Lenten Reflection

PREPARATION FOR EASTER by Alean Saunders-Coffey

Many families prepare for Easter by thoroughly cleaning their home, purchasing new clothes, dyeing eggs, making baskets for young children, grocery shopping and cooking a special meal that will be shared with relatives and friends.

In some Christian communities, preparation for Easter begins on Ash Wednesday, beginning the forty-day Lenten Season journey. Believers practice spiritual discipline by focusing on renewing mind, body and spirit, listening for the Master’s voice, attempting to follow His example of love, humility and compassion, seeking His blessing for themselves, their families, friends, acquaintances, congregation and community. 

These are the lyrics of the Fanny J. Crosby and Wanda Taylor Riddick hymn Close to Thee: 

Thou my everlasting portion, More than friend or life to me.

While I walk this pilgrim journey, Savior, let me walk with Thee.

Oh Master, let me walk with Thee.  Oh Master, let me walk with Thee.

While I walk this pilgrim journey, Savior, let me walk with Thee.

In these final weeks of Lent, I am reminded of the saying, “if we travel through life only on sunny days, we won’t get very far.”  Whether the weather forecasts sun, clouds, hail, snow or rain, we journey toward Holy Week and Easter, pausing at each intersection to welcome the Holy Spirit.

Prayer

Master, Embrace us, and fill us with your presence. 

Forgive us, and help us to forgive others. 

Strengthen our resolve and increase our faith. 

Free us from worries and fears that interfere with our ability to trust that you will guide our way.

Ready us for exultation of your Resurrection on Easter Sunday, so that we will be prepared to proclaim, “Alleluia, He is Risen!”