We are approaching the first anniversary of when Covid-19 drastically changed everyone’s lives. One year ago, Lent 2020 had just begun when we suddenly found ourselves in a position where we had to give up lots and take on new ways of doing almost everything. In some ways, it feels like Lent never ended as we have all made significant sacrifices as we’ve been pushed further into a pandemic wilderness.
Rev. Paulette Brown, a Presbyterian minister in Ontario, described Covid-19 as “reckless” in a recent interview. When we consider the toll that Covid-19 has taken on the world, recklessness is the perfect word to describe it in our communities and our lives. Unimaginable illness and death, jobs lost, milestones have taken away, a mental health crisis, children and youth who are struggling…….the list could go on.
In the midst of this year, with an ongoing reckless pandemic, it can be hard to turn our attention to Lent in the same ways we have in the past. May we propose that this year you take on a “gentle Lent.” Yes, Lent is a season of repentance, sacrifice and discipline as we prepare ourselves for Easter. Still, there are gentle rhythms we can practice to turn towards God, to listen to God’s voice, and to open ourselves to the changes God is making in us.
This Lent maybe doesn’t focus on giving something up as a form of penance but focuses on turning, listening and opening up. We can do this through prayer, so perhaps you’ll seek a new way to pray as you walk through these Lenten weeks. We also do this by adjusting the rhythms of our day. Maybe you won’t give up coffee for 40 days, but perhaps you’ll turn away from electronics for a certain period of time each evening to be able to listen better.
We could also take the time to reflect on our relationships. In the wilderness, Jesus was tempted to become great in power and status, to become self-reliant, doing it all for himself. What have we been tempted to do or be in this year? Are we trying to be all things to all people? Have we turned to others when things have felt difficult, or have we relied on only ourselves? Are we offering “gentle Lent” to others in our lives? Or have we been critical or judgemental without thought for what this year may have been for someone?
Lent feels difficult this year, not because we are trying to avoid chocolate, treats or other vices but because it already feels like we have given up so much in our lives and navigated so much “desert” or “wilderness.” You have permission to be gentle with yourselves and gentle with others this Lent. God is at work in your life, God is at work in our congregation, and we will walk through these next few weeks with the possibility of Easter and new life at the forefront of our minds.
Peace be with you,
Rev. Maren, Rev. Jake and Rev. Christian
