"'Yet even now,' declares the Lord, 'Return to Me with all your heart, and with fasting, weeping, and mourning; and rend your heart and not your garments.' Now return to the Lord your God, for He is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger, abounding in loving kindness and relenting of evil." - Joel 2:12-13

I think this verse is absolutely perfect for the beginning of Lent. I think all too often the question of "what are you going to give up for Lent?" becomes routine. But I think this verse really helps get back to the heart of WHY we give things up during these 40 days. It takes a look inward to come up with a sacrifice that will truly allow us to return to Him. Rather than just giving up what you might give up every year, this year I encourage you to really reflect on the things in your life that keep you from God. Is there something that gets in the way when you are going to pray? Is there something recreational that steals a large amount of time in your life - time that could be spent with God? Notice also that the verse says "return to Me with all your heart." The Lord is calling us to a complete return to Him during this season. For when we rid ourselves of the things that keep us from the Lord of Love, is when we will be able to draw closer to Him all the more. 

Have a wonderful week! God bless you! :)