Celebrate everything. That is my one of my mottos this year. In an effort to live intentionally and seek God’s goodness throughout every season of the year, I decided this year was the year to participate in a Lenton fast. A fast prepares our hearts for true celebration on Easter morning. It gives us a tiny glimpse into the sacrifice of Christ as He gave His life on the cross. It is a gesture toward God where we unclench something dear to our life to make space in our heart and mind for more of Jesus. For me, this was not an act of religiosity, for I checked my heart and motivations once and then twice to be sure.

My “thing” which I held near and dear with clinched fist might seem simple and insignificant to others. Sweet treats. Yes, I gave up sweet treats for Lent. Those sweet treats tend to get the best of me, especially during the evening hours. As silly as it might sound, the handful of chocolate chips from my baking supplies called my name almost nightly. The act of refusing the temptation during this forty day season of Lent served as a reminder of what Christ gave up for me, because He loves me. Passing over chocolate was a sacrificial act for me. The picture of Jesus floated through my mind as I rewrapped the bag of chocolate chips and stowed them back on the shelf with the flour and the walnuts. All was well. I was on the road to an amazing experience of Lent this year. Except one thing…

I failed at Lent.

****Read MORE HERE at iBelieve.com