Run the Race -- With a Little Bit of Encouragement

I always find Lent to be a little scary and a little exciting. Scary because I am denying myself things which I usually use as motivation to get through the day. (i.e. dessert and such). However, it's really more on the exciting side, because I feel that I'm standing on a long path, ready to start a meaningful journey.  
The way is uphill and it only gets steeper from here on out, and I don't know what dangers lie in my path -- but I know what lies at the end of the road, and I wouldn't miss it for the world.

Here's a bit of inspiration to help you through your Lenten journey:

"Take up your cross," the Saviour said,
"If you would my disciple be;
Take up your cross with willing heart,
And humbly follow after me."

Take up your cross; let not its weight
Fill your weak soul with vain alarm;
His strength shall bear your spirit up,
And brace your heart and nerve your arm.

Take up your cross; nor heed the shame,
And let your foolish pride be still;
Your Lord refused not e'en to die
Upon a cross, on Calv'ry's hill.

Take up your cross, then, in his strength,
And calmly sin's wild deluge brave;
'Twill guide you to a better home,
It points to glory o'er the grave.

Take up your cross, and follow on,
Nor think till death to lay it down;
For only he who bears the cross
May hope to wear the glorious crown.

Lyrics by: Charles W. Everest

Tune by: Henry Baker