It seems most years during Lent I find myself giving something up. I typically give up at least one big thing that seems to stand in my way of being fully present to God. This year, though, I’m choosing differently and here’s why.

A friend of mine posted something on Facebook written by Tesa Golden who is a member a United Methodist Church in Dallas. During Lent she is going to offer an act of kindness for another person every single day. She is also encouraging others to do the same thing so that she can document these acts of kindness on social media:  #ThisLittleLightOfMine. Here’s what Tesa wrote:

“I absolutely believe that we will change the world by following our heart, our calling, our inner wisdom, being or becoming who we are meant to be, who GOD created us to be, who we were put on this earth to be. In the past year I have gone from the exhausting task of trying to be who I thought the person standing in front of me wanted me to be, to learning who I really am and showing up as that person to all who will see me. It’s glorious and much easier! Not only has it changed me, but I believe that it has changed my family, my friends, and my community; just like a piece of the puzzle fitting in the right place makes the whole picture a little more complete. Instead of giving something up for Lent this year to honor the sacrifices of Jesus, I want to try to show love, forgiveness, kindness to others and BE more like Jesus…I want to SEE others and have them SEE God dwelling (Shekinah) within me by letting my light shine. “

I think this is a beautiful idea. What if we all banded together to BE more like Jesus as we reach out to others in compassion, love and kindness? What do you think? Are you with me?

Peace be yours ~

Pastor Carol