Making Space

I missed last week — and for a very simple reason.

I was sick.

The kind of sick where your body just says, “You’re done now.”
No pushing through. No multitasking. No catching up later.

And it made me think about something: when we don’t choose to stop, sometimes our bodies make the choice for us.

This week begins the season of Lent, and I’ve been reflecting on what that means in my own life. Growing up, Lent wasn’t something I really remember observing. But as an adult, I’ve become much more intentional about it. It has become a time to step back, to refocus, and to make room for God in ways that don’t always happen in the middle of everyday life.

This year, I decided to give up diet pop and social media — and to add in more intentional time with God.

What I didn’t expect was how quickly I would realize how much I relied on social media for my “religious” connection.

On the very first day of Lent, our church had a Facebook Live service. I was at work and planned to watch it later — but I couldn’t. I had given up social media.

The Bible study I’m doing for Lent is also connected to a Facebook group. I printed out all the daily readings so I can still follow along, but I can’t engage in the conversation.

At first, that felt like a loss.

But then something else happened.

I noticed how much time I suddenly had.

No scrolling.
No “just checking one thing.”
No falling into the endless loop of posts that, if I’m being honest, rarely fed my soul.

How many times have I picked up my phone for a minute… only to lose an hour?

And for what?

Now, my mornings look different.

Instead of reaching for my phone, I’m reaching for my Bible.
I’m praying more.
I’m journaling.
I’m sitting in quiet.

And I’m not distracted.

By giving something up, I’ve made space.

And God is filling it.

That’s what Lent is really about — not the sacrifice itself, but the room it creates. It’s about asking ourselves: Where am I devoting my time? What is shaping my heart? What is drawing my attention away from God?

For me, this year, it was social media.

And in stepping away, I’m finding something so much better — presence, peace, and a deeper connection with Him.

Not because I’m doing something perfectly.
Not because I’ve suddenly become more disciplined.
But because I’ve made space for grace.

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📖 Scripture for This Week

Matthew 6:21 (NIV)
“For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”

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🙏 Closing Prayer

Lord, help us to notice the places where our time and attention are being pulled away from You. Give us the courage to let go of anything that distracts us, and teach us how to make space for Your presence. In this season of Lent, draw our hearts closer to You and fill the quiet places with Your peace. Amen.

What are you making time for this Lenten season?