Today is the first day of Lent-the 40 days leading up to Easter Sunday when many take the time to reflect on Jesus' days on earth, especially His time of being tempted in the wilderness. It is not so much about the fact that Jesus was tempted that means a lot to me, it's much more about how He responded that matters. Jesus responded in perfection. He responded in perfection because I cannot, you cannot. We need His response. We need what He alone was able to accomplish, it is the only way to be able to have a relationship with the Father, the Holy One. I'm so grateful for His sacrifice so that I can stand before God not only on my own behalf but on behalf of the many people I love in this world. Through my relationship with the Father I am able to experience true joy, peace, fulfillment....I am made whole because of my relationship with Him. And this only by the sacrifices of Jesus.
This year I am taking part in an online devotional series during Lent (I signed up for ReLENTless Acts of Justice with WorldVision Act:S. All you have to do is enter your name and email address with a name of a church/school and you can get emails during Lent too).
This particular series will focus on learning to emulate Christ in light of six injustices that happen throughout the world today. It will provide an opportunity for me to look at the things that are commonly seen as normal in everyday life for an American but are luxuries for those in many other parts of the world.
Today's email included this Franciscan blessing. I think it is great and will be writing it out in my journal....May you be blessed...
May God bless you with anger. Anger at injustice, oppression and exploitation of people, so that you may work for justice, freedom and peace. Amen
May God bless you with tears. Tears to shed for those who suffer from pain, rejection, starvation and war, so that you may reach out your hand to comfort them and turn their pain into joy. Amen
May God bless you with foolishness. Enough foolishness to believe that you can make a difference in this world, so that you can do what others claim cannot be done. Amen
And the blessing of God, who creates, redeems and sanctifies, be upon you and all you love and pray for this day, and forever more. Amen."
I signed up for the e-mails too! Need to go read mine!
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