To 'Lent' or not to lent

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Every year, some Christians observe a season of Lent, which is a period of 40 days before Easter. Typically, Lent is a time when many Christians prepare for Easter by observing a period of fasting, prayer and repentance. 

Over the past few years, I have given up on food that I typically crave or enjoy during the Lenten season. I thought that in doing so, I was giving something back to God or telling Him that His death mattered to me. Of late, I question my intent. 

I've heard a preacher mention that fasting in itself, without taking any time for inward spiritual reflection or prayer doesn't really mean anything. It is just a glorified form of dieting.

I couldn't help thinking that this was true. At the end of 40 days, I would often feel a sense of accomplishment and then give myself a reason to pig out on all the things that I felt deprived of. 

I couldn't say that I felt any different during this time. I couldn't say that my life had changed. I couldn't say that I had even spend any time praying or acknowledging God. 

So, I have gone from one extreme to the other - from observing it in a purely ritualistic way to not doing anything at all. 

Yet, I know of people who have fasted for years and come to a deeper sense of understanding about God. I have read of people like Daniel in the Bible who fasted and prayed three times a day. 

It doesn't seem as if Daniel did it in a legalistic sense or purely as a matter of discipline. I think he realized how incomplete and helpless he was without God. Communicating with God was as important as breathing to him. The more he did it, the more he needed it. 

As I look at the void that comes from relying solely on human relationships and friendships, I realize that life is meaningless without God. He will and always be an only constant.

I am Thine, O Lord, I have heard Thy voice,
And it told Thy love to me;
But I long to rise in the arms of faith
And be closer drawn to Thee. 
Draw me nearer, nearer blessed Lord,
To the cross where Thou hast died;
Draw me nearer, nearer, nearer blessed Lord,
To Thy precious, bleeding side.
- Frances Crosby

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