"They made their lives bitter with harsh labor..."

We’re starting Week 2 of our Lent Plan: God the Rescuer. Today, we’re looking at Exodus 1:8-14. Before we can celebrate the rescue, we have to talk about what it feels like to be stuck. We're looking at those seasons where life feels like a "grind" and remembering that God sees us in the middle of it.

Today’s Passage: Exodus 1:8-14

Join the Journey:

• ​ Full Lent Reading Plan: here
• ​ More Reflections: makemondaymatter.com

This past weekend, my niece gave everything she had on the state dance floor until her legs literally gave out. Her sister had to pick her up and carry her.

It reminded me of my last marathon—the miles where I was ready to quit and the sister who showed up to walk me to the finish line.

In this week's 3-minute devotional, we look at Ecclesiastes 4:10 and the importance of "our people." We’re talking about:

• ​ What it looks like to show up for the hard miles.
• ​ Why we need to check on the "strong" ones who always do the helping.
• ​ A simple challenge to see a need and pick someone up this week.
• ​

We weren't meant to get back up alone.

Read the full post and see the photos at: www.makemondaymatter.com

"The Spirit sent him into the wilderness..."

Ever feel like you're doing everything right and still end up in a "desert" season? Today we’re looking at Mark 1:9-15. We talk about why the wilderness isn't always a sign that you're off track—sometimes, it’s the place where you see God show up most.

Today’s Passage: Mark 1:9-15

Join the Journey:

• Full Lent Reading Plan: here

• More Reflections: makemondaymatter.com

"Is this not the fast that I choose?"

Lent is often associated with giving things up, but Isaiah 58 challenges us to do more than just skip a meal. Today we’re looking at what "true fasting" looks like and why God cares more about how we treat people than how religious we act.

Today’s Passage: Isaiah 58:6-12

Join the Journey:

• ​ Full Lent Reading Plan: here
• ​ More Reflections: makemondaymatter.com

"Is it just me, or is God giving a little attitude here?" Today we're looking at Isaiah 1:16-18 and the invitation to stop hiding our "permanent" stains. God doesn't just want to fade the mess; He wants to make it white as snow.

Today’s Passage: Isaiah 1:16-18

Links:

• ​ Download the Plan: here
• ​ Website: makemondaymatter.com

Yesterday we talked about the importance of "rending our hearts" and actually mourning our sin. Today, we look at what happens next. We’re diving into Psalm 51, King David’s raw and honest prayer. If you’ve ever felt like your heart needs more than just a "quick clean," but a total DIY renovation, this episode is for you.

Today’s Passage: Psalm 51:1-12

Join the Journey:

• Download the Full Lent Reading Plan: here

• Catch up on past reflections: makemondaymatter.com

A special Ash Wednesday reflection to kick off our Lent Reading Plan.

What does it actually mean to "rend your heart"? Today, we’re stepping away from the "performance" of religion and looking at what it looks like to let God heal what’s broken.

Today’s Passage: Joel 2:12-14 (NIV)

"Even now," declares the Lord, "return to me with all your heart, with fasting and weeping and mourning." Rend your heart and not your garments. Return to the Lord your God, for he is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in love, and he relents from sending calamity. Who knows? He may turn and relent and leave behind a blessing.

Join the Journey:

• Find the Full Lent Reading Plan: here

• Catch up on past reflections: makemondaymatter.com