During Lent, the father of a 7 year old boy suggested that his son give up something for Lent. The little guy asked, “What are you and mom giving up?” His dad said, “Liquor.” To which the son asked further, “What were you drinking at dinner?” His father replied, “That was wine. We gave up hard liquor.” The young boy thought for a moment and then said, “Okay, I’ll give up hard candy.”

If you are like me and have not formally given anything up for Lent this year, it’s getting a little late – if you have, that’s great. Some years I intentionally decide to “give something up” and other years, like this one, I try to take growth steps in discipleship.

Pope Francis speaks to both sides of the challenge when offering thoughts about fasting. Fasting is a religious form of “giving something up.”

Fast from hurting words and say kind words.
Fast from sadness and be filled with gratitude.
Fast from anger and be filled with patience.
Fast from pessimism and be filled with hope.
Fast from worries and trust in God.
Fast from complaints and contemplate simplicity.
Fast from pressures and be prayerful.
Fast from bitterness and fill your heart with joy.
Fast from selfishness and be compassionate to others.
Fast from grudges and be reconciled.
Fast from words and be silent so you can listen.

These words are so fitting for Lent and in our daily lives - they are equally important for our country and world. The beauty of these spiritual practices is they are not bound to Lent, they are things we can do throughout the year. Hard…perhaps, but nothing like giving up that piece of hard candy. Let’s join together as the Neighborhood Church in matters of the soul to live the life we are called to live now and always.

Journeying with Christ…

Rev. Dr. David D. Young
Senior Minister