Tuesday, February 28, 2017

Lent

Two things to clear up - Catholics aren't the only Christians that observe Lent, and Lent isn't just about giving something up, it can also be about changing behaviour.

Okay, so Lent starts tomorrow.  I used to try and give something up and I only ever remember being successful when I gave up chips when I was in high school, but the only thing I gained was an aversion for the pretzels that I ate instead.  In recent years I've wanted to do something more profound but my problem is that I lack discipline for doing anything for forty days.  I have big plans and then either start it and abandon it a few days later or I don't even bother starting because I know it won't happen.  

So this is the year I'm going to try something different.  Rather than picking one activity to carry out daily during Lent, I am going to put all of these things in a bowl and pick one each day.  They are things that will be good for the mind, body, and/or spirit.  Here are some examples:

- Handwrite a note to someone
- Send an email to a friend to check in
- Bake for a neighbour
- Make a prayer list
- Play piano
- Go for a run
- Go for a walk without doing any errands
- Make some cards with E
- Invite someone for a meal
- Donate some items to Great Finds
- Donate some money to a local charity
- No social media for the day
- Go to yoga
- Clean out a drawer/closet/box
- Meat free day
- Sugar free day

To me, Lent is about making a connection with Jesus and whether you're choosing one thing to focus on, or a variety of things, like I'm doing, the point is that you're reflecting on what the Lenten season means.  Doing some of the things for just one day won't be much of a sacrifice, but as long as I'm thinking about the overall commitment to do some reflection each day, then I will be happy with the results.

Another important part of Lent is that you're doing it for yourself and for God, not so you look better than other people.  I realize that this post is sort of contrary to that, but if you're looking for a different way to observe Lent, then this could give you some ideas.





1 comment:

  1. I like this idea. It is still a commitment to remember to pick a daily duty and do it for 40 days!

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