Lent is a time to step back and look at the bigger picture. In life, some things seem attractive at first but end up leaving us feeling empty. What is it that leads to true life?

True life does not come when we put ourselves first. Rather, we are to deny ourselves, take up our cross and follow Jesus. These words sound strange and even scary. Yet, in chapter 9 of Luke, we see that when the Apostles are sent out with nothing, it is God's power that works through them to heal people. When there is nothing to eat, it is God's power that feeds the crowd of more than 5000.

Paradoxically, when we admit that we have no power on our own, God does more for us than we can imagine.

Jesus invites us to trust Him, to live each day according to his voice. Each time we do this, we are choosing life. Jesus' invitation may include a sacrifice of time, effort or something we enjoy. However, if we obey his voice, if we serve others with him, we will receive more than we give. Jesus promises us blessing beyond what we have sacrificed ... blessed beyond what we can imagine.