To saying Amen more

Last night, I was remembering my good friend that I met last summer in D.C. We were roommates for 2 months and had an instant connection. But I was always caught off guard by a superlative she used nonchalantly.
AMEN.

She used the word in any conversation when in agreement with the said statement (makes sense since amen does mean "so be it").

Last summer, this was just her "thing", but now I doubt. Why can't I embrace it, too? When blessings come someone's way, why don't we respond more often with "Praise God!" or when in agreement say, "Amen!" instead of "awesome, that's soooo great." Did God really mean for this to be language for special use on Sundays?

It serves as a reminder for the person giving and receiving--a calling to the One that we are actually in agreement.

Praise the LORD, my soul;
   all my inmost being, praise his holy name.
Praise the LORD, my soul, and forget not all his benefits.
-Psalm 103


Amen! 
Dedicated to Shelby Nirk. 

Lent begins

It's a tradition for me to observe the 40-50 days of fasting and self-denial. I agree with others when they say that observing Lent makes the resurrection and Easter celebration that much sweeter. It's a definite and set time to examine your relationship with Christ, put forth your shortcomings and rely on the Lord to meet them. I'm looking forward to good things happening during this Lent season.

If you're looking for a way to observe Lent, check this out:
http://www.worldvisionacts.org/?q=lent2011_relentless_acts_of_justice

I wanted to leave you with this Franciscan prayer that I was given from World Vision.

May God bless you with discomfort. Discomfort at easy answers, half truths, and superficial relationships, so that you may live deep within your heart. Amen

May God bless you with anger. Anger at injustice, oppression and exploitation of people, so that you may work for justice, freedom and peace. Amen

May God bless you with tears. Tears to shed for those who suffer from pain, rejection, starvation and war, so that you may reach out your hand to comfort them and turn their pain into joy. Amen

May God bless you with foolishness. Enough foolishness to believe that you can make a difference in this world, so that you can do what others claim cannot be done. Amen

And the blessing of God, who creates, redeems and sanctifies, be upon you and all you love and pray for this day, and forever more. Amen

How do you observe Lent?