Extinction and New Life
I have been reading Bill Bryson’s amazing book, “A Short History of Nearly Everything” (2003). It is focused mostly on science and the great thinkers through the ages who have contributed to its different fields of study. For someone who reads a lot of church material, Bryson’s book is a welcome change of pace.
Even when reading a book about the history of the universe, I cannot help but find theological themes throughout. At one point, Bryson describes the different extinction periods in Earth’s history — I did not realize there was more than one that killed the dinosaurs. He writes about the collapse of fauna during the Ediacaran period, which paved the way for a vibrant Cambrian period, and the extinctions that happened in the Ordovician period, which “cleared the oceans of immobile filter feeders and, somehow, created conditions that favored darting fish and giant aquatic reptiles.” (p. 342)
His point is that every time the Earth endured a crisis (and even widespread death), it was able to rebound in extraordinary ways. Extinction led to new life.
I hope this isn’t too much of a stretch, but it does seem that Lent is a time to let certain unhealthy habits die. As we repent and turn to the Lord, there are things that we may need to release. These things may vie for our attention a little too much or may actively be working against the will of God.
Lent can be the very thing that brings about a crisis that forces us to reckon with the unhealthy habits in our lives. I have been asking myself, “What must I let go of so that I may live in Christ?”
These things can undoubtedly be actions, but they can also be attitudes. Am I letting negative thoughts, like my insecurity, jealousy or pride, get in the way of who God wants me to be? What thoughts do I need to lay to rest to receive the peace that Jesus offers?
This is tough, but Lent is not for the faint of heart. Whatever your answers may be to these questions, rest assured that as painful as it can be in the present moment, it will lead to new and abundant life in our Savior. Even in our faith, extinction can lead to new life.
