The second covenant in this year’s Lenten readings is the one made with Abraham and Sarah: God’s promise to make them the ancestors of many. Paul says this promise comes to all who share Abraham’s faith in God. We receive this promise in baptism. Just as Sarah and Abraham receive new names as a sign of the covenant, and we too get new identities in baptism, as we take on the name Christian. Our baptism is a promise but also a call – a call to “take up our cross and follow” Jesus as he invites. Jesus’ words about the cross are tough, but viewed through the lens of the resurrection’s triumphant love, perhaps it is tough love. Join us on Sunday as Deacon Bri helps us explore The Triumphant Love of Lent!
Image: Crucifixion Crosses in Old City of Jerusalem, Israel by Rafael Ben-Ari/age footstock. Copyright © 2022 Superstock. Used by permission.