Dear Christian Mentor, Can you walk with me through Lent? (Day 9)
Being Present
"This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.” ~ Psalm 118:24
Dear Christian Mentor,
I have participated in Lent many times, but it often feels like something I should do rather than an experience that draws me closer to the Lord. Can you walk with me through the season of Lent?
Dear Mentee,
Today, during our pause for Lent, take a moment to notice all the distractions around you: Television noise, kids arguing, traffic, schedules, bills, to-do lists, social media, the news, deadlines, worries, fears, things breaking, etc. From the moment we get up and set our foot on the ground, distractions start swarming around us, pulling us out of the present moment and away from the meaningful purpose of today. Today is not something we are supposed to survive. It is something we are to receive.
“This is the day that the Lord has made.” Today is not accidental. It is sovereignly authored. Before you woke up, God had already written purpose into this date on the calendar.
“Let us rejoice and be glad in it.” Notice the invitation. Rejoicing is not automatic; it is intentional. Presence is not passive; it is practiced.
So how do we cultivate presence when distractions are so consuming?
Application For Today:
Today’s Promise:
God made today a gift to you, and He has a purpose embedded within it.
Today’s Fast:
Fast from the things that distract your attention.
Turn your phone off for a designated block of time.
Fast from social media for the entire day.
Silence non-essential notifications.
When you feel the reflex to “check,” pause and ask: What am I avoiding right now?
Practice of Presence:
Turn off all noise and sit quietly for a few minutes.
When you drive, notice the sky.
When you hear your child’s voice, look into their eyes.
When you are outside, observe one detail of creation you would normally overlook.
Reflect: How have I seen God’s movement in my life this week?
Praise God for all the good in your life.
~ Christian Mentor
