This Lent, I’ll be writing
a six-part series entitled, “Lenten Practices.” Lent is my favorite season of
the Christian year. I look forward to Lent ever year. As the days grow closer,
a sense of expectation fills my spirit. It’s not as strange as it sounds (Granted,
I often sound strange, especially when practicing for my annual Lenten yodeling
concert). I’m a fan and observer of Lent because of the season’s powerful
potential to be used by God to transform your life and mine. How can it do
that?
Because Lent is a time
where many Christians engage in some sort of intentional spiritual practice. For
many there is still the idea that “I should do something for Lent” whether that’s
“giving something up” or “taking something on” (I recommend both). The word
Lent comes from the Old English word, lencten, which means, spring. Lent is meant
to be a spring time for your soul. A time of growth and new life. It has been
referred to as a period of spring cleaning. It might also be thought of as a
period of spring training.
Many sports teams get back
into the “swing” of things during the spring. If you’ve been off the field for
a few months, the initial weeks of spring training can be tough. This is often true
of our observance of Lent, too. But by God’s grace, we keep at it despite our
slips, falls, and fouls. It’s a shame many congregations and Christians don’t
take advantage of the potential of Lent (or host Lenten yodeling concerts). To
benefit from this traditional season of reflection, repentance, and renewal you
need to do a little planning. Plan now for how you will observe Lent. (Yodel here).
