Lent, as the season preceding the resurrection of Christ, is a time of pensive action. Jesus’ death and subsequent rebirth can serve as a model for our own lives. The death and rebirth theme is one that can be incorporated into all areas of life. When a student learns something new, a previous presupposition of that student must die. When an athlete works out, old muscle is ripped apart. When Jesus accepts his destiny and responsibility as the Messiah, His worldly aspirations had to die. Jesus taught us this lesson in the desert, as he was tempted by the Devil. For forty days, Jesus fasted and renounced bodily satisfaction, glory, and power in favor of what would truly fulfill him: Living in accordance with His Father’s will. Later, Jesus endured ultimate pain and suffering by dying on the cross. His voluntary acceptance of his fate allowed him to transcend it and to be born again in a fulfilled state. The tradition of giving something up for Lent fits this death and rebirth theme. Give up something fruitless for something fruitful. Renounce worldly temptations for spiritual fulfillment. This Lenten Season, we have the opportunity to test ourselves and to see what lifeless desires are holding us back from an internal rebirth.
Category: Lenten Prayer Reflections
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