March 8

For Today's Forward Day by Day reading, Click Here.

Now it's time for the fun stuff. We know what kind of resources God has packed for all of us and what special tools he has given each of us specifically. And maybe these tools, or qualities, will continue to manifest themselves as we move forward. But now begins the fun Lenten challenge of USING what's in our bags as a method of practice.

It's time to let the Holy Spirit be our caddy and ask for His direction on the right stick to use from our bag. That's right, it's time to start playing some golf.

Maybe that sounds a little disrespectful to think of God in terms of a caddy, or to compare his work to Caddyshack. But it is a good visual isn't it? And Lord help me if Chevy Chase isn't the funniest living comedian.

As we work our way into the final two weeks or so of Lent, try to make a conscious effort to consider your arsenal with each challenge or event. Perhaps there's even a breath or a quick caddy consult (prayer) before choosing the most effective doodad. And are there promises for a hole-in-one every time? Heck no! We're humans, and everyone knows there is a large margin out there for human error. But wouldn't it be neat if the more we assess and inventory the tools in our bag before acting, the better our results become?

Here's the fairway I'm looking down today: I have to sit in front of my computer for what will probably be at least six- to eight-hours and write copy for the school auction guide. This is a fun process for me personally, because I get to pull out all my puns and write jingly jangles and get busy with words. But this is also one of those weekends where I can see the end before it begins — one thing after another. Translation, not much word-zoning in front of the computer. After a quick consult with my caddy, I've decided to give a combination Three Deep Breaths and Faithfulness a try. Or maybe it's Trust, or perhaps I'll give Peace a lookie-loo.

What hole are you on today?