Compiled by: Georgeanne Falstrom, Intern
PARISH LAY MINISTRY ACADEMY
TABLE OF CONTENTS

SATURDAY, MARCH 25, 2006
(Daily readings: Ps 87, 90, 136, Gen. 47:27-48-7; I Cor. 10:1-13; Mark 7:24-37)


PLEASE, NOT ANOTHER LIST!
By: Sharon Baker

Scripture: Based on Psalm 136


Our Lenten tradition is an appointed time for personal sacrifice, humble repentance, and spiritual renewal. These are building blocks for our personal and corporate journey towards deepened trust and intimacy with Jesus Christ our Lord.

Every year Lent closes the door to winter and unlocks a freshly awakened spring. Spiritual journeys are often mirrored reflections of our physical lives. One annual tradition bears the image of cleansing, releasing and rebuilding in our physical lives-spring cleaning. It’s one of the only times of the year we clean out closets, give away old clothes, eliminate clutter and rebuild broken fences.

Spring cleaning is our annual tradition to simplify life. However, spring cleaning can only effectively simplify life as we open the windows of our hearts to fresh air and brighter lights. Dust away cluttered thinking hidden in dark closets. Release old grudges stored behind locked doors. Mend broken relationships with newly built gates and lowered fences so others feel welcomed and warmed by our presence.

It’s always a challenge to maintain the hard earned efforts gained after an annual spring cleaning; especially with matters of the heart. One way to maintain a cleaner “inner” house is to use the “Gratitude Slate”. A tool designed for daily use with a recommended dose to begin every morning and to repeat in late afternoon for guaranteed results.

The Creator’s suggested use for the “Gratitude Slate” starts with making a “Daily 10 List”. This list contains a combination of ten personal items, simple life events, as well as including any family and friends. This new slate will create a continued fresh atmosphere in the rooms of the heart. The Gratitude Slate eliminates unnecessary grudges from dark closets. It cleans away dirty grime as we gaze out through the window of life’s perspective.
Sample “Daily 10 List” from Psalm 136

1. He is good because His mercy and loving-kindness endures and endures and endures just for you…FOREVER! (v 1)
2. He brings you out of personal bondages. (v 11)
3. He provides a strong hand and outstretched arm to help with problems. (v 12)
4. He provides a way through any difficult times and deep waters. (v 13)
5. He brings you favor among those in authority (bosses). (v 17-20)
6. He has a “Benefits Package” including an inheritance and family heritage. (v 21,22)
7. He has imprinted you on His heart. (v 23,Amplified)
8. He remembers you. (v 23)
9. He rescues you from all your enemies. (v 24)
10. He provides your daily needs. (v 25)
    

Prayer: Lord, give me the grace to look “within” during this Lenten season. Gently cleanse each room and hidden closet of my heart. Provide the tools to repair my broken fences and build new bridges. Thank you for your strong, gentle arms stretching forth opening new ways of trusting you.