Our Lenten Journey

There's always something to sacrifice. But, how big do you want that sacrifice to be?

Each year at this time, for 40 days, we make a small sacrifice. It's always something that's "do-able." Oh, sure, we can go without coffee for 40 days. (There's always tea, right?) We can give up desserts for a little over a month. It shouldn't be a problem to avoid this temptation or that one for such a short period of time. Besides, all bets are off once Easter arrives.

I don't want to think of Lent that way, but let's be realistic. Let's say the thing that people keep inside their heads. I'm not, in any way, suggesting that this is true of every year, but often we do get so bogged bown in our daily lives that we forget why we're making the sacrifice and just go through the motions because it's "what we're supposed to do."

Lately, I have been spending a great deal of time thinking about what kind of sacrifice I could make that would accomplish what it is supposed to accomplish. I finally came to the conclusion that no sacrifice I make will ever come close to the one that was made for me, but that I do want (and need) to spend some time contemplating the ultimate sacrifice that he made and what it means to me.

Not being one to keep spiritual thoughts and insights to myself, I decided that Dan needed to hear my contemplations, as well. I do wonder what goes through a man's head when his wife approaches him with the words, "We need to discuss our lenten journey for this year."

So, I will not be forgoing caffeinated beverages or sugar or anything of that nature during this season of lent. My personal goal is to share some of Christ with someone every day, in whatever way is possible. My goal for us, as a family, is to pray together and delve more deeply into scripture on a daily basis. But, I don't want it to stop after Easter. I want this to continue, because I know it will help us to grow closer in our marriage, but more importantly, it will help us grow in our personal relationship with God.

I cannot even articulate how important it is that we grow as a family in Christ and that we set that example for Madeline, giving her the tools to grow into someone who seeks to love and serve Him.

Why not start today?

" So do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord or of me his prisoner. Rather, join with me in suffering for the gospel, by the power of God.  He has saved us and called us to a holy life—not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace. This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time,  but it has now been revealed through the appearing of our Savior, Christ Jesus, who has destroyed death and has brought life and immortality to light through the gospel." 2 Timothy 1:8-10