Next Wednesday (3.9.11) is Ash Wednesday, and that triggers the season of Lent on the Christian Calendar. Lent is a 40-day period designed to prepare our hearts as we anticipate Easter, and the resurrection of Jesus that we celebrate on that day. In the tradition of Lent each believer gives up something important to them that involves some level of sacrifice. The idea is that every time we would normally do whatever we gave up or whenever we strongly desire to, we instead identify with Jesus’ far greater sacrifice for us and we focus on God in prayer and reflection.
In the church I came to faith in, Lent was never really mentioned or practiced. As a result, it wasn’t until last year that I observed this season. I talked about that and why I believe it is a good idea for all of us to observe Lent in a message called “Remember the Time…?” If you don't know much about Lent, I would highly encourage you to listen to this message (because it goes into more detail than I can get into in this context) and consider whether or not this is something you would like to be a part of. I strongly believe observance of Lent will greatly deepen your intimacy with Jesus and your appreciation for His sacrifice for us if you do.
If you do decide to observe Lent, the big question is always “WHAT do I give up?”. As a bit of a media junkie I gave up Facebook and talk radio last year. This year I am giving up TV and movies; pray for me!!! You can give up anything you feel led to; the key is it has to be a bit of a sacrifice (which is why I couldn’t go with country music). If you decide to observe Lent this year, please post a comment letting me know what you’re giving up so I can pray for you too.
Last year I also gave up FB. It was pretty much a breeze. I didn't even sign right back on at Easter. So I'm trying to think of something a bit more difficult for me this year that would be an actual legitimate sacrifice. As trivial as this sounds, I may be giving up make up. Completely. Even foundation. I am super self conscious without it so it would be something that is actually difficult for me. (Ryan sure thinks it's a good idea.)
Posted by: momma fox | February 28, 2011 at 02:41 PM
Those are great ideas, Bill and Bethany! I'm thinking of giving up shopping for all but the necessities. No new books, no new clothes, no new toys/games, no new cars, no new nothing - except food, soap, gas, and toilet paper. And I think I will read through the NT again.
Posted by: Mandy | March 02, 2011 at 08:23 PM
I'll pray for you both, Bethany and Mandy.
Posted by: Bill LaMorey | March 03, 2011 at 11:59 AM