Thursday, the first Week of Lent

   Should Lent be a personal journey; one that others know little or nothing about?  It seems that some think so.  They don’t share Lent with their friends, family or especially co-workers.  Perhaps they feel that to share their sacrifice and thoughts of Lent would be bragging and prideful.  Jesus warned us of blowing our trumpets before others as we give alms.  It’s understandable that some would think it better to keep Lent to themselves for these reasons.

  However, while we should never make a spectacle of our sacrifice we also shouldn’t hide it from others.  For instance, how are you to react to a co-worker who has noticed that you’ve stopped eating sweets or no longer drinking coffee.  A simple statement such as, “I’ve given it up as part of Lent.” will suffice.  There is no need to make a big deal of it.  If asked about it further it may be an opportunity to share your faith in a meaningful way. Jesus also told us that a lantern is set upon a table to give light, not hidden under a basket.

   Certainly to make an announcement of what your Lenten sacrifice is to others could be considered inappropriate and prideful.  But acknowledging it when asked is simply being honest.  Some may look at you as if you’ve grown horns, but others may appreciate that you’ve shared that information.  Maybe they’ve been unsure about Lent and your example might help them to participate more fully.

   We must keep in mind that Satan walks among us at all times.  He will take any opportunity to pull us away from our sacrifice.  He will be very pleased with himself if he can influence your willingness to discuss your Lenten journey when appropriate.

   Let’s never brag or make a show of our Lenten sacrifice.  But let’s never hesitate to acknowledge it and discuss it when appropriate.  To do less is to fail to acknowledge our Lord.