From the Associate Pastor
It’s hard to believe that it is already the season of Lent. Wasn’t it just Christmas? Since Christmas there have been many changes happening in my life—physical changes, emotional changes, career changes. Life has been so busy that for a while, I just wanted to get through the days as quickly as possible. And now here we are, about to begin Lent, a time of self-examination, prayer, fasting, slowing down, waiting, and emerging in new life. I’m not sure that I have time for this. What about you?
Often for Lent, Christians “give up” something in their lives in an effort to remember the sacrifices Jesus made for us. A lot of Christians give up caffeine during Lent (be prepared for grouchier neighbors!) Last year my sister-in-law gave up coffee. She was pregnant at the time so she had already given up caffeine. In doing this, she demonstrated self-discipline and dedication to God. I’m not sure I could have done it.
In order to give up something we must dig deep for the strength and self-discipline to sustain it. It is during these times in our lives that we recognize we can’t do it alone and look for strength from God. And yet, it is during this process of Lent when we forgo something in order to remember the sacrifice that Jesus made. Isn’t it interesting to think of the sacrifices of Lent as a time when we can purposefully turn to God for strength and sustainment? When I think of Lent in these terms, how can I choose not to participate in a deliberate time with God. I invite you to do the same.
Kristen
