I cannot believe how time flies; we are already in the first week of March and at the beginning of Lent already. This week we begin looking at the ‘Make Space For What Matters’ Bible Plan. This weeks devotional asks that you pause to take stock of our surroundings and what you enjoy in life; the things you likely take for granted because they are always there, but when you think about it they bring a smile to your face.

That is what Lent is all about: ‘to create space in the middle of life’s responsibilities to appreciate what’s always been there: God’s presence.’ It also really plays on one of our key pillars here at Church At Barking Riverside – creating space for Jesus in our daily lives, mainly through our habits.

Lent is a 40-day period observed by many Christians leading up to Easter. It is a time of fasting, prayer, and reflection to prepare for the celebration of Jesus’ resurrection. The 40 days represent the time Jesus spent fasting in the wilderness, resisting temptation. During Lent, many people give up certain foods or habits as a form of self-discipline and spiritual growth.

All of this in a day and age when many of us are usually juggling many plates, and thinking how quickly time flies, its more important than ever to carve time out to get closer to Him. The significance of Lent is to focus on repentance, deepen one’s faith, and prepare the heart for Easter, which celebrates Jesus’ victory over sin and death.

So over the next 6 weeks, as we prepare to sing Alleluia!, let’s carve time out to refocus our hearts and minds on what truly matters: the way the Truth and The Light. We’ll explore some spiritual habits that may end up becoming a part of your daily routine, even when time is flying:

• Prayer
• Meditation
• Generosity & Giving
• Stillness
• Fasting

Let’s do this together 😊

Jesus said to him, “Away from me, Satan! For it is written: ‘Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only.’”

Matthew 4:10