Lent As A Cleansing Agent

One of the many disciplines that emerge from having your house up for sale is that it has to be kept clean and devoid of clutter so that if/when it is shown to prospective buyers they don't turn their noses up in disgust. 

So over the past several months, I have done just that.  I clean my house regularly, make sure there is not a scrap of clutter, and I also put a lot of air fresheners around the place so that it not only looks clean but smells that way, too.  

In the end, I've grown to like this way of living.  I have discovered I don't need a lot of things that I thought I used to need.  I like it when my house is neat, orderly, and pleasant.  

The other day, I came across a quote from N.T. Wright, as I was reading devotionals about Lent. It resonated with me, and I wanted to share and reflect on it. 

N.T. Wright writes: 

"Lent is a time for discipline, for confession, for honesty, not because God is mean or fault-finding or finger-pointing but because he wants us to know the joy of being cleaned out, ready for all the good things he now has in store." 

This powerful statement invites us to immerse ourselves in the spirit of renewal and hope that Lent offers.

During Lent, we are called to release the burdens and distractions that keep us from the fullness of life God desires. It is a period for introspection, where we can confront our shortcomings, recognize our vulnerabilities, and sincerely seek to realign ourselves with our higher purpose. 

As David proclaimed in Psalm 51:10, “Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me,” we are encouraged to ask God for transformation. This heartfelt plea reminds us that cleansing is not merely a passive experience but a direct invitation to actively participate in our spiritual growth.

In our daily lives, it’s all too easy to become bogged down by unhelpful habits, negative thoughts, and behaviors that can lead us away from our true selves. Each day presents us with opportunities to shed what no longer serves us—whether it’s doubt, resentment, or pride. 

Embracing the disciplines of Lent—prayer, fasting, and charitable acts—can help us carve out space within ourselves for healing and clarity, unveiling the joy of being truly free.

This season, let us challenge ourselves to dig deeper. Reflect on the areas in your life that need cleansing. What negative patterns do you need to let go of? Which thoughts hinder your growth? 

Commit to practicing honesty and discipline, not out of fear or obligation, but from a place of love and anticipation for what God has in store for you. 

As we journey through Lent, may we open our hands to release what weighs us down and embrace the renewed hearts that await us on the horizon.

May we learn to keep a holy Lent by letting ourselves be cleansed and cleared out of all that keeps us from drawing closer to Jesus.  And may the grace and peace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with us all, now and forever. Amen.