We would all benefit by viewing Lent as it was originally intended, an opportunity to live from the Highest part of ourselves, embracing a new dimension of living. To do this, it is vital we open not only our mind, but our heart as well, to new possibilities of aligning with Spirit.

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Points to Remember –  “With All My Heart” (Sunday, February 28, 2021)

There is no basis in the Bible for Lent.  It was derived by early members of the Church and was intended as a time of celebration, a time when our hearts are opened.  The people realized that we tend to live from the smallest part of ourselves, our earthly mind – and that we can choose to lift ourselves to experience Christ Consciousness.

The concept of Lent is derived from the word ‘Spring’ and is related with the reawakening of life.  One aspect of this Christ Consciousness experience is the absolute certainty of the eternal life of each individual.  Another aspect is the complete loss of suffering and any sense of tragedy.

But, the original intent of Lent became distorted over time.  The real purpose was lost and people began to make a fad of Lent, giving up some outer trivial thing for a brief time.  A wise young man asked once, “Why does God need us to give us good stuff?  Why don’t you give up something you don’t want, something that’s causing a problem?”

This makes so much sense, and yet some persons do not accept it.  They would rather pursue the understanding of the ancient church that stressed a belief that suffering, sorrow, and grief constitutes a virtue.  Jesus himself did not suggest we practice deprivation or sacrifice.  He is quoted in Mt.12:7 “I desire mercy, not sacrifice.”

Lent is not intended to bear down on the human part of us.  To really let Lent flourish in you, you have to allow God to come through your being.  Lent should be an exciting time of conscious and joyous mental activity.

Jesus was always doing and saying things that caused his disciples (as well as others) to open their hearts.  In his first appearance after the Resurrection, we’re told Jesus breathed upon them and said “Receive the Holy Spirit.”  Scripture is filled with accounts of mighty works by those who opened themselves to the power of the Holy Spirit.

It is well that we consider how children jump right into living, not hold back.  At one point in Mt 18, Jesus is quoted, “…unless you change and become like children, you will never enter the Kingdom of Heaven.”

A powerful way you can bring about this wonderful transformation is your life is by following the original intent of Lent.  This comes about as you practice Affirmations and Denials – fasting from negative thinking and destructive habits or practices at the same time you feast on what brings you joy and fulfillment.

As you bring yourself into alignment with Spirit, you live in a state of Christ Consciousness, a life that is magnificent and beautiful, one that provides evidence of God’s Grace at work within you.

Unity’s Lenten Booklet can be downloaded or ordered in print format by visiting: https://www.unity.org/publications/booklets/release-renew-lent-2021

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