Indeed, you delight in truth deep within me,
and would have me know wisdom deep within. Psalm 51:6 (ELW)
I don’t know about you, but my sense of meteorological seasons is all messed up this year. That is not a complaint, but it is disorienting to have a Minnesota winter without snow and bitter cold outside my door. We humans are attuned to seasons – in the weather, in sports, in locally sourced food, and in rhythms at work and school.
For the Lutheran community, one of the seasons that resonates deep down in our lives is Lent. Even if we have only a vague recollection of the faith practices of earlier generations, we still recognize the six-week period that precedes Holy Week and Easter.
The wider culture does not pause for this season. Pressures and distractions abound, as they do in every month of the year. Yet, the invitation of Lent comes, as it does each year, calling us back to our relationship with a gracious God. Whether we fast or feast, give up something that is unnecessary in our lives or take on something that reflects our core values, in Lent we hear again God’s beckoning call.
To what does God call us? The Psalmist asserts that it is a call to the deep truth, the interior wisdom of our self in relationship with God. Like all relationships, this one deserves time and attention.
Why do congregations gather for Wednesday evening worship, offer a book study, or share a daily devotional guide? Because each of these faith practices draws us together in the company of others to tend that profound relationship with God. These and other faith practices are not “have-to” obligations God places on us in order to love us. These are “get-to” opportunities to relish the deepest truth of our lives in a world of too many choices, too many pressures.
I am grateful for all the work the congregations of this synod do to give life and liveliness to the Lenten Season. May this be a time of reflection, renewal, and deeper trust in God’s presence in all our lives.
Yours in God’s service,
Bishop Patricia Lull
