Day Three

Lent is a time of sacrifice; to use our lives to recognize Jesus’ sacrifice for us.  As Catholics we are called to fast on Friday’s during Lent.  Many who are not Catholic also use this sacrifice as a means of deepening their Lenten experience.  It is a reminder of the sacrifice of our Lord.

Up until about fifty years ago all Catholics were expected to sacrifice meat on every Friday.  It now applies only during Lent.  It’s a sad commentary on the state of Catholicism when something as simple as meatless Friday is considered too much of burden.  How we will ever participate in true sacrifice if we can’t even abstain from meat one day a week?  Thankfully, the practice is making a bit of a comeback among the faithful.

What will I give up for Lent?  This is the question of Ash Wednesday and the answers vary greatly.  Some give up something simple, like chocolate or sodas.  Others give up more.  What is chosen isn’t nearly as important as the intent of the sacrifice.  If chocolate is a big part of your life, perhaps it is a good thing to sacrifice.  Whatever the chosen sacrifice, it should be something of importance to you.  One that will remind you of why you gave it up.

Giving up something is good but consider adding something rather than giving up something for Lent.  Go to daily Mass once or more during the week; visit a nursing home or assisted living facility; volunteer at a soup kitchen.  The gift of your time and talents can mean so much more than simply choosing something to give up.  Who knows, maybe it will become a habit that carries on throughout the year rather than just during Lent.