Luke 9:31-35 Part 2

Lent means ‘spring’ and its root word means ‘long,’ referring to the days getting longer. It’s a time we prepare for the celebration of the resurrection. Some church traditions make more of Lenten preparation than others. The disciplines of ‘giving up’ things can be helpful. I’ve participated in many Lenten self-denials prior to this year.

My message for Sunday is leaning toward talking about forms of ‘giving up.’ Good and bad. The Pharisees encouraged Jesus to ‘give up’ his ministry. They said Herod was wanting to kill him. He should take care of himself. Jesus wasn’t concerned about Herod. Jesus had more important concerns to deal with today, and tomorrow. He wouldn't give those up. He knew in the future, the third day, he would complete his work.

I like that image of the third day as the future. I can work in the present day and tomorrow. I have some degree of control over what I can do in these days. As far as the third day, who knows what will happen? I can’t even be confident the weather forecast is going to be accurate much less my self-made plans for the future. I’ll leave the third day in God’s hands.

Jesus knew that when he walked into Jerusalem to tell them about a God of mercy and grace, they’d kill him. Just like they killed the prophets. Jesus knew what happened when you bucked the religious tradition. Now that we are in the heart of Lent, and the religious tradition it carries, I think I’m going to buck religious tradition that uses forms of self-denial, sacrifice, or suffering as means to prepare for the Easter celebration. I’m going to give up suffering for Lent.

I’ve had enough suffering for one year. Why should I inflict more suffering upon myself? If others want to go the traditional route, that’s fine. Not me. I’ve seen friends leave the congregation for their religious beliefs, following things the tradition has taught. Everyone suffers when people leave their families. I’ve seen relationships once strong become strained. Tradition isn’t everything it’s made out to be, just ask Jesus, especially if it doesn’t promote love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, gentleness, faithfulness, or self-control (Gal. 5:22-23). Jesus knew what he was heading for with his message of a God of mercy and grace. He gave up his life to share it.

So this Lent, I’m giving up suffering. I’m going to focus on ‘spring’ and preparing for new life. I just hope I don’t get crucified for it.     PWM