LENT….A TIME TO “GIVE UP”
We have now entered into the Season of Lent, the time set aside in our liturgical year that calls us to re-focus and slow down the business. It is also when we enter into a time of self-examination and move our hearts to “a deeper level.” While the traditional practice of “giving up” something to which we have a fondness or an attachment is always beneficial in our spiritual journey, that term can take on a whole new meaning when we add something that might bring us to that deeper level. An article by an unknown author suggests ways to redefine “Giving Up”:
Give up complaining – focus on gratitude
Give up harsh judgments – think kind thoughts
Give up worry – trust God to provide
Give up discouragement – be full of hope
Give up bitterness – turn to forgiveness
Give up hatred – return good for evil
Give up anger – be more patient
Give up pettiness – become mature
Give up jealousy – pray for trust
Give up gossiping – control your tongue
Give up sin – turn to virtue
Give up giving up – persevere