Tuesday 12 February 2013

Lessons learned from Lent ...

So the pope has decided that his old age is now becoming detrimental to his job as head of the Catholic church - brave call indeed. And as his papal highness steps down, many of my Christian friends decide to give up their social networks for Lent (a period in the church calender for giving up stuff -  Google it for more correct info). It seemed (to me at least) that Lent is slowly becoming the new New Years resolutions, something many have given up as previous (unsuccessful) attempts have taught them not to try that again. But over the past few years, I have seen friends giving up stuff for Lent in a habit close to the aforementioned resolution attempts.

My tone of writing might give you the idea that I do not endorse this, and you would be right. Not that I am against people giving up stuff, making them stronger in the process (although they seem to pick it up 40 days later at the same speed and time-intensity as they left it). I am not against it - how could I be in this tolerant society of ours and as a 'good Christian', valuing others. Maybe I am just a little jealous of their resolve, their temperament, their strength, their ability to stick to something like that, no the real reason I am somewhat perturbed (such a nice word - perturbed) about this is the reduced presence of Christian witness on Social media during, what I call (to use a Miranda-ism) a Christian festival, isn't it ironic. Of course some do have to let everyone know first, what's that all about. Making a really big song and dance of the fact that they are signing off for 40 days (but do ask me for my phone number / email address so we can stay in touch -REALLY !?!) Wouldn't it be better to quietly just leave it for 40 days (or however long you might survive without) and see if people miss our online presence - that would truly be a measurement of the impact upon onlookers and social network visitors (ranty bit over).

My lovely wife has a different approach (but then, she is not a great social media user). During this season of heightening our Spiritual awareness, re-addressing our relationship with the loving Father (not the one in Rome who stepped down), my wife decides to ADD something during the time of Lent. In previous years it took the shape of learning a whole Psalm of by heart. Last night she shared however that last year wasn't as successful as the year before - but as in all these attempts - it's the thought that counts. Now THAT I could subscribe to during Lent - the thought that counts. Making it a time to think more upon that which is holding me back, that which is aiding me in my growth, that which is making me feel His pleasure, that which saddens Him that loves me.

So there you have it, make of it what you want - and however you decide to celebrate Lent, be Blessed as to enable you to be a blessing to others.