From the Pastors Desk - March 03, 2020
When I was in the 3rd and 4th grade our across the street neighbors had a girl the same age as me. They were Roman Catholic. During the season of Lent we would “compare notes.” I had to go to church an extra night during the week and she, and all her siblings, had to give up their favorite food. Now, remember this was Lent. In Michigan. In the late 60s.
Christine gave up watermelon. This really was her favorite food, but in the days before Whole Foods: In Michigan. In the late 60s. Yes, thanks to Florida and California, the grocery stores had oranges year around. But watermelon was something that was around only “seasonally.” I didn’t think she was really sacrificing much. On the other hand, I had to go to church on both Sunday and Wednesday.
I’ve really never got the give up something for Lent. (If it works for you, please don’t take my not getting it as a criticism) I understand the history and theology behind it. Jesus fasted for 40 days in the wilderness. And some individuals give up caffeine, gossip, soda, smoking as their response. But it has never had much meaning to me. I think it is better to add something . . . like Wednesday worship in my case.
Adding could be giving some time volunteering in a place that needs some free help. But if you want to “give up,” can you do so more creatively? Maybe giving up a half an hour of TV for some extra reading time learning something . . . giving up the crossword puzzle and helping the little old lady who lives alone with some yard work?
There are many different ways to use the season of Lent to prepare for Holy Week. I would love to hear what you do.
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