This lenten season has been one that has been especially focused on discipline and on making more room for Jesus. My daughter, Jennifer, and I fasted for a week (liquids,juices) and she was a great inspiration and coach to me. I would like to say it was easy, but truth be told, I cried on day three! It got better from there.
I have been reading the book "Lent and Easter Wisdom from Fulton J. Sheen" I have been sharing the daily reflections, scripture, prayers and spiritual-growth activities with the family at breakfast. As a family, we have been going to daily mass Sunday through Friday). The discipline has been very good for me, as I usually don't get up until 9 or 10 and I have been wanting to get up earlier. Before Ash Wednesday, because of this wanting, I have set my alarm, but I hit snooze most of the time and justified that I stayed up late the night before, so I would just roll over and sometimes shut it off completely. This past six weeks has been especially easier to awaken and not to question if I feel like getting out of bed at 7 a.m. Although, I admit, I am a little surprised at what a willing participant I have been, but then, I remember, I did pray for the Lord's help in leading a more disciplined life. Now, as I look back, my decision was made mid February and I can pat myself on the back, or I can see that He has made me a cheerful giver of this time reserved for Him. At the beginning of lent I heard a priest say that so many of us think of lent as a time of year we can't do this or we must give up something. We can choose to do it disinterested and mechanical or make it all about our will power or we can make it purposeful and intentional and re frame it as it should be and that is "Where is it that I am not living like you? and How do I not yet really know you?" Hence the purpose for prayer, fasting, and almsgiving.
One more thing I am thankful for....The peaceful, willing, hearts of my children and grandson Frankie to get up and not complain. I, really, have not heard one complaint in six weeks. Wow! Them and me too? Believe in miracles!
Teach me goodness and discipline and knowledge; for I have believed thy commandments. Psalm 118:66
I pray for His grace to be the disciplined disciple he wishes me to be.
God Bless,
Debbie
