Lent Practices – Week 1 – 2.14.2018
THEME: A father who understands
BREATH PRAYER: JESUS, GIVE ME FAITH TO WALK WITH YOU INTO THE UNKNOWN.
CENTERING:
Like the one made of dust, so too are those made of dust, and like the one from heaven, so too those who are heavenly. And just as we have borne the image of the man of dust, let us also bear the image of the man of heaven.
1 Corinthians 15:48-49
SETTLING IN:
- In a journal, note the day, time, and place you’re sitting.
- Open with silence. Set a timer for 1, 3, or 5 minutes so you can be free to rest and breathe deeply.
- Complete the following sentence in your journal: Today, I feel ________________.
- Read the centering verse above slowly (aloud or silently).
- Pause for a few moments of silence, then pray this week’s breath prayer.
PRACTICE:
SIMPLICITY
Today is Ash Wednesday, the first day of Lent in the church calendar. Lent is a season that reminds us of Christ’s forty days in the wilderness (Matthew 4:1-11, Mark 1:12-13, Luke 4:1-13), a season of repentance that leads us to the cross with Jesus. Today’s practice of simplicity aims to help us let go, to unclutter our very existence in the desire to focus our attention on Jesus.
Is there anything to which you consider yourself too attached? What might you be in danger of becoming addicted to?
Imagine yourself placing this object, attitude, or habit aside, laying it down, so you can follow Jesus more closely. What does that feel like?
Ask the Lord to help you put down that attachment, object, or habit for the next forty days. When you’re tempted to go back and pick it up, envision yourself leaving it alone in favor of walking with Christ more lightly and freely.
Summary: Write in your journal a brief summary (five sentences or less) of your practice.
Closing: Jesus, give me faith to walk with You into the unknown.
