Idolatry

To date, the explored Lenten practices have concentrated on those that Richard J. Foster calls the 'inward disciplines' - fasting, prayer, and study (Foster also includes meditation). There are other observances that have a more outward focus and these will be treated next, starting with a rather loose collection of activities that might qualify as fasting, in the broadest sense of the word. Instead, the word 'simplicity' will be used here, partly because these practices aim to release activities that clutter our lives and confuse our priorities and partly because the aim is not so much to give up something, but to gain the serenity that a slower life promises.

I recall a past Lent that featured a weekly series of lectures and small group exercises to reflect on modern life and the obstacles that might block a fuller spiritual life. In the terminology of the series, the pastors asked the group to consider their idols. Now, such terminology is chosen carefully and does not imply overt worship of multiple gods. Rather, the term acknowledges one classic human sin - to trust in things that cannot satisfy, rather than in spiritual things that provide fulfillment. Of course, there is an endless list of such disappointing things and each person has their own weaknesses in this regard. But for the purposes of illustration, the topic names from the series will suffice: Power, Money, Sex, Family and Culture.

It may seem odd that a topic such as Family ranks high enough to make the short list for a Lenten program. Isn't devotion to family encouraged by the Bible and a worthwhile pillar of both the church and of our nation? True enough, so in what sense, then, can Family be called an idol?

In the Lenten context there are two types of family ties that are worth severing. First, there are ties that are unhealthy, relationships that consume and destroy, that possess and deny. Certainly this class includes pathology, but even short of that there may be family ties that impede personal growth or discourage belief. Tolerating such things in the name of family unity must be critically considered. It is only natural that the season of Lent encourages examination and elimination of such barriers, though it may certainly require effort well beyond a single season.

The second set of family ties that should be cut are those that are too close, where family bonds are so tight as to suffocate or which place the family on a pedestal above even God. These tendencies are difficult to recognize and may even be praised by friends and churchmates. It is not uncommon, for example, for families with teens to abandon worship attendance for participation in extra-curricular events, such as sports or weekend getaways. Seen in the reality of God's desire for our loyalty, these things most often detract from obedience to His will. Only in rare cases does the family seek balancing opportunities to retain the focus on a Godly life. Lent is a good time to examine these ties, as well.

Discerning idols of the heart is fraught with self-deception, so must be done deliberately and with resolve, because the changes necessary can be deep and can extend to relationships with other people we hold dear. Ultimately, however, these idols separate us from God and are thereby sinful. So they must be removed, no matter the cost.

May you be able to clear away the idols separating you from God.