Maybe we should give up our egos for Lent?

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Listen to my song “Pour Me Out” on YouTube by clicking HERE.

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Isaiah 58:6-7

Is this not, rather, the fast that I choose: releasing those bound unjustly, untying the thongs of the yoke; Setting free the oppressed, breaking off every yoke? Is it not sharing your bread with the hungry, bringing the afflicted and the homeless into your house; Clothing the naked when you see them, and not turning your back on your own flesh?

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What are you giving up for Lent?

I cringe at the question because it seems to me to be more of a badge of accomplishment than anything spiritual.

Motivation seems to be the key here.

Are you making the sacrifice to somehow score points with God?

If so, it’s pointless!

God does not need to be appeased or pleased.

God already loves each of us infinitely.

INFINITELY!

So any sacrifice you make is for your own benefit.

Hopefully it’s to remind you to be more loving, merciful, compassionate and forgiving.

Because that is what God wants – for us to care for those in need.

Jesus quoted Hosea 6:6 when he said, “Go and learn the meaning of the words, ‘I desire mercy, not sacrifice’ (Matthew 9:13).

We would all do well to re-read today’s scripture passage from the Prophet Isaiah. (Do yourself a favor and read all of Isaiah 58.)

How can we set aside our own desires in order to set free the oppressed, share food with the hungry, take care of the homeless and clothe those in need?

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Listen to the song of the day “Pour Me Out” on the Give Praise and Thanks album by clicking HERE.

Stream and/or purchase my songs on Amazon Music by clicking HERE.

Remember…God loves you!