Friday, March 18, 2011

Lent 2011

Every year Jim and I try to give up something that requires quite a bit of discipline for lent.  And this year has proved no different.
This year, I am following a book called the Makers Diet.  In short, it takes you back to eating how they did in the old testament.  There are also many different vitamins and supplements that should be taken.  Since financially I couldn't follow the book completely as they suggested, I am just doing the food part.  I am taking all processed foods out of my system and replacing them with natural fruits, veggies and meats.  There is one day a week that should be spent fasting.  During that day, any time I feel hunger pains, I pray.  And I do A LOT of praying. 
Jim has given up his morning routine of getting on the computer, checking email and reading up on sports and news.  This is a big deal for him because he LOVES his morning routine.  He is replacing that with reading the bible and following a series on Luke our church is doing together. 
This lent season is way different from any year passed.  This year, we are asking God to do some amazing things in our life.  Before, we've given up things just to show discipline.  But this year, we're taking it a step further and asking God to guide us.  We have been praying for a few very specific things.  You'll soon find out what those things are! 
I am writing this not only to share my excitement of growing closer to God, but also I want to remember this year down the road.  I want to be able to come back and see where we came from and how far we've gone.     

Matthew 7:7-11
Keep on asking, and you will given what you ask for.  Keep on looking, and you will find.  Keep on knocking, and he door will be opened.  For everyone who asks, receives.  Everyone who seeks, finds.  And the door is opened to everyone who knocks.  You parents-if your children ask for a loaf of bread, do you give them a stone instead?  Or if they ask for a fish, do you give them a snake?  Of course not!  If you sinful people know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give good gifts to those who ask him.