February 24, 2009
What are you fasting for Lent? (taken from the batterson blog)
Posted by JL
Hello YNCC blog readers,
I read all kinds of blogs from pastors, church leaders and great thinkers. I’m posting a blog entry from Mark Batterson. He is a pastor in Washington D.C. The reason I’m posting it is because I feel that I can’t improve on its simplicity for the coming LENT. And I realize that many of us at YNCC don’t participate that much in preparing our hearts for Easter. That is the main purpose of Lent. I hope this entry encourages you to prayerfully consider how you can participate in this year’s Lent.
Much love to you all,
John
What are you fasting for Lent?
I have a goal-oriented personality. Without goals I’m no good. So I try to leverage things like birthdays and New Years and Lent and Pentecost to set new spiritual goals or reestablish some God habits. A few years ago I started observing Lent and it’s made Easter so much more meaningful. Can’t wait for Ash Wednesday.
Here’s an equation: -++=x.
Translation: subtraction plus addition equals multiplication.
What do you need to subtract from you life?
It might be a bad habit or waste of time or something that is permissible but not beneficial. Last year I gave up television for forty days. This year I’m giving up soda and candy. I know that doesn’t sound super spiritual, but if you knew how much I love vanilla coke and gummy bears…
What do you need to add to your life?
You can’t just subtract something. You’ve got to add something to your spiritual routine. I’m going to add an hour to my day. How? I’m setting my alarm clock an hour earlier than I normally do. I want to give God more of my most precious resource: time.
I’m believing that subtraction and addition will result in multiplication. Honestly, I don’t think I’ve ever been filled with more holy anticipation about what God is doing in my life and the life of National Community Church. But I’m believing Him for greater things! I want Him to multiply what He is already doing!
Question: what are you subtracting or adding for Lent?
Comments
Kaylubb, This is a great idea. A good suggestion for us all. Actually one couple on the Marriage & Family Ministry team did this last year and said it was a very positive experience. Thank you for sharing. - John
Posted by Pastor John Loppnow on March 3, 2009
Leave a Comment
(You must be a registered member to post comments.
Create a new account or sign in below to leave a comment.)