Reevaluating Lent | Monday Invocation
“It’s about bringing me closer to God, not the things of this world that so many contend to see as signals of strength, like money, power, or fame.”
Aiden Nathaniel Diaz
As Lent approaches, I find myself reflecting on what this season has meant for me over the years. ‘What are you giving up for Lent?" was always a difficult question for me to answer as a child. I was expected to participate in this religious and sometimes cultural tradition. However, the motivation always felt less driven “by the Spirit” and more driven by what others thought I should be giving up based on their goals for me and their perspective on my well-being.
As I came into my own, it took me a while to learn exactly what I needed to give up or take on during Lent to draw closer to God. For a season of my life, I took on this practice of Lent, but it felt like this time with God was about deconstruction and unlearning what I had been told this season should be. Instead, I am exploring what this season could mean for me now.
Maybe you have also felt this friction at some point in your journey of faith. Maybe you have also been reevaluating a multitude of theologies, traditions, practices, and overall ways of being—laying down what no longer serves you, exploring new things to see if they may be a right fit, and keeping the things that have always felt just right.
Right now, I am leaning into Matthew 6:21: For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. This verse reminds me that Lent (or my faith overall) isn’t about what others expect from me but about aligning my heart with where I find true spiritual value. It’s about bringing me closer to God, not the things of this world that so many contend to see as signals of strength, like money, power, or fame.
I do this through artful prayer, building authentic community, and engaging with community that allows me to learn new things from others. These practices not only help deepen my relationship with God on a daily basis but also as I discern how I engage with the next season. Aligning your heart will look different for you than it does for me. What might you lay down or pick up this season to draw closer to God?
Join a Lenten Community Group!
Are you looking to join a weekly group discussing the scripture passages surrounding Lent this year? Join one of our Lenten Reflections Community Groups! We have 3 groups to choose from, which includes a group for Deconstructing Lent. You can see more information and sign up at the link below!
