Today is Ash Wednesday and marks the beginning of Lent. Lent is the 40 day period (not counting Sundays) before Easter. Ever since I was in junior high, I have given up something for Lent. Every year I read articles and hear comments about how insignificant it is to give up things like diet coke, coffee, or sweets (my Lenten sacrificial mainstays) and I fully agree. People will say that we should give up rudeness or instead of giving something up we should take on kindness or some other positive attribute and again, I fully agree. But here is why I continue to give up something insignificant every year.
First, I very quickly discover how bound I am to things that are truly insignificant. Every single year things are put into perspective for me when I start to crave a diet coke or cup of coffee – and I can’t help but ask myself the question, “Do I crave the deeper things this much?” When I miss having meat or dessert, I can’t help but think of those who face hunger every day. Giving up the insignificant shows me where to rebalance my life upon that which is significant.
Second, I do far better with a daily reminder. Giving up something that is a part of my daily life forces a speed bump in my routine where I have to slow down and think. When I have that morning craving for Starbucks it helps remind me to think of the reason I gave it up – to daily remember to share God’s love in my words, thoughts, and deeds.
Third, Sundays take on deeper meaning. I do not fast on Sundays. So when it rolls around, I can celebrate with a diet coke or piece of dessert and be reminded that every Sunday is a celebration of Easter. Where I have really seen the benefit of practicing Lent this way, is with my children. They have chosen to give something up (I never made them do it but I do support them in their endeavors) every year since they were young. And I make sure to have candy or pop on hand on Sunday to break the fast for that week. They know that Sunday is a day where we give thanks and remember the joy of Christ in our lives!
Fourth, I am far better at increasing than decreasing. All throughout our culture is the notion that “more is better”. Even within the church the notion of fasting has largely gone by the wayside. Granted, I am not fasting meals or going hungry – but doing without something is a practice that doesn’t come natural in our culture these days.
Finally, giving up something small has had a powerful impact in my life every year that I have done it. Lent prepares me to clear away the things that truly are insignificant in life and focus on the things that matter – sharing God’s love and bringing hope to the world.
