Some journeys can seem long and others can seem to be very short. Of course, it depends on where our journey leads us and the reason for it. If we are going on a vacation or even taking a “staycation” the days seem to fly by, but if it is a time of healing due to surgery or after a long illness, the time seems to drag on.
What about a 40-day journey - but not just any 40-day journey but through the wilderness or the desert? For many of us we would probably rather say “thanks, but no thanks, I think I will pass!” Our journey in life often consists of sharp twists and turns, bumps and bruises, not counting suffering, loneliness and fear of the unknown.
The 40-day journey that I am talking about is Lent which started on Ash Wednesday and ends on Palm Sunday. The Monday after Palm Sunday is the start of Holy Week leading up to Easter.
After Jesus was baptized by John the Baptist, “he was led by the Spirit into the desert to be tempted by the devil.” (Matthew 4:1)
Some versions of the Bible say “wilderness” in place of desert. Whichever word is used, it is not a good place to be for even one day, much less 40 days! Jesus was there for 40 days where he fasted for 40 days and nights. Every year during this Lenten season we are asked to make this journey with Jesus, either by fasting, giving up something or perhaps even doing more for others. This is also a time to go to the Lord in repentance, to be restored and to ask for his forgiveness.
Just as nature is starting to “spring” forth so should we as we return to God. Put your hope and your faith in Jesus, you will never regret it!
Marsha Muller, Presbyterian lay preacher, deacon of the United Presbyterian Church of Walton; 607-865-6020.
