Wilderness-what does this word bring to mind for you? According to Merriam-Webster, one of the meanings of wilderness is “an empty or pathless area or region”. When taken literally, we may imagine the areas around us that are wooded, barren, or otherwise not scarred or inhabited by humans. We could also imagine an area of quiet and solitude even within our homes that is devoid of noise, digital distractions, thoughts of all we have to do, or the many other ways we fill our mind and environment with near-constant stimuli. I find my best reflection and moments of mental “wilderness” occur when I’m outside and away from the barrage.
In looking to the Bible and the life of Jesus, we may recall that Jesus has times when his work is done in busy urban settings, while also recalling the times when he’s in natural settings-bodies of water, mountaintops, and wilderness. Some of his most important moments occur outside.
The Bible contains many references to Jesus going outside to pray and reflect, sometimes alone, sometimes with others.
Mark 1:12-13: At once the Spirit sent him out into the desert, and he was in the desert forty days, being tempted by Satan. He was with the wild animals, and angels attended him.
While this particular event sounds difficult, can you imagine that Jesus emerged after the 40 days the same?
With the coming of Spring and as we move through Lent, consider challenging yourself by taking some time in the wilderness (or as close as you can get to it) to empty your mind of the everyday and to make space for the transformations that this time can bring about. Consider what Jesus might have contemplated during his times alone outside. Reflect on the ways God may be transforming you.
O God, you have called us to ventures of which we cannot see the ending, by paths yet untrodden, through perils unknown.Give us faith to go out with courage, not knowing where we go, but only that your hand is leading us and your love supporting us through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Stephanie Smith-Cooney
