Keeping a Holy Lent

I'm not very good at giving things up for Lent.  I have tried in the past, but it has never ended well.  Once, I tried to give up coffee for Lent, an idea born out of some misguided thought that I should suffer throughout my Lenten journey. 

I suffered for three days, and then decided that I'd had enough.  Then I felt guilty for giving in, but even that faded as my headache from a lack of caffeine dissipated and I could once more be around people without wanting to scream at them.  

I've learned that if our plan is to suffer during Lent, it's not a great motivator.  So that's why I have added things to my life as a Lenten practice, rather than taking things away.  

Interestingly, by adding things to my life, some things naturally fall away, and typically those are things that I was spending too much time on in the first place.  

All of this has caused me to reflect on what it means to take up life-giving things for Lent, and how that might be a much better approach to keeping a holy Lent, and discovering more about what it means to follow Christ.  

We need to realize that as we begin another Season of Lent, we enter a profound opportunity for reflection, renewal, and spiritual growth. This season invites us to contemplate what we may wish to give up and actively embrace transformative practices that can deepen our faith and connection to God. It is a time steeped in introspection, penance, and hope.

At the heart of our Lenten practice lies prayer. In these quiet moments spent conversing with the Divine, we find the strength to confront our shortcomings and the courage to embark on a path of renewal. Henri Nouwen encapsulates this sentiment beautifully: “The great thing about prayer is that it brings us into the center of our being, where we can discover who we truly are.” 

These sacred moments allow us to reflect on our lives, seek clarity, and cultivate gratitude, helping us recognize the blessings surrounding us even amid trials.

Another essential practice during Lent is embracing generosity. This season challenges us to extend our hearts beyond ourselves and appreciate the needs of others. Consider volunteering time or resources to those in need through community service or simple acts of kindness. 

Richard Rohr emphasizes the power of this spiritual discipline: “Generosity is the only antidote for division in our world today.” By focusing on generosity, we align our actions with the essence of Christ, nurturing connection and love within our communities.

In addition, carving out quiet time is crucial for our Lenten journey. In a world that often overwhelms us with noise and distractions, we risk overlooking the importance of stillness. 

Make it a priority to set aside regular moments for contemplation and reflection, allowing the din of everyday life to recede. These quiet intervals can serve as fertile ground for deeper understanding, revealing the areas in our lives that require healing and growth.

Finally, repentance plays a significant role in this sacred season. It challenges us to confront our imperfections and the desires that lead us astray. Yet, through repentance, we discover the freedom of acknowledging our flaws. It is an invitation to start anew, embracing growth and hope rather than fear and shame.

As we navigate the Season of Lent, let us not merely focus on what we are giving up but also embrace the spiritual disciplines that can renew and transform us. 

By committing to prayer, practicing generosity, engaging in quiet contemplation, and accepting repentance, we open ourselves to God's profound grace. May this season cultivate a deeper faith, drawing us closer to our true selves and the heart of Christ.

And may the grace and peace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with us all, now and forever. Amen.