Beloved in the Lord, Lent is a time of introspection, and even penance, as we look forward with humble awe and deep gratitude to the celebration of Jesus’ resurrection. The term “Lent” comes from the Old English word lencten, which referred to the “lengthening” of the daylight hours during spring. Lent is also known as a time to “give things up”. Chocolate, soft drinks, name your vice… But Lent should not be a time to simply diet. It is so much more. Lent is a time of self-reflection, remembering what God has done for us. So here is something to think about: Do You Want to Fast This Lent?
Fast from hurting words and say kind words.
Fast from sadness and be filled with gratitude.
Fast from anger and be filled with patience.
Fast from pessimism and be filled with hope.
Fast from worry and have trust in God.
Fast from complaints and contemplate simplicity.
Fast from pressures and be prayerful.
Fast from bitterness and fill your hearts with joy.
Fast from selfishness and be compassionate to others.
Fast from grudges and be reconciled.
Fast from words and be silent so you can listen.
I am not suggesting that any of these things are easy. They are not. But God calls us to do hard things. If you can do any of these things, you will find that this Lent, your life is richer, and you have a deeper understand and appreciation of the sacrifices Jesus made for us. Something to think about.