^“Remember those who are in prison, as though you were in prison with them; those who are being tortured, as though you yourselves were being tortured.” – Hebrews 13:3

As I begin my journey into Lent, I have been praying and asking the Lord what it is that will bring me closer to Him during this time of deep reflection and soul-searching.  In years past, I have felt the need to give something up:  tv, sugar, caffeine…  In other years, I have felt strongly that I should “take something on” such as reading my Bible everyday, or giving to charity in a meaningful way.

In my fifteen years of being a believer, I have always tried to be a faithful follower during Lent because it re-oriented me in my relationship with Christ.  Regardless of where I find myself spiritually following Christmas, I have always looked forward to Lent as a time that I could get back on track, I could be renewed, I could slow down and pay attention to things that mattered.  But I always got to “do” something.

This time it’s different.  At this point, I am getting a very strong message not to “do,” but to “remember.”  Be aware.  Be mindful.  Pay attention.  And what am I paying attention to?

My brothers and sisters.  The church.  My friends right down the street, and the saints half-way around the world. The Holy Spirit is telling me, “It’s not about YOU!”  There are all kinds of hurts going on in the church today.  So I will pay attention and pray.  I will pray everyday for those that share a life with me in the body of Christ.  I will do my best to get outside my own bubble and try to make a difference in the lives of those that need Jesus the most.

I might be called to “do” something.  And that would probably make me more comfortable.  But for now, I will be still.  I will listen.  And I will pray for those around me like I have never prayed before. It’s going to be a different kind of Lent.  And I am thankful for the opportunity to watch my Savior at work.  Maybe being still won’t be so hard after all.

I would love to hear what our Lord is asking of you this Lenten season.  Please share your thoughts if you so desire.  Let us journey together these next forty days, my friends.

Shalom…

I am feeling strongly about beginning my prayers for those in the church who are persecuted for their faith.  Consider the following video if you feel the same.  It is a long one, 13 minutes.  But a very thought-provoking time for those of us worshiping from the comfort of a risk-free environment.