Pandemic Lenten Season
In all my life, one Lenten Season (February-March 2020) was my favorite and scariest time.
As the Church arranged purple and ash color schemes in congregations worldwide, an unknown virus was mounting to plague the year's spiritual practice of Lent. Originating from the wet markets of China, COVID-19 was destined to ruin many lives around the globe, which houses 7.8 billion residents. It seemed that the timing of this vicious plague was right around the spiritual preparation before Easter.
Coincidence or clash? Many who had suffered loss through the Virus would spite the question. COVID-19 was discomforting and considerably paused my life. I barely participate in face-to-face congregational events, talks, teachings, and simple social interactions with people. Heck, it was a time of religious silence. But I must consider the paschal mystery, the suffering, death, and resurrection of Jesus, associated with this Virus.
However, my commitment to living the passion, death, and resurrection of Jesus through faith helped me navigate these uncertain times. Lent during a pandemic was a spiritual journey, devoid of the usual ministerial activities. The COVID quarantine provided more time for prayer, contemplation of scripture, and introspective thought. As I delved into the reading of The Passion, I discovered new depths, reminding me that Jesus' suffering and resurrection call for intentional acts of mercy and acceptance of discomfort. By sacrificing the norms and comforts in my life, I made space in my heart for Jesus and those around me, experiencing personal growth and resilience.
So, did COVID-19 disrupt my Lent? No. It was indeed a time of fear and uncertainty. However, this experience spurred me to respond with love. I reached out to society more and confronted the uncertainty with love, especially towards those who were suffering and felt hopeless due to the Virus. I embraced the discomfort of loss by being there for people, listening, praying, offering hope, and shining a light in the darkness.
A bible story that reminds me about loving acts towards others comes from Simon, who offered hope to Jesus while carrying the cross (Lk. 23:26). He assisted Christ with carrying the Roman cross. Simon's servant attitude compels me to act charitably in times of distress. Simon of Cyrene stood out from the rest of the crowd to aid the scourged Christ. Simon's example of humility, service, and love inspires me to do something this Lenten season that corresponds to assisting the ill and sorrow-filled population ...something that is memorable and life-changing instead of a forgotten or puttered promise.
