Lent 2014

An Introduction to My First Journey of Lenten Fasting

Deciding what to do in Fasting for Faith

First, I took a look at my options. I came up with five things that I thought were possible and beneficial; things that I felt were a genuine sacrifice and would require real commitment. 

(I am sharing these with everyone, even though they are deeply personal, so that they might help to inspire you to think of things that would challenge you.)

1) Fasting from food, excepting one meal a day of healthy foods.
2) Focusing on being a “holy temple of God” by not consuming anything (by word, eye, tongue, nor ear) except that which is beneficial and uplifting.
3) Meditation on God’s word: by committing one hour a day to bible reading and study and incorporating it into daily speech as much as possible. Change my speech to be less worldly and more focused on God. Making sure that people around me know I am different for a reason. That I am following truth and am prepared to answer their questions and doubts.
4) Letting go of negativity & bad attitudes: choosing instead to say something nice about the person or situation that is stressful or negative.
5) Physical Fitness: exercise, stretching, and meditation- Setting aside 1 hour daily for wellness.

Choosing the Best Option

I read on a few websites about how different people choose what to give up for Lent. Some people think about it all year. Some religious groups discuss it together for months before Ash Wednesday.
I am coming to the decision late, but I found some helpful questions to consider as I evaluate my options. 

1) Will it be a sacrifice?
2) Will it pose a challenge?
3) Is it reasonable? Healthy?
4) Will it help me grow in faith?
5) After Lent, will it help me continue a positive path in mind, body, and spirit?

Evaluating the Options

I took each of my options and wrote typed out answers to each question.
I spent time being honest with myself and with God about each choice.
(Because those answers are personal, I am not going to share them here, but if you have any questions, I am happy to answer them.) 

Specifics and Preparation

My choice is going to require patience, dedication, and a willingness to focus on why I have chosen to fast. To prepare, I must remind myself that the things of this world are temporary gifts, that God's love is eternal, and that there are going to be temptations arise which I must resist.

I must focus on the eternal God, who is not out of touch, but ever patient and merciful when I get caught up in the daily conveniences and amusements of the age.  The one true God is a master creator of unfathomable intricacies, including free will, which must be turned toward Him voluntarily to achieve the purposes of His service.

Through my temporary and minor sacrifices, I can grow stronger.  I plan to remind myself in the moments I am tempted to falter, that there is a grander purpose; to live a life of love toward all, to serve God, and to strive to make my heart right before Him.

Yet, it is more than that, more than my life.  It is all connected, God's perfect plan. Through my menial sacrifices, I prepare my heart to serve and to help others turn toward lives of love as well.