Lent, 2024 - Pt. 4

 

And he [Jesus] said to all, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me. For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will save it. For what does it profit a man if he gains the whole world and loses or forfeits himself? For whoever is ashamed of me and of my words, of him will the Son of Man be ashamed when he comes in his glory and the glory of the Father and of the holy angels. (Luke 9:23-26 ESV).

 

The second reason to observe Lent is so that we might be reminded of the sacrificial nature of following Christ. This is the root of “giving something up” during the Lenten season. We see this principle declared by Jesus in our reading today. Of course, some have mistaken “giving something up” as the point of Lent. Jesus appeared to expect that we would fast at times. Lenten fasting reflects Jesus’ fast in the wilderness to prepare for his ministry; therefore, it’s expected to actually be sacrificial. Setting aside food, technology, or some other need, desire, or distraction, builds space to devote to a deeper relationshio with God.

 

Many Christians recognize that value goes beyond the mere exercise of self-denial; God speaks to those who earnestly seek him. However, to reduce Lent to “just giving something up,” misses the point. Fasting is about setting aside time normally spent eating, or doing some activity, to tune in to God’s Spirit in prayer and reflection. It doesn’t necessarily make one more spiritual. Again, it’s about what the fasting person is seeking. Is it Christ in prayer and meditation, or is it man’s recognition? For example, if everybody on Facebook knows what you are not doing for Lent, with fifteen minute updates, along with a snapshot of the burrito you are not eating, you already have your reward.

 

Besides fasting, Lent is a time to exercise other disciplines, such as service and giving. In addition to “giving something up,” or instead of it, some Christians “take something on” by doing service or giving in ways they don’t regularly do. This might be stepping up to help a total stranger, or reaching out to someone whom God has laid on your heart by sending a note or calling them on the phone. It might be volunteering for a local ministry, serving at a homeless shelter, or visiting the sick at home or the hospital. Sacrificial serving and giving are important aspects of Lent.