Thursday after Ash Wednesday
Luke 9:22-25
Jesus, today, tells the disciples: "If anyone wishes to come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me." Taking up the cross is never easy. Even the smallest of things can be a burden at times. Sometimes the cross we need to bear, especially during Lent is an added burden.
Often during the season of Lent we think of giving something up rather than adding something to. We would do well to add something positive to our lives during these 40 days. To add a smile to the "grump" in the waiting line at the grocery store, or to assist and elderly person by buying some groceries for them, to offer a dinner to a veteran or returning military person from the war. A small gesture here and there can make an other-wise burdensome day for another, a brighter one. When we think about it, is that such a great cross to bear? Giving something up, or giving something to? How will we respond to the Lord's call this Lent?