Y’all, it’s Day 2 of Lent. Why am I already asking myself this question? Let’s examine:
- I’ve procrastinated. I always have grand ambitions of being someone who queues up their posts, delivering devotionals dutifully with punctuality and reliability. Yet, here I am, well into the evening, cranking out something…anything…because time’s a-ticking, and I’m unprepared.
- I’m overwhelmed. Currently, I’m in the midst of packing for a trip, wrapping up work, and juggling fourteen other extracurricular tasks that need my attention before I leave. Actually, I take this one back. EVERYONE is overwhelmed. Please ignore my complaints.
- I’m tired. This vacation I’m leaving for in the wee hours of the morning is not just any vacation — it’s a half-marathon. Physically, I’m drained from trying to squeeze in last-minute runs. And emotionally, I’m exhausted from the anxiety of “what if’s”: what if I get sick or injured, what if I don’t finish the race, etc.
I feel like I could keep going, but frankly, I don’t want to. I read this list and yes, I acknowledge that these are legitimate claims. But I’m doing this Lenten practice for something greater than my own satisfaction. Lent is about journeying to the cross and surrendering our need for control, for comfort. It’s a time to grow closer to God and let the noise of everyday life fall quiet.
Proverbs 3 says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him and he will make straight your paths.” I don’t know what I got myself into, but I know that after 40 days, I don’t believe I’ll be thinking about my procrastination or overwhelming feelings or tiredness.
This the path…okay, let’s go.
Rachel Fisher 