Lent: Dust

noun \ˈdəst\
: fine dry powder that builds up inside buildings on surfaces that have not recently been cleaned
Synonyms: garbage, junk, refuse, rubbish, waste
(Source: www.merriam-webster.com)

It's everywhere. In the corners, under the beds, in every room. It's especially visible on our wood floors. Less so on the rugs and carpeting. There, it clings to the fibers, works its way it and settles down. It's harder to see than on the smooth, bright hardwoods. It makes cleaning even more of a chore as vacuuming and sweeping are my least favorites.

But, I start hesitantly and slowly a rhythm begins to build. With the help of Pandora's Motown station in the background, I dust the tables, chairs, and sofas. Next, I begin sweeping from the corners, along the baseboards, and to the middle of the floor. I continue moving from room to room, switching from broom to vacuum. As I near the end, I realize I'm less tired and more gratified at the progress. It looks good and it feels good - a clean house.
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I've been in Lent for a long time now: before the season of waiting; before the birth of our savior; before the revelation of our King to visitors from the east; before His transfiguration, before Ash Wednesday.

This arid, desolate, and bleak wilderness with the devil and all his temptations - I know it too well. I've spent lonely, impatient, frustrating months here. I've been confused, angry, and hurt. I've doubted, questioned, and been tempted.

But today, there is a promise: From dust you came and to dust you shall return. Before I fully understood it, I heard those words as final and harsh. And, it's true. One day, I will literally be dust.

But today, it is a promise. My God has come to clean house. He will sweep away all the refuse, the rubbish, and the waste that I have tried to vain to remove. The dusty, unclean parts of my life that have remained through the years, He will return to the place where they belong.

And that place is not in me.