This sounds not possible, in fact—how can we hand over ourselves for Lent? And truthfully, as much as we try, we probably cannot ever achieve this one. But the reality is that the majority of us value ourselves and our own selfish interests, needs, worries, and concerns excess of the rest on this world, God included. In our heart of hearts, we put ourselves above the Lord, leaning to our own understanding as a substitute of God’s. Today’s culture often idolizes the self, not God. But Jesus, when asked what was the best commandment, said,
“‘Love the Lord your God with all of your heart and with all of your soul and with all of your mind.’ This is the primary and best commandment. And the second is prefer it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.” – Matthew 22:37-40
God first, after which others “as yourself.” It’s lots tougher than we will imagine to do that consistently day after day.
I’ve seen a T-shirt that lists what we should always prioritize, and I really like its simplicity:
“Daily priorities,” it reads. “One, God. Two, others. Three, self. In that order.”
Most of us are so accustomed to putting ourselves and our families first that we leave the leftovers for God and other people on this planet.
That’s why putting yourself last in priority—or not less than attempting to—could be a useful Lenten practice.
When we put God first, our head and our heart align with the Lord. We want what he wants, and all the things else falls into place—perspective shifts.
It makes it easier to go searching us and see other people on this planet, our “neighbors.” Note that “neighbor” doesn’t mean the individuals who live near our home. This is anyone in our community. Indeed, because the web has made the world an increasingly small place, it might probably apply to anyone we encounter on this planet. This includes believers and unbelievers—or, as I wish to call them, “not-yet believers.”
Adopting a mindset to look after others before ourselves helps increase our capability for love, empathy, and generosity. This can look so simple as after we grow hungry and pull out a sandwich for lunch. We might glance around to see who’s in our vicinity. Perhaps we’d offer half of that sandwich to someone sitting nearby.
Photo Credit: ©GettyImages/Khosrork
