The Architect’s Fast

Hello RCD readers,

It is a beautiful, blessed Sunday. I woke up much earlier for church than expected, which gave me time to reflect on what I should write before Lent begins.

In Suriname, Lent isn't always a central topic of conversation. Not every Christian here observes a fasting period or fully explores its purpose. This is why I find it important to emphasize this time every year in my own way—not to push a specific path, but to share the lessons I’ve gathered over the years.

What is Lent and Fasting?

For those who may be wondering, Lent is a 40-day season of reflection and preparation leading up to Easter. it symbolizes the 40 days Jesus spent fasting in the desert.

Fasting is a spiritual discipline that goes beyond just abstaining from food. It is about clearing away the "noise"—social media, certain habits, or distractions—to create a vacuum that only God can fill. Think of it as clearing a construction site; before you can lay a solid foundation or appreciate the beauty of our local Surinamese timber, you have to remove the debris that blocks the view.

Breaking the Routine

My spirit is asking for this season. When you follow a weekly routine to connect with the Lord, it’s easy for it to become just that—a routine. You can start "doing" the work but missing "the Word."

As the priest said this morning: "We’ve prayed, we've praised Him... now let’s sit in silence and let Him speak to us."

It struck me deeply. We get so caught up in what we think we need to do to feel connected that we forget to check if our actions align with what God wants from us in this specific season. **When was the last time you sat in total silence just to listen?**

Trusting the Architect of My Life

As an architect, I know that even the best-laid plans face delays. Lately, I’ve had my share of "misses"—clients ghosting after receiving a quote, or projects being put on hold for months without a word.

It would be easy to let my "flesh" take over—the part of me that reacts with anxiety, ego, and greed. But I’ve learned that if you pray for guidance, you must trust the "no's" as much as the "yes'es." For every project that stalled last week, God ensured I received almost exactly what was lost by the end of the day.

The year began with a call to serve others. Even when those selfless deeds feel like they are backfiring or causing irritation, I’m holding on until He says let go. I choose to deny the uncertainty and see what He provides.

A Season of Preparation

This means a busy February and hopefully a busy March ahead. I choose to speak of His blessings now because we so often keep them to ourselves. Whatever happens, I know to follow Him and protect the peace He gives.

Have a blessed fasting season. I’ll see you back in April.

A Note to My Readers:

While I am away reflecting and recharging, I encourage you to look at the "blueprints" of your own life. Are you building out of habit, or are you building with intention?

I'd love to hear from you before I go: How do you find silence in such a noisy world?