How to walk like Jesus

It seems like we just put away the Christmas decor, got into the swing of our New Year's Resolutions, then, as they say, Easter comes early this year. Along with Easter comes Lent, and even though it sounds mighty early, Lent will begin on Feb. 10. Lent is 40 days before Easter, or one-tenth of the year, like a tithe of time, spanning from Feb. 10 to March 27, Easter Sunday.

In many faiths, Lent begins with Ash Wednesday and ends with Holy Saturday. Sundays are not included in the six weeks of Lent as they represent mini-Easters. The word Lent is derived from the Anglo-Saxon word "lencten," meaning Spring. Mardi Gras translated from French means Fat Tuesday and is the day before Lent. It is the feasting and partying just prior to the fasting and preparation of Lent.

Some faiths observe Lent as a time of giving up, whether it be candy, meat or worrying. Others observe it as a time of stepping forward and doing something, like volunteering, tutoring, writing thank you letters to show gratitude, or being of service to others. Even attending a class to expand your Lenten consciousness, or a class that offers new insights into your own spirituality, can be beneficial. 

Rev. Joanne Rowden of Unity Spiritual Center of Westlake is teaching a dynamic 4-week class during Lent that will empower your spirit. Four short weeks, or eight hours, to "Do Greater Things Following in Jesus' Footsteps," beginning Sunday, Feb. 28 through Sunday, March 20, from 1 to 3 p.m.

Do you have to fast for 40 days like Jesus did, or are there other ways to strengthen your own spirituality? Do you ever wonder how Jesus prayed, or what type of prayers his disciples said? Do you recognize your very own God-given gifts, and once you do, are they used to benefit only yourself, or do you gift others? Topics touched upon are the power of vision, the power to change, the power of gratitude, and forgiving like Jesus did.

Join senior Minister Joanne Rowden in this transformational journey to understand Jesus, Lent and Easter in ways you never thought of before. The required book is the same title as the class, "Do Greater Things..." and is available in Unity's bookstore. A suggested free will offering of $10 per class. For more information, call 440-835-0400 or email unityinfo@unityspiritualcenter.com. This enlightening workshop will be held at Unity Spiritual Center, 23855 Detroit Road. All faiths are welcome.