Challenge #3: LENT

Most of you probably realize that we are in the middle of the traditional season of Lent.

For those of you who are unfamiliar with this concept, Lent has been practiced by Christian churches since the first century, though for different reasons than today. Lent is currently celebrated as a special time of prayer, penance, sacrifice and good works in preparation of the celebration of Easter. It begins with Ash Wednesday, where participants are marked with ash on the forehead in the shape of a cross. Lent traditionally lasts for 40 days (not including Sundays) and reaches its climax during the final Holy Week, which begins with Palm Sunday – representative of Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem.

Though we, in the Churches of Christ, do not observe the season of Lent, it would be a positive spiritual benefit for us to recognize it for what it is – a time to intentionally put aside our self-centeredness and to embrace a life of love and sacrifice.

As you continue your 30-day walk with Christ toward the Cross, take some time to think about sacrifice. What is something you would like to offer up to God?

Perhaps it is something you love to eat.
Chocolate. Coca-Cola. Fast food. Meat.
Perhaps it is something that consumes your time. Look at your list from yesterday. Is there something you could remove that would allow for more time with God? A favorite television show. Facebook. Xbox 360.
Perhaps you have an unwholesome habit such as cursing or smoking.
Other ideas for a Lenten sacrifice include: coffee, energy drinks, sugar, your iPod (JD, are you serious?!), texting, ice cream…

Challenge #3: Sacrifice something. Give it up for the remaining 28 days. Think and pray about this one... then post your Lent below. By now you can see how this month may be difficult – first you resolved to give up a habitual sin, and now you will sacrifice a piece of life for God.

But why? Is this just a test of your will-power? Is this a contest to see who can hold out the longest? Of course not. Your self-denial will allow room in your life for God to do something new, something different. You’ll see…

However, you still need to lose one more thing… your shoes.
Find out tomorrow with Challenge #4: FOOTNOTE