Naomi's Notes - 02/15/09
Ash Wednesday, February 25th, marks the beginning of Lent 2009. Our services will not necessarily focus on Lenten themes, but for six weeks leading towards Resurrection Sunday (April 12th) we will observe a Lenten Moment during each of our 10:30 a.m. worship services.
Lent is similar to Advent in that both are dark periods on the church calendar culminating in joyous celebration—Easter Sunday or Christmas Day. Beyond those similarities, however, Advent and Lent are quite different.
Recently I came across a quote from John A. Brewer that characterizes some of the difference:
In the sense that Advent is about 'anticipation,' Lent is about 'realization.' Grasping the existential reality of Jesus' suffering and passion, and knowing that his compassionate acts of sacrifice were personal, can be life-changing for the Lenten pilgrim. Lent is not about the future, as is the case of Advent. It is not about the past, either. Lent is about the personal impact Jesus is having on our life and behavior, right here, right now.
Our weekly Lenten Moments will highlight our corporate pilgrimage together as a church family during Lent. However, the real intent of this season is to have a personal, individual Lenten pilgrimage.
Some have described Lent as a spiritual "spring cleaning" or "state of the union" for the soul. It is a time to examine our lives in relationship to God, our Creator. It is a time to ask tough questions about ourselves, weeding out as much laziness, bitterness, envy, pride, greed, etc. as we can and being open to having God transform us into better, happier human beings.
Christians certainly are not required to observe Lent, but for those who choose to follow the six-week process of "taking their spiritual temperature," the rewards are greatly fulfilling. Just remember that no one is required to plant, tend, and fertilize tulip bulbs during cold weather...but those who do are glad they did!
"Purer in Heart, O God, Help me to be;
May I devote my life Wholly to Thee:
Watch Thou my wayward feet,
Guide me with counsel sweet;
Purer in Heart, Help me to be."
See you in worship this Sunday -
Naomi