Live Oak Lenten Journey - Tuesday, Post #5

Boy! When I suggested that we do the 'Lenten Journey' this year, I NEVER imagined that working on the same issue for 6 weeks would become such a chore. I am tired of working on my issue of perfectionism. I am tired of trying to do things differently. My 'normal' way of doing things might be somewhat dysfunctional, but it was known and easy. I could go through my day without having to think about my reactions.

This 'Lenten Journey' I chose is simply exhausting at times.

But I guess, that's the point, right? Doing the 'right' thing. Living the life of a Christian is making the choice to live life in a way that is not easy. For that reminder, I am grateful for this journey I've been on for the past 5 weeks. It has reminded me that I can't do it all alone. I need God's help just to get through what had become for me an automatic way of life. Six weeks ago, yes, I prayed. Yes, I read the Bible. Yes, I tried to make decisions based on my faith. But it was rote. It was me going through the motions instead of really letting Christ live in and through me.

To paraphrase the Carole King song -'This world will take your soul if you let it.' Making sure it doesn't is a daily struggle - one that never goes away completely.

We can rest in Jesus - a statement that is absolutely true. But it is work to get to that place and if we get too complacent, we lose it and have to work to find it again.

I am very thankful for the hard work I have done so far this Lent. I know that next week will not mark the end of my journey though: It just marks the beginning of another portion of my journey to be a disciple of Jesus.

Chesney Szaniszlo