Many of my Christian friends don’t come from a tradition that follows a church-year calendar, but in my denominational background I always loved the special seasons of Advent and Lent.

Over the years, my husband and I have prompted things to give up as a family during Lent, or other times encouraged our children to each chose something individual. (The kids sometimes offered to give up broccoli or homework, but I digress).

We’ve given up television, pop, candy, shopping (only buying necessary groceries and nothing else), and various other things…and added disciplines of more Bible reading time, prayer, and giving.

I find I’m so easily distracted by the bright shiny things of life, that I need times where I can focus more effort and attention toward my walk with God. Fasting of various kinds can really help.

This year, I decided on Ash Wednesday to give up something that I enjoyed daily – Facebook and Twitter. I had no idea that many folk around the country where doing this, too. After I posted my note saying “Stepping back from Twitter and Facebook for Lent – see you after Easter” I received a call from Molly Millet, who was working on an article for the St. Paul Pioneer Press on this topic. You can read it here:

Pioneer Press Article

I love knowing that so many people are interested in putting God about some of the treats or distractions of life.

And that’s truly why I’ve always loved Lent. Because no matter how uncomfortable some days become (whether I’m longing for a can of pop, chocolate, or a game of Scramble on Facebook) there are so many blessings. The thing I’m missing becomes a trigger to remember all Jesus suffered on my behalf, and I learn that while I thought I was totally committed to God, He can draw closer still as I focus more time and energy on Him each day.

Anyone else giving up something during Lent?

Blessings,
Sharon

Lately I’ve had a few challenges in my life. I’ve tried to be brave and patient, and I work on focusing on things I’m grateful for.

But today I mentioned my struggles in an email to a friend. When she emailed back she said, “I can’t imagine how frustrating that must be!” Her empathy literally reached out of the email and hugged me.

As much as I have tried not to be a big sympathy-seeker, I confess I was about a quart low and needed a good infusion of compassion. Her words were exactly what I needed.

Lord, help me offer precious spoonfuls of empathy to my hurting friends today, as this precious friend gave to me. Help me stop myself before offering advice, explanations, or empty comparisons, (“at least your problem isn’t as bad as XYZ. Could be worse.”) Let me simply wrap my friends in love and say, “I can’t imagine how painful that must be. I’m sorry it’s so hard. I care.” Thank you for my friend’s example today, and how much it warmed me. Amen!

Blessings!
Sharon Hinck

A dear friend who is already in heaven gave me a special birthday plaque the summer before she died. It says, “When we believe in God’s plan for our lives, every age is the perfect age to be.”

Seems like a good thought for a new calendar year, as well. God loves me. That means the coming year will hold something precious – even if it’s woven among the painful challenges of life.

I’m grateful for the gift of a fresh New Year – and another new day, new hour.

May we all see more of Him in the coming days!

Blessings in 2009!
His,
Sharon