Lent is a dead, meaningless ritual ... unless you use it as a tool to strenghten your relationship with Christ.  Traditionally, Lent is a season for fasting as a way of making us hunger and thirst for a deeper relationship with God.  It's giving up one thing and replacing it with another.  For example, if someone were to do a 40 day fast from solid foods, they would receive the greatest benefit from using the growling of their stomach as a trigger to pray throughout the day.  The hunger from their stomachs reminds them of their hunger for forgiveness and a relationship with Christ. 

 

I find celebrating Lent to be a helpful way of preparing for the most significant events in human history - the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus.  When I don't make sacrifices and replace them with more of God in my life, I find that Easter just sneaks up on me and that I have much less appreciation for it.  But when I prepare my heart by going on a journey during lent, especially a challenging journey, I find that the events of Holy Week and Easter have much more meaning to me. 

 

If you decide to give something up this season, I hope you'll replace it with Christ.  Try journaling or different ways of praying.  Try a morning devotion time or a nightly family devotion.  Giving things up is great, but replacing them with more of Christ can make a huge difference in your life this year.  Just try it!