Stop and Smell the Roses

You know the old wise saying that reminds us we need to take time to stop and smell the roses as we move through life? Nowhere is that more true than when we are walking the #NarrowRoad. Today I encourage you to read the Guided Meditation written below, or better yet, ask someone to read it to you. Close your eyes and soak in the the things the meditation asks you to visualize. Move slowly. Seek sanctuary in what Jesus has to say to you in these moments. Remember this quote from Richard Foster as you begin: "Our adversary (Satan) majors in 3 things:
-noise
-hurry
-and crowds.
If he can keep us engaged in 'muchness' and 'manyness' he will rest satisfied."

Get Behind Me
(A Guided Meditation)

Stop! Slow down! Take a breath.

Recall the events and activities of last week.

How much of that time was spent doing good for others?

How much of that time was spent doing things for your own personal pleasure or gain?

Now imagine you have arrived at a peaceful place. It is a place you know well, a place you love. You are sitting and resting. Jesus approaches you. He sits with you. He begins to list all of the activities and events from your week. He takes your hand, looks into your eyes and says "Get behind me."

Now think again of the busy days that lie ahead. Only this time, imagine that you are following Jesus as He leads you. Will your activities and choices changed? Are there things you plan to do or say that you do not want Jesus to see or hear?  Turn to Jesus.  Ask Him what things in your life you need to change so that you may follow Him more closely.  Ask for guidance and courage to follow the Christ. Ask for direction, that you would know what path to follow. Tell Jesus you seek to go where He would lead you in life. Understand that you cannot follow when you are leading...

Get behind Jesus.

Be still and know that He is God.

In this season of preparation we call Lent, it becomes more important than ever to our souls that we take time to pause and enjoy the many blessings God has given us. It is a time to understand that that we cannot be at our best unless we surrender our lives to Jesus. The #NarrowRoad comes with a guide. Follow him.

Because of Jesus,