INTRODUCTION
As you know, all of my devotional series have a theme. This year I am embracing a theme of “gifts, gratitude and thanksgiving” and there is a reason for this.
Every Monday morning, I participate in a Zoom group set up by my best, and close spiritual friend Amy Griffith- Small to discuss a chapter in the book we have chosen to read. The group has evolved to include a time of fellowship and support and one that I value as well as enjoy!
This time, we are reading Ann Voskamp’s book, “1000 Gifts”. I confess I sometimes find it difficult to connect to Ann Voskamp’s writing – BUT – I always find something to worthwhile to contemplate. I also look for coincidences and they came together in this book. You see, Ann sets herself a “love dare” to write down 1000 gifts provided to her by God.
I decided I would do the same, and to do that I figured I would break it down into items organized by categories so I wouldn’t repeat any gifts. I figured 25 items per category would be good, and low and behold, 1000 divided by 25 is 40 – which is of course the number of days in Lent. It seems God has provided me with the theme for Lent this year and if you would like to take up the love dare you are more than welcome to do so!
As always, there is no requirement for you to give up anything to follow this Lenten Guide. Instead, consider this an opportunity to take time to deepen your faith and to contemplate how you might better serve God and our congregation. This guide follows the theme of being on a journey by providing a Bible reference, a reflection starter, and a prayer.
If you only have a few minutes, simply read the reference, and carry the thought with you during your day. If you have more time, you may want to open the Bible translation of your choice and prayerfully read more of the reference passage. Allow the prayer to be a starting point for your own prayer time.
If you miss a day or more, don’t feel guilty or think that you need to catch up. You can if you want, but if you don’t have time or energy, simply carry on from the current day. Winter can be a dull and dreary time. If you need of help of any kind, please contact our church office.
Jan
