'Tis the Season

     And, so, the season of Lent has begun. I did not participate in Lent until I was in my forties, and took the time to research why certain faiths practice this time of sacrifice, fasting and penitence. It became clear to me that these few weeks may potentially lead a person into a deeper walk of faith, a healthier lifestyle (physically and spiritually), and stronger relationships with both God and our fellow man.

     For me, Lent is less a time of giving something UP, than it is a time of giving something TO... by doing something positive to move closer to God and to a more faithful way of living out each day. While I may indeed decide to give up something for Lent, the space that is left by sacrificing something material is then filled with something spiritual. One year, I fasted an hour of sleep each day, and got up early for a time of spiritual quiet time. That 40 day 'fast' led to an early morning habit that continues to this day.

     Last year, I posted on Facebook the following list of suggestions for steps to take during Lent. The list came from a devotion I found at www.upperroom.org. I can't find the author's name, but I thought it worth posting again. However you mark the season of Lent, these few weeks leading up to the Easter celebration, let it be a time that draws you closer to the One who is always seeking a stronger  relationship with you.

·         Electronic Fast. Replace TV shows, Facebook, Twitter, etc. with prayer and/or devotional study.

·         Start a prayer rhythm. Say a prayer every time you brush your teeth, hear an ambulance, or check your e-mail. Before you text someone, pray for them.

·         Pray for others you see as you walk to and from classes, or drive to and from work. (You don't have to know them. You just have to see them and pray for them.

·         Forgive someone who doesn't deserve it

·         Read one chapter in the Bible each day.

·         Give up soft drinks or fast food and give the money you save to someone in crisis.

·         Create a daily quiet time. Spend thirty minutes a day in prayer.

·         Cultivate a life of gratitude. Start by writing at least one person a thank you note  each week.

·         Be kind to someone each day.

·         Volunteer 1 hour, or more, a week.  (maybe even yourself.)
6. Give up soft drinks, fast food. Give the money you save to help folks in crisis.
5. Create a daily quiet time. Spend 30 minutes a day in silence and prayer.
4. Cultivate a life of gratitude. Write someone a thank you letter each week.
3. Be kind to someone each day.
2. Pray for others you see as you walk to and from classes or drive to and from work.
1. Volunteer 1 or more hours a week.

               

 (maybe even yourself.)
6. Give up soft drinks, fast food. Give the money you save to help folks in crisis.
5. Create a daily quiet time. Spend 30 minutes a day in silence and prayer.
4. Cultivate a life of gratitude. Write someone a thank you letter each week.
3. Be kind to someone each day.
2. Pray for others you see as you walk to and from classes or drive to and from work.
1. Volunteer 1 or more hours a week.