Greeting Prayer Warriors,
As I enter into Lent, there is much to contemplate. Looking deep within oneself is always difficult, but not so daunting when one accepts that the Lord has grasped you by the hand. Yet, it’s still intimidating knowing that to walk with Him means to walk the way of the cross.
Today, living according to God’s law is counter-cultural. While the Lord asks us to humble ourselves, fast, and give alms, today’s world looks down upon those who don’t strive for money, power, celebrity, beauty and constant admiration via “likes” and “followers”.
Be counter cultural and pledge to spend this Lent being a follower of Christ and fasting from all that distracts you from doing just that. Amp up your time with the Lord, so that you may learn to be like Him. Spend time contemplating how before His earthly ministry, he fasted for 40 days.
Is this the manner of fasting I would choose, a day to afflict oneself? To bow one’s head like a reed, and lie upon sackcloth and ashes? Is this what you call a fast, a day acceptable to the LORD? Is this not, rather, the fast that I choose: releasing those bound unjustly, untying the thongs of the yoke; Setting free the oppressed, breaking off every yoke? Isaiah 58:5-6
Within your family, who have you bound unjustly through unforgiveness? Who have you treated unfairly? What are you yoked to that destroys your soul and affects those around you? Now think externally. Who is being oppressed and bound?
My thoughts go immediately to the Ukrainian people. Under God, we are one family. During this penitential season, can you pray more for their protection? Can you fast, asking for a quick end to the conflict, perhaps a peace accord? Can you help give alms in the way of helping to fund the relief efforts?
Your prayer can unify not only your family, but the world. Lent is a good time to listen to the Lord, take His hand, and follow His lead.
I have given them the glory you gave me, so that they may be one, as we are one. John 17:22
Peace, Joy, and Love,
Janet
Prayer, fasting, and almsgiving, not only will change another’s life, but it will transform your own! Pass it on!
