‘Understanding the riches hidden in Christ’
The Hebrew scriptures and the gospel passage today underline a period of trial – a passage in the desert no less. Though instead of it being a time of isolation and despair, it became a period of purification, a time to focus, without distraction; a time to discern what to set the heart on and what to leave behind. Welcome to Lent 2025.
Our Lenten practices of prayer, fasting, and almsgiving are designed to help us discern and refocus on what God desires for us. And so, we pray our opening prayer this Sunday, ‘Grant almighty God, through our yearly observances that we may grow in understanding of the riches hidden in Christ’.
Our conversations with God, prayer. Time spent in prayer is transformative. It influences and challenges the way we think about ourselves, others, the world. It touches our hearts and our minds. What is burning in your heart this Lent that you want to take to prayer?
Fasting conforms us to God. It provides us with a way of becoming more like Jesus, by creating intentional space for God to dwell. What is God asking of you this Lent?
Complementary to fasting, almsgiving. It isn’t just about giving something up, it also includes sharing something that we have. This could be our time, talent, or treasure. From God’s abundance we have received, and in a spirit of charity we are called to generously show mercy and love to others. From the abundance God has bestowed upon you, what is He inviting you to share this Lent?
Last weekend I was overwhelmed by the aroha, thanks and generosity shown as you farewelled me. Thank you for your prayers, kind wishes and loving words, it was very humbling. If you heard my farewell speech you may recall the themes of seasons and service. It is a coincidence that my next season begins in Lent – a time for prioritising discernment, for refocusing and service, or is it!
Ka kite anō, Debbie Matheson
