Today is the beginning of Lent. For the next 40 days, we sacrifice – give up something that we enjoy or gives us some kind of a reward. You don’t have to be Catholic to participate.
When I was a kid I gave up chocolate. In adult life I’ve given up coffee, wine, sugar, yeast, and gluten, to name a few. I have a friend who gave up shopping – buying anything beyond a need, like food.
This year I decided to become more creative. Begin a different kind of fast. From things that not only go into my mouth, but what comes out of it.
I am a recovering independent single, perfectionist, and neat-nick. Use to doing things my own way, marriage has been a process of learning it’s safe to finally let go. I also love the motto “choose life”; aiming to live it in every way, from the people I hang out with, to what I eat, read, watch, and do. So Lent got me to thinking… What if I “choose life” not only in what I eat and drink, but in my words and actions toward my husband as well?
So here it is. For the next 40 days I will fast from correcting my husband with my words or actions in any way. He’s an intelligent, responsible, considerate guy – a “keeper” in other words. So how much of my “management” can he really need? And what a gift would it be if I don’t?
Jesus sacrificed, choosing not to eat or drink for 40 days for our benefit.
So let’s consider this… Even if we’re not Catholic, what if we participate in Lent this year, choosing the thing we give up to be of benefit to someone else? Without telling them we’re doing it? (I’m counting on my hubby to not read this post : )
I have a feeling we might all just get blessed along the way.
Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. ~ Eph 4:29
Amen.
QUESTION: What might you give up for the next 40 days that would not only be a sacrifice on your part, but would also be of benefit to someone else?
Terri says
Joanna, what a beautiful post, thanks for sharing your wonderful commitment in honor of the Lord. The scripture that you shared has always been such a benefit in helping me remember not to say or do things that are unbecoming of a child of God.
Joanna Morgan says
Thanks Terri, The mouth is such a mighty presence for good or for not so good. James has a lot of good stuff to say about that too huh? I have always had a special place in my heart for Lent because we just can’t help but become more aware, grateful, and humbled through steeping and participating in this ritual of 40 days — a season of “Refining”, culminating in Easter, the day of celebrating what it’s really all about. He’s REAL and He’s ALIVE! Thanks for walking along beside me on the Journey : )