This is an excerpt from the introduction of Stretched: A Study for Lent and the Entire Christian Life by Christopher Richmann (1517 Publishing, 2026).
We can bring our troubles, griefs, sorrows, and sins to Jesus, who meets us smack dab in the middle of our messy mob.
Confession isn’t a detour in the liturgy. It’s the doorway.

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As Luther said, “Our Lord has written the promise of the resurrection not in books alone, but in every leaf of spring.”
Church historians attempt to determine why Melanchthon made those controversial decisions.
The Lord’s Prayer is liturgy and catechism, action and instruction, praxis and theology.
Prayer is not just about asking for things. It's about receiving what has already been given to us in Christ.
Praying the Word of God back to God carries didactic import. It teaches us.
The Lord’s prayer is a prayer in perfect accord with the will of God, and Jesus gifts it to us to plagiarize at will.
A father's struggle to pray for his child's healing is one of the most difficult experiences he can face.
Dear hearers of the word of God, you are finished. You cannot be the same now. All that is ended, over.
By mandating the promise, Christ states something stronger than just an invitation.
Maundy Thursday is your big night. For the Passover Lamb is given for you, given to you.
What is undoubtedly true, however, is that St. Peter wasn’t left outside. He wasn’t left weeping. He was restored, as am I, as are you.
If the season of Lent is a journey, Holy Week is the destination.