Tuesday, March 28, 2017
Ez. 47:1-9, 12; Ps. 46:1-8; Jn. 5:1-18
To me, Lent is a time of remembrance. It’s a season of being intentional with our thoughts and actions, of actively focusing on God and remembering His goodness, love and the sacrifice that Jesus made for us. It’s human nature to forget. Even after witnessing many miracles, the Israelites continually forgot what God had done. I’ve seen evidence of God’s mercy and love in my own life, and yet I continually forget, just like the Israelites.
At the beginning of this year I began using a prayer journal. On a (mostly) daily basis I write out five confessions, thanksgivings, praises, intercessions and petitions. What began as an experiment in prayer has now become a memory aid of sorts.
Confessing my sins reminds me of how unworthy I am to approach a God who is holy. Asking for forgiveness reminds me of what Jesus truly did for me on the cross that day.
Writing out my gratitude list shows me evidence of God’s love, mercy, goodness and kindness. There is so much in my life, large and small, for which I’m thankful.
Listing five praises reminds me how awesome, powerful, majestic and holy God is. He spoke the universe into being and yet He knows the number of hairs on my head.
Writing down my prayer requests for myself and for others reminds me of times past when God has answered “yes” and of those times when He’s provided comfort and sustenance when the answer has been “no.”
Remembrance is not a one-time thing; it is ongoing. With every prayer, on every Sabbath, I want to remember. During this Lenten season, I want to remember.
–Lisa McCarter