Christ Church Rockville Lenten Devotion
Jer. 13:1-11
Rom. 6:12-23
John 8:47-59
Why do we plunge ourselves into the solemnity of Lent just as the dark winter days have begun to lighten up? At a time when days are growing longer and one anticipates early spring crocuses and daffodils, why choose the seriousness of the Lenten season? Why, as we creep toward the vernal equinox, a time of brighter days, would we subject ourselves to penitence, prayer, and fasting? And how can Lent prevail in modern times?
Our church altar cloths turn deep purple and black. We “give up” sweets or TV or swearing… things that bring joy at other moments. Or perhaps we begin a program of scripture readings and reflections.
On a recent Sunday, Cindy Simpson led the congregation in reading “A Prayer attributed to St. Francis” from the Book of Common Prayer.* Its familiar cadences with concepts artfully juxtaposed (darkness and light, sadness and joy, death and eternal life) describe the Lent and Easter relationship. In fact, this prayer reinforces the purpose for experiencing the gravity of Lent.
For centuries these prayer lines have proven inspirational for individuals and groups who yearn for solutions and peace. Even today, as individuals and societies experience simple or complex challenges, we people of God maintain the solemn tradition of Lent to better recognize and appreciate peace and joy…
Lord, make us instruments of your peace. Where there is hatred, let us sow love; where there is injury, pardon; where there is discord, union; where there is doubt, faith; where there is despair, hope; where there is darkness, light; where there is sadness, joy. Grant that we may not so much seek to be consoled as to console; to be understood as to understand; to be loved as to love. For it is in giving that we receive; it is in pardoning that we are pardoned; and it is in dying that we are born to eternal life. Amen.
* http://www.bcponline.org/Misc/Prayers.html
