Find Life in Surprising Places, Part 5
Janne Grover, Council of Twelve Apostles
But know that the Lord has set apart the faithful for himself;
the Lord hears when I call to him.
When you are disturbed, do not sin;
ponder it on your beds, and be silent.
Offer right sacrifices,
and put your trust in the Lord. -Psalm 4:3-5
Perhaps this is the wilderness clarity of what matters most. God’s vision of shalom, the peaceable kin-dom, the Zion of our hopes and dreams…does not rely on buildings, programs, or organizational structure. It relies on individuals and communities authentically living Christ’s peace in the world. It is realized when those who claim the name and mission of Christ respond to the needs of a suffering world in ways that are life-giving and world changing. Stones release streams of living water through every faithful act of kindness and generosity that affirms the worth of persons, honors the sacredness of creation, and pursues just peace.
Lenten Reflection Questions:
- When have you experienced life-giving and world-changing response to Christ’s mission?
- How does the season of Lent prepare you to live Christ’s peace in the world?
Prayer Phrase
Are we moving toward Jesus, the peaceful One?
Lenten Spiritual Practices
Moving Toward the Peaceful One
As Jesus was nearing the final days of his life, he wept over the city and proclaimed, “If you, even you, had only recognized on this day the things that make for peace” (Luke 19:41-42).What are the things that make for peace in our lives, communities, and around the world? During the Lenten season, spend time in silent refection or journaling each day to notice: Am I moving toward Jesus, the peaceful One? Pay attention to your attitudes, actions, and relationships this day. When did you most embody the peaceful One in your daily living? When were your thoughts or actions contrary to the peace of Jesus Christ? How might Jesus, the peaceful One, who is always near to you, be inviting you to draw nearer to him through your daily living?
Fasting and Giving-$40 in 40 Days
A Lenten fast gives us an opportunity to make space in our lives so that God can live in and through us. It’s a time to evaluate what we hunger for most and what we consume. This year, we’ve been invited to tithe as a spiritual practice by setting aside $40 during the 40 days of Lent. If you are participating, pay attention today to the dollar you have given. What might you have done with that dollar otherwise? How does Lenten generosity invite you to reflect on what is “enough” in your life? Who might you invite to join you in this practice? How might your gift be magnified by the many others responding to the same call?
You can make your $40 offering anytime during the Lenten season online or through your offering envelope for Worldwide Mission Tithes.
Today’s Prayer for Peace
Engage in a daily practice of praying for peace in our world. Click here to read today’s prayer and be part of this practice of peace.
