The season of Lent, which begins on Feb. 9th, calls Christians to make a 40 day journey with Jesus to Jerusalem and Holy Week (the 40 days are the days between Feb. 9th and March 27th [Easter] – minus the Sundays – or “little Easters”). Historically, it’s been a time of penitence. The practice of “giving up” something (e.g. candy, movies) is meant to be a sacrificial reminder of our walk with Jesus. In recent years, some people have “taken on” something for Lent (giving or serving in some specific capacity) in hopes of a more positive emphasis for the season. The important thing is that, as with everything in our faith, the focus is NOT meant to be on me-and-Jesus, but to have a communal aspect. Living in a time of such war and violence, when insatiable greed trumps desperate human need, we are called as followers of the Prince of Peace to be concerned with the well-being of ALL God’s children. That means continuing to work for peace and justice here and across the globe. So whether we give something up or take something on, or both, we keep the social dimension of our discipleship foremost – caring for the “least of these, Christ’s sisters and brothers.” This Lent may our journey bear fruit in acts of compassion and hope. Shalom, Maureen |
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Pastor's Corner