Confession: I struggle with dieting. I find it difficult to give up all the little ways I indulge myself each day. A small piece of chocolate…a few chips…and bit of extra cream in my coffee… you know what I mean:)
I have found the trick is to commit totally to living a healthier life style. I cannot under any circumstance allow myself to cheat and every decision must support the ultimate goal of losing weight. No backsliding in restaurants on the weekend or celebrating a friend’s birthday with a piece of cake. Every decision, everyday must be purified.
Maybe this seems simplistic, but this is the mind of Christ when he goes into the desert to fast and pray for 40 days before he begins his ministry. So that he might commune completely with the spiritual side of his nature and dedicate his journey to God.
Lent in our small way, is a way to imitate Christ by committing our lives to God in some special way for 40 days. A sort of rededication and purification.
The Reason: We pray because as Christians we are called to imitate Christ.
The Art: This beautiful mosaic reminds us of the journey that Jesus took into the desert to fast and to pray. It beautifully outlines how the devil tempted Jesus and how he was able to withstand each suggestion to deny his Father and abandon his mission. Because of his time in close commune with God, he was able to conquer even the strongest foe. I love how Jesus is depicted here as larger than life towering over satan as he faces each temptation.
The Scripture: But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.” Matthew 6:6
“Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors, And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.” Matthew 6: 9-13
Dear Heavenly Father,
Comfort and guide us as we rest this weekend and as we journey into another week. Wrap your loving arms around all those who are grieving and protect them from bitterness and despair. Help them to feel the love of the community lift them up so they might become mighty warriors for peace. In Christ we pray, Amen
Thanks for reading and if you like, comment below on what you are doing special for the Lent season this year?
God Thru the Arts 
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