Why do people give things up for Lent?

“Even now,” declares the Lord, “return to me with all your heart, with fasting and weeping and mourning.” Rend your heart and not your garments. Return to the Lord your God, for he is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in love, and he relents from sending calamity.
Joel 2:12-13

You might remember that a couple of months ago, I asked whether folks made New Year’s resolutions. Most folks said no. Resolutions seemed like an old-fashioned notion that didn’t serve a meaningful purpose. We’re now in the Lenten season, and I was wondering the same thing about Lenten sacrifices. How many of us still “give something up” for Lent, and if so, why? My mom instilled the habit in me when I was young. Frankly, I didn’t really get it. When you combine that lack of understanding and a kid’s lack of discipline, the sacrifices didn’t last very long (like most New Year’s resolutions).

So, why do people give things up for Lent? Lent is the 40 days leading up to Easter (not counting the Sundays). Lent developed to acknowledge Jesus’ time in the wilderness before entering his public ministry. The early church used this time to prepare new converts for baptism. The United Methodist Church doesn’t officially require that members do anything during Lent. However, many of us recognize the significance of the season. It’s a time set aside for focusing on growing in holiness and faith.

Sacrificing something during this season recalls that Jesus fasted during his forty days in the wilderness. Fasting is a valuable discipline for all followers of Christ. It doesn’t have to involve food. People can fast from other practices such as watching television, time on social media, gossiping, a bad habit, or other things. Many folks take a different approach during Lent. Instead of giving something up, they start doing something good. Folks may increase their financial giving during this time. Some may commit to spending more time in prayer or Bible study.

No matter how you’ve approached Lent, I hope you see this season as an opportunity. If you haven’t chosen a Lenten practice, know it’s not too late to start. There is never a bad time to take a step forward in faith, whether you begin something beneficial or stop something detrimental. The verse above helps us understand the idea of turning away from sinful things and returning to God. Growing in holiness brings us closer to Jesus and helps us share His love with others. May the Lenten season bless your life this year!

Pastor Scott