As we approach one of the most sacred and holy seasons of the Christian church, I’m stopping to think about the “why” behind the “what”. Tomorrow begins the season of Lent for the Christian church, although not all Crhistians practice or recognize the season. That’s OK with me. Some Christians practice the religous rituals and routines and never stop to think about “why” they are doing what they are doing. It’s been said a billion times before… Christianity is not a religion. It’s a relationship with Jesus. The rituals and routines do not matter unless the practices and disciplines point you in the direction of Jesus, causing your heart to be transformed and changed into His character, having His attitude and practicing His lifestyle.

Change is part of following Jesus, and changing your routine will help you grow closer to Jesus. The season of Lent is all about change… inner change; becoming a new person because you’ve met Jesus and can’t go back to your old way of life. Maybe it’s time to stop complaining about “change” and answer some questions that should be stirring in your soul…

Do you know why you binge on fried dough the Tuesday before Ash Wednesday?
Do you know why you worship on Ash Wednesday? What do the ashes mean, and why do you allow a priest or a pastor to put them on your forehead in the shape of a cross?
Do you know why Lent is 40 days, plus 6 Sundays, that lead up to Easter Sunday?
Do you know why you give up something for Lent?
Do you know why fasting is a great discipline for spiritual growth?
Do you know what the season of Lent helps you focus on when it comes to your beliefs?

Whether you recognize the season of Lent or not, my prayer is that we will ALL slow down, discover the “why” behind the “what”, and spend more of our time building our relationship with the “who” of our beliefs.

Jesus wants to be a “resident” in your heart, in your home, at your workplace, and in your school. Jesus wants to be the “leader” of your life. Jesus came to show you the way and lead you to the truth so that you can experience “new life” in Him.

“Now the Word became flesh and took up residence among us. We saw his glory—the glory of the one and only, full of grace and truth, who came from the Father.”
John 1:14, NET

More to come as we approach the season of Lent and journey into the “wilderness” of our lives. May you discover that Jesus is there, waiting for you. His love surrounds you. He wants to meet with you, speak to you, and change you. Keep your eyes and ears open.