2009
Don’t forget to die today
In case you missed it, Lent has officially begun. For the next 40 days, those of us who follow Jesus, follow him through his suffering and ultimately to his death. We do this to truly have something to celebrate this Easter.
We are typically clumbsy if not awful at 2 things: Remembering / Grieving. Lent gives us the opportunity to do both.
As always, Henri Nouwen gives great context to what this season and my life is to be about. Few voices have shaped me as much as his. Enjoy.
A Prayer for Lent, by Henri Nouwen
How often have I lived through these weeks without paying much attention to penance, fasting, and prayer? How often have I missed the spiritual fruits of the season without even being aware of it?
But how can I ever really celebrate Easter without observing Lent? How can I rejoice fully in your Resurrection when I have avoided participating in your death?
Yes, Lord, I have to die-with you, through you, and in you-and thus become ready to recognize you when you appear to me in your Resurrection.
There is so much in me that needs to die: false attachments, greed and anger,impatience and stinginess…. I see clearly now how little I have died with you, really gone your way and been faithful to it.
O Lord, make this Lenten season different from the other ones. Let me find you again. Amen.
A Cry for Mercy: Prayers from the Genesee; Image Books, 2002
Your Turn :: What are you doing to remember and even celebrate the Death of Jesus this Lenten season?
