Daily Lenten Offering

Why do you see the speck in your neighbor’s eye, but do not notice the log in your own eye? Or how can you say to your neighbor, “Let me take the speck out of your eye”, while the log is in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take the speck out of your neighbor’s eye.

—Matthew 7:3-5

Jesus, it is so easy to notice the annoying behaviors of others. Lengthen my fuse so that I do not overreact. Humble my heart and pique my curiosity, so that I may have empathy and compassion on others who are doing the best they can each day. May my understanding be a kindness in their day to release some of the pressure they feel to be perfect. Amen.

Use your slip of yellow paper to write a sentence or two about a connection you made with someone. How were you able to soften your heart to reach common ground or a shared understanding?

Don't have one handy? Divide any piece of paper (8.5x11) and fold it in half twice. You can pick one up at church.

On Sunday, we ask you to share something with the congregation. Not everyone will be able to share every week. But we hope that everyone will take the time to add a link to our paper chain. 

Fasting

You are not alone in this Lenten journey. Here are some of the fasting commitments others shared with us on Ash Wednesday. 

• Hiding from “scary” conversations with my family
• Adding unnecessary pressure on myself
• Overindulgence
• Negativity
• Anxiety