Take hold of the life that really is life
We are now in the season of Lent. Some people may relish the time to reflect on their lives and God’s mercy. Others may see it as a time of giving up things they enjoy, with no flowers in church: a sombre time with little joy.
In the Ash Wednesday service we hear the words: “Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return.” A pretty serious thought to start Lent with. We come into the world with nothing and we leave with nothing. In between we strive to acquire education, money, property, reputation – things which we think will make us independent and self-reliant and give our lives purpose. In the end we leave them all behind.
Lent is a good time to remember our dependence on God, that all we have comes from him and that our real purpose in life is to be in relationship with him. Although we might feel Lent is a time of giving up, what we are promised is so much fuller and greater than the things we hang onto.
“As for those who in the present age are rich, command them not to be haughty, or to set their hopes on the uncertainty of riches, but rather on God who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. They are to do good, to be rich in good works, generous, and ready to share, thus storing up for themselves the treasure of a good foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of the life that really is life.” 1 Timothy 6: 17-19
God promises us a life beyond this one – eternal life, though Christ. It is not just something to look forward to in the future. We are invited to take hold of this life now. What would it mean for you to ‘take hold of the life that really is life’ this Lent?
Holy Lord, God of life, hear our prayer: Forgive us when we follow those paths that do not lead to life, Forgive us when we forget that you offer us life, Life that is abundant and eternal, Life that began at the creation of all things. Forgive us, turn us to the right path, and let your love and grace flow over us and the world. We pray in Jesus’ name and for his sake. Amen.
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