Storms can be not only scary, as many can attest to after a hurricane, they can also be deadly. Yet after the storm how often do we appreciate God’s bow in the sky when we see it? Yes, we understand the mechanics of light refraction, but does that really take away from the beauty and appreciation that we are still alive and are thankful to God? As we begin our Lenten journey with our fasting and self-mortifications, are we reflecting on any negatives or are we focused on the blessings that God bas provided us, with the fasting serving as a reminder of God’s compassion and those blessings?
We read that it is only after Jesus’ time in the desert that he came proclaiming the gospel of God. I have spoken previously about our mission from God and our motto for our mission. Do we take time in our own desert to prepare ourselves for the mission God is giving us? Do we about the time of preparation? Do we see ourselves as making ourselves stronger for our service to God? Some friends who are into weightlifting have said, “no pain, no gain.” Are we willing during Lent to “workout” with the pain in order to be prepared for the “gain” that comes from disciplining ourselves for our mission with Jesus?
Countenance of God 