In the rhythm of the church calendar year, we come across a period of reflection called, Lent. Most folks think that Lent is simply a season of “giving up something” instead of a time of “giving to someone.” In reality, it is both and much more for the follower of Jesus.
Lent was designed for those who want to be free. Free from the strongholds of prestige, pleasure, and power. Free from the need to hide our imperfections, and free from our need to seek the approval of other imperfect people. Lent is designed so that we can come face to face with truth, about ourselves and our God. Truth simply means “unhidden.” The word conveys rawness and a radical foundation.
So what are we giving up in Lent? We are giving up the false self, the mask we wear day in and day out so that people will think what we want them to think about us. We are giving up the need to look good, feel good, be in control, or be always right. Lent is way more than giving up chocolate for forty days or even your favorite Starbucks blend. But Lent is even more than giving up something.
Lent is always giving to someone. Lent is a time of reconciliation with our creator, redeemer, savior, and best friend. Lent is a recognition that I cannot live this life on my own and that I am fully alive when I am fully connected to the one who created me. Lent is saying “yes” to God.
I love to say this Celtic prayer, especially during Lent. It has helped me give up my false self and give to my Savior:
“I bind my mind to the mind of Christ. I bind my will to the will of Christ. I bind my emotions to the emotions of Christ. I bind my desires to the desires of Christ. I bind my affections to the affections of Christ. I bind my feet to the paths of Christ. I bind my hands to the works of Christ. I bind my mouth to the words of Christ. I bind my ears to the written Words of Christ. I bind my eyes to the vision of Christ. I bind my character to the truth of Christ. I bind my heart to the love of Christ. Amen.”
In the opening prayer, called a “collect” in our Anglican tradition, it states that all our secrets are known by God. Lent is a time where we see us as God sees us – imperfect, yes, but worthwhile to be saved and a partner for his vision in the world.
For the Kingdom, a church for the sake of others, Tony+