As I write this, it is Shrove Tuesday on the church calendar. Tomorrow is Ash Wednesday. We are about to enter the Lenten season and turn our thinking and worship directly toward the Cross. I want to tell you that because our world has not bought into the commercial side of Lent and because it is truly unique, we can make its meaning more unique in our lives than if the world were giving Lenten presents, lighting Lenten trees, and sending Lenten cards. More and more church-going folk don't quite know what to do with Lent either, we'll have to admit.

John Wesley wouldn't have done much that was different in his life during the 19^th century. He rose at four o'clock to study and pray. He fasted every Friday all year. He found frequent opportunities to receive the Holy Communion. He stuck to a rigid discipline about his life and a habit even forgoing the drinking of tea, since he decided it was too much of a stimulant. He continued to preach two and three times a day anywhere he could, and he spent himself in serving God through his ministry where ever he found himself.

Though our Lenten disciplines may be our own, it truly can be a time to reflect upon the meaning of God's love displayed in the crucifixion of Jesus. Whether we deny ourselves or simply live in a way that "befits the Gospel," it is sobering to think that the Cross is for you and for me, because God loves us so much he sends us his only Son.

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Last update: March 7, 2004