Lenten Reflections: from the Desert to the Resurrection

Publisher Marketing: This book is written for those among us who have weathered life's storms, yet sense a nagging emptiness in their spiritual well-being. Lenten Reflections: From the Desert to the Resurrection is written for those of us who want to be more spiritual. It is divided into four parts. Part One sets the framework for a treatment of the study of our salvation. It is devoted to the historical roots of Lent, its purpose, and its theology. To that end, this section also provides the reader with an overview of the creation story, a discussion of evil and sin, and a summary of the Trinity and the incarnation. Part Two sets the stage for an initial reflection on Lent, while Part Three introduces the disciplines needed to successfully pass through the desert to spiritual wholeness. Four seminal questions are posed: Where are we? What are we? Who are we? Why are we? Answers to these questions set the stage for what many spiritual masters call the purgative way, in which the Twelve-Step Program of Alcoholic Anonymous is suggested as a framework to one's first steps into spiritual wholeness. At some point in their spiritual journey, the reader moves into what these same spiritual masters call the illuminative and unitive ways. Part Four is entitled "The Agony and Exultation." Here, we join Jesus on the road to Calvary, where he is crucified. We know a mysterious joy as he rises from the tomb. We end our reflections with his departure from his disciples, the coming of the Paraclete, and a new understanding of the meaning behind Jesus' sacrifice and life on earth.