MY ROAD LESS TRAVELED: Lent

Lent has never been something I specifically practiced. Not because I don’t believe in the practice of abstaining from something to focus on Christ, but because I honestly haven’t ever felt the need. This year I’ve been learning and trying to live life simply. What that means entirely, I’m still figuring that out. But, I do know that it is important for me, personally, to live intentionally in such a way that is beneficial to me in my growth in Christ, and for others and my community. Sometimes it is just the small steps that matters and the desire to live differently. I’ve been attempting, although not always accomplishing, to limit what I buy. When I do need to buy items such as clothing and shoes, I try to do clothing swaps, sales, or visit consignment stores. Also, I have been constantly going through all my belongings and giving what I don’t need to others. This is a constant growth and battle.

I have always had a heart for those who struggle, especially innocent children. In a class I am currently taking we have been discussing poverty and malnutrition on a consistent basis. Some of the conversations and images I have seen are haunting. I hope someday I will be in a place, whether financially or by location, where I can put my compassion to use. For now, though, there are a few things I can do here, and now that can help. This is where living simply comes. My hope is that I am able to live in such a way where my money, gifts, and actions can benefit others. This is a challenge for me as this unfortunately doesn’t come easily.

As of late I’ve enjoyed getting to know some amazing people from several different communities. Living in Seattle and being in my 20’s the norm is to frequent happy hours… and we’ve been doing this a lot. There is nothing wrong with this at all. It is fun, and I’ve been able to invest in others quite a bit through this avenue. But, when I sit down and see how much, approximately, I spend on alcohol per week, I am astounded. My specific goal for Lent, besides living simply overall, is to give up buying alcohol. I want to set aside that money I have been spending going out and give that to someone who needs it much more than I do. I haven’t quite yet figured out where the money will go. I want it to be personal and not just a website that I donate through. I do hope to specifically send money to hungry children in Southern Sudan, but I’m not quite sure as of yet how to go about it. I guess I am now prayerfully considering where and what this will be.