Lent Guide 2023নমুনা

Tuesday – Moulded by God

For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.

(Ephesians 2:10)

"Perfectionism at its core isn't about high standards. It's about fear. Fear of failure. Fear of looking stupid, fear of making a mistake, fear of being judged, criticised, and ridiculed. It's the fear that one simple fact might be true: You're not good enough" – Marie Forelo

It might be helpful to revisit and reflect upon our understanding – or definition – of what "perfection" or "good enough" means. So often, our self-deprecating positions or beliefs are rooted in how we understand or define things.

When I think I am not good enough, I might fall into the trap of moving in the opposite direction, overextending myself, and seeking all the time to be perfect. I can be swamped trying to be who I am not, because I think that if I could be like this or that or like someone different, I would be good enough. This can be exhausting and will drain energy. I will find that the more I strive to be who I am not, the more restless, alienated, and dissatisfied I feel. This can lead to spiritual fatigue, and my efforts seem fruitless.

St. Paul tells us that we have been made alive in Christ despite our transgressions because of God's great love and mercy for us. Therefore, we do not have to be who we are not because wherever we lack, the Lord provides in great love and mercy.

Lent invites us to recognise that each of us is continually molded in the hands of God; each of us is "God's handiwork". Lent urges us to claim our value, God's unique fingerprint on each of us. I do not have to be who I am not because God, in Jesus, has made me right and saved me as I am.

Exercise:

What does "good enough" mean to you? Are you tiring yourself by trying to be someone that you are not? Spend time today talking to God and giving God thanks for who you are and how God has molded you.

Grace:

I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with unfailing kindness. (Jeremiah 31:3)