Lenten Reflection, Friday, February 26
By: Cabell Jones
My earliest memories of Lent are mite boxes and Lenten suppers. As I got older my Lenten practice was giving up something, normally some type of food. I tried to give up my favorite food, but I often backed down because it seemed too hard. One year, as I considered who Jesus is and all he sacrificed for me, I gave up chocolate for forty days! My decision felt like a breakthrough. Nonetheless, I struggled more than I care to admit.
More recently, my Lenten practice became adding a spiritual practice. For several years I attended Lenten retreats at local churches given by the brothers of the Society of Saint John the Evangelist. These retreats helped me to slow down and focus on God. One practice they shared that was particularly helpful is a gratitude journal.
Cabell Jones
Cabell invites us to ‘figure out who we are and who we are not.’ What do you think about this?
A few years ago, David suggested we read A Season for the Spirit: Readings for the Days of Lent by Martin Smith. I enjoyed this book but if I missed a day’s reading I felt guilty. Eventually, I realized I was being silly and let go of the guilt.
Our Lenten experiences help us figure out who we are, and who we are not, just like Jesus’s wilderness journey. The good news is that Jesus knows who he is and he encourages each of us to remember that our identity is linked with his. So, start your Lenten journey knowing that you are a beloved child of God with whom He is well pleased.
Cabell invites us to ‘figure out who we are and who we are not.’ What do you think about this?