Rise and Shine
In the past Easter has tended to sneak up on me, especially now that I'm out of school and don't get a Spring Break or even a day off for the occasion. And it's not like the weather lately has been screaming "Spring and New Life!" But still this year has felt different, I've been more aware of His presence in my life and in the world and more grateful for the blessing of this coming Easter.
Maybe it's because our family lost Anna. That gift of eternal life, bought and paid for with the death and resurrection of Christ, has greater meaning. We've longed for heaven this year and clung to the hope that we will be reunited with her again one day.
And maybe it has something to do with my decision at the start of Lent to make morning quiet times with the Lord a priority in my life. I want my days to start with Him, not some of the time, not when it's more convenient, but each day.
"The sun comes up, it's a new day dawning
I can do at least 15 minutes each morning- that's hardly a sacrifice. It's giving up an extra few minutes of deciding what to wear or straitening my hair and applying another coat of mascara. Usually I read the daily passage from Jesus Calling and it directs me to bible verses and passages and sets my mind wandering. I journal some, sit quietly, pray and then head off to the metro. The more time I spend in the Word, the more I want it. I set a timer so I don't miss my train as I get swept up in that devotional that seems to have been written just for me, that bible passage I'm reading for the 20th time but it feels like first.
15 minutes is not enough.
Maybe it's because our family lost Anna. That gift of eternal life, bought and paid for with the death and resurrection of Christ, has greater meaning. We've longed for heaven this year and clung to the hope that we will be reunited with her again one day.
And maybe it has something to do with my decision at the start of Lent to make morning quiet times with the Lord a priority in my life. I want my days to start with Him, not some of the time, not when it's more convenient, but each day.
"The sun comes up, it's a new day dawning
It's time to sing Your song again
Whatever may pass, and whatever lies before me
Let me be singing when the evening comes."
(Matt Redman- 10,000 Reasons)I can do at least 15 minutes each morning- that's hardly a sacrifice. It's giving up an extra few minutes of deciding what to wear or straitening my hair and applying another coat of mascara. Usually I read the daily passage from Jesus Calling and it directs me to bible verses and passages and sets my mind wandering. I journal some, sit quietly, pray and then head off to the metro. The more time I spend in the Word, the more I want it. I set a timer so I don't miss my train as I get swept up in that devotional that seems to have been written just for me, that bible passage I'm reading for the 20th time but it feels like first.
15 minutes is not enough.
And yet at the same time it is enough to set my day on the path I want it to follow. It's enough to light a spark in me and focus my attention on Jesus. My daily routine may look the same but it feels totally different because I woke up and committed to walk with the Lord. No matter what happened yesterday, or what I might face this new day...
When I commit myself to get up a little early to read the Daily Mass Reading or say a rosary, my day seems to go soooo much smoother!
ReplyDeleteOh, you are so wise to begin a daily quiet time in the morning. I did this some 30+ years ago because it never seemed to work at any other time of the day. And, what better time to give to Him than the first few minutes. Blessings to you this Easter and I know you will have such fun at home with your family.
ReplyDeleteWhat a wonderful way to start each day. Hugs. Hope to see you soon.
ReplyDeleteLoved this post. You remind me of my 20something daughter the way you love the Lord. Oh and your sign makesme smile. My mom used to sing that as she thew open my curtains at 8 am on a summer day. I didnt feel like rising, shining, or giving God the gloryglory at that hour when I was 14, but sure think how it put my first thought heavenward.
ReplyDeleteMy mom did the same thing and I'm so thankful she did- definitely made an impact. Her other favourite song to sing was "Do everything without complaining, do everything without arguing... " Thanks for your comm
DeleteHello! Popping in from a-z. Love finding other believers in the blogosphere! I attended Young Life when I was a teen. :-) So glad it's still around. I love Jesus Calling. I've been reading it for a year (I'm slow). I need to make more daily time w/ God. I help my elderly folks (89 and 92) and there are so many interruptions. :-) I'm a new follower. Come visit, if you'd like:
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