As I entered into the Season of Lent, I was on a mission to eat less, exercise more, and lose 20 pounds. I was going to Lent like nobody's business. I was going to focus completely on eliminating all of my bad habits, and I was going to come out of my cocoon a new me. After about two weeks, I had changed my eating habits, lost eight pounds, and was so focused on myself that I was pushing people away.
When my birthday came along, I let go of my austere Lenten practices and indulged in a taste of normal. When my daughter's birthday came along, I did the same. There was nothing sinful in easing up on my personal Lent, and yet I felt like a failure. I had gained back a few pounds, and that was a sign to me that I was not doing my best for my Savior.
This morning, I started looking at my relationships. When I stopped focusing on myself, I was free to focus on my family, my friends, and my Lord. I was ready to receive the love He has been waiting to give to me.
The Lord is my help, therefore I am not disgraced; I have set my face like flint, knowing that I shall not be put to shame. He is near who upholds my right; if anyone wishes to oppose me, let us appear together. Who disputes my right? Let him confront me. See, the Lord God is my help; who will prove me wrong? Isa 50: 7-9
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