SELF EXAMINATION

 

 

 

 

 

From the Anglican Digest

Written by The Rev. Gretchen Rehberg – Church of the Nativity, Lewiston, Idaho

 

          Lent starts after the very short Epiphany season, we move into a time of intentional “prayer, fasting, and self-denial.” As you contemplate how to observe this holy season here are some things to consider:

 

Self examination need not be devoid of joy. You are not called to be “more miserable than thou” during the season of Lent. Let gratitude shape your attitude. Make a list of things for which you are grateful.

 

St. Augustine reminds us that there is a “God-shaped hole” inside each of us. Often, we try to fill this hole with things other than God. What is in your space? Reconnect with the One who first loved you.

 

Who have you hurt? Recognize that, in our broken world, we need to repent of the ways we have excluded others along lines of class, age, gender, race, or other differences. Be a healer.

 

Examine your checkbook – where do you send your money? While much of our spending is, in fact, fixed – the cost of pure living, how we use our money speaks about our priorities. Consider how your spending reflects what is important in your life.

 

Weep as Jesus did for those who are broken, those who are sick, those who live in poverty. Open your heart and reach out to those in need.

 

 

          And when you come to the end of your Lenten journey, at the beginning of Easter morning, may you too be able to proclaim with Mary Magdalene, I have seen the Lord!”