The Spiritual Preseason
Over two weeks ago, Ash Wednesday marked the beginning of our Lenten journey where we chose our intentions of prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. Through these intentions, we aim to draw closer to Jesus, mirroring the 40 days he spent in the desert fasting and facing temptation and spiritual testing (Matthew 4:1-11). Some of us may have remained steadfast in our Lenten promises or some of us may have had trouble even getting started. No matter where you are on your journey, it is important to remember that this time is not a punishment but rather a preparation for the promises to come.
In an athletic context, Lent is often likened to the grind of preseason preparations. During this time, athletes set early morning alarms so that they can complete intense daily sessions of conditioning, strength training, injury rehab, studying playbooks, following strict nutrition plans, and more. All weeks or even months before they will even step on to the field of play or see the start line of a race. Without the thrill of competition in close sight, the vast stretch of diligence and sacrifice can bring about a temptation to compromise: to sleep in a little bit later… to skip the last few reps of exercises… to procrastinate on the planned preparations.
Perhaps this is what Lent feels like right now. We have been trudging forward through the desert and cannot yet clearly see the oasis on the other side, so just as Jesus was hungry and faced the temptation to turn stones into loaves of bread, we might feel tempted to compromise or even abandon our Lenten intentions. Or, maybe the stretch of desert ahead seems so intimidating that it has been hard to even begin the journey. Sometimes, we cling to the worldly comforts we are called to fast from during Lent because we are too scared to step away from the small pools of water to seek the glorious oasis that lays on the other side of the desert. Wherever you are, it is important to remember the following truths about Lent:
It is not about perfection. When we fail to meet the mark, there is a temptation to just give up and “try again next year.” But just like an athlete who strays away from their preseason training, abandoning the plan will not prepare them for the season ahead. The best next step is to recommit to what will best prepare us for what is to come.
It is a time for discipline. Sometimes, faith follows action. There are practical steps we can take to hold us accountable to our intentions. Set alarms or reminders to automatically repeat daily. Place cell phones on silent or out of reach. Put physical barriers in place to remove distractions or temptations.
It is a time to surrender our weaknesses. It can be tempting to react in frustration or self deprecation when we cannot even keep the simple goals we set for ourselves during this time. Even though it can be painful, allow this identification of our weaknesses to prompt us to recognize how much we need Christ and His grace.
It is not about us. While this time can be compared to a spiritual “preseason,” what waits on the other side is not the victory that we earn, it is the victory of Christ. Through this realization and motivation, we pray that our Lenten intentions truly transform us and draw us closer to receiving the promise of hope He provides.