Strength in Vulnerability

“The fear of others lays a snare, but one who trusts in the Lord is secure.” (Proverbs 29:25)

As we journey through Lent, a season of reflection and preparation before the celebrations of Easter, we are invited to embrace vulnerability as a path to spiritual growth. This period calls us to self-reflection, mindfulness, and a deeper connection with God.

For those who didn’t grow up in the church, Lent can feel like a foreign concept, but in reality, it is simply an annual check-in and tune-up. Like any priority in life, “what is measured is managed” (often attributed to Peter Drucker). If we prioritize growing closer to God and establishing a foundational faith, we must also realize that we need regular check-ins to help us along the way. Lent is one of those regular check-ins.

Lent is a significant season in the Christian calendar, spanning 40 days, beginning on Ash Wednesday and concluding on Holy Saturday—the day before Easter Sunday. The 40-day period mirrors the 40 days Jesus spent fasting in the wilderness, enduring temptation, and engaging in self-reflection through prayer. We too are called to be prepared during our Lenten journey for the resurrection of Easter morning by prayer, self-denial, meditation, self-assessment, and repentance. It is an inside-out, outside-in practice that leads us closer to God’s divine image.

Self-Reflection and Openness

Lent is a time to look inward and examine our lives. Are we stuck in cycles of routine and complacency? Do we fear being open about our true desires and fears? Self-reflection requires us to be honest with ourselves, even when it is uncomfortable. It is in this openness that we find the strength to grow.

Sometimes we are so afraid to be open—open about our true desires, open about what we fear, sometimes even open with ourselves about what we think, even when we don’t know why we think that way. There is vulnerability in being open. For openness must at some point recognize its own capacity—it must understand that on most things we do not have all the information.

When we are open to ourselves (and others), we must at some point understand that we might be wrong. Hard pill to swallow, I know. However, in that vulnerability lies our greatest weakness and strength. Vulnerability is not a weakness; it is a strength. There is strength in knowing we have room to grow, learn, gain knowledge, and achieve mastery over actions. There is strength in knowing we do not have it all figured out.

Mindful Self-Reflection and Lent

Mindfulness during Lent means being present in the moment and acknowledging our vulnerabilities. We must recognize that we do not have all the answers and that it is okay to admit our weaknesses. This vulnerability is not a sign of failure but a testament to our willingness to learn and grow.

The journey of Lent is about drawing nearer to God. When we trust in the Lord, we find security and strength. Proverbs 29:25 reminds us that fear can trap us, but trust in God liberates us. By being open and vulnerable, we allow God to work in our lives, leading us to greater wisdom and understanding. Openness leads to vulnerability, which in turn leads to recognition and growth. When we are open with ourselves and others, we create opportunities for learning and teaching.

It is only through the work of the Holy Spirit, which guides us along our Lenten journey, that we can grow closer to the Divine image of God. This means reliance on the Holy Spirit and openness to searching for its work in the world—in people and through people; in us and through us. In times of fear and uncertainty, trust in the Lord provides us with strength. Reflect on the wisdom found in trusting God. How can this trust transform your life during Lent? How can it help you grow closer to God and to others?

This Lenten season, let us strive to be open, to embrace our vulnerabilities, and to trust in God's guidance. As we reflect on our lives this Lenten season, let us be mindful of where God is leading us. Trust in His knowledge and be open to new perspectives. Embrace vulnerability as a path to spiritual growth and let it guide you closer to God.

-          Pastor Jon