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The Season of Lent
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of our worship environment all are designed help us reach that space where we can focus on God’s voice.
This is of course, a difficult space to remain very long because we have “competing liturgies” that surround us. Those competing liturgies are daily work, chores around the home, media (computers, televisions, iPods), eating out, movies, plays, concerts, special events, children’s needs to meet, our own need to stay connected with our loved one, etc.
So dedicating some time for a Lenten inspired discipline is a challenge—but so necessary for our own wellbeing. Most humans function best when there is some order in their lives. It comes more naturally to some than others, but my experience of people is that even those who struggle with being highly organized can still appreciate it when they experience order.
When my son was a teenager getting him to clean his room was always a huge battle (anybody have that experience?). Yet, when he finally would straighten things out, he acknowledged a sense of peace for a few days (until it got messy again!).
Our spiritual/emotional lives get cluttered and messy and Lent is a time to straighten a few things out. If we take the time to connect with the source of our power, Jesus Christ, through some quiet time and peaceful meditation, we are going to be able to function at higher level of engagement and effectiveness in all of our endeavors.
Getting rid of our spiritual and emotional clutter also requires a level of courage to face the obstacles that impede our growth toward a spirit-led life. It’s true; you may find there are things that you need to work on. But the alternative is to continue to live hampered by your obstacles. God wants us to live unencumbered by burdens that we can eliminate if we have the courage to do it. I heard a woman once say that she did not want to speak to the person with whom she was in conflict. I asked her why and she said, “Well, if I speak to her, she might change my mind!”
Lent is austere and yet rich with opportunities to emerge stronger, joy-filled, and at peace with others and ourselves. Take time to connect—it will surely be a blessing.
Loving you in Christ,
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