Optimist Roundtable

By Martha Sykes

Next week, we will begin the Lenten season as we celebrate Ash Wednesday. Lent is certainly a time for us to reflect on what Jesus did for us and realize the sacrifice He made because of God’s great love for us!! These 40 days commemorate the time that Jesus fasted in the desert and He was tempted by the devil before He began His ministry. This is a time when some people choose to fast or refrain from some habit. Some give up certain foods during lent, some take the opportunity to get organized or even take a bag a day out of their house to get rid of stuff!! Others may choose to read the Bible daily or pray more often.

At one time, a pastor I knew fasted every day but Sunday for the 40 days and that was real will power!! I often try to think of some way to improve my spiritual life or to focus on doing acts of kindness. Praying during lent gives us opportunities to turn our concerns to God and open up our hearts to what He wants us to do in service to Him. It is a time to reflect on how much we are willing to be a true follower of Christ as we remember His passion, death on the cross and the resurrection. We can ask ourselves if we are truly Easter people.

In our community, we celebrate Lent by having church services on Wednesday evenings at different churches. It is important for us to gather together and worship our Savior. Anyone is invited to come so the schedule will be published in the Record. Hope to see some new faces this year!!

At this period of time in our lives, we need to turn to Jesus, and during the next several weeks look into your hearts and make a decision to follow Him. You will be blessed!!