Lenten Reminder

On this Fat Tuesday, skip your workout, take some extra time to relax, let it all hang out a little, get things out of your system -- and then prepare your focus for the Lenten season which begins tomorrow. Ponder what God really desires from His children; not a river of precious oil, long prayers or even extra Bible study, but to "do justly, love mercy and walk humbly with your God".

Tracey recounts a searing, vivid reminder of Jesus' warning to us from Matthew 7:15-23 --

15 "Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves. 16 By their fruit you will recognize them. Do people pick grapes from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? 17 Likewise every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. 18 A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit. 19 Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. 20 Thus, by their fruit you will recognize them.
21 "Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. 22 Many will say to me on that day, 'Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and in your name drive out demons and perform many miracles?' 23 Then I will tell them plainly, 'I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!'"

I promise, it'll focus your attention. And as always, for anyone who has suffered or is suffering with spiritual abuse or doubt, you have my prayers and empathy. God knows I've done my wrestling with Him. But I don't think He'd have it any other way. I've learned more in the dark desert wrestling than in any church pew.