Many spend the time in self-examination and reflection as mod-elled by Jesus in Matthew 4:.1-11 where he prayed and fasted for 40 days before beginning his ministry.
What happened during those 40 days of fasting and praying in the wilderness? Maybe Jesus needed some time with God to sort through the major changes happening in his life. Maybe he needed a break from family, friends, and his regular routine in order to see God and himself more clearly. Maybe he sought more time with God as he searched for direction and answers to the question that we, too have from time to time: "Who am I called to be?" During Lent we, too are invited into this time of introspection.
Lent's ever-present question is 'what shall we give up for Lent? but there is an alternative option: 'What shall we do this Lent?'
Pray
This lent, loving God, be by my side through the good times and hard times. Let me be honest and true as I enter a time of self-examination and reflection. Please help me to see myself and my relationships more clearly. Please show me the areas of my life that displease you and are blocking my relationship with you. Please show those areas of my life that please you and bring me closer to you. Please show me who am I called to be?
Luke 10.41-42
"Martha, Martha, you are worried and distracted by many things;
there is need of only one thing."
In this familiar passage, Jesus challenges Martha to consider that there is not only value in accomplishing tasks, but also in simply resting in God's loving presence.
In this story, Jesus reminds us that being with him is enough. Before the to-do lists, the emails, the news feed...
As Lent begins, what might you be using to distract yourself from sitting at the feet of Jesus?
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