Wilderness and Power: The Contrasting Journeys of Lent & Political Fervor

Christians, tomorrow, enter the Season of Lent – often connected to the 40 days Jesus spent in the wilderness right before he began his public ministry. Trump speaks tonight – mostly to frenzied acolytes – who love his every move. Quite the contrast, indeed! For every person who believes America has lost its super-power of compassion and love of neighbor, another will counter that “America First” is exactly where we need to be in this moment of time. Maybe? But there are trade-offs, which include:

1) the American Flag on USAID programs,
2) life-giving NIH research programs,
3) integrity of federal workers, LGBTQ, immigrants, Ukrainians, etc.
4) equality, diversity, inclusion
5) selected sections of the Constitution
6) and the list goes on …

Jesus emerges from the wilderness, begins his ministry, walks to Jerusalem, is cheered wildly as he enters the city, and soon after becomes another of the demonized – ultimately hung on a Cross. But … on Easter is his resurrection and resurrection means grace, forgiveness, and new life. Indeed, I long for Easter 😔