Well, we are in our third day of the season of Lent, and we may already be struggling to keep our fast, keep on reading Luke, or add that extra step to help us draw closer to God. So, what do we do? The answer is not obvious. Join a small group or participate in a serving opportunity. Both Lenten practices will help you in a different way.
Small groups are probably the most effective tool to teach us discipline through the influence of others. You learn the Word of God together, you share your life, and over time God begins to transform our hearts, our habits, and even our disciplines. Proverbs 27:17 says, “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens a friend.” Throughout my life I have been a member of many different kinds of small groups. From each group I gleaned something different. When my children were young, my group kept me sane. When I was single, they helped with my loneliness. After marriage my group taught me what a healthy marriage looks like, and as I have aged my small group walked with me through the hard struggles of life. I joined all those groups for different reasons, but ultimately, I experienced the same results. Through them, I grew closer to God and my faith became stronger. This Lenten season you can join a small group that fits you and your life stage. If you go to SAUMC.Life you can click on Lenten Small Groups and start reading about the different small group opportunities you can join.
The second way we can strengthen our spiritual life is through service. Whether we are working in the dirt, walking to raise money, painting a house or even being a presence at a rally that can bring greater justice to our community, service always transforms us. Matthew 18:20 says, “For where two or three are gathered in my name, I’m there with them.” Just working with others will change us in ways we don’t expect. Not only will we have a sense of purpose, we will grow relationships that can help us mature in our faith and expand our way of thinking. Our first serving opportunity is March 12 from 8:30-12 p.m. and we will be spending time cleaning up our campus. I hope you will join us. Register HERE.
Blessings to you as you continue your Lenten journey.