1 Corinthians 10:31
“So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do,
do it all for the glory of God.”
Psalm 103: 1-5
“Bless the Lord, O my soul,
And all that is within me, bless His holy name.
Bless the Lord, O my soul,
And forget none of His benefits;
Who pardons all your iniquities,
Who heals all your diseases;
Who redeems your life from the pit,
Who crowns you with loving kindness and compassion;
Who satisfies your years with good things,
So that your youth is renewed like the eagle.”
A dear friend introduced my husband and me to a saying that has stuck with us for years. Whenever we are overwhelmed with the sight of a huge array of food—such as what is typically offered at a potluck—or when on a long road trip where service areas are few and far between, we’ll say, “Eat now, ‘cause you might be hungry later.” We joke that it has served us well through the years.
This saying might be taken to extreme by many on this day which is known as “Shrove Tuesday,” “Fat Tuesday,” “Pancake Day,” or Mardi Gras, which is observed on the eve of Lent. Folks often take advantage of this last day to overindulge or store up fat and sugary food choices before entering a season of self-denial and penance. Truth be told, a lot of us would benefit from some self-denial, not just during the Lenten season!
Not all Christians and churches officially observe the aforementioned celebrations but, most certainly, whatever denomination or traditions one holds, one should refrain from any gluttony or debauchery associated with them.
For many, the idea of marking any observance of the Lenten season is foreign, and this was true for me until a number of years ago when I came to understand the rich meaning and benefits of observing the Lenten traditions. The most profound discoveries were through my experience seven years ago when I embarked on writing my first series of Lenten devotions. Through that remarkable journey, which included a partial fast, I sensed the Lord leading, guiding, teaching, encouraging, and assuring me every step of the way. My dependence on Him grew as He demonstrated His faithfulness daily.
May I encourage you, dear readers, to consider joining me each day beginning tomorrow, Ash Wednesday, on this spiritual journey that I pray will lead us to new discoveries and benefits of Lenten observances. During this Season of Hope may we once again prepare our hearts for Easter.
Father God, as we approach the Lenten season, please open our hearts to what You might have in mind to reveal to us. We come with a hunger and thirst to discover more about You, O Lord, with yielded hearts ready to receive your benefits. In Your Son’s name we pray. Amen.
~ painting by Vilhelm Rosenstand
