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This article appears in the Wilderness issue of Trinity News , the magazine of Trinity Church-St. Paul's Chapel.

The theology of wilderness has two sides. The first we find purposefully, attempting to be quiet and find clarity, to experience God’s still small voice. The second is a more challenging wilderness — one of painful disorientation and isolation that few of us would choose.

Living in the fullness of life God envisions for us cannot be done in the wilderness. We are not meant to stay in either wilderness scenario. Following Jesus’ example, we create periods of stillness and retreat so that we may return to reengage the world. Following Jesus’ example, when we see our brothers and sisters struggling in a wilderness of isolation, our duty is to help light the way back home.

The wilderness of Lent is a tool for resurrection in our lives. Lent lies on Easter’s path as an optimistic reminder that change is difficult, but possible and leads to new life.

These days, approaches to Lent are creative — people give things up, like money, or take things on, like new diet or prayer routines. A guiding principle in choosing your Lenten discipline might be to find something you want to have as part of your life, or not part of your life, beyond Lent. Herein lies the “new” life.

Yes, Lent is 40 days, but it is about the rest of your life. In some respects, Lent can feel a bit selfish — full of introspection and self-interest. But keep in mind, it’s hard to put something on (like service to others, for instance) without taking something off that might distract you. Be alert to what your new life offers to others around you.

If, this Lent, you are struggling in a wilderness of distraction, know that there are people in this world who can help you out. If you are entering the wilderness to hear God’s voice, blessings on the journey there and back. In either case, know that life may have a thousand Lents, but they will be followed by a thousand Easters. God is always with us.

Faithfully,

The Rev. Dr. James Herbert Cooper, Rector

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Wilderness
A Trinity News Companion