Confession Time!

[bl]S[/bl]o, we failed to step into the quiet for two days this week. It’s only 17 minutes of our day and we just couldn’t do it. And it’s not like we totally forgot. We actually remembered throughout the day and simply chose to spend our time differently. It takes more effort than you might think. This giving up, walking away and choosing to sit.

In addition, I’ve unintentionally and intentionally eaten food that isn’t raw. The unintentional times don’t surprise me. I’m in the habit of eating without thinking. Actually, I have many habits of the flesh I do without thinking.

But the intentional cheating of the fast always humors me a bit. It’s like I’m cheating against myself — and the irony of this rebellious act is that no one else really cares but me and God.

It just reminds me that I’m no where near perfect. That my flesh is powerful. My habits are strong. And my will even stronger. And in these moments I am reminded that my lack of commitment, my willingness to cheat, my forgetfulness and thoughtfulness all point to the truth that I need the cross. And in my failure, this old rugged image comes a little more into focus.

And I’m encouraged by the words of Ann when she shares Why a Failing Lent Actually Succeeds.