Making the journey through Lent

A few weeks ago, Benedict XVI, released his Lenten message to the world. The Pope has seen a great amount of turmoil within the world, and also the Church, during these last few years. In recent months there has been an increase in violence against Christian peoples in the world. Presently the Middle East there is unprecedented violence and rioting. Over the the weekend Benedict expressed his fear over the results of what could occur in this situation.

In his Lenten message Benedict reiterated the necessity of letting go of all traces of selfishness. "The greed of possession leads to violence, exploitation and death." To be sure our recent economic woes stem from a few persons desire for wealth. The lust for power allows dictators to retain their control over peoples, using whatever force necessary to retain their position.

Benedict reminds us that Lent is a time to prepare for Baptism. Quoting St. Paul's Letter to the Colossians, we are to consider that in Baptism we are buried with Christ by our dying to ourselves. In joining with Christ's passion and death, we hope to also share in his resurrection. The hope of unending life is ours when we share in the paschal mystery. Benedict asks us to consider that we are called to live in a singular communion with Christ. I always like to look at how parents give up on their wants and needs so as to advance the needs and concerns of their children.

Jesus Christ humbled himself and accepted death on the cross. Benedict states that we who are Baptized become different because of what we have received in Christ Jesus. He became one like us that through His actions we might become more like him. Our reflection of our Baptism should help us understand that if our lives are overwhelmed by stuff, we remain disconnected from the mystery we celebrate. The sacraments of initiation continue to draw us into that sacred relationship with God and others.

Benedict again uses St. Paul to remind us that once we live with Christ through Baptism, then our whole lives are a journey of seeking for the truth. Prayer, fasting, and alms giving, are traditional ways to re-orientate ourselves to what is important in Jesus Christ. The love that we share from God our Father is then shared with one another.

I remember back in seminary, we had a hunger meal one Lent. We gave some persons only rice, another smaller group received a chicken leg and a potato. And a very small group were served steak, baked potatoes, and vegetables. All to symbolize the distribution of wealth and food in the world. One table cut up the steak, chicken, and vegetables, and shared it with the table, sort of family style. That's how it should be.

Benedict concludes by challenging us to live the depth of the sacrament of Baptism. By his suffering and death Jesus has freed us from Sin and death. We are invited to live the mystery we celebrate and share in eternal life.