How to Create a "Technology Covenant" for Lent

It is Lent. That liminal time between the feasting of Shrove Tuesday and the events of Easter.

In the good old days we often "gave up" something for Lent. This was a recognition of the 40 days of fasting and prayer that Jesus endured in the wilderness before he began his public ministry. It was time of discernment for him. A time to sort himself and his priorities out. A time to listen very carefully to His God - the one who guided his life.
 
I wanted to give up technology for Lent this year because it has taken on too high a priority in my life. But I can't because much of my job as your minister depends on email, web searches and the calendar reminders on my phone. And because it is through texts, emails and my cell phone that I stay connected with my kids, grandkids and friends and family far and wide.
 
So, as a workable option I wrote myself a "technology covenant" to guide me through these next 6 weeks. Here are a few of the main points in my covenant:

1. I will not turn on or look at any device until after breakfast.
2. I will turn off my devices after supper (unless it is one of those evenings when I need to work).
3. I will resist the temptation to check my phone for messages and emails when I am stopped at a traffic light. Instead I will take a deep breathe and enjoy the "practice of waiting".
 
Let me know what you have decided to do to mark this sacred time of Lent. And please hold me in prayer as I attempt to stay faithful to this covenant. I will do the same for you.
 
God bless you!

See you Sunday for Communion.