22nd day of Lent

Taking a break is a good thing. I remember working in the Cotton Mill as a 16-year-old. I always appreciated my 15-minute break when it came around. I love my lunch break each day. Usually, I will eat lunch with a friend, staff member, or church member. Occasionally, I get to have lunch with Sharon - that’s always special.

But every now and then, I need an extended break. I need time to shut off my everyday passions and routines. My brain needs a rest. My body needs a rest. My heart needs a rest. I have discovered that I’m a much better human being when I allow myself time to re-create. Even during Lent it is good to take a break. This stuff of looking at the cross and looking at my heart and life is wearisome. I need a break.

I guess that is why our church forbearers theologically stated that Sundays would not be included in Lent. There would be 40 days of Lent excluding Sundays. Sunday is always a celebration of Easter. Therefore, it doesn’t fit as a day “of” Lent. Sundays will become days “in” Lent not days “of” Lent.

Rhythms in life are helpful. The seasons come and go. Routines last a while, and then there is “spring break” or “winter break” or “summer break” or “Thanksgiving” or “Christmas.”

I am grateful for the Lenten season, but I am equally grateful for the break of the Sabbath. It reminds me of the hope of resurrection in my own life.