The Journey of Lent

Kenny Benge preached a sermon entitled “The Journey of Lent” based on 2 Corinthians 5:20-6:10 at a joint Ash Wednesday with Christ UMC on February 22, 2012. We never lose sight of the Resurrection, His revealing himself to us, but in the journey of Lent, we acknowledge our human and spiritual weakness. The real question of the Lenten season is: Where in my life have I gotten away from God and what are the disciplines that will enable me to find my way back? Lent is the embrace of humility, and the undertaking of spiritual practices that increase our spiritual awareness, preparing us to receive a fresh and joyous grace from God.

Sorrow for sin is indeed necessary, but it should not involve endless self-pre-occupation.  You should dwell also on the glad remembrance of the loving kindness of God--Bernard of Clairveaux.