Confessions of a Hypocrite

My husband went away on a fishing trip and left me alone to eat dessert – these are the confessions of a hypocrite.

Some days I find the strength to do life as I should. Other days not so much. When hubby leaves town the first thing that comes to mind? “What kind of treats can I eat while he’s gone?” The tug of sweet comfort and a belly full of all the wrong things wins out over living longer and stronger with less lumpiness on my hips. You’d think my two year journey through chronic pain and illness would be enough – I have learned the price I pay for what I eat and drink. Yet here I am. Eve with the apple in my hand – or a giant pink cupcake as the case may be.

Life is like that. Alone, we are easier to deceive. Together, we look out for eachother. I eat better when my hubby’s home because I know my choices affect his health as well. I care more that he lives long, and well, and good.

So in God’s amazing timing the season of Lent is upon us – 40 days of fasting begins March 5th. Although I am not Catholic I participate in Lent; the giving up of something that I enjoy but which my heart knows is not beneficial.

So I offer up this prayer: Lord, help us to remember what is good. That You caution us for our benefit. Help us to be strong when we’re alone. When the apple is in our hand give us the wisdom and the courage to put it down. Help us choose what is beneficial. And to remember our choices affect those we love. Help us to choose life in everything we do, that we may run well this Gift of life.

Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us. ~ Heb 12:1            

Amen.

QUESTION: What could you give up for the next 40 days that would set you free from your own confessions of a hypocrite?