Happy Spring!

We are entering into the season of Lent as a church. This season remembers the journey that Jesus took to the cross. Many people also view it as a somber time when followers are encouraged to give something up. Some of my friends are fasting from things like chocolate, alcohol, or social media. These individuals remember the suffering of Jesus, and they become a little more tuned in to Christ's work in their lives. 

However, Lent is so much more than giving something up. The word Lent actually means "Spring" in Latin. This is a season all about new life and new opportunities. Jesus taught that there needs to be a time of letting go. There needs to be a time when it is okay to say goodbye to all of the things we think we need. There is a season when we need to experience a kind of death. If we don't have a place where we can leave our ego and sense of entitlement behind, we can lose sight of the things that truly matter. 

Very truly I tell you, unless a kernel of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains only a single seed. But if it dies, it produces many seeds. Anyone who loves their life will lose it, while anyone who lets go of their life in this world will keep it for eternal life.

-Jesus in John 12:24

Jesus taught us about love, but He also taught us about vulnerability. If we don't take time to open our hearts to the new life being created, I think we are also going to miss out on the grace being shared everyday. Therefore, I do not believe Lent should only be about suffering and lament. This is a season to grow. This is a season to discover a new identity in Christ. So it doesn't matter if you are giving something up or enacting a new practice, this is a season of hope. You are becoming someone new, because you are loved. Let us enter into this season with vulnerability and grace. 

God is with you! Happy Spring!

Pastor Brian