LENT REMINDS US OF THE DESERTS IN OUR LIVES
One of the most enduring images brought to mind by Lent is that of Jesus in the desert. The Lord goes into the desert, endures his 40 days of temptation and is brought out again, ready to begin his mission to the world.
Much that happens in the world can be viewed through the prism of the desert experience. These days in particular, when wars and biblical-style storms and wildfires afflict the planet, we can easily feel as if we are lost in the desert, our lives and world out of control. In addition to the torment of the daily news, we may face our own personal anguish occasioned by sickness or tragedy inflicted on us, our families or friends. We can feel as if there is no choice but to despair.
But the Good News of Jesus Christ reminds us that deserts are always there in our lives, and that they can be overcome. Not always by our own means, however. As the scripture readings today suggest, we can easily walk into the desert of our own accord, but we need help to get out again.
The Old Testament (Chronicles 36: 14-17a, 19-23) recalls how God’s chosen people came to lose sight of their God and become enmeshed in worldly distractions and tribulations. They are enslaved in Babylon and their temple is destroyed. They can only wait and pray for God’s deliverance. And so it comes, undeserved; nevertheless, God keeps His promise.
Similarly, in Paul’s Letter to the Ephesians (Ephesians 2: 4-10), apostle Paul tells his readers that it will be the grace of God that will save them from their sufferings, regardless of any good works they might do: “For by grace you have been saved through faith, and this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God.”
Likewise, Jesus tells Nicodemus (John 3: 14-21) to have faith. God sent His only Son into the world to save it, not to condemn it.
Such words can sound rather other-worldly, removed from our daily lives, cold comfort when all we see around us is desert. To me, though, they are strangely comforting. I don’t pretend to understand why there is so much suffering in the world. Nor am I naïve enough to think I will save the world through my small attempts to “do good” through charitable activity and prayer. But it heartens me to know beyond all rational thought that God knows our suffering and has a plan for our deliverance. It doesn’t absolve us from action; rather it acts as encouragement to persevere. It gives meaning to our alms, fasting and prayer. In fact, our faith gives us reason to offer these traditional Lenten practices up in gratitude and, yes, even joy. They can be our way of thanking the Lord for helping us to rise out of our own deserts.
Joseph Sinasac is the recently retired Publishing Director of Novalis Publishing. He has been involved with religious communications for almost 45 years as an author, journalist, editor and TV and radio commentator on all things Catholic.
