Tuesday, March 08, 2011

LENT


I am not Catholic. I don't hold to any of the liturgical denominations.... is that what you would call them? Anyway, I have never really considered Lent.... never observed/practiced it. I don't observe Ash Wednesday. But, I DO celebrate Easter. Though Christmas is my favorite holiday, Easter is the one I hold as most important.

OK.... tangent..... coming back.

Anyway, I have never even considered Lent. I didn't know if I thought it was wrong or right.... I just never.... thought about it.

Until 2009.

February 25, 2009 was Ash Wednesday. The night of February 24, I knew I was being told to stop drinking Dr Pepper. I don't take a direct word from God lightly. The irony of being told to start on Ash Wednesday is not lost on me.

Ash Wednesday and Lent of 2010 came and went. Like I said, we don't observe it.

Well, this year, I decided to do something.

I did a bit of research to see if it was Biblical. I can't find it in the Bible. But, I can't find evidence of a church choir, either. It doesn't have to be in the Bible, for my peace of mind.... but I have to be sure that it is not prohibited, in any way, or for the wrong reasons. And.... I think it is OK.... for me..... for this year.

In the Bible, there are many times that "fasting" is discussed. Fasting can be done in various forms and for various reasons. My reasons? To give up something that I feel is addictive. To grow closer to God. To discipline myself.

I have chosen to give up caffeine.

I don't drink sodas as much as before, though I do still enjoy a Dr Pepper or Coke a few times a week. I drink sweet tea everyday.... not in the quantities that I used to drink Dr Pepper, but enough that I miss it if I hit about 10:00 a.m. without it.

I have told my kids. They will help me. My hubby has decided to join me. He is working on cutting out sweets. Both of these changes will help us to be healthier. That is a good thing.

So, whether you observe Lent, or fasting, at this time of year or any other, I pray that you are doing it for the right reasons and that you achieve your goal.

And, as always, God bless you.

3 comments:

Laurel Santiago said...

I'm kind of glad that we aren't Catholic, because I've already had to give up so much this year. I could vow to give up salads. LOL!

Unknown said...

Best wishes with your Lenton goals!

Jennifer @ Her Southern Charm said...

I thought this site had great ideas. I'm Catholic, but this was the very first time that I've really taken the fasting seriously and see it as a beautiful way to get closer to God.