Lent can too easily become a negative season, viewed by Christians as concerned with sin and judgement, and by those outside of the Church as associated with holier-than-thou attitudes and a general sanctimonious piety. In my view, such understandings could hardly be more misplaced, for the overriding message of this season is one of forgiveness offered through the love of God. As the following session, taken from my book Daily Prayer 1 explores, Lent calls, above all, for a positive response to the good news at its heart.
Read
If, with Christ, you died to the elemental spirits of the universe, why do you live as if you still belonged to the world? Why do you submit to regulations, ‘Do not handle, Do not taste, Do not touch’? All these regulations refer to things that perish with use; they are simply human commands and teachings. These have indeed an appearance of wisdom in promoting self-imposed piety, humility, and severe treatment of the body, but they are of no value in checking self-indulgence. So if you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth. Colossians 2:20-3:2 (NRSV)
Ponder
What does the season of Lent mean to you? What sort of ideas does it conjure up in your mind? For many, it is associated with giving something up: an opportunity, perhaps, to kick that unwanted habit, go at last on that long-intended diet, or deny oneself those unnecessary extra luxuries. All such acts of discipline have their place, as the teaching of Jesus concerning taking up our cross makes clear, but they give a very one-sided view of Lent, for, if anything, it should be about taking something on; committing yourself, in the words of Jesus, to going the extra mile.
That doesn’t mean taking work on for work’s sake, or looking for extra duties, demands and responsibilities. Rather, it is about resolving to follow Christ more faithfully, determined to give him our whole-hearted discipleship. It might mean more disciplined devotion, perhaps more practical service, maybe more effective witness or possibly the offering of previously unused gifts. Whatever it is, it is more than giving something up; it is primarily giving something back to the one who gave us his all. Consider today what Christ has done for you; then ask what you can do for him, and use Lent as an opportunity to respond.
Ask yourself
What will your response to Lent be? Will you give something up in a gesture of self-denial, or will you look to take something on that will help you to grow in faith?
Pray
Living God, forgive me that, too easily, I slip into a faith of negatives, imagining that you are more concerned with what I shouldn’t do than what I should. Teach me that although there is a very real place for self-denial there is also a place for affirming and celebrating life in all its fullness. Help me, then, to use this coming season of Lent as a time to grow and learn, to deepen my faith and strengthen my commitment; above all, a time to make more room for you, so that you can work in my life and enrich my experience of your love. Through Jesus Christ my Lord. Amen.
Remember
Let love be authentic; abhor what is evil, cling to that which is good; reciprocate each other’s affection; outshine one another in showing honour. Do not drag behind in showing enthusiasm, but be fervent in spirit and serve the Lord. Exult in hope, be long-suffering in affliction and be steadfast in prayer. Give generously to the needs of the saints; offer hospitality to strangers. Romans 12:9-13
Close
Lord Jesus Christ, teach me to take up my cross, but also to celebrate your gift of new life. Amen.