For some of us, the observance of Lent is a regular part of our faith. But for others, it might seem void of meaning - maybe an ancient ritual utterly disconnected from life in the here and now. "What does that have to do with us?" I understand the question. And that’s why slowing down and taking time to incorporate Lenten practices is so important for us all.
The meaning of Lent
Lent’s true meaning goes far beyond mere tradition. It is a profound spiritual practice that invites believers to deepen their faith and experience a transformative journey.
And at the culmination of Lent’s 40 days lies the powerful event of Jesus Christ’s resurrection - a moment that signifies God’s approval of His sacrifice and our ultimate welcome, by faith, into His family. For as the apostle Paul wrote: “… if Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins… But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead” (1 Corinthians 15v17, 20).
Why does the resurrection matter? Because Jesus Christ bore all our sins on the cross and then, once He had paid the price that our failures demand, His Father raised Him up to new life, testifying that we are forgiven, welcomed and counted perfect before Him. And so, we celebrate Christ’s ceaseless life and our absolute peace with God through Him.
Yes, Easter is a time to celebrate. But, before we get there, I'd argue it's beneficial for us to walk through a time of self-inflicted deprivation and suffering, to learn to lament.
Again, in learning to lament, we discipline our hearts and minds to remember the cornerstone of our faith: the resurrection.
During Lent we train our minds and bodies to focus on Jesus and the authentic joy of communion with Him and with our neighbours.
Why we should choose to observe Lent
Lent helps us to see what brings real life, while we turn away from deceptive distractions that might lull us into thinking that there are things - yes, some of them even outwardly good - that promise peace or happiness but fail to deliver.
It’s during Lent that we realise that these other things don’t have the power to satisfy our souls.
And it is also during Lent that we realise that we don’t have the power to save ourselves.
And so, during those 40 days, we learn to lament. We lament our inability to consistently turn from false gods, to follow through on all we say we believe, and to trust wholly in Jesus.
And then, at the end of this season of lamentation, we get to celebrate all that He accomplished for us.
So, here is the choice before you. I am hoping that you’ll choose to observe Lent this year and in doing so remember that it is not just about giving something up for a few weeks. It is about gaining a deeper understanding of ourselves, of God’s love and grace, and remembering why Jesus’ resurrection is the one truth that transforms all else.
