Darrin, Kristopher and I attended the Ash Wednesday service at Living Hope, and at the end, received ashes on the forehead. The service was really nice. A time of reflection, listening, and renewed dedication to God. I know that I, for one, really needed it.
As we set there, we were given small booklets that addressed different areas of our lives and asked to prayerfully review them, and ask God to show us where we need to let go. In our relationship with Him. In our relationships within our family and church family. In our relationships with those outside the church. We sat there in a darkened room sitting silently. The only noise was that of music designed to usher us in to atmosphere of reverence and prayer.
I have to admit, I was a little taken back at some of the areas we were asked to examine. I mean, I know that there is always room to grow, but I thought I had a pretty good handle on all of this "Christian stuff." I think I am a good person. I believe in God. I have been holding tight to all of the promises and lessons I have learned over the years. And, I want to please God. Still, there were a few areas that just kind of hit me, and I would like to share those with you. It's kind of my way of asking you all to help hold me accountable.
In my relationship with God:
- Am I satisfied with good feelings, but avoid seeking personal holiness?
- Do I spend regular time in one-on-one interaction with God through prayer and reading His word?
- Do I take advantage of opportunities for growth?
In my relationships with my family and my church family:
- Do I show love for other and seek to maintain true connections?
- Do I seen the Holy Spirit's guidance before I react to situations that I encounter?
In my relationships with those outside the church:
- Do I regularly pray for those that we are trying to reach?
- Am I sitting back, hoping someone else will do what I really should be doing?
- Do I tend to ignore social sins that enslave and hurt others, feeling that they don't directly affect me?
There are more areas in which I need to work, but these are just a few that stood out to me last night. I think that I have a good base. I know the basics of being a Christian, and I truly want to please God. But there is so much room for growth.
So, this year for Lent, I have decided that I am going to make a conscious effort to grow. I have decided that I am going to step away from the things that take too much of my attention, and adjust my priorities to move God into the position He deserves...1st.
As part of that dedication, I have decided to step away from Facebeook. I know it seems silly, but FB really has become a big part of my life. I love how it helps me to stay in contact with so many people, but I have let it become just another filler. If I have down time, I am on FB. If I want to play a game, I am on FB. But that will change. It is time for me to focus more on God and less on the computer screen. I know that it sounds like a simple challenge, but I'm not so sure. Even this morning, I almost logged in. It's just a habit. But I want to create a habit diving in to the Word.
I am excited to see what He has in store for me through this 40 day journey. Please pray for me. I want to grow. I want to learn. I want to please God.
