Why do Lent? – Mary-Anne Rulfs
Not everyone comes from a Christian tradition that observes Lent.
So it doesn’t hurt to revisit why we Anglicans do observe Lent … even if, as is typically Anglican, there are many and varied ways that we might put our observance of Lent into practice, both in our corporate pattern of worship as well as in our own spiritual practices.
And sometimes it can be handy to have a few words up our sleeves to explain what Lent is to others who may just happen to ask.
Very simply, Lent is a 40-day journey in the Christian tradition that provides an opportunity for us to reflect on our lives: to turn from those things that are selfish and hurtful and break love and trust, and turn towards those things that bring life and wholeness for ourselves and others – things like love, forgiveness, compassion, generosity and respect.
This is what following Jesus looks like: transformation through repentance and renewal. For our own benefit for sure, yet also, importantly, for the benefit of others.
Therefore, Lent can be an intentional season for renewal as we journey with Jesus, remembering Jesus’ own journey towards the cross as he prepared to lay down his life for his friends. Jesus calls us his friends!
We began our Lenten journey on Ash Wednesday, receiving a cross of ash as a symbol of our repentance and of God’s strong love through which God can renew all things.
What happens next?
Some people like to live more simply during Lent by giving up something they don’t need. Maybe chocolate or social media and in their place, putting money aside to help those in greater need. The Anglican Board of Mission Lent and Good Friday appeal is one such opportunity https://www.abmission.org/appeals/ Others take up something new for the benefit of others, such as volunteering or reaching out to people who are lonely or isolated.
I find it helpful to have a focus for reflection during Lent to assist with this journey of renewal. There’s a discipline in taking time each day for quiet reflection that helps grow love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control… the fruit of minds, hearts and souls that are flourishing – becoming more whole. More in the likeness of Jesus.
Recently, someone passed on to me a flyer they picked up during the course of their day. It was simply headed: practicing the presence of God. It listed some poignant questions that I am finding helpful as I prayerfully reflect on scripture and on my life. You might also find these useful during your Lenten journey of reflection, repentance and renewal. They are questions that demand honesty and may challenge your preconceptions. (We all have blind spots!) Questions, that if given time and attention with an open mind and heart, might assist in our renewal. Perhaps take one or two a week …
Practicing the presence of God …
- How are you allowing your character to be transformed into the likeness of Christ?
- How does the pattern of your daily life and decision making align with Jesus’ teaching and example?
- What spiritual disciplines do you engage with to grow in your awareness of God’s presence?
- How are you contributing to the wellbeing and growth of your community?
- Are there areas in your life where you find it difficult to surrender to or align with God’s will? To love God and neighbour as yourself.
- How do you manage the tension between the ‘now, and not yet’ aspects of the kingdom of God?
- How are you seeking to understand scripture in the context of Jesus’ life and teachings?
- How do you balance your inward journey of growing spiritual awareness and understanding with the outward expression of love and service?
Where is God’s presence?
How do I join in what God is already doing in the world?
Being a Christian is not only a solo pursuit. Joining in what God is already doing in the world is a team effort, shared in community. This Lent, let’s encourage one another as we journey towards Easter together. Perhaps there’s someone you haven’t seen around for a while. This might be a good time to reach out to them and invite them to share the journey of repentance and renewal with us. Turning away from things that hold us back from life. And turning towards those things that are life-giving. Everyone is welcome!
Grace and peace,
Mary-Anne