“Let us examine our ways and test them, and let us return to the Lord.” – Lamentations 3:40
Most of us don’t give up anything for Lent – it’s not part of our tradition. For those who do, or who try, there’s something almost comical about the day before Lent. It’s kind of like a shortened version of a New Year’s resolution with a similar mindset … whatever you’re giving up for torty days, get in today while you can.
So, today might still include chocolate, coffee without restraint, or some other favorite food. More importantly, however, is a promise that this year your Lent will be more meaningful for your spiritual life. Tomorrow we receive ashes. Tomorrow we “examine our ways.” Today is the day before the day.
Traditionally, this day is called Shrove Tuesday. It was a day to prepare—to clear the heart before entering Lent. Somehow, and I’m not clear on this at all, it also became a day for pancakes. Which may be the most human thing imaginable: preparing our hearts while finishing the syrup.
It sounds silly, and yet, honestly, it also feels right.
Lamentations 3:40 gently nudges us: “Let us examine our ways and test them, and let us return to the Lord.” Notice how the prophet opens the invitation. He doesn’t point a finger. He links arms. He uses the word “us.” This isn’t a directed scolding; it’s a shared journey.
But today, the day before our shared journey? Today, before the seriousness of ashes, before the searching self-examination, we’re invited to pause, eat, and think.
How am I, really? Where have my spiritual habits drifted? Where have I been running on autopilot?
None of this is about shame or guilt—it’s about return. The goal isn’t to discover how dreadful we are. The goal is to remember and rediscover God’s love and faithfulness.
Think of it as opening the windows at the start of spring. The light seems brighter. Fresh air chases away the staleness of winter. It may not last long, but it’s a reminder of what’s about to come.
Today gives us permission to approach Lent with hope. So, today, take a moment to smile at the grace that makes self-examination possible without fear. Today is a day to remember that with God, there is space. Space to begin again.
Tomorrow, ashes.
Today, pancakes and preparation.
“Let us examine… and let us return.”
And thanks be to God, returning is always welcomed.
