When I think of Lent, I think of simplifying things and getting down to the essentials. Many of us do this when we give up something for Lent. It’s an attempt to let something go, so that we can focus on what is of greater value. It’s a stimulus to reflection.
The ritual of receiving ashes on this day reminds us that this world is passing, and that we should reflect on what our priorities are and on how the Baptist’s call to repentance is speaking to us.
Black and white photography is the type of photography that most puts me in the Lenten frame of mind. In removing color from an image we are left with the essentials of form and mass and design–the essentials of what makes a house a house or a tree a tree.
May this season of Lent provide an opportunity for all of us to spend some time in prayerful reflection on what are the essential elements of our life–the people, places, and activities that give our life meaning, and on what ways we are being called by the gospel to a renewal of mind and heart and action. Lenten blessings to all!
“Rend your hearts, not your garments, and return to the Lord, your God, for he is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love.” (Joel 2:13)
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