Mark 1:12-15, First Sunday of Lent

As modern society faces migration, artificial intelligence, ideological-political fundamentalism, and climate change, can we still say that Lent is still relevant in a “post-truth era?” As humanity is challenged by the breakdown of relationships, social injustice, and poverty, can we still consider sacrifice and repentance as applicable, or are they outdated concepts? These epochal changes in the world are rich content that shapes and helps us reappropriate the meaning of Lent today.

This First Sunday of Lent, we see that the message of Mark 1:12-15 is still meaningful and appropriate today. I would like to offer three “approaches” to how we can enter into Lent on this day.

To be contemplative in action is to embrace solitude for self-examination. We seek quiet moments, like Jesus, who the Spirit drove to the wilderness. This season is also an opportune time for us to “unplug and disconnect” from the busyness of our lives. The noises of modern society’s fast-paced environment can be overwhelming. Allowing ourselves to retreat from the culture of our screens and social media helps us find quiet moments to reflect on ourselves, our meaningful relationships with others, and our longing for God. Lent offers us spaces of prayer and a deeper connection with God.

To grow in discernment makes us recognize the different spirits at work in our lives. With the structural changes and post-truth message, our society is haunted by a culture of indifference and apathy toward others. Discernment of spirits teaches us to “distinguish between the influences that lead toward God and or those that pull us away from Him.” As Jesus proclaimed the Kingdom of God as opposed to the culture of His time, we, too, are encouraged to embrace what is countercultural. As the world looks into individualism, we seek genuine relationships. As the world embraces consumerism, we foster what is best for the common good. Lent allows us to resist temptation, just like Jesus did. Lent allows us to align our principles with the Gospel values. It makes sacrifice and repentance a more loving option.

To find God in all things helps us discern God’s presence in all facets of human life. The epochal challenges, especially in migration, poverty, and social injustice, are rich areas where we can foster social responsibility and a sense of service. Our Lord invites us to a “deeper faith, service, and discipleship this season of Lent.” As Jesus in our Gospel today proclaimed, this season also invites us to consider our role as builders of the Kingdom. Lent does not only teach us to reflect but also to reach out. Finding God in all things allows us to live out our faith by discerning the signs of the times and in the hope that we can contribute to a better society.

May this season of Lent allow us to appreciate the importance of prayer, discernment, and the capacity to find God in all things. May these values and principles provide us with practical tools for self-examination, resisting temptation, and discerning God’s call, making Lent a relevant and transformative time in our spiritual lives.