It’s not the most uplifting message, is it? But maybe it’s one of the more instructive messages:
It is better to go to the house of mourning than to go to the house of feasting, for this is the end of all mankind, and the living will lay it to heart. (Ecclesiastes 7.2, ESV)
Ash Wednesday marks the first day of Lent for some traditions – a time to remember not only our own death, but also to walk with Jesus as he goes to his death. Traditionally, some people “give up something for Lent,” and if there are distractions preventing our wholeheartedly following Jesus or thinking about him more during this time, we should give those up. I am going to eliminate working some of the word puzzles I frequently spend too much time on!
More importantly, we should consider taking something on… I’m thinking Peace-making might be a good Lenten practice. There is way too much conflict, outrage, and discord going on right now. Nearly daily I’m receiving emails telling me some new thing I should be “fuming” about.
Let’s lead the way in encouraging peace rather than fomenting discord, shall we?
Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God. (Matthew 5.9, ESV)
Make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord. (Hebrews 12.14, NIV)
Yes! Let’s encourage peace. In the past few years, I have approached Lent with the idea of doing something positive for others as my way of thinking about Jesus during this time. Supporting people in a positive way is one approach and that can become something that continues beyond the season of Lent. 🙂
Well said, Kathleen!