Walking Together

(Map of the Christian Year by John David Walt)

Just a few short hours ago, we began our Lenten journey for the year. Lent is the 40+ days leading up to Easter. It is meant to be a season of reflection, fasting, and self-denial. During these days we do whatever it takes to follow Jesus into the valley of the cross. To really make the journey with Jesus, we have to renounce ourselves. This usually gets translated into "giving up" something for the season of Lent. This is a great idea...but only if it causes deeper reflection and identification with Christ in his life, death, and resurrection.

To be perfectly honest, for the better part of my life Lent has been more about me than it has been about Jesus. I spent many years giving up the same things and getting the same results. I'd succeed (most of the time) at staying away from whatever I gave up, but fail miserably at really focusing on Christ during the season. Year after year I would reach Easter, heart unprepared, frustrated.

The past few years have been a different story. I haven't given anything up...I've added some things instead. More time in the Word, specifically the Gospel accounts of the crucifixion. More time in prayer. Specifically about the things that bind me and keep me from God. More time reflecting on Christ and His sacrifice and what He is calling me to do in response. It has made all the difference in the world.

If you've already decided to give something up during this season (chocolate, Facebook, etc.), please don't take this post as an encouragement not to do so. Go for it. Self-sacrifice is a good thing. But in the midst of it (whether you're giving something up, adding some things, or whatever), be present these 40 days. Ready your heart for what is to come in the days ahead.

Walk.

Listen.

Watch.

Reflect.

Learn.

Sacrifice.

Pray.

Renew.

Fast.

Feast.

Worship.

Surrender.

Transform.

Take the journey with Jesus down to the valley of death. Deny yourself, take up your cross, and follow him (Matthew 16:24). All the way. You will never be the same.