this phenomenon has had an effect on our conception of time.