A few years ago, I wrote a blog post about “giving up” things for Lent vs “adding something” to Lent (see post HERE). I think about this dichotomy each year and believe that there’s merit in rehashing the question.
Lent is a time when many Christians observe a period of fasting, repentance, moderation, self-denial and spiritual discipline. The purpose is to set aside time for reflection on Jesus Christ—his suffering and his sacrifice, his life, death, burial, and resurrection. The idea of fasting and moderation/self-denial seems to have morphed into the giving up of things for Lent, but I don’t truly understand how giving up something (soda, chocolate, alcohol, or even Facebook) can help you get closer to Christ. If you’re disciplined enough to actually replace the thing you’re denying with something spiritual, then I’m on board… but I know that’s not the way I would end up living during Lent.
Are you interested in keeping a Holy Lent this year? I have decided to begin a daily devotional on Ash Wednesday, March 6. I’ve purchased the book “Jesus Calling” by Sarah Young (Amazon link HERE), and am going to set aside 30 minutes every day to read the day’s scripture message and pray. I will bring my devotional with me when we travel and, while I’m not going to put strict parameters on the time of day I devote, I will follow through to make this a more Holy Lenten season.
I’d like to think that focusing more on the spirituality of Lent might be a good way to start to making our lives a little more positive overall… If you’re interested in joining me, please let me know your thoughts.
Beatitudes of my life 