The Reminder is making its archives back to 2003 available on our website. Please note that, due to technical limitations, archive articles are presented without the usual formatting.
Spring Cleaning By Rev. Ina Golaiy, St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church When we think of Easter, we often think of spring. When we think of spring, we often think of spring cleaning. That time when closets and drawers finally get cleaned out. When the 'dust bunnies' behind and under things finally get swept up. When that missing handle finally gets replaced. That time when we might even put a fresh new coat of paint on our walls to brighten things up. When the windows are able to be flung open and fresh air fills our homes. For Christians around the world, the journey of Lent is much like spring cleaning. During Lent's 40 days, all Christians are invited to conduct a 'spiritual housecleaning' in order to be prepared to receive 'the fresh air' of God's eternal gift of love given in the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The journey of Lent begins on Ash Wednesday, when Christians acknowledge the dust and dirt Ð the sin Ð that has accumulated in their lives. Each week along the journey of Lent is a time when we can sort, clean, sweep, replace, and brighten up our spiritual lives. It is a time when we can intentionally get rid of all the things that are not essential, not life giving, in our lives. It is a time when we can honestly and openly reflect on the obstacles, such as fear, doubt, and busyness, that keep us from being in relationship with God. It is a time when we can replace the obstacles with things, such as prayer, reading scripture, and worship, that enable us to truly be with and know God. The journey of Lent is a time to become refreshed and refocused on the important things of life. The journey of Lent allows us the time to fling open the window of our soul so that we may receive the refreshing breeze of God's love as revealed in Jesus Christ, who died that we might have life and have it abundantly. Happy spring/spiritual cleaning. And may the God of love bless you.11/3/05
