When I set out to use the readings from the Anglican Cycle of Prayer as the basis for these Lenten reflections, I didn't reckon on the number of readings from Job. (Today's lesson is Job 36:13-21, paired with Psalm 123.) Job is one of the most challenging books in the Bible, partly due to its thorny topic, but also because it seems so awfully repetitious. Should I repent of this choice, and find another series of readings?

Maybe not! It's so easy to give up when things get difficult, but surely that's what Lent is all about -- not giving up, but following Jesus where Jesus will lead. "Not my will but yours." Elihu chastises Job for being obsessed with his quest justice, and challenges him to accept God's ways -- "Not your will, Job, but God's!"

It's a hard lesson for anyone to learn.
So on we go through Lent.