Why I Gave Something Up for Lent
Why did I give something up for lent? The answer is easy. Because I didn’t want to.
A few days before Ash Wednesday I heard on the radio that few people practice fasting for lent anymore. I had grown up with the practice, but as an adult had only chosen to fast a handful of times. The radio discussion prompted me to ask myself, Should I fast this year? Nah…There is nothing in excess in my life right now…except, well.…I could always stand a little fasting from…
At that point my train of thought was interrupted by a cry that came from deep within; Nooooo! I don’t want to fast from thaaaaat!
At that moment I knew I would be giving something up for lent.
Years ago I learned that, contrary to popular belief, no isn’t the restrictive, no-fun evil twin of the free-wheeling yes. Many times no is necessary to establish boundaries where we can be safe from the things that would otherwise enslave us. Living within those boundaries brings freedom and the ability to enjoy all of God’s good gifts. I know this is true, but sometimes I need a reminder because I am weak and comforts of the flesh are so easy, tangible, and available.
In this season of fasting I am relying on the Spirit to spring forth some self-control. I want to resist the urge to fill myself with things that seem to offer so much but in reality deliver so little. By staying empty of these things I am finding myself more fully experiencing peace of mind, strength of spirit, and a heart full to bursting with love. Empty, it turns out, leads to full.
On Easter morning, we celebrate the ultimate example of emptiness turned to fullness. Jesus emptied Himself on the cross and three days later He emptied the tomb so that those who believe might be full—full of the Spirit, full of grace, and full of love.
If you are starting to think that empty doesn’t sound so bad, it’s not too late. There is nothing magic about starting a fast on Ash Wednesday. Anytime is a fine time to say, God, I want less of the stuff that leaves me empty so that I am free to experience the fullness of You.
