Note: On Fridays, you can find me at Your Daily Tripod, owned by my friend TonyD. A longer version of the post below appears there.
One year when I was a child, my Lenten sacrifice was not to watch The Beverly Hillbillies. Now, while that may sound impressive if you’re of a certain age, it really wasn’t. It was my sister who loved the Clampetts and Drysdales and the doorbell gags and that cee-ment pond behind the mansion. For me, the show wasn’t a big deal either way. That’s why I gave it up; it was easy. I did not give up what was my favorite show at the time, Petticoat Junction.
Those childish attitudes about Lent can be difficult to set aside. But sacrifice isn’t about checking a list or adding what’s easy to squeeze into our schedules or taking away things we’d rather not be doing anyway.
Rather, it’s about opening our eyes and hearts and souls to the distinct possibility we’ve been missing something. Maybe it’s an opportunity to take time off from work and volunteer at a homeless shelter. Maybe it’s about getting away from Twitter, Facebook, texting, and the rest to spend some evenings with an ailing friend or entertaining folks at an assisted living center. Maybe it’s about putting time before God before playing Angry Birds or Words with Friends or Free Cell.
It’s uncomfortable to offer up the fasting God wishes. But it’s that kind of stretching and intent that leads to a deeper, more profound relationship long term. Give it a try.
I went to a Catholic boarding school. During lent my friends would give up their desserts. I decided to eat all their desserts instead of following suit. Lent was a great time for me. I don’t remember ever giving up anything – but I sure did love all those desserts. I generally don’t give up anything… I try to do something different. Daily Mass is my hope this Lent. We will see.. anyone giving up their desserts out there? I still stand ready to assist…ha
Love it, Duffy!