disclaimer: Likely, this is not my first attempt at giving up something for Lent. However, my memory is such that any previous years no longer have enough significance for me to remember them.
Last week, I felt strongly that God was calling me to give up something specific for Lent; to spend the weeks before Easter focusing on Himself and the priorities He has given me at this time. I have wrestled with the idea (and Cory's insistence that I follow it wholeheartedly) for the past few days as the beginning of Lent approaches. Living with a more intentional purpose in our time and finances has been a recurring theme lately. What I wasn't prepared for was the sacrifices that might require. And so, starting Wednesday through Easter, I am fasting from reading.
Yes, reading. This is not a traditional Lent observance; the days may not even be exact, and I'm including Sundays too. It's what God is asking of me for 2012. It is something I cannot fast completely - street signs, mail, emails, my Bible and a few other things will still be read. Any books, newspapers, magazines, online articles, most blogs, etc. are out. I'm already feeling withdrawals, and I haven't even started. I keep suggesting compromises, and my conscience that I married shoots them down.
So, why reading? If you know me much, you know I love to read. Ask my mom (or my husband) how many times it takes to get my attention when I'm engrossed in a book. As a kid, I got to the point where I would reply to questions while reading and later have no recollection of a conversation existing. I would like to say that no longer happens. At least not in the last 2 hours, I think. It rarely takes me more than a week to finish a book. When I'm reading, whether it be a novel, a book on business strategy, a blog on being a stay at home mom, or a newspaper article I randomly pick up, I'm in that reality completely. It's my go-to escape. One I've been using too often. Probably, 1-2 hours a day are spent reading. That's crazy when I think about how little free time I have now.
For the next few months, I want to practice fully engaging with people. With God. With MY life.
Reading is in the way for me.
When I did a little research on Lent (using the always reliable wikipedia), I was surprised to learn that traditionally what you give up is replaced with an increase of prayer and of giving. Prayer wasn't a suprise; the financial piece was. We've been challenged at church lately to expand the ways we give financially. It's been something on my mind often. I love how God brings what He's teaching me full circle. It's all related.
By posting this, I hope to find a little more of the accountability I need to do this fully. Thank you!
