|
|
 |
 |
 |
Today's Lenten Devotion
|
|
|
|
|
Spend Wisely
Why spend money on what is not bread, and your labor on what does not satisfy? Listen, listen to me, and eat what is good, and your soul shall delight in the richest of fare.
-- Isaiah 55: 2
Part of the Mardi Gras tradition in New Orleans is to collect colorful purple, gold and green beads that the local "krewes" throw from their parade floats. These beads are a "must have" on fat Tuesday, and people will force their way through the crowd and into some rather dangerous situations just to collect more of them. Come Ash Wednesday, these once precious beads are piled high in trash cans and gutters all around the city - deemed worthless just 24 hours later.
Similarly, the toy we simply had to have for Christmas might be tossed aside by now replaced by the next new fad. The outfit we bought that looked so special is stuffed in the back of the closet now, looking out of style. The hours we spent scraping, painting, and wallpapering the house seem lost now that the colors have already begun to fade.
Lent is the perfect time to reconsider how we invest our time and money. Do we waste these valuable resources chasing things that will never bring us permanent peace and joy? The things of the world might bring us temporary pleasure, but it is a wiser investment to store up our treasures in heaven. We can spend our money on "bread" when we deny ourselves that toy or clothing, and give that money to someone who is truly in need. We can spend our time praying, or visiting someone who is sick or lonely, rather than beautifying our surroundings, or watching TV.
Lord, keep my life focused on the things that will bring You pleasure, not me. Help me to learn the joy and peace of sharing, self-discipline and love for others. Amen.
Susan Ardito
seven7seas7@yahoo.com
... home |
|
|
|
