What are you giving up for Lent?

I’ve been asked that question more than a few times over the years. Sometimes it feels like a competition. How sacrificial are you, after all? Are you willing to give up coffee? Beer? M&M’s? Smoking? TV? Flying first class? Self-denial is good habit that can develop the necessary life-long strength of self-discipline. But in the context of a religious or spiritual practice, fasting has much more significant implications. 

Today marks the beginning of Lent, a 40-day observance for many Christians intended to prepare for the celebration of our Lord’s passion on Good Friday and Easter. Originally it was a time of personal sacrifice leading to greater repentance of sin, and gratitude for the grace of Jesus. This practice of going without is reminiscent of ancient Israel observing seasons of fasting and repentance while covering themselves with sackcloth and ashes. Self-imposed austerity that leads to spiritual sensitivity toward God is a worthy habit.

Some people unfortunately assume that if they give something up for Lent, God will be obligated to bless them for their sacrifice. But fasting is not a means to gain merit with God, or to impress Him. There is nothing we can do to achieve grace, only receive it by faith. On the other hand, fasting does – or can – accomplish a noble transformation in us. Going without food can be uniquely God-glorifying if it awakens a hunger for Jesus. Going without a frivolous time-consuming habit such as endless scrolling, can also honor God, especially if it is replaced with Jesus-exalting content. Going without screen time is good; replacing it with Bible reading is better!

Jesus assumed His followers would fast. But He qualified that it should be done in private, not in a showy way before others. It is to be performed as unto the Father in Heaven who sees both the sacrifice and the motives of our heart.

And when you fast, do not look gloomy like the hypocrites, for they disfigure their faces that their fasting may be seen by others. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward. ¹⁷ But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, ¹⁸ that your fasting may not be seen by others but by your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you. Matthew 6:16-18. 

So, we enter Lent together as a community of faith with a warning:  Don’t ask. Don’t tell. And with the guidance of 1 Corinthians 10:31: So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God. Lent will lead us to Easter. On that journey, we should remember self-denial that enlarges our appreciation for Jesus’ sacrifice is a habit worth perfecting – and not just for 40 days.

With you on the journey,

Tom