Lent is fixed in my memories of boyhood. There were evening Lenten services that threw the whole of life into a tizzy. What with choir practice and confirmation class in addition to worship, it was a mad dash from school to church, then home for supper, then back to church and finally home in time to go to bed.

Strangely, the church was almost as full at midweek services as on Sundays. It’s not that way any longer.  I’ve watched the observance of Lent dwindle away. Some of the decline is a result of the shrinking numbers of Christians in the U.S.  Some of it happens because other things have crowded out sacred observances in our culture. Some of it, unfortunately, has come from within the church itself in a misguided attempt to make church a more “cheerful” experience. Lent just isn’t cheerful.

Personally, I think “happy-clappy” Christianity is a mistake. Life has tough times, and I think we need a tough faith to go with it. We need to face hardship and suffering head on. We need to know that the Lord is with us in those times. Lent with its culmination in the death of Jesus helps us remember that.

Repenting our sins isn’t easy, but we need to do it. Reflecting on the sacrifice of our Savior isn’t pleasant, but we need to do it. Observing Lent isn’t convenient, but we need to do it.

May your Lent be a blessing to you. May you be renewed in the love of Christ and strengthened for service.

Read Matthew 11:28-30 and remember: God loves YOU unconditionally.

Wayne