Beginning the season of Lent

By Rev. Andy Fleming, Associate Chaplain

Following chapel on Tuesday, Years 3 and 4 celebrated Shrove Tuesday - otherwise known as Pancake Day. They enjoyed a pancake picnic and watched their teachers attempt to flip pancakes with varying degrees of success. The tradition of Shrove Tuesday involves making pancakes from the richer foods in one's pantry as a way to simplify life in preparation for Lent.

On Wednesday, the season of Lent began. In Godly Play, students learned that Lent is a time of preparation for entering the mystery of Easter. Traditionally, followers of Jesus give up something for Lent to deepen their relationship with God. For example, many people choose to give up chocolate during this time. However, another meaningful way to focus on your relationship with God is by taking something up. In the past, I’ve intentionally read specific books and set aside time for contemplation.

Similarly, in the Old Testament, the people of God sought out practices and customs as a way to enter into God’s presence. One example of this is found in the Book of Micah. The prophet Micah conveys that God was not pleased with how the people were observing their customs and offering rituals. Despite all that God had done for them, their actions failed to reflect the right heart and commitment.

The people of God questioned what it meant to offer gifts and sacrifices to draw near to God. As Christians, we have found there is nothing we can offer that our Creator needs. God details what people are meant to do in one of the most famous verses in the Bible:

"He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?" – Micah 6:8,

God doesn’t desire a particular type of gift or sacrifice. Instead, God seeks a specific kind of person - someone who understands the importance of acting with purpose and meaning, bringing justice to those in need, and showing kindness without seeking recognition.

When we draw close to God, real change can happen. First in our hearts, then in our relationships, communities and world. Then justice and kindness will reflect a life of following Jesus.

Go in peace,
Rev. Andy