L.E.N.T.

"Lent has a new meaning this year..."

During the season of Lent, it’s a part of preparation for the Passover and resurrection Sunday for Christians to fast, pray, and offer alms or special gifts. Lent is a time to prepare your heart and receive Christ anew.

I’ve learned a lot from my Episcopal and Catholic friends about Lent. But recently, a friend shared an acronym about Lent with me that has shifted my focus to another unique way to look at Lent.

L.E.N.T. represents “letting go of every negative thought”! Instead of fasting from things like meat or chocolate or social media and your phone, what about fasting from bad attitudes, negative thought patterns, or unhealthy emotions?

That certainly casts a whole new light on the purpose of fasting and brings unhealthy behaviors to the forefront.

"What do you need to fast from...?"

Instead of grumbling about something that your spouse or child did wrong, how quickly can you turn those words into gratitude for something they did right? Show true thankfulness instead!

Instead of complaining to God and others about some new problem you’re facing, how about focusing on the things to give thanks for in its place? See how long a list you can make for what you’re grateful for in its place.

Instead of reacting with anger or frustration, like if you’re cut off in the road by another person, or having to wait in a very long line, how quickly can you pray for that stranger instead?

Learning to let go of negative emotions and reactions can take a bit of practice. Like using a long-neglected muscle. It might be a struggle to retrain old habits or reframe your thoughts, but it’s worth the effort.

I think Lent is a great place to start and a great fast to observe: let go of every negative thought!

"Let joy fill your life instead..."

Beloved:

As you delight in My Word and in Me, I will help you transform your mind. Keep thinking upon those things that are lovely, just, right, and pure. In time, you will find the dark clouds that try to shadow your mind will lift in the light of My Word and your reactions.

“Finally..., whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” (Phils. 4:8)

“Cast down imaginations and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God...” (2 Cor. 10:5)

“Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your minds in Christ Jesus.  (Romans 12:2)