Keepin' it simple during Lent

Today is Wednesday of the fifth week of Lent, 2010. Five weeks ago, on Ash Wednesday, I picked up THE LITTLE BLACK BOOK (with it's) six-minute meditations on the Passion of Mark. This humble little book has been my companion during these days of Lent. The book’s intent is to guide the reader through the daily meditative readings and develop a practice of prayer based on reflection and meditation. The intentional use of the Little Black Book has been framing my observance of Lent in a simple way and for this, I am grateful. Simplicity is what I have needed so as to not get caught up in a legalistic, performance based adherence.
Six minutes - that's all. Yet, this morning's reading cut me to the core. Taken from Mark 15:22-24, the first four words of verse 24 brought another of my Lent intentions - simplicity - into focus with startling clarity. "Then they crucified him." "Then they crucified him" - Pointed words directing my attention to next week's Good Friday. Sharp words - yes, but such an expression of love that I am urged to joyfully press on with my Lent intent - press on to the glory of Easter.
This coming Sunday is Palm Sunday which opens the way to holy week. The season on the church calendar known as Lent is drawing to a close.
I'm grateful for the invitation that comes from Lent - grateful that the observance of Lent has come into my sphere of living. Grateful for this annual reminder and marker to enhance the daily journey of spiritual formation and transformation. Grateful for the community of faith that shares this practice with me.
Where are you in this next to the last week of Lent? How has this simple Lenten reflection stirred gratitude in your heart? I'd love it if you'd share that with me.
Grace and peace to you, dear one.