Continuing our Lenten Journey

How can we continue the challenges of Lent?

"For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but of power, love and self-control."  2 Tim 1:7

As we approach Holy Week, we may be saying a small sigh of relief that our time of sacrifice is drawing to a close and the time for celebration is almost here.   The tempation to let go of the spiritual strength and discipline we have practiced is strong, but I am reminded of Lazarus. (John 11:46-53) When Jesus raised His dear friend from the dead, did his friend live as he had before?"  I imagine, that when Lazarus came out, and the veil was removed his first thought was," How did this happen.  He would recognize his friend, Jesus, standing before him and he would be in awe.  I don't think Lazarus was ever the same.  He would have to live his life in a new way as a new creation.  So it should be with our Lenten devotions.  We should be transformed and not return to our former way of life.