Return

 

We are in the midst of the season of Lent, when we ought to be reflecting on the circumstances leading up to Jesus’ sacrificial death upon the cross at Calvary and His resurrection.

Beloved, Lent is a time for you to return to Jesus just as you are, broken and lost and failing at faith. He is certainly not expecting you to come spiritually perfect, without flaws but desires an honest reencounter.

In this regard, allow me to share a reflection that is not my own but was written by Revd Mark Robinson and Revd Dr. Tessa Henry-Robinson.

Turning and Trust

Scripture: Joel 2:12–13

“Even now,” declares the Lord “return to me with all your heart, with fasting and weeping and mourning. “Even now,” declares the Lord, “return to me with all your heart, with fasting and weeping and mourning.” Rend your heart and not your garments. Return to the Lord your God, for God is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in love. Rend your heart and not your garments. Return to the Lord your God, for God is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in love.

Reflection

Let us return to God with honesty and openness. God seeks hearts shaped by love, justice, and mercy. Turning toward God means releasing patterns that damage life and choosing ways that restore relationship. God’s compassion meets people in truth and leads communities toward healing and renewal. Lent continues as a journey of returning — grounded in grace and shaped by the faithful love of God.

 

Prayer

God of compassion and truth, 

Turn my heart toward you. 

Loosen what binds me to harm.

Deepen what grows love and justice.

Teach me to walk in your ways

With courage and humility ~ Amen.

Invitation

Place your hand over your heart.

Breathe slowly.

Say quietly:

“God, I am returning to you.”