Why Lent? Why Me?

If everyone gives up something for Lent, what does it matter if I do the same? I mean, won’t everyone else’s sacrifices do enough to set a good “sacrificial” vibe for the next few weeks? It doesn’t do me any good to give up something for Lent. I don’t get anything out of it. I have plenty of things in my life that are “sacrifices;” I don’t need another thing added to the list. I’m a good person—I eat well, go to church when I can, don’t watch too much TV, open doors for strangers, and even give money to people on the street. I’m sure that’s enough, regardless of the “season.”

Here’s a challenge: stop right now. If you’re wondering why you’re even reading this and could care less about what to give up for Lent, don’t keep reading. If, for some reason, you’re completely convinced that this whole “Lent” thing is pointless, DON’T give up anything for Lent.

BUT. Let’s say your interest is piqued. Maybe there is something to this whole “Lent” thing after all. If someone did something nice for me, I’d want to do something nice in return. Their example of thoughtfulness and generosity is contagious.

In choosing to follow Christ, we recognize that His ultimate gift to humanity is death on the cross. He died for our sins, conquered death, and rose to new life. The Lord is calling us to do the same. We’re given a special chance to unite ourselves to Christ’s cross through this Lenten season. Let us do something “nice” in return for the Lord’s sacrifice for us. We make daily sacrifices in giving things up for Lent so that we can offer some small part of ourselves to Christ.

Our Christian journey on this Earth is uniquely tied to the journey that Jesus made. During Lent, our small sacrifices remind us of Christ’s redeeming sacrifice. Don’t let this Lenten season pass you by without recognizing the gift of salvation, the hope of the resurrection, and the joy of uniting our sufferings to Christ’s.

Lent is our chance to show our devotion. Don’t let the season pass you by. Give it up because He gave it all.