Step into a time of sacred reflection and anticipation with this year’s Lenten & Easter devotional, An Eternal Kingdom: Prophets, Priests & the Reign of the King. Our theme this year emerges from the collection of passages found throughout daily readings of the church seasons. This devotional provides an opportunity to reflect and meditate on the intimate connection between the Old and New Testaments by way of Jesus Christ, highlighting how our Messiah is present throughout all of Scripture.

How does the Messiah bridge the Testaments, fulfilling ancient prophecies in a new covenant of grace? Through the narratives of Genesis and Exodus, as well as the prophetic writings of Daniel, Zechariah, and others, we encounter humanity in stark truth—flawed yet called for a purpose. However, these sacred histories are not merely records of human failure and sin; they are the backdrop against which God’s grace radiantly shines forth, foreshadowing the redemption that is to be fully revealed in Christ.

Despite these troubles, we glimpse hope into God’s unraveling plan for Israel and all nations—each prophet, priest, and king in Scripture points beyond themselves to a promised Mediator and Advocate, one who will reconcile humanity to God not just for a moment, but for eternity.

This year’s devotional was written by 34 NALC clergy and staff for each day from Ash Wednesday through the second Sunday of Easter. The readings are based upon the daily lectionary provided in the NALC Devoted To Prayer daily prayer and reading guide, which is also an adapted version of the daily lectionary in the Lutheran Book of Worship. PDF copies of this devotional booklet are available for download from the NALC website for printing for individual use or distribution in congregations. For details on how to access the devotional electronically or to receive it as a daily email or text message, please visit thenalc.org/lent.

So, as we journey from Ash Wednesday to Resurrection Sunday, and into the jubilant season of Easter, let us repent, reflect deeply, and prepare to greet the risen Christ with renewed spirits. And may we stand secure in this truth: our high priest, our King, is one who is able “to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who in every respect has been tested as we are, yet without sin” (Hebrews 4:15 NRSV). We are free to draw near to the throne of grace, to the true king, the one that has established His eternal kingdom and us as His kingdom people, forever and ever. Our story is woven into the eternal tapestry Jesus Christ unfurls—where every thread of prophecy, priesthood, and kingship is fulfilled in Him. Thanks be to God!

Read this week’s devotions: