It’s Lent – the time when people choose to give up a variety of things for a specified time in an effort to focus on things more important.  Every year I intend to participate.  I intend to give up…something.

I never do.

And the reason is that the things I need to give up, the things that tend to hinder my spiritual life…are not things.

I worry.  I cling to control.  I keep fists tightly closed in fear of losing something I think I need.  I live in the midst of the what-ifs and, at the end of the day, am often disappointed with how I have spent my time.

Today, I am surrounded by reminders that we are not promised tomorrow.  I am frustrated with myself that I need these constant reminders.  After all, isn’t God’s Word quite clear on the matter?

O LORD, make me know my end and what is the measure of my days; let me know how fleeting I am!  – Psalm 39:4

All of life is fleeting.  We may not have tomorrow to do the work God has assigned to us today.  We must love and give and serve and we must do it now.  We should completely spend ourselves today knowing that, should God grace us with another day, He will provide the energy and strength for that one as well.

So, for Lent this year, I give up.  I give up on the worry that so often plagues my days.  I give up on the selfishness that makes me cling to things that are not mine anyway.  I will open my fists and allow God to give and take as He sees fit knowing that He is good and all He does is good.

Today, I am ignoring the dirty dishes and enjoying the sunshine.  I pray that you will do the same.