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Feb 18, 2026 11:59:59

Prepare Your Heart for Easter

Walk with the Israelites through their liberation and wandering. Each day offers biblical context, reflection questions, and practical discipleship for Lent.

  • Experience the Exodus story in a transformative way

  • Perfect for individuals, couples or small groups

  • Order now to receive before Ash Wednesday (Feb 18)

FAQ

Q: Is this book Catholic, Protestant, or denominational-specific?

A: This devotional is designed to be accessible and meaningful for Christians across denominations who observe Lent. The focus is on the biblical narrative of Exodus with historical context and spiritual insights that transcend denominational boundaries. Whether you're Catholic, Protestant, Anglican, Lutheran, Methodist, Presbyterian, or from another tradition that observes Lent, you'll find this devotional valuable for your spiritual journey.

Q: Can I start this devotional mid-Lent, or do I need to begin on Ash Wednesday?

A: While the devotional is structured to align perfectly with the 40 days of Lent (starting Ash Wednesday), you can absolutely join the journey at any point! Here are a few ways to use it:

  • Join mid-Lent: Simply start wherever Lent currently is in the calendar and read the corresponding day's devotional
  • Start on Ash Wednesday: Follow the traditional 40-day Lenten calendar (Sundays are typically not counted in the 40 days)
  • Use outside of Lent: The devotional works beautifully any time of year as a 40-day journey through Exodus

Customize your pace: Read at your own speed if you prefer a different scheduleRow content

Q: What Bible translation is used in this devotional?

A: The devotional references multiple respected Bible translations to provide clarity and depth, though it primarily draws from widely-used modern translations. You can follow along with whichever Bible translation you prefer—NIV, ESV, NRSV, KJV, NASB, or others.

Q: I've never read the book of Exodus before. Is this devotional still appropriate for me?

A: This devotional is perfect for you! One of its greatest strengths is providing historical context and background that makes Exodus accessible and engaging, even if you're encountering these stories for the first time.

Q: How is this different from other Lenten devotionals?

A: 40 Days: A Lenten Journey Through Exodus" stands out in several key ways:

Unique Focus on Exodus:

  • Most Lenten devotionals focus on the Gospels or generic spiritual topics
  • This takes you through the entire book of Exodus chapter by chapter
  • Explores liberation themes that uniquely prepare you for Easter

Rich Historical Context:

  • Not just surface-level inspiration
  • Provides scholarly background on ancient Near Eastern culture
  • Helps you understand what the original audience experienced

Narrative Journey:

  • Follows a clear story arc through Exodus
  • Builds momentum toward Easter as the Exodus narrative unfolds
  • Story-based rather than topic-based approach

Perfect Lenten Alignment:

  • Exactly 40 days matching the Lenten season
  • Liberation and deliverance themes point toward Christ
  • Wilderness journey mirrors Christ's 40 days of temptation
  • Prepares your heart specifically for Easter celebration

Many readers tell us this devotional gave them fresh eyes for both Exodus and Easter—they'll never read either the same way again.

Q: What if I miss a day or fall behind in the readings?

A: Don't worry—grace is at the heart of the spiritual journey! Here are some approaches if you miss days:

Option 1: Catch Up When You Can

  • Read the missed devotional(s) when you have time
  • Don't stress about "getting behind"—this isn't homework
  • The goal is spiritual growth, not perfect completion

Option 2: Keep Moving Forward

  • Jump to the current day and continue from there
  • Go back to missed days after Easter if desired
  • Focus on consistency going forward rather than past misses

Option 3: Adjust Your Schedule

  • Extend beyond Easter to complete all 40 days
  • Read two devotionals on days when you have more time
  • Create your own 40-day timeline that works for your life

Remember: This devotional is a tool for spiritual growth, not a rigid requirement. God meets you wherever you are in the journey. Missing a day doesn't negate the value of the days you do engage with Scripture and reflection. Show yourself the same grace God extends to you.

Meet the Author

Ben Crismon is an elder in the Arkansas Conference of the United Methodist Church.

He currently serves as the Senior Pastor of St. James United Methodist Church in Little Rock, Arkansas.

Ben lives to connect others to Jesus and specializes in creating healthy church culture and building pathways for Holy Spirit-led discipleship.

He is married to Mary, and together they have one daughter and two sons.

They love to enjoy God's creation together through gardening, hiking, and exercising.

Grow Closer to God This Easter Season

Engage Scripture with daily historical context that brings the text to life

Reflect with thoughtful prompts that connect Scripture to everyday faith

Move through Lent with intention, clarity, and hope

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