Doing Lent a Little Differently

I always found it a bit odd how typical Lent observances run counter to what’s happening in the natural world.

In Lent we often talk about the growing shadows as we get closer to the cross. Many churches keep their shutters or blinds closed to keep out the light. In the past, we’ve lowered coverings over our stained glass windows. The deepening shadows of Lent resonate with the traditional focus on lament and repentance.

But it’s strange to watch the light and color drain away from Lent as the natural world is coming to life—as the days are getting longer, as color is poking up from the ground and slowly popping out on trees.

So we’re doing Lent a little differently this year. Instead of living in the shadows, we’re focusing on the Beauty of Lent, as the title of our weekly devotional suggests. Rather than watch the color drain away, we’re working to pay attention to how the world is full of colors that can remind us of God’s many promises. Rather than stripping things away, we’re on our way to experience the full spectrum of God’s grace.

Following how the Poets & Prophets of our celebration of Black History taught us to know the world in a deeper way, we’re letting our inner artists and encouraging our creative selves to find delight in the colorful world God’s created. We using the various shades and textures of the rainbow to focus our prayers.

This year we’re doing Lent a little differently. My prayer is that together we’re able to

I pray the Spirit continue to breathe life and reveal joy to you on this journey.

In Love,
Pastor Annette