A LENT TO LET GO

For a while now, I have been wrestling with myself, wondering how best to observe Lent this year. In the past, my spiritual practice of writing contemplative blog posts had ensured that I made time for reflection and personal growth. The task was always challenging and yet meaningful for me (and I hope for the gracious readers here). Ah, but now, my position as a parish administrator has already become busier as the church prepares for Lent. Other commitments and gatherings are filling the calendar. Most of all, my spirit has felt depleted with worry for this country and our world. I had eagerly started a few Lenten drafts, only to become distracted and discouraged.

Last weekend, I finally told Jim that I had decided to let this Lenten writing season go.

Since then, God seems to be affirming this decision. I suddenly found affirmations from similar thoughts in other blog posts, in the library, and in my soul…

A few of my favorite writers, Nadia Bolz-Weber, Diana Butler Bass, and Sarah Bessey shared posts about filling Lent with goodness, gratitude, or little gifts that help our souls, just keeping Lent simple. And this idea was further highlighted by other writers that I follow. This is not to deny all of the troubles around us, but to strengthen and replenish ourselves to do the work we still need to do.

I was only going to return some library books, but then thought, “Oh, I will just look around a bit.” Within minutes, I had three books to take home: Joyful: The Surprising Power of Ordinary Things to Create Extraordinary Happiness (Lee); Simplify: Ten Practices to Unclutter Your Soul (Hybels); and A Quaker Book of Wisdom: Life Lessons in Simplicity, Service, and Common Sense (Smith).

My new plan is to photograph one gift of life each day, and to read a chapter from the Book of John every morning for personal reflection. Jim and I hope to reach out to friends and family more often, spending time in community and sharing hospitality. I also have quite a few other writers who are blessing my life, so I will occasionally share one of their posts here with you.

May you find what will fill your spirit, inspire your thoughts, and draw you closer to Christ Jesus this Lenten season.

(Photo by Karen; foggy morning, February 17)