But their minds were hardened. For to this day, when they read the old covenant, that same veil remains unlifted, because only through Christ is it taken away.
2 Corinthians 3:14
For the first time in many years, I did not prepare myself for Lent. When the call for devotions went out, I felt myself unprepared and felt that the theme was not leading me to the usual inspiration I had felt in the past. I wondered what I could say, and never answered the call. Then I was asked again, in a different fashion, and I realized that this was God calling to me to look at why I was resisting.
I realize that my hesitancy was because my own self-reflection on the three words of our theme, POWER. PRIVILEGE. PRESENCE., had come to a standstill. After lifting the veil a little, I had let it fall over me again.
Over the past couple weeks, I heard multiple messages directed to me about not hiding my character and trusting in God to show me the way. I realized that I had slowly been withdrawing from connection and returning to my old ways that led me down the road to being a child that caused my parents much grief, a self-centered husband, and a bad friend. I know I have to continue the work I previously did, to purposely regrow those connections, and to continue my self-reflection.
Even though I feel unworthy now, I know, in the spirit of the Easter message, that there is hope for my salvation and transformation. And so I pray…
God, continually renew my spirit so that I do not let the veil fall over me. Help me to not rest on my laurels so that my mind hardens. Remove from me the bondage of myself so that I may grow in your will and walk the path you have set before me. Amen.
- Joel Arnold ’97
Assistant Director of Data and Gift Processing
