Ever since I was a child I've liked Lent. I wasn't sure why. I remember enjoying the quiet, the darkness, the reading of the passion history and not having to do any homework on Wednesdays because we had evening Lenten worship.
I still enjoy the quiet, the darkness, the reading of the Passion of Jesus. But now I know why I like lent so much. Lent is the nuts and bolts of our Christian faith. It is the basic story of how I am loved by God and forgiven. Even after all these years I'm still moved by the cross and the words of Jesus, "It is finished!"
We are half-way through Lent. Instead of viewing it as yet another service we need to attend, let's come to enjoy the quiet and the darkness and the Lenten story. Let's also come because it clears away all the distractions of a busy life and draws our attention to the cross and to God's love and forgiveness.
