Lent: Give Up, Give to Others, and Give to God

Lent is approaching in just a few days, and that means we need to start thinking about how we are going to fast, pray, and give alms this year.

Every year takes a different slant for me, based on whatever the Holy Spirit inspires me to do. Sometimes I give up something. Other times I do something extra. Looking back, my most powerful and life changing Lents have been when I’ve done all three: when I’ve given up (fast), given to others (alms), and given to God (prayer).

Here are 5 questions to consider as you approach what to do this Lent:

1. What habit or sin do you need to let go of to bring you closer to God?
2. In what areas have you been more indulgent and need to scale back on your consumption? 
3. Where does your prayer life need to improve or grow? 
4. Where are giving opportunities in your life, church, community, or world? 
5. What acts of service have been on your mind or that you feel attracted to?

In addition, I should note that sometimes God gives us some sort of unexpected challenge or burden during Lent to grow in a certain virtue. This has often happened to me after I already chose things to do for Lent. These unexpected situations can serve as pathways to the conversion that God desires for us such as greater acceptance of suffering, patience, perseverance, and so forth. Perhaps, in a way, they are our unique “stations of the cross.”

Lent is a holy time that God leads us to deeper repentance and conversion. Make good use of the gift of this season by carefully considering and discerning where God wants you to go this year, accepting His surprises along the way, and doing these three things: give up, give to others, and give to God.

Prayers to all for a holy and fruitful Lent that leads to a joyful Easter!