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.

Peace & Quiet

In a world swirling with electronic waves, sounds and sights overwhelm the senses. The challenge lies in finding a chink of time to be still, to hear... nothing, to watch... nothing--to be in quiet.

For some of you, quiet brings an uncomfortable status, but the question must be asked, "if we're never quiet, how are we supposed to fully hear God's voice?"

As we approach the season of Lent, a time of remembering, repenting, and sacrifice, I'd encourage you all to give up sound. I realize that giving up all electronic devices is next to impossible, especially for 40 days--I myself can't do it because of my job alone--but we can give up time in the day, each day, when we shut off our phones, our computers, our I Pods and TVs. It is possible. And it's a good way to sacrifice in order to gain some quality listening time with the Lord.

What are you giving up for Lent?