Hi everyone,
So we’re already in Lent! How time flies. It’s just unfortunate that it flies right into Lent…
Of course, I jest. But it’s true that Lent isn’t exactly the favourite season of the year. I mean compared to the other church seasons, Lent just seems… so… well… Lent. The music is a bit more drab, the themes are a bit more somber, and even the weather here on the Wet Coast has added to the general vibe of this somewhat sullen season.
And that’s ok.
Because at the end of this somewhat dark season, is light. After the 5ish weeks of no alleluias, we will sing alleluia heartily. After this time of scarcity and death, will come life.
This isn’t to dump on Lent (or at least more than I already have), but what I’m saying is that this rough season is necessary for us to see the joy at the end. Our fasting and giving up of something helps us to more appreciate our abundant blessing. Knowing that we aren’t perfect and fall into hardship allows us to better see how gracious and welcoming God’s healing love is.
And so, Lent can be welcomed. Embraced, even. It doesn’t have to be liked, but it is a part of life.
This wonderful, beautiful, gracious gift of life.
Here are the readings that we’ll get next week:
Genesis 17:1-7, 15-16
Psalm 22:23-31
Romans 4:13-25
Mark 8:31-38
Life throws at us many things. Some good, some not so much. But in these readings we can see that God has been and will always be present throughout, blessing us in different ways. From the covenant made with Abraham in his old age to Jesus’ suffering as a sign of what is come, God has been there, God is there, and God will always be there with us.
There with us, giving us strength and resolved. There with us, showing us the peace and maybe even joy in our lives. There with us, reminding us that while things might seem difficult and bleak, we continue to be beloved parts of this community and body of Christ.
I know, it’s not always easy to see when the chips are down. It’s not easy to believe when things aren’t going our way. It’s not easy to accept this truth especially when it sounds absolutely untrue.
But there is light at the end of whatever we are going through. There is peace to be found in the midst of turmoil. There is joy to be remembered and held onto, that will give us strength, power, and faith.
It will come. That is God’s promise to us all.
God’s peace be with you all. Have a great week!
Photo by Tim Foster on Unsplash