The Mighty Martinelli's: Finding Motivation for Your Lenten Journey

“If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.” ~John 14:15

How is your first week of Lent going? Whether you've given up chocolate, social media, or added a spiritual practice, I'd love to hear how it's been. Is the struggle real, or has it been surprisingly easy? Whatever your experience, know that you're not alone finding motivation for your Lenten journey.

You never know how difficult something is until you try it. I was reminded of this at my sister's wedding. I volunteered to carry multiple crates of Martinelli's sparkling apple cider bottles—each weighing about 40 pounds. That first crate caught me completely off guard. My arms strained, my back tightened, and I wondered if I could manage the rest.

That initial push required the most energy, but it taught me what I was truly capable of. With each additional crate, my body seemed to adapt for the time (though I couldn't lift anything for days afterward because my arms were completely dead!). What kept me going wasn't

just necessity or obligation—I carried those heavy crates because I love my sister and wanted her day to be perfect.

My experience resonated with what Thomas à Kempis observed centuries ago: "Many live in obedience more from necessity than from love." This simple statement gets to the heart of our spiritual journey, especially during Lent.

During these early days of Lent, you may have already faced moments where your resolve wavered. À Kempis understood this too: "When we encounter some slight difficulty, we are too easily dejected and turned to human consolation." Perhaps you've already had that moment—reaching for the snack you gave up, or finding excuses to skip that prayer time you committed to. Paul understood this when he wrote: "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me" (Philippians 4:13). Your Lenten commitment isn't meant to be a test of your willpower alone, but an invitation to experience God's sustaining grace.

Just as I kept carrying those heavy crates out of love for my sister, we can transform our Lenten mindset from mere obligations into acts of love for God. À Kempis offers us this encouragement: "He who gives us the opportunity of fighting for victory is ready to help those who carry on and trust in his grace." The same God who calls us to this journey provides the strength we need to continue.

For the remainder of this first week of Lent, try this simple practice: Each time you feel the urge to abandon your Lenten commitment, pause and ask yourself, "Am I doing this out of necessity or love?" Then pray: "Lord, help me move from necessity to love. I trust in your grace for this moment." This small shift in perspective can transform our Lenten journey from mere obligation into an expression of love for God.

Next week, we'll explore practical strategies for resisting temptation. Until then, stand firm, knowing that the God who called you to this journey is faithful to strengthen you along the way.

Always improve the present moment.