Lent

As I write this, tomorrow is the beginning of Lent, a time of penitence and preparation.

I am aware of my sins. They pass before me like an never ending parade. How can I be ready to celebrate Easter in my current condition?

I prepare. I ask for forgiveness. Tomorrow, I will receive the ashes on my forehead. They are an outward sign of repentance and mourning. Only God knows the real condition of my heart. Only He will know if I am truly repentant.

Tonight I read an article by the Rev. Canon Dan Webster. In the article he quotes Kierkegaard: "Am I a follower of Jesus or an admirer?" If I'm honest with myself, I think on most days I'm an admirer. The quote continues: “A follower is or strives to be what he admires. An admirer, however, keeps himself personally detached,” wrote Kierkegaard. “He fails to see that what is admired involves a claim upon him, and thus he fails to be or strive to be what he admires.”

I desire to be a follower, not an admirer. The choice is mine.

This Lenten season, I strive to become a follower. I look forward to Easter morning, to the resurrection, to new beginnings.