Lent

So... I have recenlty been missing my time in Massachusetts wich has made me think about the people, traditions, and other things that make it unique. One of the big parts of Massachusetts culture is Catholic culture. While I don't exactly agree with Catholics I think that pretty much all of the ceremonies in the catholic church can be taken as great things. So this year, in order to get into the correct spirit for the Easter season, I will be celebrating Lent.

When researching about Lent I discovered that it is basically 40 days where you give up something. It starts on Ash Wednesday (tomorrow) and ends on Maunday Thursday. They do this in rememberance of Jesus' temptation in the desert. While I don't quite get the whole Catholic thing behind it, I know that there are a couple of things that God has been trying to teach me lately and I think that practicing Lent might just help.

1. Self Control
I have no idea why but I have NEVER really grasped the idea of self control. I never realized that I can make choices and control my actions. But God has been teaching me that I can have my own standards and not just go with the flow because it's fun. While it might be dumb to practice it with something like giving up sugar... I know that the skills I learn during these next 40 days will transfer over into important areas of my life.

2. Taking time to seek God
I have a tendency to be VERY gung ho for ministry. If I hear an oppurtunity I take it. I don't think about finances, resources, or anything else, I just want to serve. This has left me signed up for 3 missions trips, 2 camp ministries, and a summer in Ephriam which I don't think I will be able to have the money for ANY of these options. But God is teaching me that His timing is right and His plans are right. Just because I can go to Africa doesn't mean I should. Having to trust God for my rock in not having sugar I am hoping will teach me patience and how to sit back and understand his plan.

So yes. If you see me eating sugar before easter PLEASE slap it out of my hands. Because I am opening my life and letting God in and somthing is going to happen.