Lent

Giving It Up for Lent: Power, Control, and Bullying

As I mentioned in here, I’m reading Maggi Dawn’s book, Giving it Up: Daily Bible Readings from Ash Wednesday to Easter Day as a devotional guide during Lent. In reflecting on the third and final temptation of Jesus in the wilderness in Matthew 4:8-11, she writes: Misusing power to take control is a temptation that [...]

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Wondering What To Give Up for Lent?

As I explained in a previous post, this lenten season for me is all about giving up and taking on …  so, let me offer a thought on what to give up for Lent. Maggi Dawn, in her new Lent devotional, gives some insight into the history of “giving it up” during this season:  “There’s [...]

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Preparing for Lent: Renewal and Rest

Giving up and taking on … these two phrases reflect my approach to Lent this year.  First, I will identify things in my life to “give up” – things in which I’ve (mis)placed my dependence and trust.  Second, I will identify a couple of spiritual practices to “take on” – practices that will increase my [...]

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With An Eye Toward Lent …

We’re less than a month away from the season of Lent.  Beginning on Ash Wednesday, February 17, followers of Jesus have the opportunity to enter into a period of preparation for Easter.  Now is the perfect time to consider what you might do as a spiritual exercise to make Lent a meaningful time. I’m going [...]

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The Semi-Intentional Blogging Break

I’m back after a blogging hiatus – a semi-intentional(!) absence through the Lent season. Let me explain. One of the things I learned from Lent this year was the value of time. I went into Lent with the intention of giving up something that would be “dramatic,” difficult, and sacrificial (it turned out this brought [...]

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Resources for Lent

Anyone celebrating Mardi Gras today?! What about Lent? The season of preparation and journey to Easter begins tomorrow, Ash Wednesday. Do you observe this religious season? I’d love to hear from you in the comments: What, if anything, does Lent mean to you? If you deny or limit yourself, what do you do, why? Not [...]

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