Suffering is where transformation begins! What does that have to do with Lent?

Many of us approach Lent thinking about what we have to give up. But what if Lent isn’t mainly about loss… but about what God wants to build within us?

In this episode, we explore the deeper meaning of penance, suffering, and the desert season of Lent. Why does the Church begin with ashes and words about death? How does penance actually train the heart? And why does every sacrifice ultimately point toward resurrection?

Journal Questions:

1. Where in my life right now feels like a desert, and how might God be inviting me to encounter Him there rather than escape it?
2. What comfort, habit, or attachment might God be asking me to surrender so He can build something deeper in me?
3. If resurrection always follows the cross, what “new life” might God be preparing in me through this season?

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Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our home page.

Draw Near Theme © Fred Shellabarger & Kara Kardell

Thank you for listening to Draw Near. Before beginning, start with this short "trailer" of what Draw Near is about, why Fred and Kara chose this name, and the goal of this podcast.

Let's grow together.

BJ and Kara go on a date, and they invite you to listen in.

This week on Draw Near, Kara is joined by a very special guest: her husband, BJ!! Join a recorded at-home date centered on one of the most important (and challenging) aspects of marriage: communication.

The date follows one of the intentional at-home dates from Draw Near's soon-to-be-released marriage resource, Near to You, a collection of ten guided dates designed to help married couples draw nearer to God and to one another at any stage of marriage.

Set at the kitchen table (in sweats, with homemade cocktails), Kara and BJ invite you into a relaxed evening that includes prayer, Scripture, reflection, meaningful conversation, and a goofy game to close the night. Along the way, they talk honestly about how communication styles develop over time, how conflict and silence can affect intimacy, and how words or actions can become instruments of love within marriage.

Whether you’re newly married, years into marriage, or simply curious about building a healthy faith-filled relationship, this episode offers encouragement, honesty, and practical ideas you can bring into your own relationship.

For more information on this resource or to Pre-Order "Near to You" today CLICK HERE!

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Click here to become a patron! Patrons are essentially "sponsors" and co-producers or Draw Near as it could not happen without them.

Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our home page.

Draw Near Theme © Fred Shellabarger & Kara Kardell