During the season of Lent, I will be sharing a short post each day as part of the Lent-Photo-a-Day Journey, providing a sort of brief reflection and witness through the journey to and through the cross, to the tomb, and out into the world.

The word designated for March 14th was “Guide.”

In the narthex of my home congregation is this three paneled beautiful stained glass window. It wouldn’t make a whole lot of contextual sense in the Midwest, but in the Pacific Northwest you can see why this might be extra fitting. As we think about the idea of a guide today, one of the ways that we recognize the work and promise of Jesus is in the promise that Christ is present. There is no promise that we won’t face challenges, harms and difficulties in a life of discipleship. In fact, its quite the opposite. But, by being present Jesus is there to guide as long as we allow him to do so through prayer and discernment.

In the words of the hymn, “Guide Me Ever, Greet Redeemer,” “When I tread the verge of Jordan, bid my anxious fears subside; death of death and hell’s destruction, land me safe on Canaan’s side. Songs and praises, songs and praises I will raise forevermore, I will raise forevermore.”

How do you recognize God’s presence in your life? How do you make room for God to guide you- in the difficult and also peaceful times?