The season of Lent is marked by the discipline of self-denial. Just this morning on the radio I heard two broadcasters discussing what one of them should give up – coffee, sweets, or meat? Some give up things in an effort to be healthier, some give up things for the challenge of it, some give up things because everyone else seems to be doing it. At its core, however, the season of Lent is a journey back to God.
When we read the words of the prophet Joel, it is easy to focus on the fasting, weeping, and mourning the Lord asks of his people. These are practices associated with repentance, attitudes that are expected of us during this time. But these practices are empty if they do not turn us back to God. The Lord's first words are, “Even now, return to me...rend your hearts, not your garments and return to the Lord, your God.” This is an invitation from the Lord God to return, to once again be recipients of his loving kindness.
The self-denial of Lent is meant to open up space in our lives and in our hearts for God to speak, work, and move. By emptying our lives of things that we regularly enjoy, we are saying no to the world, and yes to God; we are accepting the invitation to return. Unfortunately, many will wonder about the rules of Lent, concerning themselves more with perfecting the rite, than perfecting the relationship. Those same broadcasters from this morning discussed whether or not Fruit Loops were considered sweets since they are technically a breakfast cereal.
It is similar rule keepers that Christ addresses when he teaches on giving alms, praying, and fasting. The hypocrites, as he calls them, have become slaves to themselves, so guilt ridden about doing all the right things that they do them all wrong. I believe their position can be summarized by this quote from Henri Nouwen:
“There is an awareness of sin that does not lead to God but to self-preoccupation. Our temptation is to be so impressed by our sins and failings and so overwhelmed by our lack of generosity that we get stuck in a paralyzing guilt. It is the guilt that leads to introspection instead of directing our eyes to God. It is the guilt that has become an idol and therefore a form of pride. Lent is the time to break down this idol and to direct our attention to our loving Lord.”
In this season of Lent, I do encourage you to deny yourself one of life's pleasures. Coffee, sweets, facebook, or music – whatever it is that would help create space for God in your life. But let us not become preoccupied with selflessness during this time of denial, but on the loving God who invites us to return to him.
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