Let’s enter our Lenten journey with enthusiasm

The journey has begun. This Lenten journey, which we know is so important in our relationship with God, with Jesus and with one another, has begun. What were our first thoughts and feelings on Ash Wednesday when the Prophet Joel demanded that we return to the Lord with our whole heart, with fasting, weeping and mourning? Was there a groan within us? Oh, no, not this again! Was there a sigh of relief that we were entering the “springtime of the soul” with the opportunity for deeper reflection, spiritual growth and a chance to “rend our hearts?” How do we begin?

Jesus begins his journey to share the power and compassion of the Reign of God. He prepares by going off into the desert, that place of hardship and encounter. For his people the desert was a time of testing and purifying. It was also a time to be lured into a deeper relationship with the Holy One. For Jesus, the long days and nights filled with prayer and conversation with his Father and with inspirations of the Holy Spirit were vital as he prepared to begin his ministry. And then, as he starts his trek out of the desert, the Devil strikes! Jesus, of course, has the upper hand; he sees through the deceptions of the Father of Lies. Jesus knows he is the beloved Son of God and he meets every temptation with a verse from Deuteronomy. He does not engage in dialogue — Jesus presses right to the point; the Word of God stands on the Word. Satan is banished, for a time.

So what does this say to us as we enter the Lenten desert? I would like to suggest three things. First, Lent is a time to remember who we are — individually and collectively. We are beloved daughters and sons of the Holy One. No matter our sins and failings, no matter our scars and tears. We are beloved. This calls us to deep prayer — being with the God who holds us and cares for us. In the first reading from Deuteronomy, the Israelites are doing just that — they are calling to mind who they are and how God has nurtured and protected them. They stand in a story of both tragedy and glory. They stand with gratitude and reverence for the one who has been with them. Lent gives us time for remembering how God has been with us “in times of trouble … in times of distress” (Ps.91) and in times of celebration. And especially, in the present, right here and now. Secondly, the Scriptures are food for the journey. Jesus thwarts Satan with words from the Scriptures and we can foil the many temptations of our day in the same way. Recall Scripture quotes and use them as a mantra when gossip swirls around us at work, when patience wanes in the supermarket line, when the kids, wife, hubby are tearing at us to do for them, when self-doubt tells us we aren’t enough. Sunday’s psalm proclaims — “because she/he clings to me, I will deliver them.” That’s a great line in any situation! St. Paul reminds us that “the word of God is near you, in your mouth and your heart.” We need to immerse ourselves in the word!

Finally, Jesus shows us how important it is to take time away. Now, that is a tall order for most of us. But there are ways to grab Sabbath moments. Can we put our phones down for five minutes? Can we look at nature during a walk? Can we choose to turn the TV off for an hour? Our modern life is filled with distractions. Can we become aware of them and turn aside?

Our Lenten journey with Jesus is a blessing for our lives; let’s enter with a sense of enthusiasm and adventure. God has so many gifts to give us!