Lenten Encouragement from Wiser Shepherds (Thank You, Fr. Nouwen)

It’s usually at this point in Lent that I am ready to turn and run toward Easter.

The disciplines of prayer, reflection, confession and repentance start to feel like a Connecticut winter – a winter that started in November and still threatens gray and cold in April. It feels unrelenting in its weight and toll.

It’s about now I read or hear something from the Spirit, though, that names this impulse as a likely sign that Lent is doing its work.

It’s getting through to my first-world trained, ego-centric self.

It’s not time to stop the discipline. It’s time to take another step. It’s time to pay attention to my life and life with God. It’s time to grow more honest, deeper and bolder.

When this happens, I often return to the helpful words of wiser shepherds and guides. Henri Nouwen has been one of those since I was a young adult and first introduced to him through his writings.

His many books, including The Wounded Healer, In the Name of Jesus, The Return of the Prodigal Son, Life of the Beloved, A Letter of Consolation, and so many more, have been meaningful to me.

These words come from A Cry for Mercy: Prayers from the Genesee, and they are a Lenten encouragement to keep focused on this journey to grow nearer the heart of God:

“How often have I lived through these weeks without paying much attention to penance, fasting, and prayer? 

“How often have I missed the spiritual fruits of the season without even being aware of it? 

“But how can I ever really celebrate Easter without observing Lent?

“How can I rejoice fully in your Resurrection when I have avoided participating in your death? 

“Yes, Lord, I have to die – with you, through you, and in you – and thus become ready to recognize you when you appear to me in your Resurrection. 

“There is so much in me that needs to die: false attachments, greed and anger, impatience and stinginess…. 

“I see clearly now how little I have died with you, really gone your way and been faithful to it. 

“O Lord, make this Lenten season different from the other ones. Let me find you again. Amen.”

I am praying and praying for you as we seek to walk faithfully this way, too.

Grace and peace,

B Guffey