Friday, February 27, 2009

February 27, 2009 - Lent & Cleansing

We're now in the beginning of Lent, a season of repentance and cleansing in the Christian calendar. Spring also draws us to physical cleansing. Spring Cleaning--a term we've all heard of whether we actually participate in the activity or not.

Times of cleansing and renewal are vital in all areas of life. Nature itself goes through this with the seasons and life begins anew in the Spring.

The church encourages self-reflection spiritually during this time. A kind of New Year for the soul. This is an opportunity to reevaluate our relationship with God, our decisions and attitudes. And this is a time to repent and re-prioritize. Find some time in your day between now and Easter to reflect, repent and reset your spiritual gage.

Don't forget your physical body during this time. After a long winter of being in the house, eating comfort food and getting very little exercise our bodies need renewal as well. Consider fasting less-than-healthy foods, maybe sugar, white flour or caffeine. Satisfy your body with healthy, living food. Raw vegetables and fruit are alive and you'll feel more energy after eating them. Take this time in early Spring to reevaluate your eating habits and other habits that effect the health of your body. When you feel better physically, you'll have more motivation even for spiritual things. And visa versa.