This time of year, Lent, people often discuss what they're "giving up" over the weeks leading to Easter Sunday. I think this year my focus is directed toward what I'm "taking up" in greater measure. A friend this morning said something similar was going on in her heart, directing her to "be more diligent" in prayer. For me, it has been feasting on truth at the expense (fasting) of lesser pursuits.
Discussions over what we "give up" to follow Christ - during this or any other season of life - honestly honor ego more than the I Am, don't they? Isn't the point to humble ourselves, to leave behind the lesser things to be more like Jesus in all our ways? Granted, I'm just a little "Bapti-costal" girl from the country; but I'm drawn to this by my spirit...and by my mind as God reveals more to me.
Jesus told us that anyone who wants to be His disciple must:Luke 9:23
- deny self (sett aside selfish interests or agendas)
- take up his cross daily (willingly endure whatever may come)
- follow Him (trust, conform to His character, even suffer for His cause)
Yes, that involves "giving up" lesser things; but if we stop there, are we showing love in relationship, or just going through the motions of religiosity? Daily interaction (reading and hearing the Word, praying, praising, fellowship with other believers) builds intimacy with Christ and keeps us humble, helpful, and hope-filled to face any adversity. Conforming to Jesus, being transformed through the renewing of our minds (Romans 12:1-2) makes us more like Him - more like Christ-ians.
Jotting with Johnna
So, you've surely thought of laying aside something in your life...what are you going to take up during this season - and carry with you to the end of the race marked out (Hebrews 12:1-3) for you?
Remember: you are so very worthy to live out the life for which you were created, the life for which Jesus paid a high price in redeeming, the life of wellness in every part of your life!
Stay tuned. Stay focused. Stay well.
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