Lent

–noun

(in the Christian religion) an annual season of fasting and penitence in preparation for Easter, beginning on Ash Wednesday and lasting 40 weekdays to Easter, observed by Roman Catholic, Anglican, and certain other churches. 

I grew up in the Episcopal church.  Certain things I love about the Episcopalian faith- one being the importance of Lent and a Lenten fast.  I honestly relish in this season of distinct direction and action. 

Lent is a season of preparation and for me, an opportunity to focus on the gravity and meaning of Easter and the resurrection of Jesus.

I give up sweets for Lent.  Sounds like a crazy 40 day diet, right?  Have you ever looked at someone's Lenten fast and wondered if they are just trying to loose a few?  Well I have both judged others and been judged by others(probably rightfully so in the latter case).

So here is the truth- my truth.  I love sweets.  But I love Jesus way more than sweets.  And I love the fact that every day, at the end of every meal (and then some) during Lent I think about the fact that I would REALLY LOVE a little something sugary and then I think- wait... I love Jesus and he died for my sins and I am going to honor him in this season by fasting from something that makes me smile.  I'm going to think about Jesus a little more and think a little less about my selfish desires.  It isn't a perfect system, but it is an action that gives my life a little more purpose. 

Brad has joined in my love of Lent and has given up "sports" this year (except UNC bball and the Olympics).  This is huge- no sports podcasts, no Sports Illustrated, no espn or espn.com.  Instead he will be using the inbetween moments that at all other times of the year are filled with worthless sports trivia to be filled with worthwhile Jesus trivia.

As for me and my household, we will participate in Lent.  What about you?