This week, there have been many conversations about quarantine and self-isolation. The concept of quarantine first began in the 14th century in Venice, Italy in an attempt to protect coastal cities from epidemics. Ships arriving from infected ports were required to sit anchored for 40 days before landing on shore. Forty is also a significant number in the Bible - 40 days and nights Noah battled the floods, 40 years the Hebrews were in the wilderness, 40 days Moses fasted before receiving the Ten Commandments. Lent is also a time marked by 40. It is the 40 days leading up to Easter. It is the 40 days when we consider the sufferings of Jesus and His temptation in the wilderness.
Lent is a time whereby food and festivities are dramatically scaled back. Lent is a time that we typically slow down, reflect and consider the plight of our human condition. Lent is when we focus on repentance and contemplate on our need for a Saviour. Lent is when we consider what the Lord did for us on the cross.
For some, it may feel like we have been in Lent for longer than 40 days and it may feel like Lent has been imposed on us. As markets crash, as people worry about their jobs and their future, as our world is changing before our eyes, may we ‘be still and know that He is God.” Psalm 46:10. May this season be a new season - a spiritual season - a season of renewal.
I am thankful for the hope that we have in the cross. May we take comfort and find courage in the prayer of St. Patrick,
Christ with me, Christ before me, Christ behind me,
Christ in me, Christ beneath me, Christ above me,
Christ on my right, Christ on my left,
Christ where I lie, Christ where I sit, Christ where I arise,
Christ in the heart of everyone who thinks of me,
Christ in the mouth of every one who speaks to me,
Christ in every eye that sees me,
Christ in every ear that hears me.
Salvation is of the Lord.
Salvation is of the Christ.
May your salvation, Lord, be ever with us.
Blessings, Pastor Michele