We are now well into the Lent season. Between the Coronavirus, the elections and just plain living, I have found it hard to focus on Lent. Too much is coming at me from too many different places. When I noticed this, I stopped for a second, and took a step back to observe what I was thinking, what I was doing and what is truly important to me. What I discovered was that I need to make sure that I take time to center on my faith - everyday. It is what grounds me. It is what gives me true purpose and it is the base that I use to make decisions.
I must have seen a gazillion FaceBooks posts and received a million emails saying that one of the most used phrases in the Bible is "Do Not Fear" in some form or other. (I know that these are slightly exaggerated numbers, but not by much!) So that is what I am choosing to focus on - Do not fear, and I will also focus on the renewal that is offered to me during this season of Lent.
That said, this week:
On March 9 we asked you to make a donation to a local charity. I donated to the Girl Scouts (ok, so I did it by buying cookies from them, but it is still a donation! And I am planning on giving some of them to the food pantry...Maybe!)
March 10 reminded us to practice a 1 minute Sabbath. Take a minute throughout the day for a quick meditation.This is a no brainer for me. I do this almost every day. In fact, it is the only way I can get through some of the tough days.
On March 11 the suggestion was to collect a bag of items from around your home and donate it. This is a favorite of mine, get the clutter out of the house. What amazes me is that I can always find items to donate. Where does it come from? Last year I donated a bag every day of Lent. Some bags were fuller that others, but we were able to do it the majority of the season.
March 12th was my favorite invitation. We asked you to take some time to read today. I LOVE reading, so, why is it hard for me to find time to do it. I sometimes feel guilty when I spend time on myself. Shame on me! The invitation gave me a little special permission to take some time to do something I enjoy and just take care of myself. I loved it! I also really enjoyed the book that I read and invite you to read it too - The Noticer by Andy Andrews.
On March 13th we invited you to donate some food to a food bank. I have one thing to say.. Cookies. (See March 9th)
March 14 was focused on creating a positive community by leaving a small surprise gift at a neighbor's door. Oops!! got caught. Let's just say that I don't run as fast as I used to. You think I would realize that! Anyway, the thought was there, and my neighbors enjoyed the surprise.
How did your week go? Were you also overwhelmed with all that is going on around us? Were you able to find some the joy and beauty around you?
Peace and Hope my friends!!