Lent? Why should I do it?

"Lent is a time when many Christians prepare for Easter by observing a period of fasting, repentance, moderation and spiritual discipline. The purpose is to set aside time for reflection on Jesus Christ - his suffering and his sacrifice, his life, death, burial and resurrection."

I found this definition on about.com and thought it was a great description. Although recently a Catholic friend of mine said that her priest has encouraged their church to not focus on giving up something but "adding something to your life". A little less sacrificial but a good spin on this traditional Christian practice.

But I am not Catholic or associated with any of the few non-Catholic denominations that practice Lent. This could be my out right now. I should run to the candy machine while I still can.

But, as a believer, I am held to all of the above regardless of my church affiliation. "Fasting, repentance, moderation and spiritual discipline" are not Catholic, they are Christian. Reflection on the the sacrifice of Jesus for us all is required regradless of what group you are associated with.

My attraction to Lent I think comes from my deep desire to be closer to God. It has nothing to do with affiliation. I have met several people, especially in the African American community, that set aside the first month of the year for fasting, praying and seeking God for direction.

No matter how you label, spin or decorate it, as Christians we are called to such practices.

So, how do I start my journey this next 40 days? Well, I know God is behind me on this. First, I have become aware of my clear addiction to sweets. I crave them. That addiction has kept me from losing weight any more. I reached a 55 pound loss and stopped. I found that the cycle for me was craving salts and sweets every day throughout the day. I know that this is an addiction that keeps me in a constant cycle and it is a way of coping with my emotions. Let's face it, chocolate and sweets give us a rush of endorphens. These make us feel good. Nothing wrong with that. Except for me, I am constantly chasing that feeling. And he entire time I am poisoning my body. I am going to try to stop that cycle. So, how does my wife help me? Bakes my favorite chocolate cake last night. LOL She didn't do it intentionally. I called her evil though.

Second lent item was a challenge fromt the foreign language teachers to do together. We are going to try to not be critical of anyone for 40 days. 40 days!!! I need some chocolate. But this is a good practice and one that Jesus would encourage I am sure. So here goes nothing on that one.

Third, I am going to practice what my friend suggested. I am going to add somthing to my life to improve it. Daily prayer walks for both prayer time and exercise. Constant awareness to pray. And when I crave a sweet I am going to read the Word and/or pray. Even if it is a verse in the Bible.

We'll see how this goes. Keep me in Prayer! (And don't say anything negative and less you have a fist full of chocolate to give me when I fall. LOL)