Scripture “The Lord is near the brokenhearted;he saves those crushed in spirit.” Psalm 34:18, (CSB) “Create in me a clean heart, O God,     and renew a right spirit within me. Cast me not away from your presence,     and take not your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of your salvation,     and uphold me with a willing spirit.” Psalm 51:10-12 (ESV) Reflection Lent begins not with striving, but with returning.  I’ll never forget the feeling of leaving Honduras….

The weeks leading up to Easter often pass quickly. Life is full, schedules are crowded, and before we know it, Easter Sunday arrives. Scripture invites us to a different pace. Preparing our hearts before Easter isn’t about observing a religious season—it’s about responding thoughtfully to the Gospel. The Bible repeatedly calls God’s people to pause, reflect, and turn their hearts toward Him. Even more than that, we as a society are so consumed with hurry, busy, and rushing that we…