"Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled."
Matthew 5:6
How do we hunger for righteousness? Readers are given a fresh opportunity to reconsider the words of scripture and liturgy from a modern perspective as they explore the familiar traditions and practices of Lent, Holy Week, and Easter. Farag Mikhail presents stories of modern and ancient Christian heroes - some familiar, others less well-known - who come alive in a contemporary and relatable way, as readers prepare for, and participate in the spiritual practices of Lent.
With surprising and challenging reflections, familiar concepts of almsgiving, prayer, fasting, repentance, reading of Scripture, forgiveness, and pilgrimage are given fresh insight. Questions at the end of each chapter prompt thoughtful actions to enhance the Lenten journey and invite the reader to draw closer to God and share the love of Christ with their neighbors.
Readers searching for a lively and invigorating way to rededicate themselves to the spiritual journey of Lent, are treated to a captivating blend of biblical truths and cultural context. Farag Mikhail offers historical and theological insights to apply to our everyday lives as we prepare our hearts to celebrate the Resurrection.
Lent is practiced by Christians in many church communions and traditions because we all draw from the same well, and the well is deep and wide. Where I am able, I reference many of these traditions in this book, but the one I know best is the Coptic Orthodox tradition, and so I draw upon this one the most. I hope that readers unfamiliar with the Coptic Orthodox tradition find stories, practices and perspective that enrich their own liturgical traditions. -Chapter 1, Hunger for Righteousness.
