Mosaiek Church Lent 2025: Jesus' Questions in SufferingSample

“But what about you?” he asked. “Who do you say I am?” Peter answered, “You are the Messiah.”

-Mark 8:29 (NIV)

In a culture that emphasises achievement and success, it is easy to believe that we must earn God’s love through good behaviour, religious practices, or moral perfection. This achievement-based image of God leaves us feeling exhausted, worn out, and distant from Him. Jesus reminds us that God’s love and grace are freely given, not something we have to earn. Hence Jesus’ words: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28).

We are encouraged to reflect on our image of God as it relates to achievement. Do we believe that God loves us only when we “make it,” or do we trust that His grace is available even in our failures or suffering? As Jesus asks us, “Who do you say that I am?” we are called to respond by affirming, “You are the gracious God who loves me unconditionally.” Lent offers the opportunity to leave behind the pressure of achievement and rest in the truth of God’s grace. Our spiritual practices, such as fasting, prayer, and repentance, are not ways to earn God's favour - they are ways to draw closer to Him and experience His love more fully.

Reflection: Do you see God's love as something you have to earn? How has this affected your relationship with Him? How can you experience God's grace more deeply during Lent, and what practices can help you embrace His unconditional love?

Prayer: Lord, help me to be deeply aware of the true image of God.