A Letter from Bishop Chris (February 2023B)
Thank you!
Those words seem insufficient to adequately express the gratitude I feel following my consecration as bishop last Saturday at the Falls Church Anglican.
It was a remarkable day - and the worship! 850 voices exuberantly declared praise to our God who is worthy. It was otherworldly. Bishop JC Ryle once wrote, “We live in an age when there is a false glare on the things of time and a great mist over the things of eternity.” Well, last Saturday the things of eternity were very clear as Jesus Christ was lifted up in liturgy, through song, in biblical Gospel preaching, and Holy Communion. It was marvelous to see laity, deacons, priests, and bishops lost in the wonder of worship with hands in the air and tears streaming down many faces. I give thanks to God and to all who made the day possible.
And now, we begin Lent.
Lent is also a time in which the things of eternity are made clear. We begin with Ash Wednesday confessing our sins and recognizing our need for a Savior. It’s humbling as the clergy mark each person’s forehead with ashes in the sign of the cross and speak God’s words from Genesis 3:19: “For dust you are and to dust you shall return.” The service isn’t intended to be a downer; rather it’s a solemn reminder that our lives are short and therefore we must live them to the fullest in serving God’s purpose in the world.
Over the next 40 days, many of us will give something up as part of our Lenten spiritual practice. This can include things that typically control us like sweets, coffee, alcohol, social media, or video games. However, you might also choose to give up something even deeper, such as using critical speech, or being overly busy. If you do choose to give something up, my advice is to do so mindfully and prayerfully rather than religiously or from guilt.
Others will choose to take something on as part of our Lenten practices. You might give to the poor or serve the homeless. You might also look for ways to serve your family without looking for their praise. Again, be mindful.
As you discern how you will engage in a holy Lent, I advise you to do what a mentor of mine once told me: ask God what He wants you to do. Spend some time listening to God in prayer or in church or while out for a walk. As my friend advised, God might give you a delightful prescription, like, “slow down,” “sleep more,” “laugh a lot!” Of course, there are some who will need to hear, “get the lead out,” or “quit nursing your wounds,” or “ask Me to help you forgive, and get on with your life.” When it all boils down, the point of Lent is make space for eternity so that you grow in relationship with Jesus and so that you’re deeply prepared to celebrate the wonder of Easter.
Blessings,
The Rt. Rev. Chris Warner