Ash Wednesday

The beginning of Lent, the season in which we abstain from that which brings us joy outside of Christ, be it food, facebook, television, or alcoholic beverages, starts today. The aim is to spend the gained time in scripture and in prayer, looking to Christ who is the author and perfecter of our faith. During this time I hope to utilize a guidebook published by our pastor at Missio Dei. You may find it at mdcasheville.org or: http://www.mdcasheville.org/news/front-page-events/lent-books.

Ash Wednesday.
Psalm 100: A Psalm for giving thanks. Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth! Serve the Lord with gladness! Come into his presence with singing! Know that the Lord, He is God! It is he who made us, and we are his; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture. Enter his gates with thanksgiving, and his courts with praise! Give thanks to him; bless his name! For the Lord is good; his steadfast love endures forever, and his faithfulness to all generations.

Q: What are some of the things this passage shares about God, His work, character, and purposes?

My God is good. He is ruler of all things, and he made all things. Even I, my husband, our pets, the supplies and intelligence which built our home, were all created by my God. He is our good Shepherd. He is love, He is faithful, He is good, He is worthy of our praise, He gives us joy as we thank Him and serve Him with gladness.

I am grateful today for God's ever ready love and mercy to me. Despite my grumblings and doubt, He is faithful and loving. My God is good. And He is good to me. Even if we miscarry. Even if all this world comes crashing down, it will crash at His feet and He will remain all these things. Such a big God makes me feel awfully small, uninfluential, undeserving. But He still cares and utilizes us in His master plan. My view of God as a bully shifts. Slowly, as I look to Him, He appears beautiful and kind. He is our gentle God.

Day 6/365