Lent is a time when many Christians prepare for Easter by observing a period of fasting, repentance, moderation and spiritual discipline. The purpose is to set aside time for reflection on Jesus Christ - his suffering and his sacrifice, his life, death, burial and resurrection.I have always thought Lent was a good thing and each year somewhat casually I have given something up.
I have come to a new a deeper appreciation for Lent though. I have my daughter in law to thank for that. Maggie was raised in a Catholic home. She currently teaches at St. Cecelia's Academy, an all girls Catholic school. Although she and Matt attend Hope Park Community Church in Nashville, she loves attending Mass on a regular basis. She cherishes so many of the traditions and sacraments of the Catholic Church. I have learned much from her about the Catholic faith. I admire her for her passion for it, for her openness to Matt's faith upbringing, and for the way together they are building their own faith foundation. It has become more clear to me how much our faith foundation molds and shapes each of us. We can learn so much from each other if we share our love and passion for out faith. None of us have all the answers, but together we can grow deeper in faith and gain a greater understanding of the powerful love that led Jesus to the cross. That is really what it's all about anyway.
So back to Lent, I am again giving something up this year. The difference this year, with inspiration from Maggie, I am replacing it with something that will help me nurture and grow my faith. So my 40 day journey begins!
~bekuyps
:o)
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