When I was little, my family didn’t formally celebrate Lent.
My cousins did.
So did many of the neighborhood kids; especially the big, Catholic families with lots of siblings running around. (We could throw together a kickball game in no time as long as we could get one of those families to come!)
Lent always intrigued me. The ashes on the forehead, the ordering a fish sandwich on Fridays instead of a burger up at the local McDonalds.
I remember wanting to not only know what it was all about, but to be invited to the celebration too.
Later, in high school, I began to attend a church that did celebrate Lent (but allowed us to choose what we would give up). Ta-da! I now not only learned about the observance on the Christian calendar, but felt included in the party.
Over the years, I’ve given up sweets, a particular TV show, soda-pop and other assorted indulgences.
In recent years, however, I have stopped giving up something for Lent. Perhaps you will want to too.
Now, I take on something for Lent. Like serving in a soup kitchen once a week. Taking a hurting soul out for coffee every Saturday or acquiring a new habit like walking or reading the Bible before hopping on the computer.
My antique writing desk I purchased at a local garage sale. Not where I write blogs & books & articles, but where I write people.
This year, I have decided to take on writing a note of encouragement or thanks to someone each day of Lent.
Yep. That’s 40 notes in 40 days.
In a way, I am still giving up something—my time; time when I could be doing something for myself but will instead will be doing something for another human. And my money. Between note cards & postage, about 25 bucks. (So long extra latte cash!)
Care to join me?
I found some clearance notecards at Target yesterday. So, I bought four additional packs so four of you could join me in the note-jotting adventure. One pack should get you started on your way to gratefulness and cheer.
If you are a traditional Lent-observer, may God meet you as you sacrifice an indulgence over the next six weeks.
If you have never joined the celebration, how about this year you do?
But don’t give up something for Lent.
Take something on.
*Tell us about you & Lent. Do you observe it? Give something up? Want to join me in taking something on? The four comments selected at random will be announced Thursday.
I love your idea, Karen! I used to write notes all of the time, but I haven’t been doing that much over the past few years. I even have a ton of cards and paper that I could use. What a great idea to ADD something to your life instead of giving something up.
I have never participated in lent…But like you was always intrigued…This year, I do think I will take something on, and writing notes to people I care about seems like a wonderful thing to do…
Oh my goodness! What an amazing idea! I am totally doing this! Thank you for the inspiration!
I grew up observing Lent and my family still does, though we’re not Catholic and so follow slightly different ‘rules.’ We make fastnachts on Fat Tuesday and share them with friends, and then begin our period of self-sacrifice today. I usually feel called to sacrifice something in the food arena since that is something I really struggle with. My daughter this year has decided to stop watching TV, and my son asked for a set of devotions like the Jesse tree ones that we did during Advent because he liked them so much. I finally finished them and have them available if anybody else is interested in using Lent as a time of learning more about the life of Jesus with small children. http://anestintherocks.blogspot.com/2012/02/free-family-friendly-lent-devotions.html
I really like this idea of taking on a helpful task during Lent. Will be thinking more about this ….
Karen
Thank you for this post. I just told my husband this morning that I’m observing Lent this year. In my church fellowship this is not common practice. I’m apart of our women’s ministry team and we have an online book club through Facebook. We are reading a book called The God Chasers. As a desire to really live the life of a God Chaser, I want to take on a lifestyle of prayer and intercession for others. That is one of the things I’ll be doing. I will take on prayer and intercession and a more disciplined lifestyle. I will give up slothful, self-centeredness.
love your online book club i had not heard of this i must not up to the lates on this but soooo love this idea .
and will be in prayer for your givening of prayer and intrcession
Hi Connie
Thank you! Yes, our women’s ministry has a Facebook Group called Woman2Woman book club. We’ve been going strong for over a year now. We have women all over the country who post to the group wall and join us for our weekly online chats.
Kendra, what a great idea. Can you share how the FB book club works? Is there a FB page set up specifically for the club? Just out of more curiosity…is the book The God Chasers-My Soul Follows Hard After Thee? I got all excited when I read that idea. Hope you don’t mind the questions.
