REFLECTIONS ON LENT

As we embark on another season of Lent, we should seek to make it personal and more than just a commitment to sacrifice things we already overindulge. Traditionally, Lent has been the sacred season when followers of Christ express their devotion through prayer, repentance, sacrifice and service; doing so in honor of Christ's sacrifice on the cross. Over time the tradition grew from having one meal a day with the exclusion of meat, to abstaining from certain foods like sweets or carbs or even giving up television or the internet. How we honor this time is a personal choice and one that should be made with the purpose of Lent flowing through our spirit.  

We must remember that the purpose of Lent is to draw us nearer to God. It is an opportunity to eliminate the background noise that get in the way of our communication with Him. When we deny ourselves before God we express a willingness to be open and vulnerable to His will. As we fast and pray we gain the spiritual strength to walk in faith and fully embrace God's will for our lives. So before we make our decisions to give up chocolate, beer, meat or sweets; spend some time in prayer and see what God lays on our spirit to do. He is amazing and He can bless us beyond anything we can ask for or imagine!

Prayer: Father God, we come before you asking forgiveness of our sins and thanking you for your grace and mercy. You are awesome and worthy of all the praise and glory due to you. Fill us with your spirit so that the next 40 days will be pleasing to you. Reveal to each of us what your will is for this time of fasting and prayer. Help us to discipline ourselves and follow your lead and not our own. We ask these and other blessings in the name of Jesus, Amen!

Read Matthew 4 and know that Jesus endured, so can you!