On a sabbath day in the synagogue at Nazareth, Jesus read these words from Isaiah: “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to bring good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim release to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to let the oppressed go free, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor” (Luke 4:18-19). Jesus embodies this mission in the Gospel of Luke as he loves, teaches, heals, seeks out, and includes all people—regardless of social status, ethnicity, culture, gender, age, ability, or vocation. Flouting the social customs and barriers of that time (and sometimes his disciples’ advice), he responds to those who want healing, welcomes time with children, shows great regard for women, shares meals with “unsavory” characters, and seeks out people who have lost their way. No limits, no restrictions, no boundaries—not even death—can stop Christ’s love and grace for all people.
Grace Unbounded: Devotions for Lent 2022 provides a scripture text, evocative image, quotation to ponder, reflection, and prayer for each day from Ash Wednesday (March 2) through the Resurrection of Our Lord/Vigil of Easter (April 16). The scripture texts all come from Luke, the focus for 2022 (year C in the Revised Common Lectionary), giving readers an opportunity to become better acquainted with this gospel and its memorable stories and parables of Jesus.
Distribute copies of Grace Unbounded in your congregation and encourage people to begin or continue the practice of daily Bible reading and prayer. The devotional is available in pocket size, enlarged print, and eBook formats. The pocket size and enlarged print editions can be purchased in bulk.
Writers
Kimberly Knowle-Zeller is a pastor who lives with her family in Cole Camp, Missouri.
Bekki Lohrmann is pastor at St. Peter’s by the Sea Lutheran Church, San Diego, California.
Wilbert “Wilk” Miller is a retired pastor living in Essex, Connecticut.
Priscilla Paris-Austin is pastor at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Seattle, Washington.
Harvard Stephens Jr. is a pastor and musician living in Annapolis, Maryland.
Troy M. Troftgruben is a pastor who serves as associate professor of New Testament and professor of biblical theology at Wartburg Seminary, Dubuque, Iowa.