The Shadow Of The Cross

In the period before Lent, carnival frolics are held in many places of Europe and Latin America. Here in the United States, the Mardi Gras, a 10 day festival period in New Orleans draws thousands of people to herald the preparation season known as Lent. A lot of food is consumed and especially unusual and rich foods...hence the name "Fat Tuesday" in Europe and "Butter Week" in Russia and "Fat Days" in Poland. But when Lent itself begins, then people go into periods of fasting, giving up rich foods, and special delicacies.

In some ways, all of this seems rather ridiculous. Of course there is value in fasting, and going without rich foods. But it seems rather trivial, if for 10 days in advance, a person gorges himself upon rich foods and special delicacies to make up for it!

A more significant awareness of Lent is shared by those who think of this six and one‑half week period as a time to remember our Lord. Of course we may find value in giving up a meal now and then, or some delicacy. But the little sacrifice we make can never match the sacrifice of our Lord. Therefore a spiritual preparation period demands that we shall live continually under the "shadow" of his cross, letting all of life be touched by a remembrance of Him, not just our appetites and our taste buds.

The hymn‑writer has said,

"I take, O cross, thy shadow for my abiding place;
I ask no other sunshine than the sunshine of his
face;
Content to let the world go by, to know no
gain nor loss,
My sinful self my only shame, my
glory all the cross."

During Lent, may I suggest that you seek the "sunshine of his face" and let your "glory be the cross". Spend extra time in prayer. Seek out the Gospel records and read and re‑read the life of our Lord. Let the resources of the Church offer you worship and Bible study. This is a true observance of Lent. If you allow the "shadow of the cross" to rest upon you, you will most certainly find the sunshine of the Easter resurrection to be your personal victory later.