A Good Book For Lent

A Good Book For Lent
A friend loaned me a book that she has read many times during the season of lent. It is an older book written in 1992. The book is titled Reliving The Passion by Walter Wangerin Jr. I am enthralled by these short daily readings. Wangerin is an excellent writer. His telling of events leading up to the crucifixion and resurrection of Christ become new and make the accounts come alive. They provide an excellent platform to deepen one's understanding of how to order one's thoughts and life to become more mature in our position in Christ. I have been especially impacted through his account of the woman who anointed Jesus with costly perfume. He brings out what a pure unselfish act of love this was. She had nothing to gain, "no self at all". This act in stark contrast to the Jewish leaders desperately trying to preserve their power.
His Season
The winter branch out my window
looked devoid of life
This branch filled me
with anticipation
Attached to the trunk
the trunk has sent out roots
The roots spreading out
the length of the branch
Soon tender buds
and flowers will appear
Leaves will burst on the scene
giving just the right amount
of covering
as the fruit develops
Then the owner will come
to taste
to drink the juices
As the fruit is fully ripened
the fruit may become so heavy
that it drops to the ground
providing a banquet
for birds
As you look in the mirror
remember the branch in winter
Let the promise of the spring
to come
fill you
be aware of its roots
With this vision
let the creator workin you
Let Him develop a branch
worthy of the Master
A branch laden with love
with joy and peace
Find your rest
your contentment
in the sure knowledge
that seedtime and harvest
the planting off the Lord
is sure
Through Him
you will be richly sustained.