We’re only a third of the way into this Lenten season, and I am feeling the pang of my sin sickness. I’ve chosen to deny myself two of my greatest drinkable pleasures this year. These things—however soothing and innocuous they can be—are just things. They can have a hold on me sometimes, sure. And, I’m certain giving up them up for six weeks will be good for me in several ways. But as I reflect on the last two weeks, I can’t help sense that my sickness runs deeper than my dependence on caffeine for energy, or the warmth of wine to gladden my heart. I can’t forget the words of a sweet friend, uttered on Ash Wednesday.
I don’t want to give up chocolate. I want to give up sin.
I’ve always equated giving up things with identifying to Christ’s sacrifice—like forgoing facebook or television can hold a candle to the Cross! I think it’s safe to say that, for years, I’ve been misinterpreting the fundamental point of Lent. This year, I’m withdrawing from things that stem from honest-to-goodness distrust that the Lord alone is good enough. And that goes beyond a desire to withhold things from myself. That’s sin.
1 comment:
Great post, ol' CoryBo.
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