Pondering Lent
‘For now we see only a reflection as in a mirror, then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known’ (2 Corinthians 13:12).
Looking in the mirror can be a pleasant experience when we are happy with some new clothes, have makeup on or are freshly washed and shaved. Other times, when we look closely, we can see the imperfections and flaws, which can get depressing.
There are certain times in the church year when we are asked to examine ourselves in the light of all Christ has done for us. For a Christian, the season of Lent is a time to reflect on our lifestyle and the activities that occupy our time. It is a time when we are reminded to see our sins in the light of God’s forgiveness and our lives in the assurance of being loved by God through Jesus Christ.
Lent recalls the events leading up to and including the crucifixion of Jesus. Many celebrate Pancake Tuesday (Shrove Tuesday), which occurs the day before Ash Wednesday – the beginning of Lent. Pancake Tuesday means to fatten up before the traditional time of fasting during Lent. Many people decide to give up luxuries during Lent – coffee and chocolate, for example – but maybe instead consider taking up something godly, like daily prayer, regular family devotions and Christian meditation. ‘To give up’ is good, but we must also take up something better.
Lutheran Tract Mission has many resources to help you understand the season of Lent and what Jesus has done for you. There are some of the tracts about the foods and how they relate to Lent and the cross. There is the Lenten devotional ‘Miraculous Jesus’ to help you get into a routine of devotions, as well as tracts describing Lent and how it can impact you as you journey to the cross of Jesus.
Look at the Lutheran Tract Mission website at www.ltm.org.au to access the Lenten devotional or search for Lent/Holy Week to see what you can do to ponder this season of Lent or take up a new habit.
Anne Hansen is Lutheran Tract Mission’s Tract Development Officer.
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