A Lenten Reflection by John Bauer

Tuesday, April 1, 2025

I was asked to write a devotion for the Lenten Reflections.

I had no idea what I would come up with. Expressing myself can be difficult sometimes. I thought it would be a good challenge for me.

Lent wasn't discussed much at our house when I was a child. I learned the importance of Lent more recently.

We are in a ....hurry up..... get it done yesterday...why isn't it done yet...world. Lent is a time of personal reflection. I had forgotten this. It has been very busy the last few years. I got caught up in all of the action.

This year's book read has reminded me of the season again. We are just beginning to read the book. I am enjoying the meditative exercises in the book. Taking the time to relax and reflect on the things. The effect trauma has on our lives, our bodies and on others.

We all have challenges in our lives. We all have things to work through. I have found in the past, taking time to reflect, taking a mini sabbatical for 20 minutes or a half hour or so can be very fulfilling. It can bring us closer to God and calm some of the trauma in our bodies.

I am not always successful with my Lenten practice. Just attempting to do so is very healing.

One other good reason for caring for our bodies. Some religions consider your body to belong to God. It is to be cared for through your lifetime and returned in good condition. The same as vacating an apartment.

I hope that everybody has some time for reflection, calm, healing this season.