May God continue to bless you and the women’s ministry team.
Sincerely,
Glynna
Hi Glynna
Sure, I’m happy to share. Our women’s ministry set up a closed Facebook group called Woman2Woman book club. The group is closed because the women are very transparent and we wanted to give them some privacy. We have a weekly reading assignment. The ladies post their insights, prayer requests and comments to the wall. We’ve been going strong for over a year now. We have women all over the country who post to the group wall and join us for our weekly online chats. We even have a member from Indonesia.
Past books we’ve read are: The Confident Woman by Joyce Meyer, Captivating by John and Stasi Eldredge, Having a Mary Heart in a Martha World by Joanna Weaver and Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers. The book we’re currently reading is The God Chasers by Tommy Tenney. It will definitely challenge you to move beyond what’s comfortable.
If you’re interested, you can request to join the group and I’ll add you: http://www.facebook.com/groups/W2Wbookclub/.
Blessings to you!
I know this is months after but which God Chaser book are you using? There at least 10 different one on Amazon – some with study guides .
Great, I m. Going start now. I know I like to get real mail
What a wonderful idea! We have never formally celebrated Lent but have occasionally chosen to give up something anyway – soda or sweets or Facebook or computer time in general, etc… I love this idea of giving of your time and focusing on someone else! Thank you, Karen!
Our church encourages taking on something new for lent, such as starting a good habit or participating in a small group study. I have found great growth in my Lenten choices over the last few years. This year I am pursuing efforts to spend more quiet time with God, adding meditation to my daily habits. I am also attempting to eat Vegan (I currently eat vegetarian but not vegan). This may prove difficult for Lenten fish fries (Friday night fish fries are very popular here in the Midwest – especially during Lent). I will pray for guidance as the weeks unfold.
That is a great idea!!! There are so many friends that I need to keep in touch with. I am also going to be giving up my diet coke. Everytime I crave one I will spend that time praying.
What a great idea! Love this – always mean to write notes, and don’t often follow up on that prompting. Yet I absolutely love when I get a note in the mail and am so touched by it. Love this as an idea for Lent.
I LOVE this idea. I am starting today!!!
My church does not practice Lent but I have for years (actually even before I accepted Christ). I did this as a self practice before I accepted Christ as my savior. I have given up many things over the years but I love this idea of ‘doing something’ for others.
Thanks for posting!
Karen,
This is the perfect way for me to look at the season. I am one of those types who gets bent out of shape when you tell me to take away something from my life. With continuous health issues that have robbed me of my mobility and each of my doctors telling me what I can no longer eat, I can easily develop an attitude about having to give up one more thing. This is perfect! I can ADD something to my life! Thanks.
when my best friend moved out of state, we determined to write often. We started seeing getting something from the other as a little party at the mailbox. We called it non-bill mail happiness. Over the years my love of sending hand-written notes and letters has disappeared. Well, maybe not the love, but the time and effort I would take did.
I won’t get to Target until Friday, but I would like to join you on your note-writing journey. It will be nice to be the reason for some non-bill mail happiness again.
I really like this idea! I use to write little notes to people from time to time but I just don’t make the time any more! One little note can make a difference in someone’s life! This would be something personal for me to do! I am working on ME right now and my walk with GOD! Thank you for the idea!!!
I haven’t ever celebrated Lent, but I dearly LOVE this idea:)
Hi Karen,
In the church I attend we have always observed the Lent season, but there was never talk of giving something up. Our pastors many times talked of repentance. In the past few years, personally, I have given up something or started a new habit. This year there is a computer game I feel extremely addicted to, so that is what I am giving up, but I also would like to add something to my life. I like your idea of writing an encouraging note to someone. That is a great idea.
It blows me away, how much a hand-written note is appreciated now! I get thankyous for my thank you cards all the time. I think we all need to slow down and hand-write things more often.
