Lent is a season of soul-searching and repentance. It is a season for taking stock and reflection. When we observe the 40 days of Lent, we imitate Jesus' withdrawal into the wilderness for 40 days. Lent can be viewed as a spiritual spring cleaning; a time for taking spiritual inventory and then cleaning out those things which hinder us from a closer relationship with Jesus Christ and our service to Him.
This isn't exactly how we explain it to the little ones. I explained that Jesus went into the desert, fasted for 40 days and was tempted by Satan. Chrstians give up something during Lent to remember the 40 days that Christ spent in the desert. I explained that I gave up Diet Dr. Pepper and every time I think I want one, I just remember that Christ suffered and went without food so I think I can do without a soda. I asked them to think of some things they could give up. Several mentioned special toys that they like to play with. My daughter raised her hand and I was interested to know what was on her heart..."HOMEWORK! I could give up homework!" Out of the mouths of babes.
When we are choosing something to give up during Lent, it needs to cause some amount of discomfort. Choosing to not eat eggplant when you've hated it all your life isn't really giving up anything. Peace~
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