Lenten Challenge in March
The day after Mardi Gras is known as Ash Wednesday and it marks the beginning of a season called Lent. In short, Lent is the 40 day period before Easter Day and a time for Christians to learn about sacrifice and discipline. Traditionally, people who observe the season of Lent would fast something (not always food, it could be a habit) for 40 days. It is also common for people to fast while taking up a good habit or discipline. In this time Christians are encouraged to rely on God rather than depending on other things they may encounter on a daily basis.
During this time in March and April I've heard a lot about the meaning of Lent. And when I say a lot, I mean A WHOLE LOT more than I've ever heard! It really dawned on me that the season of Lent had a whole tradition that I, at best, took for granted. There were a whole lot of stories and spiritual activities that were totally new to be, but in reality were very old and practiced. It blew me away and made me feel like I was entering a whole new culture (even though I grew up in this country and heard the Easter story hundreds of times!!!).
Although I had heard about Lent years ago, this time around I took it seriously. I gave up a few of my vices (I love donuts!) and took up the discipline of prayer in the morning. As the weeks (slowly) rolled by, I realized that I was strong enough to fast from more things and I began giving them up (chips, brownies, sodas, coffee, cookies, cake). I even started feeling better than I thought I would. I couldn't believe it. For the final week, I tried the unthinkable. I gave up pastries of any kind, any candy, and chocolate! For me that was crazy! It meant I had to give up all of my back up snacks when I felt like eating something I promised I wouldn't. It meant eating less and eating healthy. I found myself eating apples on my own and looking to add vegetables to the foods I ate. Instead of grabbing something fast I either had to prepare ahead of time or wait for the next hearty meal. I felt like I was being a boy scout, and that's really saying something for a guy like me who follows rules all the time!
Reflecting on Lent after Easter I realized that I am much stronger and more gifted than I believed myself to be. I am now more confident in my abilities and more willing to share my gifts with others. Thank goodness for that! I am emerging from a shell I didn't even know existed, it's great, and I am doing it for Jesus who gives a real purpose to my life.