“Thank yous for my thank you cards” LOVE it!!!!
What a great idea and it seems writing personal notes make such a difference in someone’s life.
I love your idea! Im starting right now! Thanks for your encouragement – it always seems to come when I especially need it.
I had decided to make effort a combination of sacrifice and gift this morning before reading your post and was excited to see others on the same page so to speak. I have decided to sacrifice the easy poor food choices and choose to make the effort to eat properly giving God, myself and my family a healthier me! Who knows maybe I can even combine some exercise in there too!
I don’t observe Lent; however, I think this is a great idea!! I’m in!
Karen, I love this. But, I think Lent should be all year. I try to send cards sometimes just for no reason. When my sister was stricken with brain and lung cancer cards became what she loved the most. Just knowing someone else loved and thought of her, enough to spend money on a card and a stamp. Cards are so meaning but people just don’t realize the importance that they have until they are in need of them. I think it’s great that you are taking this on but don’t let it stop just because lent ends. Show people you “Love” them just because. Especially young people that are going through a rough patch. You never know what that little bit of encouragement will mean to them. Thanks again. Happy writing. Jean
i think this a wonderful sweet idea thank you for the chance
Our family never did give up anything for Lent…but, I do love this idea! And who doesn’t love getting something special in the mail….one way to uplift someone’s day.
I do not celebrate lent but often in high school, amongst friends, we would try to give things up like chocolate, soda, etc. But, this is something I absolutely love! I am a card writer by nature but I haven’t been intentional about writing cards like this challenge. I would love the opportunity to write out some cards!
love this idea!!
This is such a wonderful idea! I have given up pop, chocolate, and even complaining in the past (boy, was that a tough one). I love the idea of taking something on to not only better myself but reach out to others. Thanks for sharing this!
I LOVE this idea – and may post something similar on my blog – or link to yours
I will definitely be joining you in this WONDERFUL idea for GIVING during Lent.
I am giving up soda pop as well – but I really love the idea of blessing others with a note every day.
Today I will begin with my own husband!
Kristen
Yes it is a great idea! I have sometimes tried to add something for Lent (versus take something away) but I had not thought of this! I especially love how it takes the focus off of ourselves. Going to add “get notecards” to my list of things to do today. Thanks for sharing!
What an amazing idea and such an inspiration for all of us to follow. You will brighten many peoples days in the next 40 days with your words of encouragement. I have never attended a church that formally celebrated Lent. God bless you and thank you for the encouragement to help others.
I love this idea! I’m usually pretty good about sending cards for birthdays & anniversaries but just to say Thank You…this is great!!! What an awesome idea Karen. I pray the Lord will touch each & every recipient of your cards in His way. Awesome!!! God bless you
Tammi
Your idea of writing notes –actual hand-written ones- to people and spending the first part of your day with God in his word is wonderful!! I would love to join you!!
Thank you for affirming my Lenten desire. I have also been mulling this idea around but hadn’t firmed up the details or made the committement. I just did!!!!! Now off the computer and to collect my note cards. Blessings……
Hi Karen,
I would love to join you in doing the 40 notes for 40days That is a awesome Idea!! I had never celebrated Lent, I didn’t know about it, So I learn something new today!
I adore this idea. I often grapple with the culture we have of giving things up and it saddens me because I feel like people are just missing the point of this amazing season. I am responsible for our Lenten meals and for the past few years I’ve been so stressed out about these meals that I completely neglect the season. This year I decided I’m going to focus on why we gather, what this season is all about, and spend time in the Word and in Prayer.
I think I will do this too. My daughter was recently in Navy Bootcamp and our only communication during that time was letters(95%) she did get a few calls).
I have several people I could send a letter of encouragement to and I think it would really bless them.
What a wonderful idea! I too have always been interested in Lent but have not yet ever participated. I think this is a great idea as I have been trying to be more focused on others instead of myself this year. I believe that sometimes we rely on facebook and email too much. It is SO nice to receive something by mail to show someone you took that extra time to get out a pen and paper. I believe that a habit can be formed in 40 days and this could quite possibly turn into something that continues long after Lent is through. God Bless you for putting this wonderful idea out there. Thank you!
