Lent Reminds Us that Faith is Intentional
In the last movie in which John Wayne starred (entitled “The Shootist”), Wayne’s character appears to learn a new phrase that described the unusually warm weather portrayed in the film (and also the strange reversal between new life and growth, which is often equated with the season of spring, and the preparations of a dying gunfighter). That phrase, “a false spring,” would be used moments later by Wayne in a conversation with another character, as if Wayne had used it all his life. I find it interesting how quickly we take or adopt new ideas, thoughts, and concepts into our individual collection of understandings and then share them with others.
I am not saying this is a bad thing. In fact, learning new ideas or finding alternative ways to express our experiences can be quite helpful. In the movie, Bond Rogers (Lauren Bacall’s character) uses the term as a way to transition the conversation she is having with J.B. Books (Wayne’s character) through a difficult goodbye for the characters. Wayne then uses the term to reassure a young woman (and his own character I believe) a few moments later as he prepares himself for the finale of the movie.
Maybe in this instance, it is the “false” that catches my attention. We often can and do really good and important things in life. These good and important things can be our priority and we can value them just like we value each spring that ushers in renewal of life and signs of new birth after a long, cold winter. We know we can count on the green replacing the gray. We can expect leaves to repopulate the barren branches, and the promise of warm days that grow longer. But there are signs that can also mislead us about our seasons. We must remain vigilant and prepared.
In the context of church seasons, we are now in the season of Lent. For many of us, this is not our favorite season. We would rather hear about the miracles of healing and the lost receiving good news. We would rather walk with Jesus along the shores of Galilee or stand near him as we watch him embrace the little children. But this season is necessary for us. It gives us a needed perspective on our relationship with God. It helps to remind us of our sense of often misguided priorities and what discipleship actually entails, all in the face of our “false springs.”
The Lenten Season allows the Easter experience to be more profound for us. It helps to remind us how costly our relationship is for God, but also for us. We live in a world where we want express lanes, quick fixes, and less resistance. Lent reminds us that faith is intentional and can be costly. Maybe jumping ahead to Easter or simply finding something else to do instead of embracing Lent is like a “false spring.” Perhaps we need to be reminded that “false springs” can entrap us and even keep us from experiencing the true power of life and hope. Stay mindful and focused this Lent.
The journey is just beginning and it is never too late. Come join us and sense God’s power and love as we move toward Jerusalem and the empty tomb of Easter.
See you in worship!
Brian
