Depths of Love

Let It Go
by Rev. Kerry Smith

 In her poem "In Blackwater Woods," Mary Oliver writes, "To live in this world, you must be able to do three things:
        to love what is mortal;
                 to hold it against your bones knowing your own life depends on it;
                and when the time comes to let it go, let it go."

Lent is a 40 day journey that takes us through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus. As we begin this journey together, I think of the words of the prophet Joel who says, “Rend your hearts and not your clothing. Return to the Lord, your God, for God is gracious and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love.”

Lent is all about self-examination, so I encourage you to contemplate the following questions and try to answer them honestly and from a spirit of humility.

•Is my relationship with Jesus the central focus of my life?
•Am I willfully disobeying any known law of God?
•Do I need to seek forgiveness for anyone that I may have wronged?
•Do I desire and depend too much on popularity or possessions?
•Are my thoughts and actions pure?
•Am I lazy or neglectful in any areas of responsibility?
•Am I practicing peacemaking in all relationships and towards all people?
•Am I a faithful witness of the Gospel of Jesus Christ in all my relationships?
•Do I have space in my life to hear God?

In order to hear Christ’s call to us more clearly in this season, many Christians take on a practice (scripture reading, prayer, service, giving) and put something aside (fasting certain foods, television, social media, other activities). Consider what practice you might take on or what you might fast from during this season.

The days stretch before us and invite us inward to that silent, holy space that holds our Spirit.
May this be a journey of inner reflection and examination as we see our lives through Christ's eyes and the truth and reality of God's love incarnate. May God's love flow over you and seep into your heart.