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It is interesting to me that during the season of Lent many people will resolve to deny themselves something for Lent that isn't very good for them in the first place: smoking, high calorie desserts, swearing, etc. This practice of denial began centuries ago in the church as a means of disciplining oneself to be more centered upon the suffering and crucifixion of Jesus Christ for our sakes. Primarily, they might deny themselves food or drink as a fast for praying or meditation. They might also have denied themselves the purchase of something in order to place that money in the alms box for the poor. Giving something up for Lent had a real sacrificial element that would also benefit someone who was less fortunate than themselves.

If we are going to deny ourselves something for Lent, why not make it something that we will truly miss during this time, yet which will also be of benefit to someone else who might have to do without? Would this not truly be more in keeping with the life and ministry of Christ?

Our Grace family will have many opportunities to worship and fellowship together during the season of Lent (the imposition of ashes on Ash Wednesday, our mid-week Lenten dinners and worship services, Thursday morning worship and Bible Study, the observance of Holy Week) - all which are a meaningful and vital way to prepare our hearts and minds for the observance of Christ's crucifixion and resurrection.

I would also encourage you to consider ways in which you can observe the forty days of Lent. Consider setting up your own home altar with an open Bible, cross and candles; plan a daily devotional time; have an alms box in which money can be placed for world hunger or a worthwhile local charity. By fully participating in the Lenten disciplines within our church family as well as in our own homes, we can more completely experience the impact of the Forty Days of Lent. We will also have a greater understanding of the significance of the Resurrection of our Lord.

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