Fifth Sunday of Lent 2023

“The emotional result of lent observance isn’t depression or gloom, but gratitude and new energy for living. When we realize how desperately we need God, and how God is faithful we can’t help but offering our lives to Him in fresh gratitude. And when we recognize that life doesn’t go on forever, then we find new passion to delight in the gifts and blessings that each new day brings, and to take none of them for granted.” 
 – Mark Roberts
 
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Embracing the new.
Becoming better.
Being grateful.
 
Do you see what we’ve done here?
We sat in silence.
We reflected on who we are.
We asked for forgiveness and help.
We started the work of changing our hearts.
And now it’s time to embrace the change and the process.
It’s time to be grateful for what He’s done for us.
 
Be encouraged by the work He’s done within you.
Be encouraged by the work He’s doing around you.
 
“He came so that we can have life, and have it abundantly, 
a full and overflowing life.” – John 10:10
 
Find joy in your abundance today.
Learn to truly love living.
Learn to enjoy the journey.
Ask Him to help you love your life right now. 
In this moment. As it is.
Use the gifts and talents you’ve been given.
Use them well. 
 
Try something new.
Practice thankfulness.
Love your neighbor. 
Love your enemy.
Quit judging everyone.
Fill your day with patience.
Be kind.
Do a good deed.
Compliment someone. 
Have compassion.
Be gentle.
Put down your phone and look at someone’s face.
Cherish those around you.
Say “I love you”.
 
Pray right now that this season will bring 
true and meaningful change that lasts.
 
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“Tabernacle” by We The Kingdom is a lively song will get you going, but it’s also an incredible prayer to pray daily. 

 
Click HERE to listen and follow the words below.
 
When trouble comes, trouble comes,
God, I will call, call on Your holy name.
 
I am the tabernacle
Of the most high God.
His Holy Spirit dwells inside of me.
And I will live my life
To glorify my King.
I am a vessel for His majesty.Oh praise the Lord.
Come bless the Maker.
Lift up your voices,
And lift them high.
When we are washed
By the blood of Jesus,
We walk in freedom
From death to life.His revival purifies
My heart and soul.
I obey because I love Him.
He has torn down strongholds
By His Word alone.
And I have been set free from every sin.Oh praise the Lord.
Come bless the Maker.
Lift up your voices
And lift them high.
When we are washed
By the blood of Jesus,
We walk in freedom
From death to life.So when trouble comes,
God I will call,
Call on Your Holy Name.
You pick me up
Before I fall.
Now that’s amazing grace.I am the tabernacle
Of the most high God.
His Holy Spirit dwells inside of me.
I will live my life
To glorify my King.
I am a vessel for His majestyOh praise the Lord.
Come bless the Maker.
Lift up your voices
And lift them high
When we are washed
By the blood of Jesus
We walk in freedom
From death to life.
(x2)

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The photo above is one I took from my kayak in Vallecito Reservoir in San Juan National Forest in Colorado.  May your Lenten journey be filled with joy and newness!

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