Poca United Methodist Church
Pastor John Mason
LENTEN DISCIPILINES
In the Church Year the Season of Lent begins Ash Wednesday, February 17. The Christian Church has observed the Season of Lent
as a time for penance and self-denial. It should be a time for self-examination to see where we are in the journey toward Christ-like holiness. To assist in this work, these disciplines are suggested.
(1) Beginning today read one chapter each day in the Gospels of Luke and John. There are 40 days not counting Sundays in Lent,
so by starting with Luke, Chapter 1 you can complete reading both Gospels by Good Friday. I intend to preach each Sunday on a
text from that weeks readings.
(2) Some Christians practice self-denial for spiritual growth. This requires going without something that you eat. drink, or do everyday, such as coffee, sweets or Facebook. You decide!
(3) Set a certain time each day to pray for people suffering because of COVID 19, and pray for the end of this plague.
(4) For the week of February 28, telephone a fellow Christian each day to acknowledge your care for that person or family and keep them before the Lord in prayer that day.
(5) The week of March 7, write a note or card each day to a friend or acquaintance you have not seen recently so they know they
are not forgotten, and pray for that person through the day.
(6) The week of March 14, bring food for the Five Loaves and Two Fish Food Pantry. Call Drema Ward or Johnie Pat Brown for
delivery. (Or, send a check made to Five Loaves and Two Fish, Poca UMC, PO Box 516, Poca, WV 25159.
(7) The week of March 21, telephone each day an unchurched family member or acquaintance to inquire how they are faring with
the COVID 19 pandemic and the winter weather. Everyone needs to know that someone cares.
(8) Early in the week of March 28 decide to be a friend to someone in your neighborhood who has few or no friends. Pray each dayfor that new friend. If you see them on the street or neighborhood, greet them with a warm smile around your mask. Don’t give
up on them after Easter.
Have a blessed Lent!
~John Mason
