February 17, 2021 was Ash Wednesday. From that day until Easter we will be in the 40 days of Lent. Lent hints of spring; a time when the earth begins to awaken from a winter’s nap, and new growth bursts forth all about us. More personally, it is an opportunity to enter into a springtime for our spirit.
For centuries Christians have used the 40 days of Lent to seek spiritual growth. Sincere repentance, a changing of heart, casting off old sinful practices and seeking to commune with our Creator help us go in the right direction. Spending serious time in silence and prayer focuses our attention. Reading spiritual literature, becoming more knowledgeable about the New Testament, meeting in small groups with other Christians to share personal stories of faith can all be immensely stimulating. Joining with others to serve the helpless and hopeless can strengthen our spiritual life.
Lent is a time to let God do “spring cleaning” within us. It’s our opportunity to allow God to help us toss out the “stuff” that hinders us, and then freshen up the “new creature” we are meant to be as followers of Christ.