Truthfully, I’ve always considered Lent to be a time of trying to prove something.
Proving my love for God. Depriving myself of favorite foods or activities might prove my commitment, endurance and sacrifice.
Trying (many times without success) to do all the ‘holy stuff’ we are ‘supposed’ to do during Lent.
Thinking that’s what God wanted.
I can remember saying to my kids over the years, “with all that Jesus did for us, don’t you think we can manage a few Fridays without a burger?”
It was small and simplified and sometimes, it was in jest but it was my attempt at trying to show God, and my kids, that we remembered his sacrifice.
But this Lent has really changed things for me. I’m learning that while those small acts still matter in our journey to know and honor God, what He really wants is to love us and for us to let Him.
The passage says: “Lent isn’t about seeing how much we can endure – it’s about learning how deeply we are loved. And from that love, we extend mercy to others.”
God Delights in Mercy – I believe that’s what makes Him happy.
Seeing us share his love and mercy with others.
Think about it…what makes you happy?
For me, when my loved ones are happy, it makes my heart happy. When my heart is happy, I find it easier to smile at a stranger, say something kind, or extend a helping hand.
I remember being on a college visit with one of my kids and the speaker was talking to the parents about the transition from home life to college life and she said:
“As parents, we are only as happy as our saddest child.”
It literally took my breath away. Never have I heard a more powerful or accurate statement about parenting. And since then, I’ve repeated it more times than I can count.
I think that’s what this passage is trying to express.
God is our Heavenly Father
We are his beloved children.
When we are happy…He’s happy. When we feel His love, we show love.
And the ripple effect of our actions turns into mercy and understanding.
So, maybe Lent isn’t just about giving up stuff, maybe it’s about giving in to God’s will and letting Him fill us with His love.
God doesn’t want to test us…God wants our hearts…He wants the ripple effect.
Dear Lord, I hand my heart to you today. Guide my thoughts, words and actions and let MY life be a reflection of YOUR love.
