Pastors Corner: From March to April, the Calendar in the church shows us we are in the time of Lent and fasting. For two years, we have lived our lives like we were in a period of fasting because of COVID. We have experienced rules, regulations, and restrictions - almost the identical words used by many when explaining what fasting is all about. "We have to avoid what we like to do", they will say. 

Therefore, fasting has narrow conditions among people of today. 

I believe in the value of the period of lent and fasting but not as a period where we have to live our lives in quarantine. I don't think that is what God wants us to do. What fasting is about is (said with one of my favourite words in Danish) "at gøre sig umage." Is there an English word describing the same? I am not sure, but it is something about exerting oneself, making an effort, being mindful and trying to do your best. 

We know the feeling of "umage." Rehearsals before the performance, studying before the test, preparations before the party, focus and concentration before the important event. It's the same we can witness in our church when we open the doors at Easter after months of renovation: Many people have tried their best and have "gjort sig umage" with their tasks to create our space for worship. 

God wants us to "gøre os umage" in our lives in fellowship with others - all year round. But in the period of lent, counting down to Easter, we could try to have even more "umage" in our relations and efforts. Fasting is not about rules for what you cannot eat, drink and do. Fasting is about how you can help others so they can eat, drink and do. 

The period of lent is pointing at Easter. Easter is the most significant of all-year-round Christian Holidays, where Jesus is lifting all our burdens in his death and resurrection. He sets us free to act with "umage" - and to pray, share his faith, hope and love - and peace!

Blessings, Pastor Simon