In this midweek Lenten sermon, Rev. David Buchs walks through the sobering story of King Saul in 1 Samuel 15 to show us, in vivid detail, what repentance is not. Saul’s half-hearted obedience, excuses, and self-justification reveal how easily religious activity can replace a truly listening heart—and how dangerous a hardened conscience can become. Yet this is not merely a cautionary tale. The story ultimately points us to Jesus Christ, the true King who obeyed the Father perfectly and bore the consequences of sin He never committed, so that sinners might be restored by grace. This sermon invites hearers to honest repentance, confident not in sacrifice or performance, but in Christ’s mercy and obedience on our behalf. Midweek Lent Worship – February 25, 2026 Grace Lutheran Church, Little Rock, Arkansas Key themes include: • The difference between outward religion and true repentance • How pride and excuses harden the heart • Why God desires obedience flowing from faith • Jesus as th...