LENT (Feb.13-Mar.30, 2013) marks the six weeks leading up to Easter. It is a season of solemn remembrance, an opportunity to re-center our hearts on that which matters most – the victory won for us by the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. As a community, we will celebrating and observing Lent together in three parts.
When: February 24 – March 16 {part 2} *Part 1 [Feb.13-23] *Part 3 [Mar.17-Mar.30]
What we’re fasting from: Any beverage other than water
Why: Our spiritual thirst comes into sharper focus when we allow ourselves to remember what it’s like to be physically thirsty. Jesus often used water as a metaphor (John 4:14, 7:37-39). We fast from drinks other than water with the hope that we may better understand that our deepest thirst is for God alone. As we drink water, we meditate on this prayer, “O God, you are my God… my soul thirsts for you… in a dry and weary land where there is no water” (Psalm 63:1), and remember that God alone satisfies. We remember his invitation, “Come, all you who are thirsty, come to the waters” (Isaiah 55:1).
Drinking only water also reminds us of those who lack clean water around the world and live in the dark reality of poverty every day. We always fast for a purpose, coupling sacrifice with giving. As you fast from all beverages other than water, consider taking the money you would’ve spent on coffee, soda, juice, etc. and give to the efforts being made in Zimbabwe to eradicate the destructive effects of poverty & AIDS.
Go to www.awakeningchurch.com/give, click “Make a Donation”, then click “Lent [Hands of Hope]” under “Select a Fund.” All giving will go to Hands of Hope [www.hohafrica.org].
Scripture: Isaiah 55:1-9 *As you fast from media, spend the extra time you have meditating on this passage and memorizing as much of it as you can.