Almost Easter
What Amazes you Today?
Take a moment to ponder – What amazes you? What surprises you, fills you with wonder, or catches you off guard?
How often do you feel amazed in your daily life? Recently, I asked some of Maryville’s residents what amazes them. They mentioned the hummingbirds and ducklings in the West courtyard, morning and evening prayer, the journey from seed to hands to harvest to the Maryville kitchen, Molly the therapy dog, and even how a cookie can brighten your day.
Now, I invite you to think of your own experiences. What has amazed you recently? Take a moment to reflect and, if you feel comfortable, consider sharing your own moments of amazement with your family and neighbors. Your story might encourage someone else to notice something wonderful, too.
Here are a few things that amaze me: chocolate cake, for its simple goodness and the way it always wins me over. I am always in awe of everything in my garden. I love learning about sedums and snails and soak up every bit of information I can. The first day of spring feels like a holiday in my house. Plants never stop amazing me. When I pause to appreciate these things, I
feel my faith grow stronger, reminding me that each moment of amazement can deepen my connection to God.
From the very beginning, Jesus amazes us. Think about Holy Week: riding into Jerusalem on a young donkey, the Last Supper, washing the apostles’ feet, the agony in the Garden of Gethsemane, His arrest, crucifixion, death, and resurrection.
What if, this Lent, we did not just go through the motions but truly felt a sense of wonder at what Jesus did for us through His passion,
death, and resurrection?
Maybe we would let ourselves be challenged by Him. Have I let Jesus
challenge me this Lent? Am I amazed? Dear friend, when was the last time Jesus amazed you?
If you would like to notice more moments of amazement in your faith journey, at the end of your day, say a short prayer of gratitude for something wonderful you experienced.
Blessings,
Melissa McCoy
Maryville Chaplain
The Poet Thinks About the Donkey
By Mary Oliver
On the outskirts of Jerusalem, the donkey waited.
Not especially brave, or filled with understanding, he stood and waited.
How horses, turned out into the meadows, leap with delight!
How doves, released from their cages, clatter away, splashed with sunlight!
But the donkey, tied to a tree as usual, waited.
Then he let himself be led away.
Then he let the stranger mount.
Never had he seen such crowds!
And I wonder if he at all imagined what was to happen.
Still, he was what he had always been: small, dark, obedient.
I hope, finally, he felt brave.
I hope, finally, he loved the man who rode so lightly upon him, as he lifted one dusty hoof and stepped, as he had to, forward.
Lent is not over yet
Prayer:
Think of prayer as a heartfelt chat with God. Find time to connect with Him and share what’s on your mind and in your heart.
Fasting:
How about giving up something that might be a bit of a distraction? Whether it is your favorite treats or some habits that do not serve you well, a little fasting can help you focus on what really matters.
* Seriously ill people, such as those with diabetes or cancer, and those who are over a certain age are exempt from fasting. People who are exempt can compensate through prayer, almsgiving, and good deeds.
Giving Alms:
This is all about sharing what you have. Consider how you can give your time, skills, or money to help someone in need. It is a great way to spread kindness and make a difference!
As you dive into Lent, stay open to the gentle nudges from God. He might reveal areas in your life that could use a bit of love and attention. Trust Him to guide you!