Thanks for the encouragement…this has been a very difficult year for me and my family. We are striving to heal from a very difficult church situation. I find myself giving up on church people…and hurting more than I want. I hope to let go of the hurt…feeling the healing that Christ intended for me to experience during this season of lent
My family has never celebrated Lent, but I had started thinking about giving up something because I LOVE that idea. I LOVE this even more because there is JUST something amazing about getting a handwritten note in the mail. I know it has absolutely made a difference in my own life. I’m currently leading a Bible in 90 days group, and our session will end about the same time. What a great way to start the day—with reading and prayer, followed by a note of encouragement. Thank you for the inspiration!
I am going to pull the note cards out now. Thank you!
I love this idea. Although, I have never observed Lent, I recently have been interested in it. This is a perfect way to get involved.
I LOVE your idea!!!
What a marvelous idea. I’ve never observed Lent, but decided to this year. I was going to give up processed sugar. But, really, I hardly ever eat it any way, so it wouldn’t be much of a sacrifice. The other day I thought about sending quilted postcards to people who might need a bit of cheer. Hadn’t followed through yet. Today I start. Thanks for the kick in the rear.
Quilted blessings.
Great idea! I am doing a similar thing by giving up my time and taking on more biblical studies (i.e. reading my Bible more like I am supposed to)…BEFORE getting on the computer. I LOVE your note idea…I LOVE writing cards, not texts or emails, just a simple time-taking up card. Thanks for sharing.
Ginny
I started observing Lent when I attended a Methodist church. I have since left but I continue to observe each year to refocus my life on Jesus. Using the time that I crave or miss what I have given up as a time for prayer and reflection. Last year I gave up the elevator, This sounds weird but it was in a strange way humbling. Reminding me to be thankful and blessed for my health and legs to walk them, to think of others that never have the luxury of an elevator around the world and the other luxuries that we have as Americans. ( also reminded me how out of shape I was) I love your idea of using this time for encouragement. I think I will take that on this year as well. I feel that God has been leading me in that direction to reach out to others who are struggling. Thanks for sharing and God be with you.
First, this concept of 40 days of encouragement has really been an eye opener for me. I prayed this evening and felt sure God was going to guide me to one friend and He led me to another friend to send my first card to. Secondly, the giving up of elevators is just a phenomenal idea. I absolutely loved this “this sounds weird but it was in a strange way humbling. Reminding me to be thankful and blessed for my health and legs to walk them, to think of others that never have the luxury of an elevator around the world and the other luxuries that we have as Americans.” I whole heartedly agree. Thank you for sharing this idea.
I found this blog through a link and have shared it with friends. Thank you for following God’s leading and encouraging others to do so as well.
Oh wow! I really like this idea! You have given me something to think about and I just might have to do something now.
Wonderful suggestion! In my church, I was taught that we didn’t observe Lent because the price was already paid for us. However, to be mindful of Christ’s sacrifice was not lost on me but this will remind me that Jesus took something on – the cross. What a great way to observe that blessing by blessing others – thank you!
I have never observed lent, but I am doing so this year. I love the idea of writing notes of encouragement to others each day of lent. How special!! Thanks for the wonderful idea. May God richly bless you through this!
Julia
Loving & Learning in Pre-K
Thank you for this!!! This is my first time to participate in Lent and this idea is wonderful. Thank you!!!!
What an awesome idea! I love it! Giving up by giving back!
When I was a kid, my parents always had fish for lent. Now that I am quite older, I havent really given up anything specifically for Lent. I watch less T.V. on a regular basis. I would love to join you, I think the idea your doing is great.
This is a great idea. Our church doesn’t celebrate Lent, but we are encouraged to fast from something and focus on Holiness and Christ’s suffering.
