What I'm Giving Up for Lent

"Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:29-30

We sat facing the rugged hand-hewn cross where hammer and nails laid ready for sinners hands. Late winter sunlight streamed bright through old stained-glass easing the somber remembrance of God's greatest sacrifice - his Son laid down so that we might live.

Shadowed by the cross, my heart begged the question, "What material thing or sinful habit needs laying down?" My ears rang silent as our voices praised and prayed and our hands passed bread.

Then, as though I'd spoken my thoughts aloud, Pastor offered an answer. "If you're going to give up something for Lent, why not give up a burden and leave it at the cross?"

Oh, that would be a sacrifice indeed, for sometimes I cling to my burdens like a child holds onto their favorite blankie. Burdens mull and ferment and fill, making me feel alive until my heart explodes, leaving me standing alone in an oozing toxic puddle of fear and anger. That's not living. That's dying.

Father invites me to lay all these burdens down - to give them up at the foot of the cross. And if I would just trust Him - have faith that He knows what's best - I could live free and full.  

"I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full." John 10:10b

Lord,

This morning I surrender my burdens at the foot of your cross. I give you all my concerns for those situations I can't control anyway. I lay them all down, today and ask for your yoke which you promise is easy and light. I sacrifice what I know and place my trust in your sovereignty. Help my unbelief. Amen.