The Freedom Found In Lent

The season of Lent is a symbolic journey with Jesus, connecting us to the forty days he spent in the wilderness, fasting and praying after his baptism.  

Jesus was tempted in the wilderness to end his hunger, to reveal his purpose dramatically, and to embrace earthly power. 

Instead, he stayed true to the journey he was determined to complete in the way that he was called to complete it.  He emerged from this experience free from all the constraints that would distract him from his purpose.  

As we continue our journey through the season of Lent, we find ourselves in a similarly sacred space—a time set apart for reflection, growth, and ultimately, liberation. 

Traditionally regarded as a season of sacrifice and introspection, Lent invites us to delve deeper into the essence of our faith and Jesus' teachings. It allows us to examine the distractions, burdens, and habits that weigh us down and prevent us from fully embracing the life we are called to lead.

Megan Westra poignantly reminds us:  

"What if we view this desert time of Lent as not just a time to reflect or to lament or to confess or to fast, but a time where we learn to be free?" 

This quote challenges us to shift our perspective. Instead of merely focusing on what we must give up, let us explore what we can gain—freedom from the chains that keep us from following Christ. 

The desert, often painted as a place of desolation, can be transformed into fertile ground for spiritual growth. Just as Jesus fasted in the wilderness, overcoming temptation, we too can find strength in surrendering our distractions and deceptions to God.

In his letter to the Galatians, Paul writes in 5:1:  

"It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery." 

Lent invites us to reflect on what binds us—unhealthy habits, negative thoughts, or societal expectations—and to actively release those burdens. Doing so, we open ourselves to experiencing the profound joy and peace of walking in alignment with Jesus' teachings. 

Consider this Lenten season as your personal desert. 

As Jesus did, take this time to confront what pulls you away from your relationship with God. Engage in prayerful reflection and ask yourself: What distracts me from living fully in the light of Christ? What habitual yokes have I adopted that weigh me down? 

Make space for God to work within you, revealing areas where you can find true liberation. 

Let this season of Lent be a transformative journey toward freedom. Embrace the invitation to surrender your life more fully to the Way of Jesus. 

Doing so will reveal a life lived in grace, where distractions fade and true peace is found. As you move through this sacred time, may you be inspired to let go of what holds you back and embrace the freedom that comes from God’s love. 

May it be so, and may the grace and peace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with us all, now and forever. Amen.