Clay in the Hands

We find ourselves right in the middle of the season of Lent.  For many, this time of year carries little significance.  For some denominations (mine included), Lent is not something that is observed – but that fact is slowly changing.

For most people, when we hear the word “Lent” we automatically think “give something up.”  While self-denial is large part of Lent, we need to look behind the practice and understand the purpose.

The observance of Lent is patterned after Jesus’ time in the wilderness.  The forty days Jesus spent in solitude were not the result of punishment.  He had just been publicly proclaimed as the chosen one.  No, Jesus was led into solitude for a different reason.  He spent his time in preparation for the next leg of his journey.  He faced the temptations to trust in things other than God, but affirmed his commitment to trust only in God.  His focus was sharpened over those forty days on what truly matters.

That is why we observe Lent.  It should be less about what we give up and more about our trust in and focus on God.  When we deny ourselves of something in observance of Lent, it shouldn’t be seen as punishment but rather as a way of realizing that we can’t trust in the things of this world that we tend to turn to for comfort.  Instead, our focus should be on God and our calling to follow in the Way.

So what grabs your attention today?  What coaxes your focus away from God?

Put your complete trust in God today.  Nothing else will do.

Be blessed.