Give It Up for Christ

Mike Dwyer / Congregational Care Pastor

Having been raised in a Catholic family the Lenten season was special. We always looked forward to the coming of Mardi Gras (Fat Tuesday), knowing that Lent and some "deprivation" always took on a greater significance. Each year we would enjoy the food and songs that happened on Mardi Gras. This was later magnified when Karen and I moved to New Orleans, considered the home and birthplace of the celebration. Memories of red beans and rice, jambalaya and etouffee come flooding back as I write this.

When we came to Christ, things changed dramatically and Lent became special in a different way. Yes, we still had good food, decorations of green, gold and purple and King cake on Mardi Gras but we understood that there was so much more to it. Instead of asking each other, “what did you give up” (it was always something that you didn't like anyway), we spent the days in reflection and preparation upon the person and passion of Christ.

As a Wesleyan pastor I became much more aware of what the Catholic church calls the Stations of the Cross, its meaning and purpose. To again dwell upon what Christ did for us and to contemplate His great love for us is always invigorating and renewing. Now, at this time of year I am repeatedly blown away by John 3:16.

This year I am further blessed to lead a small group as we explore Francis Chan's Beloved and discuss this great love. Now when people talk about Ash Wednesday, the meaning of a Friday Fish Fry and ask me what I am giving up, it has a whole new meaning. I usually indicate that I am trying to give up self and sinning! Try saying that and watch the conversation that ensues. It is my sincerest wish for each of you to experience the love of Christ this Lenten season and for you to revel not in what you have given up but what you have gained. Blessings my friends!