IN PURSUIT OF LENT

A few years ago, when my first born was still quite young, the thought of giving up something for Lent was beyond my physical and emotional resources – and ultimately I felt like failure because chocolate is delicious. I was introduced to the idea of “being in pursuit of …”  during Lent rather than “giving up for …”. In pursuit of faith, in pursuit of compassion, in pursuit of love and justice – ultimately, in pursuit of Jesus. I loved this notion. And this made sense to me because Lent is about Jesus and I longed for more time in His presence.

This year, instead of giving up chocolate, alcohol or coffee, I’m going to pursue … again. I’ve decided to lay down my distractions. I think that is my adult vice. I will busy myself with emails, texts and social media before being present with God and my family. Or if I’m brutally honest, there is no before: I’m just not present. My pursuit? Reading my bible (right now I’m reading in James … no particular reason) and quieting my spirit to hear His voice before filling my days with less important things.

I want my mornings to be filled with the glorious hope of the Saviour. For Christians, Lent is the countdown to the biggest celebration of all – Easter! Without Easter, sin has not be dealt with. Without Easter, there is no new life. Without Easter, the rest of the bible would not be true. The entire Christian faith is based on Easter, the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus – that yet while we’re still sinners, He took our sin upon Him and left it at the cross. 

And He didn’t have to do it. In my pursuit, I want to see my weakness, my brokenness and my sin. Because those who have been forgiven much, see the depth of their human nature and can rejoice the loudest and most fully at the marvelous love of the Cross (where sins are washed away) and experience His love in abundance.

I tell you, her sins—and they are many—have been forgiven, so she has shown me much love. But a person who is forgiven little shows only little love.” Then Jesus said to the woman, “Your sins are forgiven.” – Luke 7:47-48

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