DESERT JOURNEY
I was told of a dream the other day where the dreamer was saying “I don’t really want to go back to Arizona…” The dreamer pondered, as one might, what it could mean, even though having lived in sunny AZ before. But struggled to make a connection. I offered, “What if Arizona is the desert. Does anyone want to go back there?”
We have entered into the season of Lent. The desert. A time of penance, almsgiving, mercy, fasting. A time of waiting. A time of returning. I keep this in mind as I continue this series filling in the blanks. Perhaps now is a good time to return to your former notes and see them again through the eyes of a Lenten Journey. It isn’t only about what you intend to sacrifice (to give up, i.e. fast) for forty days but how you intend to face God more so than you have been.
LETTING GO, GIVING UP, SACRIFICING FOR…
I have consistently complained about ___________. No more. I will change the circumstances or change my words I speak over it. I will let go, give up, and sacrifice this complaint for the glory of God.
I have consistently attempted to control this (person, situation) _________ I relinquish control over ________. I surrender. I am no longer a slave to this. I choose freedom.
I am responsible for ________. I will take responsibility without controlling the situation.
Next week let’s fill in blanks for joy! For what we want to give back to Life for abundant joy1.
Oh God I surrender all to you. Jesus, take over everything.
These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full. John 15:11)