Lent is one of the oldest observations on the Christian calendar. Like all Christian holy days and holidays, it has changed over the years, but its purpose has always been the same: self-examination and penitence, demonstrated by self-denial, in preparation for Easter.

Lent is the 40 days before Easter excluding Sundays.  

So lent begins tomorrow and I feel led once again to have a time of sacrifice and service and increased study of the Lord.   

I believe Alcohol has clouded my judgement many days in the past. So I have decided to not consume any alcohol during lent.  

Also a time of fasting is due.  Partially and fully.  I fell led to have a fast day every week. Likely on Wednesday.  Full fast no food. I have fasted before. And I do believe as the bible says it is important. 

2 Chronicles 7:14

New International Version (NIV)

14 if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.

And the tempter came and said to Him, "If You are the Son of God, command that these stones become bread." 4But He answered and said, "It is written, 'MAN SHALL NOT LIVE ON BREAD ALONE, BUT ON EVERY WORD THAT PROCEEDS OUT OF THE MOUTH OF GOD.'"   Matthew 4:3

I will have a Daniel type fast on Friday,  No meat (fish only) no sweets.  This will re-connect me to my catholic tradition.  The Holy days Are  Ash Wednesday, Maundy Thursday, and Good friday, and Easter Sunday.  These will be set apart days to come.  

So those are the things I am taking away.  Here are the things I am wanting to add to.

Increased Biblical Reading/ and study 

Meditation

Prayer
Volunteering in the community. 

Its a tall order. But I feel an urge from the lord, and it was confirmed last Thursday.   I know it wan't be easy. I have a problem with keeping commitments.   But I know I have done this before and I can do it again.    Consecration isn't fun.  But cutting off the old for arrival of the new is necessary.   

JM