By Betty Hertz
As I approached Lent in 2021, I searched for ways to understand the season better and become more intentional in observing it. Of course, God had a plan. First, Pastor Andy asked me to lead the Ash Wednesday service, so on Feb. 17, 2021, at 23 degrees, I joined Pastors Andy and Autumn as we did the outdoor service with St. John members in their warm cars. In preparing for the service, I learned that Lent is more than "giving up" something. Saint Francis of Assisi's words came to mind: “It is in the giving that we receive.” I adapted this to read, “It is in the giving up that we receive space to let more in.” So, in 2021 I gave up being silent about my faith and started sharing reflections with you.
Lent is a time for inward holiness through self-examination and reflection. While the word repentance may seem too intense or scary, viewing Lent as a time for course correction is helpful. It is a time to take an inventory of my spiritual life, recognize the need to change, and with God's help, act. The three questions I asked last year are good reflections for me this year.
What are the things I am doing that put a wedge between God and myself?
What are the things I'm engaging in that bring my soul and heart closer to God?
And who is God calling me to be?
Need some ideas of how to observe Lent this year? Your Stephen Ministry Team suggests:
Publicly wear a cross
Participate in activities like the 20 Day Reconciliation Challenge or Miles with Missionaries
Take an online course through BeADisciple.Com
Join one of St. John’s study groups
Have daily intentional conversations with God
Be more intentional in your Bible study or join a Bible study
Read an inspirational book
Use a devotional book like Upper Room or Jesus Calling or online devotionals
Attend a church of a different denomination
This Lent, I am taking an online course, "The 'I Am' Statements of Jesus," found in the Book of John and participating in the 20 Day Reconciliation Challenge.
Observing the Lenten season opens us to new life-giving practices as we walk with Jesus, and the new ways become part of our lives beyond Easter.
God of Silence,
As you invite us into this season of Lent,
Help us hear your call to pause.
Give us rest. Give us newness. Give us paths to simplicity.
You know how we try and try
And still fall short of our expectations.
Replace our shortcomings with faith to follow your way.
Create in us clean hearts, O God.
And put a new and right spirit within us. Amen.
(Adapted from Alaska Conference Weekly Prayer)
Betty Hertz is a longtime member of St John UMC, a Stephen Minister and a member of SPRC. When not doing volunteer work, she is playing with her three goofy dogs.
