by Linda McKay
The Third Monday of Lent
Jeremiah 7:1-15 Psalms 77, 79, 80 Romans 4:1-12 John 7:14-36
Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus (2 Philippians 4:6-7)
“You forgot the father” my three-year-old granddaughter exclaimed as I was hurriedly serving dinner to her older brother, sisters and a number of their friends. Since her parents were out, I thought she was talking about her “earthly father” and that I should save some dinner for him.
Her older sister explained that she meant we forgot to say the prayer and with that we bowed our heads and her sister began their family prayer with “Dear Father…”

My granddaughter’s four words have become a wonderful reminder to me of the importance of taking time to connect with our heavenly father in meaningful prayer no matter how busy I am. Time to express gratitude for his support and love, to think of others before we think of ourselves, to pray for loved ones and those in need, and to find courage and strength to face the challenges that tests one’s mind, body and spirit on a daily basis.
The Lenten season calls us to be more committed and focused to do just that. Pathways through Lent gives us a wonderful resource to encourage daily devotion and prayer. What is more important is to carry this commitment throughout the year using prayer to guide our thoughts and actions every day and not forget to take meaningful time connecting to God our heavenly father.