To Dust You Shall Return

So far my predominant task of 2010 has been the blessed privilege of companioning several of my loved ones as they weaken and in some cases die. Some of the people have expressed a deep faith in Christ. Others have resisted that gift.

I have seen fear, resentment, bitterness and anxiety in those who cling to earthly life. They see life’s end as the death of everything precious. However, I have seen amazing joy, anticipation, and peace in those who see their aging process as one that takes them closer to final rest in Christ. They see life’s end as the eternal assurance of all that is most precious.

We know at some level that all we “possess” in life in terms of bodily strength, vigor and vitality dwindles. But the people of God also know that faith transforms us. Our bodies deteriorate, but we are sustained by a core of hope that transcends our physical condition. You can see it in the eyes and hear it in the voice of the aged faithful ones, right? In spite of the sorrow of earthly endings there is a joyful anticipation of eternity.

On Ash Wednesday we are reminded of mortality – the words “Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return” are spoken softly and repeatedly. The words fill the sanctuary and surround the mind and the heart. They become a chant about mortal ending. But they are not morbid words. They are not hopeless words, for they invite us to walk towards eternity.

Whether we are children, teens, young adults, peak of lifers, golden agers, seniors or geriatrics, we ALL can deepen our faith practices and heighten our awareness that every single day we are moving closer to our final return to the Lord. As such, we can share and proclaim how JOYFUL our Lenten Journey really is.

We are invited and encouraged to practice Lenten Disciplines of simplicity, fasting, generosity, daily prayer, and service to others. Through these practices we turn from the grip that the world has upon our priorities, and walk purposefully toward the abundance of God’s love, forgiveness and mercy. Unlike a physical discipline (like a diet or training program) which can be abandoned thereby allowing the body to return to its former condition, the spiritual practices of Lent can mold and form us in new ways that influence the rest of our mortal lives.

I pray that you will notice the Joy of Lent…the path that moves us through the limits of our life, which will end…which is and will be dust. May your Lent be blessed with growth of new life in Christ!