In Lent, people often talk about 'Giving Up!' But what they are talking about is giving up something like chocolate or alcohol, or some other minor consumable.
In yesterday's sermon, Julie May reminded us that something much more significant would be Giving Up time, in order to offer it as a gift to God.
Time is our most precious commodity - as we cannot have more or less of it. Therefore, Giving Up time, in order to make a willing sacrifice for the sake of Jesus, will move us significantly forward in our Christian discipleship.
But some may ask, why should I be Giving Up time for Jesus?
How about this verse from Paul to the Romans? 'But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners.' (Romans 5.8)
Out of his great love for us, Jesus gave up his very life to rescue us. So our response might be Giving Up time - in order to grow to be closer to Jesus.
Julie reminded us that our loving Lord wants to speak to us today and every day, so that we can be led by the Spirit. But that will only happen as we learn to listen to his voice -which takes time.
So what are you giving up for Jesus today?
How about Giving Up time, so that you can be quiet enough to let Jesus lead you by his Spirit to be somewhere, say something or do something which is a Spirit-prompted response?
Best wishes,
Richard
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