When I was a kid, I used to dread Lent coming. It’s 40 days of fasting from something, no meat on Fridays, and a somber, reflective time. I remember having to think hard about what I was giving up and not really taking it seriously because I did not see the point. “Because we are supposed to” isn’t really a good explanation for a kid.
As an adult, I look forward to Lent. It takes away my excuses and it explains to others when you say. “I gave it up for Lent”. They stop asking why you aren’t doing x, y, or z. It’s a great time to eliminate something from your life or even better to add to it.
Jesus fasted for 40 days in the desert. There are 40 days of Lent. The point of our fasting, is to take away a temptation so that we can get closer to God. It does bring some balance to our otherwise unbalanced lives.
Over the years, I have fasted from many things during Lent, sweets, TV, cursing, etc. Something I started about 10 years ago is to do something for Lent instead of giving something up. For example, looking for random acts of kindness, reading a spiritual book for 30 mins each day, praying with a friend each night at a certain time, etc. Setting aside extra prayer time in a busy schedule really is a sacrifice, because you are giving something up to make that time.
What do you want to reflect upon this Lent? Do you want to give something up, or would you prefer to do something extra? I have been known to do both. The benefit is that by the end of Lent you will have formed a new habit that may continue on into the future. You may also get to the end and think- whew, I made it.
I used to tell my students (if they asked) that I was giving up being nice and giving out A’s. There were always a few incredulous stares until they figured out I was joking. What you give up or do is personal. It’s between you and God. It’s not for me to judge. There is no wrong way to “do Lent”. If you haven’t picked something, think about it today. If you don’t know. Ask God, He probably has some good ideas for you. See you in church tomorrow and happy fasting!
