Mark 10:28
Peter began to say to him, "We have given up everything and followed you."
Looks like Peter just laid down the ultimate one-up for Lent. He tells Jesus, probably in a moment of frustration or desperation that they've sacrificed it all- their careers, money, reputation and families to be one of His followers. But I wonder if Jesus sensed that there was still a something they hadn't yet given up - themselves.
As Lent gets closer and is now less than 24 hours away, I know that that is one of the biggest challenges I face. I can do without chocolate or coffee for 40 days, but to give up myself - my own desires, my own selfishness, my own ego - it feels nearly impossible.
What does giving up yourself look like? It looks like Jesus. It means swallowing your pride in order to let someone else be right. It means not giving in to impulse spending so you can share your money with others. It means allowing someone else on your team at work or in church ministry to shine when you know you've done a good job too. "Less of me more of you so you can lead and I can follow" would be a great daily mediation because as much as we might want to follow Jesus, it can be awfully difficult to see Him when we are standing in our own way.
