The season of Lent is here! Many of us are in the habit of using Lent as a time to 'sacrifice' something. You give up chocolate or coffee or TV. Good ideas.

I challenge you again this year to say one prayer for the church and her members each of the 40 days of Lent - 40 Days, 40 Prayers. Keep track of each prayer. List the people or concerns you lift up to God. They can be an individual or family, a project, an event, a church program or goal. It can be a prayer for healing, hope, patience, forgiveness or celebration. But write it down! You may think that 40 prayer concerns are too many. You will be surprised! Prayer begins with a relationship with God. You will draw closer to God as you spend one-on-one time with Him. If you don't know how to begin, try this: "God of all compassion, we carry so many concerns for ourselves, for others, and for our church. Today I pray especially for ___________________________."

God will respond to your prayer.