I invite you, therefore, in the name of the Church,
to observe a holy Lent:
by self–examination and repentance;
by prayer, fasting, and self–denial;
and by reading and meditating on God's Holy Word.

Self-denial doesn't sound like very much fun, but it is something with which we are all familiar. Self-denial is a major component of weight-loss. We often practice self-denial in order to get something we want. If we want a new car, for example, we might deny ourselves the treat of a daily latte or dinner out once a week in order to save money. While we probably miss those lattes and dinners out, when we get behind the wheel of that new car we are glad we denied ourselves. Currently Gary and I are trying to put some money away for our vacation. We will be glad that we denied ourselves some small pleasures when we have the pleasure of indulging ourselves a bit during our vacation week in May!

Self-denial in the Lenten sense is not done for a material purpose ~ although that might be a side benefit. Lenten self-denial involves denying ourselves in order to draw closer to God. During Lent we typically think of giving up something, like chocolate. If, during Lent, our desire for chocolate makes us think of God then our awareness of God becomes greater and, hopefully, we come to feel God's presence in a closer way.

Self-denial can also lead us to reflect on all that Jesus gave for us. We may deny ourselves a particular treat or TV show. Jesus gave his very life for us. Our practice of Lenten self-denial can help us to feel a greater gratitude for Jesus self-giving love.

Have you ever practiced self-denial for a spiritual purpose? Has your practice of self-denial brought you closer to God? How might the practice of self-denial help you prepare for Easter?