What's New in the Learning Center: Lenten Studies
Two new titles and possible study books to use during Lent are featured this week.
Easter from the Backside by J. Ellsworth Kalas
Author of the popular Backside series, J. Ellsworth Kalas opens up new possibilities of insight into the biblical Easter story. The author looks beyond the traditional gospel scriptures to connect the story of Christ’s resurrection with other stories and scriptures throughout the Bible, including both the Old Testament and the New Testament. Kalas's creative approach both clarifies basic teachings and introduces new possibilities of meaning, even for those most familiar with the Easter story. Enriched with contemporty illustratinos and personal experiences, this volume will provide new perspectives on Easter.
Chapter titles and Scriptures include: “Why We Need Easter” (Genesis 3:1-7, 22-24); “Easter from an Ash Heap” (Job 19:13-27); “Easter for the Disillusioned” (Ecclesiastes 2:14-26); “Ezekiel Celebrates Easter” (Ezekiel 37:1-10); “Easter Is a Love Story” (John 20:1-18); “Late for Easter” (1 Corinthians 15:1-11); and “Forever Easter” (Revelation 21:1-4).
Forty Days of Fruitful Living: Practicing a Life of Grace by Robert Schnase
Author of Five Practices of Fruitful Living, Robert Schnase guides the individual or small group through daily readings designed to inspire and encourage. Perfect for use during Lent either as an individual devotion or as part of a study group, Forty Days of Fruitful Living will help cultivate the essential practices of a life lived in grace - to receive God's love, to love God in return, to grow in Christ, to serve others, and to give back.
For congregations who would like to distribute daily devotions electronically during the Lenten season, licensing agreements are available through Cokesbury.