Saturday, February 28, 2015

the alternative

As I was praying about my post for today's Lenten Photo Challenge, I decided to color outside the lines.  Obviously this isn't a picture of a fish, so what's up?  Personally, I didn't find an exciting photo opportunity for my fish meals today.  Not only that, but I kept feeling the tug to reflect on something else.  Without going into super deep details, giving up fish on Fridays is supposed to remind us of the Passion of Jesus on Good Friday.  As He gave up His body and blood for us, it's a chance for us to "give up the flesh" as well.  So yes, I gave up meat today for Lent...but Jesus....as He has been doing the past few weeks....asked me, "What more can you do for me?"  The answer wasn't giving up more food, meals, or drinks.  It was to "give up the flesh" and indulge in something that would nourish my soul.  My alternative for going out and getting turnt on a Friday night* was soaking in Matthew Kelly's talk on "Finding Passion and Purpose."  I could have taken it as "me" time to relax, unwind, and get crazy.  Instead I took "me" time to relax, unwind, and get crazy...with Jesus :)

My thoughts on the MK talk will take a different night, a different blog.  However, believe me when I say that I was inspired!  Believe me when I say I was empowered!  Believe me when I say that this version of the "alternative" night is one I am happy to have experienced.  Not just "no meat" kind of Friday, but "yes" to all the spiritual food I was fed.  It's heavier and more filling than meat, and something I want to burn out slowly.

*These days, "turnt on a Friday night" means catching up on shows.  It's not going out and going crazy, but it could potentially lead to a lazy and unproductive night.  Attending Matthew Kelly's talk would still be more fulfilling.

2 comments:

  1. I love Matthew Kelly! This is a great article! He's inspired me so much, too, and God has completely turned my life around through his book, Rediscover Catholicism! The Lenten Photo Challenge sounds interesting. :) Are you doing it every Friday? I really like how your blog is simple.

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    1. Thank you for the encouraging words. I have a reflection on the Matthew Kelly talk coming soon...stay tuned :) And you should totally do the Lenten Photo Challenge. There is something for every day of the week. It makes you more aware :)

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