As we embark on the third week of Lent, it’s a perfect time to contemplate our individual spiritual journeys. Many of us decide to drop our habits or take on new commitments during this reflective season. This suggests a vital quality of perseverance.
Navigating our spiritual lives often involves facing obstacles that can seem daunting. Personally, I have found myself overwhelmed by lofty ambitions, thinking I can tackle an entire project or commitment all at once. When considering a long-term goal, like abstaining from certain habits for six weeks, it may be easy to feel daunted by the journey ahead. Similar to preparing for a 5K race, success lies in the preparation—by engaging in both short and long training runs to build endurance.
Scottish author Walter Elliot wisely noted, “Perseverance is not a long race. It’s many short races one after the other.” This insight can redefine our understanding of our spiritual journeys. They are composed of numerous short races—those daily moments and practices that lead us forward.
As we reflect on our observations during Lent, we should consider how to break our overarching commitments into manageable pieces. For example, if you have set an ambitious goal of reading the entire Bible, this can feel incredibly overwhelming. Rather than tackling the entire text at once, focus on one section, such as Paul’s letters to the Corinthians, digesting it chapter by chapter.
Similarly, if you aspire to develop a consistent spiritual practice—committing to weekly church services, volunteering at a food pantry, or engaging in a book study—recognize that this can be challenging if it is a departure from your usual routine. Like the marathons we train for, breaking these new practices into smaller, achievable segments can help you stay on track.
Commitment is at the heart of perseverance. By dedicating ourselves to our spiritual walk, we can transform daunting challenges into attainable goals. This commitment requires breaking down our objectives and focusing on small, consistent actions that gradually lead us towards spiritual growth.
As we conclude our second week of Lent and step into the next, I encourage you to take a moment for reflection. Consider what you have accomplished in your spiritual practices thus far. Celebrate these achievements, no matter how small they may seem, as they are steps on the path of your commitment.
Perseverance in your spiritual journey with God is crucial as you seek depth in your relationship. Recognizing perseverance as a means of fortifying your journey can empower you to face challenges with a renewed spirit as you navigate through Lent.
Let us pray, from the New Zealand Prayer Book:
Jesus, you knew rejection and disappointment; help us if our work seems distasteful;
help us to decide what best to do,
what next to do,
or what to do at all.
Give us courage and cheerfulness to go the second mile,
and all the miles ahead.
May your journey be filled with purpose and strength as you move forward.
Amen.
Deacon Loretta