Love-Giving for Lent

Frequently during the Lenten season you will be asked what you are giving up for Lent.  This giving something up is a voluntary sacrifice, but too often we hear answers said in a negative attitude of resignation.  Sometimes people say they plan to eat a certain food or participate in a particular activity before they have to give it up for six weeks.  Such a spirit robs the participant of joy. 

An alternative six- week approach, called "Love-Giving for Lent", provides a more positive view of this Lenten tradition.  It's based on the idea of giving love to others, as if offering it to Christ.  By following this path, the blessings of Easter are multiplied.  So make your Lenten sacrifice more meaningful and welcomed by doing the following:

Week 1: Share your love for Christ by writing at least two notes or sending two cards telling the recipients how much you appreciate them.  Include someone you might not normally think to say this to.  Also, smile a lot -- at everyone!

Week 2: Telephone or visit with two or three people just to chat.  Tell them what they mean to you and say "Thank you" or "I'm sorry" if needed.  Make an effort to include someone you wanted to contact in the past few months but never got around to.  Read 1 Corinthians 13 several times.

Week 3: Take a small gift to a neighbor or shut-in.  It can be as simple as a pie, a flower, or a trinket.  Or, do an errand for an elderly person.  The important thing is to offer yourself gladly.  Read 1 Corinthians 13 again.

Week 4: Make a list of 10 people to pray for each day.  Include people you don't get along with very well.  Forgive them if they have wronged you and ask forgiveness if you've wronged them.  Read 1 John 4:7-21 several times.

Week 5: Pray for yourself this week.  Ask God to search your heart and reveal changes you need to make in your life.  Vow to do it with his help.  Read 1 John 4:7-21 again.

Week 6: Do something special with your family.  Live an abundant life of love in Christ.