Once again I’ve gotten hyper-excited by the opportunities of Lent and have planned too many disciplines and activities. Here is my present list: (And these are only the ones I’m willing to share!)
- Get rid of five things everyday.
- Draw and pray the Lenten calendar (February 26)
- Read from two daily Lenten readers.
- Give up desserts and eating between meals.
- Read the daily Scripture lessons from Forward Day by Day.
- Write three pages every morning in my journal.
- Think before speaking.
- Hold fewer pity parties.
- Stay off the computer after 6PM. (February 5).
It’s an ambitious undertaking. One thing is pretty much certain; I will fail. I will not do everything. I will do some things sometimes and other things not at all. It will sort itself out by Day 35 of Lent. But more important than the list will be the questions: Did I love God, my neighbor, and myself in the process? Did I snarl at people who interrupted my quiet time? Did I judge and hate myself for not accomplishing the tasks? Did serving and loving God become a “Honey Do” list to be checked off?
Lord Jesus, remind me that “Your grace is sufficient for me, for your power is made perfect in weakness.” (paraphrase of II Corinthians 12:9) Even my efforts to know you and serve you, to be a better person, and to order my life for you all pale in the light of your grace.
