Day 29: The Work of Light
March 18
by Michael Lovett
Readings:
Reflection:
Read today's scriptures, then listen to this reflection HERE.
Today I'd like to encourage you to light a candle for this reading and reflection time.
In the quiet glow of a single flame, we find ourselves in the middle of the Lenten wilderness—a season often defined by what we give up, but truly meant for what we take in.
Our scriptures today bridge a gap between an ancient promise and its living fulfillment. In Isaiah 49, we hear of a "time of favor" and a "day of salvation." God promises to restore the land and feed the hungry, assuring us that even if a mother could forget her nursing child, He will not forget us. God maintains a covenant of unshakable belonging.
Then, in John 5, Jesus startles his listeners by claiming, "My Father is always at his work to this very day, and I too am working." During Lent, we often focus on our own work—our fasting, our repentance, and our efforts to be "better." But Jesus redirects our gaze. The primary work of Lent isn't ours; it is God’s. He is constantly working to move us from death to new life.
This is a moment to take stock. Whether you identify as a follower of Jesus or simply someone seeking to align your life with kindness and truth, ask yourself: What is the "work" happening in me right now?
If you are fasting, let the hunger point you to the one who restores.
If you are grieving sin or failure, look at the palm of the hand where Isaiah says you are engraved.
Lent is not a season of earning favor, but of realizing we already have it.
As the candle burns, let it represent the resurrection life already stirring in the shadows, calling you to step out of the darkness and into the Father's ongoing work of love.
Song:
Father of Lights, Sondae (a London-based artist whose music is often described as "a prayer in Lofi form.")
Content for wisdom and contentment at: urenuf.life
*NEW* Lent 2026 Playlist on Apple Music
Lent 2026 | urenuf.life podcast on Spotify
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