Friends, brothers and sisters, fathers and mothers,
Life in general is good. I am learning a lot about life, people, myself, love, listening, and church. And I am learning in school, although I could be trying harder, being more diligent. School is going well this semester, better than it has this past year. Also, I am learning to not be a perfectionist, though I need constant reminder to keep myself from this idol.
As I attempt to observe a holy Lent for the sake of obedience and love, my sins and shortcomings are coming to light, and temptation and inner struggle are frequent. Surprise! I just thought it was a quaint devotion to say that 40 days of prayer and fasting in Spring (this is what Lent means, when the days lengthen) remember Jesus' 40-day fast in the wilderness. But now, in its midst, I can see much truth in that. I hope that by passion week I can trust in Jesus, the Son of God: 1) for the word of God, and not only food or miracles; 2) in humiliation, rather than ostentatious display of power; and 3) for God's glory, and not the kingdoms of this world.
Acknowledging my utter dependence upon God's consistent help and your regular prayers, please pray that:
- God give me a sufficient to abundant supply of faith [trusting God], hope and love
- God keep me rejoicing always, praying continually, and giving thanks in every circumstance, since this is what he wants me to do in Christ Jesus (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18)
- God give me diligence in schoolwork, and self-discipline and self-control in all things
- God teach me to love him with all my capacity, and to love my neighbor as myself (especially the church, and especially those who do not love me, with whom I have no business)
Thank you, in advance, for loving me through prayer.
Thursday, February 21, 2008
Sunday, February 17, 2008
Friday, February 15, 2008
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