Today is the beginning of my favorite liturgical season. Lent is here! Lent, is the preparation time leading up to Easter. It's a call to remember our reliance on Christ, similar to Jesus' 40 days in the wilderness. It's common during this time to give something up. I have had a habit of adding something to my schedule (reading my bible, praying, volunteering somewhere new). This will be the first year since high school that I actually give something up in the way of self-denial.
This year (last night actually) I finally decided to take the plunge. I had been thinking about it and fighting it all week. After realizing what a battle this was, I figured it was exactly what I was being called to do. I am giving up purchasing/partaking in any beverages other than water. What the WHAT? Yes! This mean coffee and soda and beer. I already have a headache today. It might be the caffeine withdraw already, but it might also be because my hair is in a tight bun on top of my head.
Tonight should be interesting. For the past 2 years, every Wednesday is Happy Hour night at the spot. Tonight will be the first time ever I don't order a drink. I'm seriously stressed out thinking about it. Why do I feel like I have to drink at happy hour? Why do I care that my friends might judge me for not drinking?
On top of the giving up of beverages I felt like I needed something else to complete the circle this year. So I found an organization that will help in this. Blood:Water Mission does en event every year combining giving up anything but water for lent and donating money to a worth cause. So for the dollar value of every drink I give up I will donate the same amount to them. They are doing great things to get people all over the world clean drinking water. What a life-giving worthy cause!
Consider joining me. Do you practice Lent? What are you giving up?
Ali1
6 years ago
2 comments:
I love this! What a great idea. It makes me miss praying with you. How's it been going so far??
Miss you!!!
It's going well. It's quite incredible how much money I was spending on drinks.
Our small group is celebrating the Jewish holiday of Purim tonight. Should be awesome! We get to dress up and wear masks, read the story of Esther and celebrate God's work. I'm not sure why I felt the need to tell you that except that you would appreciate it :)
Have so much fun this weekend. Miss you lady!
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