Lent Day 1: More Than a Lifestyle Makeover

Today marks the first day of Lent, Ash Wednesday.  The ash crosses marking many are messy memorial stones of our hopeless humanity redeemed at the cross.  When I allow myself to linger in Lent, I am mesmerized by the mercy of The Master, not demoralized by the depth of my depravity.  Lent is not a season of shame; it is a celebration of the Shame Slayer, our Savior, Jesus Christ.

For 40 days Jesus fasted and prayed in the wilderness.  He encountered angels, wild animals, HIS FATHER and satan, yet he emerged stronger and still sinless.  God’s Word calls us to be imitators of Christ. If HE calls us to it, HE will enable us to do it, in HIS strength, not ours. Lent is really just a microcosm of the life we live on this earth.  There are “wild animals” and satan nipping at our heals, waiting to steal, kill and destroy

BUT GOD

and His angels are present and the last time I checked, HE WON;

IT IS FINISHED!

I do not plan to make these Lenten posts very long, although I cannot promise. I want to stay tucked into The Comforter and let Him lead this Lent. We already know the destination, the empty cross and tomb. Will we let Him remake our hearts and renew our minds on the way?

I’m in. Are you?

I would love to hear your hearts over the next 40 days. I will share with you my whispers, woes and wins, as we travel alongside one another. I hope you will share with me too!

I will leave you with this tonight:

Lent is a time to

lean in,

look,

listen,

let go

and

let the Lord lead!

“When you come looking for me, you’ll find me.

“Yes, when you get serious about finding me and want it more than anything else, I’ll make sure you won’t be disappointed.” God’s Decree.  (Jeremiah 29:13 MSG)