Lent is an interesting period in the church calendar. Originally intended to symbolize Christ's temptation in the desert, it has become one of the largest celebrated seasons in the World. As today is Ash Wednesday, the first day of lent, I thought it might be appropriate to discuss what I'm doing for Lent, and why so many people get it wrong.
Lent is more about having a right heart than it is about sacrificing something. Many people wrongly decide to observe Lent as an exercise of their will power, not understanding the greater significance of their fast. This year, as the first year I will observe Lent, I have both given up a couple of things and added something to my life. I will be drinking one gallon of water everyday, and will be giving up the majority of carbonated drinks. My goal is no more than 4x12oz cans a week. The one other thing I intend to do over this period of fasting is to eat out less, and eat with my family more. All of my "sacrifices" for Lent are directly related to two guiding principles of life that I am trying to stick with. First, that my body is not my own, but God's creation and thus I am expected to maintain it well. I have let my physical well-being slip in the last few years, and this "sacrifice" for Lent is an opportunity to love God with my body. The second driving principle of this concept relates to the biblical command to love my family. As the oldest son, and as one still living in my parents house, I have not obeyed that command well. I hope to be able to spend time with my parents, while living at home, so that when I go over-seas, they will not feel abandoned.
So then, thats my plan for Lent. I'm going to try to Love God and Love my Family.
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