Lent Day 6, Monday, Feb 22, 2021

“Make Today a Good Day!”

Is it possible to control your day? That’s a heavy question to begin this early on a Monday, especially when so many of us are dealing with extreme weather, difficult health complications, financial strains, and other issues that are out of our control. Today is rough enough, but when we add sleepless nights, bone aches, and spilled coffee to the mix, this day might already seem like a bust.

Tackling another Lenten Challenge might be the last thing that any of us wish to consider, especially a challenge that mentions today in a positive light. However, it’s important to note that a positive attitude each day impacts our lives much more than we anticipate. A positive outlook improves our mental, emotional, and physical well-being, not to mention the improved environment we create for our loved ones, co-workers, and anyone else we encounter today.

Yes, it's difficult to remain hopeful when the day began with stepping into a special gift left by the family pet last night, yet, that’s exactly what we are trying to accomplish today. Today’s challenge asks us to take back control over our impulsive reactions to unfavorable accidents and circumstances. We can do this by intentionally focusing on the ways we react to unplanned mishaps. Are we too quick to complain? Are we consistently judging ourselves and others? Do we tend to point our fingers somewhere (including the mirror) when something goes amiss? Being conscious of our demeanor during the day will help. A few prayers along the way can't hurt, either.

If we can find a way to remain positive and hopeful today, (especially in the midst of great challenges), we can become a stimulus for similar, positive things to occur in the lives of those around us. Yes, it is possible for our little world to change, even (and especially) on a Monday!

Give today to God and make it a good day!

“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” (Philippians 4:4).