We are bombarded in the news and social media with horrific images and shocking events. We can quickly become disheartened and jaded, seeing the world and those around us in a negative light. We can end up taking bull-headed stances that leave no room for compassion and healing. We may take actions tainted in self-righteousness that lead to suffering, or we may sit in inaction for fear of being manipulated. This is clearly a time for contemplation and discernment.
In 1 Thessalonians 5:21 it says, “But test everything; hold fast to what is good.” We know in our hearts what is good. By spending time reflecting on what we experience in this world and weighing it against the heart, we can improve our discernment and build up strength in our spirits. We can speak and act with the wisdom of Christ, instead of being swayed and influenced by the darkness around us. We can become beacons of hope and lead with compassion. As we enter Lent on Ash Wednesday, the Worship Committee asks you to take time each day to reflect on your life, your family, your community, and the world; we ask you to become masters of discernment, using your hearts as guides. “And it is my prayer that your love may abound more and more, with knowledge and all discernment, so that you may approve what is excellent, and so be pure and blameless for the day of Christ.” – Philippians 1: 9-10