Lent Day 43, Wednesday, April 1, 2026

“Clean Your Beach, Street, or Park”

No, this is not an April Fool’s joke. Today’s Lenten challenge is to clean up your outdoor environment, whatever that may be.

For those of us who live in the tropics, the beach is a great place to start. Our community depends on visitors, and we want our beaches to reflect the beauty we are blessed to enjoy.

If you do not live near the coast, no problem. Your street is a great place to begin, and your local parks can always use a little extra care. Even apartment complexes and parking areas offer opportunities to make a difference.

Here on Longboat Key, Gulf of Mexico Drive is always in need of attention. In fact, in a couple of weeks, local churches will be working together to clean a two-mile stretch of the roadway. If you would like to join us, we will gather on Saturday, April 18, at 8:30 am at Temple Beth Israel on Bay Isles Road.  That may sound like a bit of a commercial plug, but it is a meaningful opportunity. We are blessed to live in this country, and taking care of our communities is one small way we can give back.

If you have physical limitations that prevent you from picking up trash, that is completely fine. Instead, take a few minutes to quietly reflect on the many ways God has blessed you. Giving thanks for those blessings is just as meaningful.

What will you do today?  There are plenty of opportunities around you. Choose one, step outside, and make a difference.

“The Lord God placed the man in the Garden of Eden to tend and watch over it.”  Genesis 2:15, NLT)