We are in
the period of our Christian calendar known as Lent. This is a time of spiritual
preparation for Easter, and many Christians use some form of “fasting“as a
reminder of this 40 day journey. Some people choose to abstain from a beloved
addiction (such as chocolates or coffee or Facebook) as their spiritual
discipline. Others choose to begin something new as an aid to their journey,
such as a particular daily prayer, or a specific spiritual practice.
For many
years it has been my custom to mark Lent by choosing a spiritual practice. This
year I have been convicted that being called to be a Methodist Minister does
not mean more privilege than those who follow the call of Jesus in other ways.
We all serve in the Lord’s Vineyard at the pleasure of the Owner of the Vineyard.
(Matthew 20: 1-16). In order to keep this reminder alive, I am choosing to wear
overalls for the period of Lent. Clothing can often become ways of demonstrating
power and privilege – and so I will be taking off the clothing of privilege and
dressing in the clothes of a worker. This is my reminder that I am a labourer
in the vineyard of the Lord.
When you see
me wearing overalls during lent, please do not see this as disrespect for you.
Instead, please see this as part of my journey in being a faithful servant of
God.
