Paul reminded the Corinthians, "We proclaim Christ crucified." Christ's weakness is stronger than any human strength. The power of the cross is greater than anything the world or evil has to combat it.

The Lenten season is one of repentance, self-denial, almsgiving, and prayer. Many in our modern world do not see any wisdom in denying themselves anything. Those swept away in a consumer culture want more and they want it faster, bigger, and better. They also are looking for easy and quick satisfaction, unwilling to wait long.

Paul speaks of the "foolishness of God" and how it is wiser than any human wisdom. Lent is a time to put aside that which we feel and think as humans and put on the attitude of Christ. The cross of Christ is neither easy nor fleeting, and it will ask us to deny our very selves for him. To the human mind it makes no sense. However, by putting on Christ and seeing with his eyes, we see reality with clarity. Our sacrifice can lead to riches that only a "foolish" man would covet. But it is exactly there that we are satisfied and fulfilled.