As the Lenten season unfolds, Christians around the world engage in practices of reflection, repentance, and spiritual discipline. Lent, a 40-day period leading up to Easter, is traditionally marked by fasting, prayer, and acts of charity. While these practices hold profound value, it's essential to strike a balance that aligns with the doctrine of sola fide, emphasizing that salvation is a gift from God that cannot be earned through our efforts. The doctrine of sola fide, meaning "faith alone," is a cornerstone of Protestant theology. It asserts that salvation comes through faith in Jesus Christ rather than through our works or deeds. In the context of Lent, this doctrine reminds us that our Lenten practices, no matter how sincere, do not earn our salvation or standing before God.
The apostle Paul, in his letter to the Romans, beautifully captures the tension between our human struggles and God's unwavering love. In Romans 7:19-20, Paul laments, "For I do not do the good I want, but the evil I do not want is what I keep on doing. Now if I do what I do not want, it is no longer I who do it, but sin that dwells within me." This passage underscores the human condition, where even our best intentions fall short, yet God's love remains steadfast. Acknowledging our imperfections during Lent does not diminish the significance of our efforts. Instead, it redirects our focus towards reliance on God's grace. Lenten practices become opportunities for spiritual growth, humility, and a deeper understanding of our need for God.
Renowned theologian N.T. Wright offers insights into this balance, noting that Lent is not about "trying to earn God's favor" but rather "about trying to live in God's way." In embracing Lenten practices, we respond to God's love with gratitude, recognizing that our salvation is a gift received through faith. As we journey through Lent, let us engage in practices that draw us closer to God while keeping in mind the liberating truth of sola fide. Fasting, prayer, and acts of charity are not transactions to earn salvation but expressions of faith and obedience. In the words of Paul and the wisdom of N.T. Wright, let Lent be a season where we humbly acknowledge our shortcomings, embrace God's unconditional love, and grow in the grace that sustains us on this transformative journey.
Dan Mickool R.Ph, M.S, Ed.D
Sr. Warden
The apostle Paul, in his letter to the Romans, beautifully captures the tension between our human struggles and God's unwavering love. In Romans 7:19-20, Paul laments, "For I do not do the good I want, but the evil I do not want is what I keep on doing. Now if I do what I do not want, it is no longer I who do it, but sin that dwells within me." This passage underscores the human condition, where even our best intentions fall short, yet God's love remains steadfast. Acknowledging our imperfections during Lent does not diminish the significance of our efforts. Instead, it redirects our focus towards reliance on God's grace. Lenten practices become opportunities for spiritual growth, humility, and a deeper understanding of our need for God.
Renowned theologian N.T. Wright offers insights into this balance, noting that Lent is not about "trying to earn God's favor" but rather "about trying to live in God's way." In embracing Lenten practices, we respond to God's love with gratitude, recognizing that our salvation is a gift received through faith. As we journey through Lent, let us engage in practices that draw us closer to God while keeping in mind the liberating truth of sola fide. Fasting, prayer, and acts of charity are not transactions to earn salvation but expressions of faith and obedience. In the words of Paul and the wisdom of N.T. Wright, let Lent be a season where we humbly acknowledge our shortcomings, embrace God's unconditional love, and grow in the grace that sustains us on this transformative journey.
Dan Mickool R.Ph, M.S, Ed.D
Sr. Warden
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