The keys to observing Ash Wednesday and the season of Lent are found in
the Scripture lessons for the day. These lessons stress the spiritual aspects of
fasting and repentance. The Gospel from St. Matthew 6 makes it clear that a
disciple's attitude is very important. Our Lord assumes that His followers will
fast. However, they are not to be hypocritical or ostentatious. Therefore, as
we think of this Lenten season, let us focus on
devotion to the heavenly Father. External acts of devotion can be useful, but
the main point is laying up treasure in heaven through faith in Christ.
Unfortunately, given fallen and distorted human nature,
there is always a tendency to go astray in our religious and devotional
practices. We tend to go to extremes. Sometimes, Christians are too lax about self-denial. At other times, Christians are too
rigid and legalistic. And even at our best, there are always tendencies to be selfish and
self-righteous.
Because of these dangers, the ancient
Church developed practices that encouraged both discipline and moderation. Anglicans have tried to follow a similar moderate approach. So as we think of Lent, let us focus on our devotion to God and our understanding of
Christ’s journey toward the Cross. External acts of devotion can be useful, but the most important thing about Lent is our attitude.
In all we think, say, and do, let us repent, think of Christ, and respond with living faith.
