A Lenten Reflection by Peter Anderson

Tuesday, February 20, 2024

A contemplation on contemplating, during the season of Lent.

I didn’t grow up with Lent.

Attending a non-dom, e-free church meant we didn’t consider Lent as long as we were saved - born again. Our focus was on saving others; there was evangelizing work to accomplish.

But as an adult, I was introduced to Lent while attending an episcopal church and experienced it in the same way I’ve been introduced to folk dancing; I tend to get tripped up lost in the fundamentals.

I appreciate the practice of a structural pause to truly consider my actions and thoughts. A year’s worth of half-promises that finally receive their due attention. Another opportunity to practice a new practice.

So, I have been considering joy and the culture changing power it holds. Joy cuts through cynicism, anxiety and the chaos of our daily lives. To be joyful is to trust, to let go of control and for even a brief moment, float happily in change.

For this Lent, I am going to take on Joy.

I’m going to seek out Joy and bring joy forward in my life. I’m going to document this small journey and see if I can reinforce my faith, my trust and live lighter.

That’s the practice this season of Lent provides me.