Lent: Day 2

“What good is it...if you say you have faith but do not have works?” James 2:14-16

Traditionally, people give up something for Lent. I’ve never quite understood that concept. Are we, in some way, commemorating that sacred time by trying to mimic Jesus’ ultimate sacrifice? If so, our attempt falls woefully short!

Christ gave up his life, and we give up...chocolate?

Instead of mimicking Jesus’ sacrifice, or death, we could all choose to mimic his life. Beginning with Lent, but hopefully continuing long after, we could seek out the forgotten and unloved, feed the hungry, shelter the homeless, strive for justice for all, and comfort the ill and the grieving.

Let’s all challenge ourselves to fit one more Christ-like activity into our schedules. Work a shift at PADS or at the PRC pantry, become a Stephen Minister, volunteer at the Red Cross or Humane Society. Tutor a child or visit a nursing home. Offer a caregiver or overwhelmed parent a few hours of respite.

To quote John Wesley,

Do all the good you can,
by all the means you can,
in all the ways you can,
in all the places you can,
to all the people you can,
as long as ever you can.

Or, if you prefer lyrics, Charles Wesley’s hymn “Faith in Thy Name, O Lord” says, “The task thy wisdom hath assigned, O let me cheerfully fulfill.”

Doing the Lord’s work needn’t be a burden. Find your niche, follow your passion, discover the joy!!

Prayer: Dear God, Thank you for trusting me to do your work. Please guide me in finding the right place for my efforts, and give me the strength and energy to do my best to make this world a better place for all. Amen.