Run The Race

This morning is the first Sunday of Lent. It's a time that we "fix our eyes on Jesus" in order to draw closer to God. Lent consists of 40 days (not including Sundays, which always celebrate the Resurrection of Christ), as a time for us to "share in the suffering of Christ". Some people will use the time to remove distractions from their lives, such as social media, television, and so on. Some will spend the time "giving up" something as a way to fast or sacrifice. In the fasting there is an opportunity to understand what Christ gave up for us. Some people may give up sweets or caffeine or something that will help even their physical body be more in line with God's desire for their overall Spiritual health.

Another practice people do during Lent is not so much giving up something, or fasting, but taking on a Spiritual discipline. That could include taking a day, or a meal, to actually fast. During the day, or over the mealtime, it is an opportunity to pray, seek the Lord, read Scripture, feast on the Bread of Life. Some may grab one of the Lenten devotions we have in the Garden Room to read more intentionally about the journey of Christ as He went to the cross. Others may spend more time in prayer or devote more time to silence and solitude. However, you might choose to use Lent as a way to draw closer to God, allowing Christ to be formed in you, remember, it's not a duty or obligation. There is no mandate or Law to be followed during this time. It's a season that helps us focus more intentionally on Christ, to listen to the voice of God, and to pay attention to the promptings of the Holy Spirit