A Journey with Jesus during Lent

Wednesday, March 8, 2023

A Journey with Jesus during Lent

Day 13

Matthew 26:56

But this has all taken place that the writings of the prophets might be fulfilled.” Then all the disciples deserted him and fled.

Have you ever known (or been) a fair-weather fan for a sports team? These are people who attend games and support the team when all is going well. However, once something goes wrong, they quickly turn the other way, no matter what the previous commitment and devotion was.

The disciples had all promised to die rather than leave Jesus, their Master; yet when danger came their way they quickly fled the scene. This chaos and threat was not what they were expecting. They never pictured the plan for a new kingdom to look like this. They panicked and ran. They felt pressure and lost sight of the eternal. They could only think about what was visible to them right there and then.

We too, allow circumstances to take over our emotions, actions and decision making. We let things come between our trust and relationship with God. We fear the unknown and make hasty decisions. When we once looked up to Him, all of the sudden we don’t look to Him or we look as an afterthought. The circumstance becomes greater than God and His promises. We instantly forget that His ways are always the right ways. We forget that He is always on time. Let’s work on putting a deeper trust in our Sovereign God so that when we begin to experience fear, the unknown faith will over rule our fears and we’ll walk in VICTORY.

Are you a “fair-weather fan” for Jesus? If so, what can you do differently to be devoted every day, throughout the season of life on earth, no matter how tough it is?

Dear Jesus,

We praise You and give thanks that we get to journey with You through this season of Lent. Draw us closer to Your heart, that we might know You better. After we daily reflect on Your selflessness and life-giving Word, give us wisdom to be Your hands and feet in the world just as You intend. Give us hearts of compassion, hands of generosity, and feet that take Your good news to the world. We love You and are honored to serve you Lord, our sweet Savior. Amen.

Week 3 Act of Kindness

“For I was a stranger and you invited me in” Matthew 25:35c

This week, pray about extending an invitation (e.g., for church, dinner, coffee) to someone outside of your family, friends, or “circle”.