Thoughts for the Day:
Today we are faced with two parables about prayer and a story about children.
In what ways does your prayer life resemble the parable of the persistent widow? In what ways does it not? What can you do to become more like her? (Remember, Jesus told this story to illustrate that we should "always pray and not give up")
In what ways does your prayer life resemble the prayer of the Pharisee? How can you become more like the tax collector from verse 13? Consider making the sentence, "Lord God, have mercy on me, a sinner" a part of your prayer time each day from now until Easter...
Finally, there is the story about Jesus and the children. Why is it that children seem to do a better job at "receiving the kingdom of God"? How can you return to that "childlike faith"?
Fasting Update:
Well, I had another startling revelation yesterday. It seems my britches are starting to sag. I think not eating out during Lent has caused me to lose a little bit of weight.
I think there are some parallels here between our Lenten fasts and our true walk with Christ. Becoming a follower of Jesus involves change in some unexpected ways. Sometimes it is dramatic...like a person who "sees the light". Sometimes it is very subtle...like how over years and years our very thought processes are transformed.
I hope you have had some meaningful thoughts and revelations over Lent this year. This Sunday night at Super Session, you will have an opportunity to share about your Lenten experience. Please give this some thought over the weekend and come prepared to share, if you are so moved.
Peace!
-Kelly

Flashback Picture for the Day