Christ at the Heart

I love the cover of my most recently published book, Christ Is for Us: A Lenten Study Based on the Revised Common Lectionary. The dusty blue background seems appropriately subdued for Lent without being overly solemn. And the word, “Christ,” stands as a visual focal point just as Christ is at the heart of this series of seven Bible studies.

On the cover, the word, “Christ,” is surrounded by many more words. Bread. Holiness. Love. Messiah. Savior. Salvation. Glory. Emmanuel. Forgiveness. Righteousness. Faith. Sacrifice. Grace. Lord. Each word suggests something more about who Christ is.

Andy Wade, Director of Mustard Seed Associates calls this message of Christ Is for Us “a solid foundation in troubling times.” Christ Is for Us speaks powerfully into the coming season of Lent, into the troubling times that we live in, year round and into every age.

Inside, the book is a wonderful feasting on the Word:

A Place to Begin
(Genesis 2:15-17 3:1-7; Romans 5:12-19; Matthew 41-11)

Faith for the Journey
(Genesis 12:1-4a; Romans 4:1-5, 13-17; John 3:1-17)

Renewed by the Spirit
(Exodus 17:1-7; Romans 5:1-11; John 4:5-42)

A Study in Contrasts
(1 Samuel 16:1-13; Ephesians 5:8-14; John 9:1-41)

Waiting for Resurrection
(Ezekiel 37:1-14; Romans 8:6-11; John 11:1-45)

The Passion of the Christ
(Isaiah 50:4-9a; Philippians 2:5-11; Matthew 27:11-54)

Tributes to Christ Jesus
(Acts 10:34-43; Colossians 3:1-4; Matthew 28:1-10)

Today Christ at the Heart is also a guest on Pause, which is Chris Maxwell’s blog and website. I’ve previously reviewed his Pause series and posted an excerpt from his Pause with Jesus, and if you’re not already familiar with his writing and personal story of faith dealing with a devastating health diagnosis, please do check out Chris Maxwell’s blog and website.

Inspired by Chris’ use of language and the cover of my new book, here is my prose poem, Christ Is for Us:

The Bread of the world,

who nourishes

and strengthens us.

Holiness

and Love,

the Messiah

long promised.

The Savior

who brings

Salvation

and reigns

in Glory.

Emmanuel,

God-with-us,

Forgiveness

and Righteousness,

who calls us to Faith,

whose Sacrifice

breaks open

Grace.

____________________

Writing/Reflection Prompt: What is your experience of Christ Is for Us?

Order Christ Is for Us from your regular book store, or from one of the following for paperback, large print, and e-book formats:

Amazon

Barnes & Noble

Cokesbury

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