Sunday morning I woke up to a light dusting of snow. The Sandia mountains were beautiful, with what looked like a sprinkling of sugar atop the mountains. And now we have reached the 70's! Warm sunshine and signs of spring are here!
Lent is one of those times of which I have found memories. Even when I was much younger - a child - I can remember how I looked forward to Lent. It was always a thrill to "give up" something for Lent, like chocolate or soda pop! When Easter Day finally came I would return to that which I gave up.
I am much older now and view things differently. If I give up something for Lent is more around giving up something that gets in the way with me living the life God has blessed me with. In the past years some of the "things" I have given up include worrying too much, fretting over things I can't change, and the need to try and be perfect.
I focus more of my energy during Lent in "taking something on" such as extra prayer time, more times of silence or giving myself the gift of a retreat. I can't help but wonder if God prefers we take on something that will strengthen our faith journey than our sacrifice of giving up chocolate or those wonder Dr. Pepper Soda's I enjoy.
Lent calls each of us to "do something" that will assist us in our faith journey. There is no right or wrong way to embrace Lent. We can choose to sacrifice, take on something, or do nothing special, the invitation to new life is open to all. A new life which frees us from the fear, worry and stress that are so prevalent in our culture.
It will soon be time to put on our Easter clothes, claiming the power of that first Easter morning which is still in our world today. It is a power that enables each one of us to overcome the obstacles and struggles we all face. Lent prepares us to make that journey to the empty tomb and discover instead new life.
Come, let us go together and experience all the possibilities around us!
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