Advent seeds have been sprouting in my spirit during Lent. The seeds? Things begin, but they also end. Both can happen in an instant. The seasonal growth of these kernels takes a little more time to describe.
On one hand, Advent heralds both the end of all things—Judgment Day—and their beginning—A Baby Savior foretells deliverance. On the other hand, Lent leads me through the horrors of punishing crucifixion to the triumph of life—Resurrection and resurrection. The themes of Advent and Lent call for repentance—about my sins and shortcomings, certainly, but also about my outlook overall.
Significant life changes can happen in a split second. Paul describes the end of all things as “the twinkling of an eye” (1 Corinthians 15:52). And Spring—Lent’s calendar companion—suddenly pops out like a daffodil emerging from its surrounding snow.
What’s this call to mind? My well-being or life itself could drastically change or end in a flash. The snap in a broken blood supply (aneurism) or a distracted-driving car accident are examples. I could be writing this blog at one moment and at the next instant be severely disabled. With one click, my savings could be emptied by an identity thief.
I’m not terrified by this collection of Advent/Lent thoughts—I don’t spend my days hiding under my bed. Approaching my later years, I lean on Scripture instead. In Psalm 90:12 (CEV), the writer prays, “Teach us to use wisely all the time we have.” That’s how I try to approach each day of my life—all the instants that gather together. Not captured by fear or sorrow, but challenged and encouraged by possibilities still ahead. Happy to be alive. That’s how Advent seeds are still growing in my soul this Lent.
One instant at a time…
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