I believe that Lent is a misunderstood season. For some this is a time to put on sack cloth and ashes and to suffer for Jesus. Let's really show God our love by seeing what we can give up or what we can take on, all to prove ourselves worthy, a mad test of endurance and survival until Easter. Lent is NOT the ultimate test in fasting and self-denial, but I believe we are called to something radically different.
Lent is not spiritual "boot camp" for the truly faithful. It is not a time to be endured, but rather a time to intentionally model healthy Christian living. It is an annual "check-up" in which we take our spiritual pulse and check our vital signs. It is a time for healthy choices for mind, body and spirit. It is not a season solely for fasting, but for feasting, as well. We fast from those things which do not work for our good and we feast on those things which bring us closer to a holy life.
As we live more fully into this season, I invite you to make healthy choices for your mind, body and spirit. Healthy choices which include both fasting and feasting. Fast from judging others; Feast on Christ dwelling in them.
Fast from fear of illness; Feast on the healing power of God.
Fast from the words that pollute; Feast on speech that purifies.
Fast from discontent; Feast on gratitude.
Fast from anger; Feast on patience.
Fast from pessimism; Feast on optimism.
Fast from bitterness; Feast on forgiveness.
Fast from self-concern; Feast on compassion.
Fast from gossip; Feast on purposeful silence.
Fast from problems that overwhelm; Feast on prayers that sustain.
Fast from worry; Feast in faith.
-"Lenten Fast" by William Arthur Ward
Here's to a healthy life in Christ,
Paul+
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