The Archeology of Lent

Now is the time of the archeology of the heart, soul, mind, and body. Our Lenten journey is deep into the digging pits of inward exploration. Our seeking is for that pristine place where we first meet with God in sublime communion. Such is the prize and, as with all things of great worth, getting there requires quite a bit of effort.

The first effort involves overcoming resistance. That old bugger the ego throws up checkpoints and road blocks to cause you to question whether you should go further into discovering why a certain desire takes you down the path of self-destructive behavior.

Don't worry--give in! Such a scoundrel, that ego. Here's the truth the ego seeks to hide: The further inward we move, the more diminished ego becomes in its role as tyrant and the more it is clothed in the robes of a servant. May God help us in this first effort.

The second effort resists the seduction of that salesperson, denial. Breaking through old walls, we will uncover things about our past behaviors that will be uncomfortable. Denial offers us quaint distractions to siphon away our attention from important matters. Such a good deal! And why bother anyway? Out of sight, out of mind, except for that gnawing in the depths of the soul.

Break through denial and face with unflinching composure the truth of who you are--good, bad, and indifferent.

Success in the archeology of heart, soul, mind, and body depends upon the assistants, Commitment and Acceptance. Take these two with you and your dig will unearth riches that makes life abundant.

Commitment to the work is strong enough to move past the protests of the ego and the seductions of denial. Acceptance causes ego to shrink into its proper role, while denial runs away screaming (it really can't handle truth). With these two on your side, you will reach the goal.

So what is the goal of Lenten archeology? Hafiz, the poet, points out the prize:

“All the talents of God are within you.”

As you dig to the depths of heart, soul, mind, and body in your Lenten discipline, you will unearth egotistical unpleasantness that will cry out for denial. Yet each time you break through with Commitment and Acceptance for the truth about your past and your present, you open your Self to new possibilities. For at that pristine place where you first meet God you uncover the gift of God’s talents meant just for you. Talents that heal your wounds as well as your loved ones. Talents that make Christ visible in this moment in your thoughts and actions. Talents that make life an abundant experience.

Now is the time for the archeology of the heart, soul, mind, and body. May your companions be strong and your dig a success. May the talents of God--all of them--pour out from the depths of your being.

Joel t