Lenten Sacrifice
Wednesday, February 6th, 2008It has always seemed particularly odd to me that folks declare that they are giving up chocolate, or some other such vice, for Lent, as though that equates with Christ’s sacrifice for us.
Yet, as flawed humans, what are we to do? The sacrifice that we take on at this time of the year is our way of consciously doing without while concentrating on Christ’s works.
If I declare here that I am forgoing carbonated beverages for 40 days, what does that really represent? It is a personal sacrifice on my part. But is it anything beyond for my own personal gain? Does this emulate Christ? How does giving up soda benefit others?
Lenten sacrifices appear to be like New Year’s resolutions the way people use them today. Abstaining from chocolate, caffeine, or fast food is uniquely selfish, which of course, is not Christ-like at all.
Last year Dr. Chris Anthony of Butterworth, Malaysia wrote for Catholic.org:
The real meaning of Lent is sacrifice, not for our well-being but that of others. Fasting, abstinence and prayer are just a means to achieve that goal.
We are asked to become holy and like Mother Teresa, our holiness in God, must be for the benefit of others.
What can I abstain from that will be for the benefit of others? What can you abstain from for the benefit of others?