Monthly Archives: March 2019

Lent, pt. 6

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A big juicy hamburger makes a fantastic meal.

hamburger

But why is it that eating meat during Lent is forbidden?

And fish on Friday is okay?

Some things I just don’t understand.

I do, however, understand that God set dietary restrictions for the Israelites in the Old Testament. They could only eat certain things. There were also proper ways to prepare the meals. So yes, I get that some things are meant to not be eaten.

But I also feel that Jesus changed all of that stuff. He did not come to abolish or take away the law but rather, he fulfilled it!

We are no longer bound by the law but by grace!

If you are fasting specific things for this time, I commend you. I have fasted and it can be really difficult!

But, if you are just blindly following some religious rule that has no meaning for you, I urge you to rethink your motives.

And then go eat a hamburger!

Pretty sure that God cares more about the condition of your heart rather than the contents of your mouth!

eating a burger

Lent, pt. 5

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If the speed limit is 65, then people should drive 65. Why is it then, people slow down only when they see a police car?

Maybe one should drive the speed limit because it is the right thing to do.

65 mph

For Lent, the same principle applies. I call it the 40/325 principle.

People go about their business month and after month. Then, almost suddenly, they give up something or do other holy activities for Lent. After Easter, they go back to their regular way of life.

They live regular for 325 days of the year but for 40 days, things change.

Like driving the speed limit, doing the right thing is good simply because it is right.

As a follower of Jesus, why is living in obedience or righteous living only being done part of the time? Shouldn’t I be living for God every day of the year?

Please understand that I realize there are certain times for prayer, fasting, etc.

I am all for making changes in one’s schedule to make time for God. That is what I am trying to do during this Lent season.

People should live right out of love, fear, and respect for God, not because they could get in trouble.

What are my motives during this 40 days?

And that is what I think I need to say:

What is your motive for giving up something during Lent?

You be the judge of your own heart.

And if it means slowing down a bit, I applaud you.

Good night and God bless.

Lent, pt. 4

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Today I helped my neighbor remove an old vanity from their bathroom. Then, with the help of a different neighbor, we hauled in the new vanity.

I am not a plumber so I didn’t do anything further with the remodel project.

vanity removal

It was really enjoyable to help someone in need. I had the expertise (I use that term loosely), and they asked for my help.

It was a great day.

And then I realized that Lent could be the same way.

Maybe you are struggling. Perhaps the goals you set are out of reach. I feel the same way. In fact, I may have set pretty high expectations for myself. Will I obtain them? Not sure…

Anyway…people helping people is a fantastic thing.

If you are able to help someone during this season, go for it. Helping can be so many things, not just bathroom remodeling.

Helping or being helped? Does not matter because God’s grace and mercy can shine through in both situations.

God bless.

Lent, pt. 3

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Lent is a journey.

Today, I have waded through many different emotions when thinking about Lent.

I was excited because there are new opportunities for growth.

There was some fear because of being in new territory.

Guilt snuck in the back door when I didn’t meet my goals for today.

Anger showed up because I was feeling guilty.

mixed emotions

But then one word came to mind.

Perseverance.

Because I am on this journey, I need to persevere.

The Word says that “My grace is sufficient for you.”

That sounds good when the journey seems not-so-good.

Good night.

 

Lent, pt. 2

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1. Lent is a choice.

No one can make me more holy.

No organization can make me a better person.

No ritual or habit will improve my standing with God.

2. It was my choice to observe Lent this year.

I thought that I might feel differently than I did before Lent.

Sure, it is only day 2 but there is no difference in today or any other Thursday.

Feelings. Can’t really trust them. I feel the same.

Choices and emotions. 

They do go together but in a certain order.

It seems to me that living for God and following Jesus involves both; choice and emotion.

I think that I need to choose the right thing and then I will feel the right thing.

Restated, choosing right brings right feelings.

I made some choices based on feelings today.

I think that tomorrow will bring more opportunities to make choices.

And I am going to make them based on truth and faith, not feelings.

Or at least I am going to try.

Chin up friend, seek God first (choice) and all these things (emotion) will be added to you.

Good night and God bless!