- This is what the LORD
Almighty says: ‘If you will walk in obedience to me and keep my requirements,
then you will govern my house and have charge of my courts, and I will give you
a place among these standing here". - Zechariah 3:1-10.
When I was young, abstaining from something that gave me
pleasure during Lent was an act of obedience. Usually this involved giving up
some trifle like chocolate or a favorite TV show. When asked, my parents would
explain that partaking in this Lenten sacrifice was required to help me
remember how Jesus suffered for 40 days in the wilderness. Even at a young age
I had a hard time equating abstaining from chocolate with the sufferings of
Jesus. But, as an obedient Christian, I “did my time”, as it were.
Traditionally, Lenten discipline centers on sacrifice. As
such, Lenten practice places the focus of Lent on self; self-denial,
self-control, and self-discipline. But is this God’s intent for our obedience?
Micah 6:8 provides an alternate view of what God requires of us.
“And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your
God.”
Perhaps this Lenten
season, rather than focus our obedience on some minor token of self-sacrifice,
we can emphasize life-giving practices such as justice, mercy, and humility. We
can withhold harsh words, curb our unworthy thoughts, and refrain from callous
acts. We can forgive someone who has wronged us, stand up for the millions who
suffer from systemic injustice, and appreciate the many gifts God has given us.
Would such a Lenten practice serve us better than going without chocolate for
40 days?
Lord, during this time
of reflection and contemplation, keep us mindful of the many ways we fall short
of what you ask of us. Focus our discipline on actions that affirm all Creation
in thought, word, and deed. And in doing so, may we come to understand Lent not
as a season of contrition, but as participation in the Kingdom here and now.
Amen
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