We joined the gym! We have been going each Monday night as “family time” as a Lenten practice. I take one of my daughters up on Tuesdays so she can watch the Cable TV which we shut off at home. Then my husband takes one of the girls up on Wednesday nights. We take Thursdays and Fridays off because we are going in all kinds of different directions! Then on Saturdays my girls and I go walk around the track at the gym. It has been great for all of us to be more healthy.

In a sense, this extra family time together has been prayer time! I’ve enjoyed learning who the girls are through conversations as we walk and “playing” with them in competition. I reflect on their words and actions and have really enjoyed the time to focus on them.

This Lent we also said each family member is in charge of leading prayer on Monday nights for a little devotional. My husband started and he really surprised me with the thoughtfulness he put into the prayer and activity. The girls are excited about what they will do when it is their turn to plan and lead. I pray the prayer time (and gym time) continues to be a part of our practice as a family even after Lent.

Lord, I am aware of your presence in my life and in many ways throughout the day. Help me Lord to make “sacred” time not just prayers while I sing praises in music I listen to or in quick acknowledgements of your presence in others eyes or in their actions or in the beauty of nature but to really make time for some formal prayer. I know the joy you offer when my time is spent with you. I pray I find time this week to listen to you! AMEN!