The Rector's Ramblings...Feb. 11, 2010

The Rev. Dr. Robert C. Sawyer 

On February 17th we will enter the Season of Lent once again.  At 7 am, Noon, and 7 pm we will hear the powerful ancient invitation.  "I invite you, in the name of the Church, to the observance of a holy Lent..." (BCP p. 265)  We will also receive the Imposition of Ashes with the sign of the cross as a symbol of our mortality.  "Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return." (BCP p. 265)  These actions, the invitation to Lent and the Imposition of Ashes are both powerful symbols that call us to make a commitment to continue on the great pilgrimage of faith throughout this life with a sense of peace and assurance. 

The Season of Lent seems to have two different meanings.  There are those who see Lent as a rather drawn out period that must be gotten through.  They see it just as a time when we are asked to give up things we like because we are told it will make us better persons.  It is almost as if giving up things is a law that we must follow.  Whatever we do, let's just hurry up and get through this so we can celebrate Easter.

Then there are those of us who believe there is nothing negative about the Season of Lent.  I am among those who see Lent as a wonderful point in time in the life of the Church.  Giving up things can be a positive experience when this is done in such a way that we are striving to have a deeper relationship with our Lord and with our brothers and sisters in the Church. 

Taking on something can also be a positive way of living into Lent.  While there are many activities we can take on, let me suggest two.  First, make a commitment to make weekly worship a part of your pilgrimage walk.  Weekly corporate worship is vital to our Christian life.  The Christian faith is to be lived out in community.  Second, take on the daily reading of scripture.  I am going to read through John because I believe it really puts me in touch with Jesus in a special way. 

I pray that you will join us on Ash Wednesday so that we might enter the Season of Lent together.

Published: 
February 11, 2010