Today is the beginning of Lent. For me this means no morning coffee.
I didn't choose to give up coffee because it will be some great sacrifice, but because it is part of my routine. Last year I chose to give up something I like, but not something I do regularly - which was missing the point. I wasn't connecting Lent with prayer, but seeing it more as some sort of duty.
I believe there is a profound difference between obedience and discipline, though both are important. Obedience does what is right, and discipline does what leads to spiritual formation. Last year I think my observance of Lent was more an obedience than a discipline.
By giving up coffee I am carving out a regular time that I will fill with prayer. The beverage is irrelevant, the discipline is the focus. That time each morning will be devoted to prayer and repentance.
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This will be the first time I have participated in the season of Lent. Not sure I'm looking forward to it as I am not very disciplined and it will be a real challenge to follow through. I seem to be able to be obedient a whole lot "easier" than I can be disciplined!
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