Week 1, Day 4
Start with 2 minutes of silence
Opening Prayer
“Be still and I know that I am God!” Lord, your words lead us to the calmness and greatness of your presence.
Scripture : Luke 6:30-32
30 The apostles returned to Jesus and told him all that they had done and taught. 31 And he said to them, “Come away by yourselves to a desolate place and rest a while.” For many were coming and going, and they had no leisure even to eat. 32 And they went away in the boat to a desolate place by themselves.
Devotional
By Pastor Heidi Pagels
During these last few months I have noticed a deep longing to get out of my house and into the woods to be with God. During these COVID days I have found little time to be alone and I have realized how much I need to be alone. No matter the state of my angst, when I set out, once I have spent time walking and chatting with God amongst the trees and creation I am ready to return to what God has called me. Laundry. Dishes. Homeschooling. Leading a Bible Study. Walking Dexter.
The invitation this first week of Lent is to come away with Jesus to a desolate place. Scattered throughout the gospels we see Jesus stealing away to be with his Father. If Jesus needed time alone with God how much more do we? What a winsome invitation and one that has been extended to us. I end with a humble reminder from the wise, Dallas Willard-
“If you don’t come apart for a while, you will come apart for a while.”
Question to consider
As we begin this lenten journey together may we ask ourselves how can I make space to come apart with Jesus to a desolate place? Is there anything that has been distracting me from cultivating a relationship with God?
Prayer
Father, as I move through this Lenten journey may I long for you more than I do right now. May I speak honestly with you about where I am at. I anticipate meeting you in desolate places. Amen
Close with two minutes of Silence