A traditional Lenten practice is to give up something for the time between Ash Wednesday leading up to Easter. In our church, we also focus on picking up something at the same time to help fill the hole left by what you laid down. I'll admit, I'm still fighting with God about what I'm laying down and picking up - I'm hoping I figure it out (IE surrender to God what He's asking me to give up that I am kicking and screaming about) by Sunday when our church kicks off lent with an evening prayer and worship service.
As I fight with God about what I'm giving up, I realize that Jesus gave up everything to follow what God asked Him to do. And even in that asked for those doing it to Him to be forgiven. If He can do that, how can I not give up _______ (coffee, facebook, instagram, complaining, food, etc.... as an aside, if you want a kick in the pants, give up complaining) thing that God is asking me to give up?
So as you enter this time of lent, do so looking at the cross, and the power of the resurrection - commit yourself into the Father's hands.
Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do
Forgive them, they know not what they do
Today you will be with me in Paradise
You will be with me today
Behold your son, behold your mother, behold your son
My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?
Why have you forsaken me?
I thirst, I thirst
It is finished, it is finished
Father, into your hands, into your hands
I commit my spirit
No comments:
Post a Comment