February 13, 2013 (Wednesday)
“Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you” — Simon Peter
Today is Ash Wednesday, the first day of the Lenten season, the six weeks prior to Easter Sunday.Lent is observed by Catholics and many Protestants as a period of fasting, moderation and self-denial. Baptists traditionally have not observed Lent, but some seem to be changing their minds about it.
Whether we officially observe a special season for spiritual discipline or not, prayer, fasting, repentance and self-denial are always appropriate for believers. Contemplation of the sufferings of Christ, the crucifixion, burial and resurrection should cause us to draw near to Him in our hearts and minds, inspiring us to deepen our commitment to Him as our Lord.
A wonderful hymn to keep in mind during the coming weeks is, “My Jesus, I Love Thee.”
My Jesus, I love thee, I know thou art mine;
for thee all the follies of sin I resign.
My gracious Redeemer, my Savior art thou;
if ever I loved thee, my Jesus, ’tis now.
I love thee because thou hast first loved me,
and purchased my pardon on Calvary’s tree;
I love thee for wearing the thorns on thy brow;
if ever I loved thee, my Jesus, ’tis now.
In mansions of glory and endless delight;
I’ll ever adore thee in heaven so bright;
I’ll sing with the glittering crown on my brow;
if ever I loved thee, my Jesus, ’tis now.
“We love Him, because He first loved us” (1 John 4:19 KJV).