I confess that I don't know what an appropriate greeting for the Lenten season is. But, it began today with Ash Wednesday and continues for 40 days (not counting Sundays because Sunday is a day of celebration.)
I've been trying to figure out what to "do" for Lent this year. Well, because of Johnny Football (stay with me for a moment), I was directed to the blog Team Whitaker. And although I have some different traditions, being Protestant, rather than Catholic, I found Kathryn's writing inspiring. I have heard before that Lent does not need to be a time of just giving up, but can also be a time of adopting new practices. Rather than depriving oneself of chocolate, one might commit instead to not swearing. Or, more positively, making it a point to reach out to others - giving, instead of giving up. Well, Kathryn points to three practices: prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. I like that. 40 Days of Awesomeness
There are some things I have thought about giving up and taking on for myself, but I'd like to find a way for MJ and I to use this time together. We can make this a family thing. What might that look like? It's probably not going to involve a household ban on bacon or beer.
I think perhaps the larger practice of Lent is discipline. Being intentional, being disciplined. And that's where I think we will direct our focus. We will see how it goes.
My goal as I enter the Lenten season is always to emerge "better" on the other side. Physically, mentally, spiritually. So, that's the goal again this year. Perhaps with an extra dose of pre-marital reflection.
1 comment:
I always feel the same way about Lent...a time to be better than I am the rest of the year...or at least get back on track. Good luck and Godspeed to us both!
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