Embracing Growth During the Lenten Season
“Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me. “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me, you can do nothing.”
How frustrating would it be to travel for a while only to find you’ve not moved from where you started? We expect to make progress on any journey, including our faith journeys. We begin in a specific place, filled with questions and wonder at God’s incredible grace in Jesus Christ. The challenge arises when, even after many years of following Jesus, some people find themselves spiritually stagnant, standing in the same place as when they first began. They aren’t experiencing deeper intimacy with Christ, a better understanding of the Bible, greater participation in mission, increased generosity, or any other signs of growth. Their relationship with Jesus feels identical to what it was on the day they first said yes to Him. While Jesus is delighted to be in a relationship with each of us, the very idea of following Him implies that there should be movement and progress.
That’s why it’s important not to miss the opportunity in front of us. The Lenten season offers a significant chance for intentional growth. Traditionally, Lent is recognized as the forty days of preparation leading up to Easter. Initially, it was a period where the church guided recent converts through instruction and fasting in preparation for baptism. Today, many people continue to fast during the Lenten season, choosing to give up something as a form of sacrifice. Common practices include abstaining from social media, alcohol, or sweets to maintain a sense of suffering and solemnity throughout the season. Others take the opportunity to start positive habits, such as donating more money or increasing their Bible reading, as a way to deepen their faith.
However, some believers have stopped prioritizing Lent, feeling that the season is disconnected from their practical relationship with Christ. While this feeling is understandable, those who intentionally engage in conversation with God and reflect on areas where they need to strengthen their discipleship may find that Lent offers a profound opportunity for growth. The key is to take a deliberate step forward. The verse above reminds us that Jesus is the source of our fruitfulness. We engage in the work He assigns us so that we grow as individuals and the Kingdom of God grows among us. This Lenten season, make a conscious effort to listen for the steps Jesus may want you to take to become more fruitful and progress on your faith journey. Don’t miss the opportunity to grow closer to Christ.
Pastor Scott
