In like a lion and out like a lamb

Perhaps you’ve heard the old saying that March is “in like a lion and out like a lamb.”
This phrase probably originated with the stars in the sky. March begins with the constellation Leo, the lion, rising in the east, and ends with Aries, the ram, setting in the west.
This phrase has also come to represent the dynamic weather of this month. This year, March began with a biting cold that spread like the fierce roar of a lion — complete with more than our fair share of storms. But as the end of the month draws closer, we look forward to the weather changing into a softer, gentler springtime reminiscent of the nature of a lamb.
When the flakes first began to fall, it was beautiful. Few can deny the splendor of the town, the fields, and yes, even the roads covered in a clean, white blanket of snow. The frosted trees sparkled with an almost-magical translucence. People celebrated having a white Christmas. Ice fishers took to the frozen lake, and snowmobilers rejoiced at the chance to hit the trails again.
Yet, before too long, what on the surface looked beautiful and even magical turned out to be dangerous, too. It’s all charming until you have to shovel it, plow it, or drive to work in it. The beauty of winter hides the fierceness of its power. I suspect even the most hardened lifelong Minnesotan is now ready to see some green. At first, the lion-like weather was an intriguing change, but now we’re ready for the lamb.
The same is happening right now in many churches. The season of Lent, like the snow, can be both beautiful and biting. The vivid violet paraments and veils, the flickering candles and somber music — few can deny that the church takes on a special beauty during this time of the year.
But always present is also the magnificent Lion of Judah, the King of Kings, Jesus Christ. His beauty, too, hides the fierceness of his power. Lent reminds us that yes, he’s the God of love, but he’s also just and righteous. It’s dangerous for sinners to be in his presence. Hence, why, despite the beauty of Lent, there is penitence, too. He calls us to be perfect, even as our Heavenly Father is perfect. We must admit we are not. Ashamed of our sin, we are ready for change. We repent and look for salvation. We’re ready for the Lamb.
As March gives way to April, the Church brings us into Holy Week, where we witness the Lion of Judah, the perfect man, and holy God, willingly laying down his life to save us from our sins. Like a lamb being led to slaughter, Jesus Christ sacrifices himself for us.
This year, as the bitter snow gives way to beautiful new life, let us reflect on the new life we have in Christ. We came in with the Lion, but we’ll go out with the Lamb.
As John the Baptist said, “Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world!”