Devotion - Wednesday, February 20

We are now one week into our Lenten journey.  It seems appropriate to encourage you to reflect on how the journey is going.

Have you been able to maintain your Lenten discipline?  Are you finding additional time for your study of scripture, for acts of service?

Caesarius lived in the 5th Century, long before all the modern devices which eat up our time and energy.  Even so, he seemed to understand how easily we get consumed by the things which are supposed to make our lives easier.

"Although through the mercy of God you frequently and devoutly hear the divine lessons throughout the entire year, still during these days we ought to rest from the winds and the sea of this world by taking refuge, as it were, in the haven of Lent and in the quiet of silence to receive the divine lessons in the receptacle of our heart."

Turn off your computer, put down your smart phone, read the words of scripture and sit in silence as the words make their way into your heart.

I cannot begin to express how the first 60 minutes of my day renew me and restore me.  They are spent in a quiet home, with few lights - a cup of coffee; my Bible; the meditations of my heart; and the voice of God reminding me what is essential.

Caesarius continues:  "During these holy days of Lent if you cannot cut off the occupations of this world, at least strive to curtail them in part.... For this world either laughs at us or is laughed at by us."