Give it up

Most of us are familiar with the tradition of Mardi Gras in New Orleans and all of the excesses that come along with it: rich foods, parades, costumes, beads, hurricanes (the ones that come in a glass) and parties that last all night long.  The celebration ends on Tuesday, popularly known as Fat Tuesday for obvious reasons.  But some may not be aware of how Mardi Gras got started.   Over 2000 years ago, Christians began recognizing a 40 day period leading up to Easter called Lent.  This 40 day period represents the 40 days that Jesus fasted prior to be crucified.  During that period, Christians focused on fasting, prayer and service.  Fasting is giving up something, typically food or drink, but Christians today will also sometimes give up vices like social media or television.  The idea is that when you think of the item that you are fasting, instead of partaking, think of Jesus, pray or do something for someone else.  So, as you may have figured out, Mardi Gras became the last chance for people recognizing Lent to partake of some or all of the things that would be abstaining from during Lent.   In case you haven't done the math yet, Lent began yesterday, but it's not too late to join in the fun.  I chose to give up sweets this year as I think about them a lot.  I guess depending on your perspective, that could be good or bad.  But I look forward to what God has in store for me while I attempt to focus less on sweets and more on Him.