Lent is For Lovers

On Valentine’s Day, Sister Carol Perry gave a talk via zoom titled, “Lent Is For Lovers.” During this talk, she reminded us that early Christians referred to themselves as The Way. Those two words made me think of traveling in general and this journey of life in particular. In life, we experience both joy and sorrow, hope and despair, beauty and horror. How can we best navigate such a journey? 

Since I just returned from a trip, I thought of my preparations for that trip. I always pack from a list so that I don’t forget any essentials and to ensure that I don’t overpack. Once I’m packed, I always give it a once-over to look for extraneous items. I’m the one who is going to have to carry it after all.  

If I were to apply that process to the journey of life, what are my essentials? And what am I carrying that I do not need? 

A few of my favorite verses immediately came to mind as I pondered my essentials. 

Isaiah 41:13 For I am the Lord, your God, who takes you by the right hand and says to you, do not fear; I will help you.

Matthew 19:26 But Jesus answered, “With men it is impossible, but not with God: for with God all things are possible.” 

Psalm 30:11 You have turned my mourning into dancing; you have removed my sackcloth and clothed me with joy. 

John 16:33 I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world, you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world. 

During this Lenten season, my prayer for each of us is that God reminds us each day to carry only the essentials on this journey of life; God’s Word, God’s peace, and God’s love and mercy. I also pray that God reminds us to surrender and release all that we do not need to carry; judgment, worry, and fear. 

May the peace of God which surpasses all understanding guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus today and every day. 

A gifted teacher, Sr. Carol uses her extensive scholarship to offer a fresh, thought-provoking look at the Scriptures, bringing people and stories of the Bible to life. Questions are encouraged.

Shared by Patricia Wu