I thought I would have the column early, to give people time to think. March 9th is Ash Wednesday. In remembrance of Jesus’ sacrifice and our ability to unite ourselves to it, many Christians use Lent to sacrifice something. This allows them to connect to HIS sacrifice on a personal level. One is to give up things that are morally good, but one can live without. For this reason you can't "give up sin" for Lent-that should happen every day. Here are some ideas for legitimate things to give up or positive things to take up for Lent.
1. Prayer. Consider going to daily Mass, praying a daily rosary, spending time in the adoration chapel, reading the bible daily, attending the Wednesday Lenten talk series. Be pro-active and spend time BEING with God!
2. Food. This could be junk food, alcohol, red meat, etc. Why not have simple salads during Lent? Or give up stuff that your doctor has been complaining about for years now. Once you sacrifice it for a little while, it is amazing how you no longer crave it, leading you to the ability to finally give it up forever.
3. Media. Consider taking a break from the constant information and gossip feeds of the internet. Sign out of Facebook, stop texting, Twittering, playing video games etc. Use this time to start a spiritual/prayer journal.
4. Unnecessary driving. Consider biking, or the traditional method of walking to places. Not only will you get some needed exercise, but the time to meditate on God.
5. Debt. This might be as simple as not using that credit card for a few weeks. Or consider not buying anything non-essential during this time. You can use this money to pay down other debt, leading to a freedom that is rarely seen in this modern day and age: financial freedom.
6. Uncleanness. It is amazing how many of us can overlook even the smallest of messes - the stack of unsorted mail, the minimal dishes in the sink, or even the floor that could be quickly swept. Any number of things can be done quickly and easily to lead to a clean and healthy life. And don't limit yourself to the house. Look inside the garage, car, and workplace for opportunities to get cleaner and organized.
7. Negative attitudes. We should always strive for the best attitudes of grace and humility. We can be complaining, prone to argue, gossips, or even have a tendency to worry. During this time put your trust in God to work it all out.
8. Secular music. Only listen to music that is uplifting and focuses on God. Or spend time in SILENCE.
9. Books/magazines. Consider taking all the time you would normally read fiction, and instead invest that time in reading your Bible.
10. TV/movies. Just turn it off. Use this time to play a board game with your family, or lead a Bible study or prayer group.
Lent is a time of reflective remembrance. Whatever we choose for Lent, let it be a daily reminder to walk closer to the Lord here on earth so we can one day walk with Him forever in heaven.