The season of Lent is a time of introspection, when we look within to discover those parts of our lives that separate us from a full and abundant life with God. It is often a time when individuals “give up” something that they feel draws them away from God and their call for their life. Chocolate is a popular Lenten sacrifice, as well as meat, and soda, and sugar. So many kinds of foods that people try to abstain from during Lent.
Sometimes I wonder if some are fasting from these types of food as a way to draw closer to God, or more as a way to challenge their will-power. Or simply because they’ve failed on their New Year’s resolutions and so they see Lent as another opportunity to try again.
And yet, the act of fasting can be a very meaningful and powerful way to deepen one’s relationship with God. By fasting from various foods or actions, we are invited to draw closer to God. Each time we desire or crave whatever it is we are fasting from, we can stop, re-center our thoughts and turn to God.
I have come to acknowledge that we are known by many as simply consumers. Commercials, advertisements, weekly mailers, etc. are all focused on one thing – attempting to sell us their goods- convincing us that we will be better, live longer, and look better if we simply consume their products. And we often buy into this mentality. Filling our cupboards and closets, and drawers and garages with items we are sure will make our lives better.
I know my house is over-run with things I was sure I needed at one point, but now sit unused in the back of my closet or in my basement.
And so I challenge you to abstain from purchasing anything unnecessary this week. Do you need that shiny new “toy”? Will it truly bring you joy or will it simply provide a brief moment of happiness?
Instead, this week, rather than being caught up in the role of consumer, spend some time in your closet, your basement, even your bookcases. Are there items there that you haven’t used in a while and would bring someone else joy? Glean from your own over-abundance, and share with others who might not be able to afford such luxuries. Share your blessings with those around you.
And as you glean, say a prayer for the person or persons who might receive your “retired” goods, that they may find blessing and joy in your generosity. And then, say another prayer to God, giving thanks for the ability to share your bounty with others.