I was introduced to Lent about five years
ago from a friend who is Catholic. He asked me what I was giving up for Lent. I
had no idea what he was talking about.
Lent is a season that begins on Ash
Wednesday and ends on Holy Saturday. It lasts 40 days, not counting Sundays.
According to United Methodist Communications, "Lent is a time of
repentance, fasting, and preparation for the coming of Easter. It is a time of
self-examination and reflection."
My friend would always give up something
a bit difficult; something he knew would take lots of prayer. The constant
prayer, discipline, restraint and repentance from whatever he was fasting from,
would strengthen his relationship with God. So, I decided to take on the
challenge. I gave up some of my favorite things. I slipped up many times but
made sure to get back on track. At times, I even found myself crying at the
sheer difficulty of it all. But, it brought me so much joy when those 40 days
were completed. Not because I could go back to what I used to do. It was
because He brought me through such a daunting task and I was able to accomplish
it because of Him.
So every year I continue to participate
in Lenten season, and every year I up the ante.
I noticed one year that by giving up certain foods, I lost a few pounds.
It made me wonder if I could actually keep it up AFTER the 40 days were up.
Well, I did…and then I stopped. But some of my friends did not stop. They participated
in the Daniel Fast and continued to eat mostly fruits, vegetables, legumes and
whole grains after the fast was completed. And many of them saw continued
health benefits.
I belive Lent is the perfect way to
springboard you into your nutrition and health goals. Just think, becoming more
spiritual AND decreasing your blood sugar…AND lowering your cholesterol…AND
losing weight? That's a win/win. So, I challenge you to give up something. And
I'm not talking about something you barely do now. Give up something that can
REALLY be a challenge and could have benefits as well. I am giving up white
bread, white rice, white potatoes, white pasta, breaded foods, and alcohol
(send up some prayers for me y'all).
Leave a comment and let me know what YOU
are giving up this Lenten season.
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