Tuesday, March 15, 2011

Beauty for Ashes

Our current church observes the season of Lent, something I didn't practice growing up Southern Baptist. I always thought it was so Catholic, and therefore, so "other." But I've found a beautiful time of reflection and humility in this season that makes Easter all the more meaningful. Last year, I participated in the church's artistic observance by writing a poem and this year I had the privilege to paint a canvas, both depicting the Agony of Sorrow Christ went through.

This year, I've been praying about what God would have me abstain from, but I didn't feel a calling in the conventional tangibles (movies, chocolate, etc.). Instead I sensed God was asking me to open up and clean out the filth: anger, a critical spirit toward others, and my "what-if" worry cycles. Yes, I realize this list is a lot to manage in 40 short days, but I think part of the beauty is that God's reminded me that I can't clean out the junk on my own. I have to humble myself before Him, seek His truth, trust His plan, and submit my emotions to Him. If I do that--plenty, I know--He'll clean my heart and turn my ashes to beauty.

4 comments:

  1. Beautiful! A very challenging devotion--thanks for sharing! Love you:)

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  2. Thank you, Ms. Vicki. I love you too.

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  3. I actually forgot to take a snapshot of it; it's hanging in the church sanctuary now. :)

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