LENT: “Holding Grace”

As Lent is a season of reflection and self-examination, sometimes it can lead us to feelings of regret or even self-criticism. As we take a long, hard look at ourselves in the mirror, it is easy to see things that we don’t like, things we wish were different, things we wish weren’t there. However, I like to remember that our Christian faith came be described as both “law” and “gospel.” During the season of Lent, it is easy to focus on the LAW. “Thou shalt…” and “Thou shalt not…” As we focus on the LAW, we are constantly confronted by our inadequacy, errors, and transgression. At the same time, the gospel is ever-present.

The GOSPEL refers to the “good news” – the truth about God’s relentless pursuit of creation throughout all time and history. For me, the most transforming truth of this good news is that despite my flaws, failures, and mistakes, God still loves me. The theological term for this is GRACE. Grace is kindness and acceptance, even when such action isn’t merited or deserved. Even with all the ways that I have missed the mark in every aspect of my life, God still loves me and accepts me. This is good news.

So for this Lenten season, we hold these truths in tension:

1. There are many ways that I have failed and continue to fail, and yet

2. God’s love for me persists.

So how, then, shall I live?

We can continue to degrade and condemn ourselves for these mistakes, asserting that for some reason we have “higher standards” than the almighty creator of the universe. OR, we can accept the grace that God extends to us AND extend it to ourselves. In this season of following Christ through journey, fasting, and prayer, are you willing to follow Christ a few steps further and accept God’s grace and love for you? Even when I’m not willing to hold onto God’s grace for myself, I know that God’s grace is holding onto me.

May these words provide you comfort and encouragement. 

Very truly,

Pastor Adam