I don’t understand the ‘giving something up for Lent’ thing. Jesus went into the wilderness for 40 days and lived off what he could find. He did that with a purpose, a reason. He was about to begin his ministry and needed to know it was the right time.
What has giving up chocolate or crisps or beer got to do with that? If giving up isn’t combined with reflection on who and what we are called by God to be then isn’t giving up just a half hearted diet?
I’ve always been more of a fan of taking something up for lent, but even that seems so transient. I’ll take up running for 40 days. That will make my life better. I’ll take up walking instead of driving. That will make the world better. These will make the world better for 40 days so why stop?
I’m going to make an effort to spend some time thinking about who I am and what God wants from me. Maybe that will last longer than 40 days, but who knows.
A friend and I were talking about the same thing yesterday. I am integrating more prayer into my daily routine, and who knows, maybe it will stick. It’s a prayer that really speaks to the issues of Lent and helps us think about this unique season of preparation. My friend’s post is here, so feel free to read it and pitch your thoughts in as well!
-Russell