Such a GREAT idea! I agree this is a wonderful way to observe Lent. Writing personal notes is almost a lost art anymore. Yes, you are giving up time, but the investment will mean so much to someone else. I too would like to take on this observance for Lent. Thanks for the suggestion! May God continue to bless you and your ministry Karen!
Growing up Catholic, my family observed Lent in the “traditional” way – fasting on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday, no meat, etc. Frankly, no one could ever explain the “why” to me. One of the many reasons I left that life and found relationship with Christ nine years ago. However, I still get twisted up in my head over Lent. I still feel like I need to sacrifice something and, like you Karen, I’ve given up chocolate, iced tea, snacks and other things that really were a sacrifice, but I’m not sure that it grew my faith any. I love your suggestion of “adding” something. I think I will give it a go! Thank you and God bless!
I love this!!!!!! Great Idea, I’m going to accept this challenge and use 40 notes for my four children!
I love this idea. I didn’t grow up giving anything up for Lent (in my Presbyterian church, we definitely observe Lent, but we aren’t “encouraged” to give anything up)….however, I went to a Catholic high school where almost all of my friends gave something up, so I usually followed suit.
This is such a different idea, and I think it’s wonderful.
Wonderful idea. Great way to take the focus off yourself and on to others. I can even involve my children by having them color pictures for others. My church nor my family did not observe Lent but I grew up knowing about it because of my mom’s Catholic background.
What a wonderful idea. My mother always observed Lent and I want to honor her legacy as well as glorify my Lord. I was looking for a way to participate in Lent and I just found it. Thank you!
I have never celebrated lent. I think this is a wonderful idea it is always good to invest in others. Thanks.
What a great idea and I can’t wait to share it with my children also. By having them learn at an early age to reach out to others it will become a blessing that will help them not only for the next 40 days but perhaps for the next forty years.
This idea has really excited me! My family never observed lent, but I was always interested in the idea. In church, Bible study, and personal study I feel like I’ve been learning a lot about taking off your old self and putting on the new self in Christ. This year I wanted to give up something that I know hinders my relationship with God. As cliche as it may sound I decided to give up sweets this year for my first ever lent observation. Whenever I’m upset or bored I go for the chocolate instead of going to God. But I love this idea of adding something to your life as well. I see giving up chocolate as getting rid of the old self, and adding the note idea as a putting on of the new self. I am so excited! God doesn’t want to take away our old bad habits or sin and leave us with holes! He wants to fill us with new life! I am so excited!
I LOVE THIS AND WILL DO IT.. THANKS FOR INSPIRING US AND THANKS FOR THIS IDEA OF UPLIFTING SOMEONE ELSE.
This is a beautiful idea!!!! I will, indeed be joining you!!!!!!
I have never celebrated Lent… but your “take something on” tradition sounds like one worth adopting! Thanks so much for sharing this.
LOVE LOVE LOVE this idea!! I, personally, am choosing to abstain from snacking between meals in honor of the sacrifice that Jesus made for me on the cross …. when i want to splurge i will remember what He did for me …. that said, I absolutely love your idea and i will definitely be adding that in for the next 40 days.
THANK YOU so much for sharing your thoughts & ideas.
God bless you!
I used to give something up. My toughest time was when I gave up ice cream while I had a job at the local Baskin Robbins. : ) Now that I am older, I do not see the relevence in giving something up for 40 days. I do like your idea about “taking something on” though! Perhaps I shall give that a try this year!
Awesome idea….I love taking on something for Lent. The art of sending a note is such a blessing to the receiver, as well as the sender. Won’t it be nice to get something special in the mailbox….aside from the bills and junk mail:)
What a wonderful idea! In fact I think it’s better than giving up something, because often it’s harder to DO then it is to NOT DO! I’ve always been a Christian though not as I should, my family has recently found the Lord and this is our first year as a family of knowing about and understanding Lent…so I was looking for ideas and your post hit the spot. Thank you!
I have never celebrated Lent but I always watched my friends go through it. Reading this idea and seeing everyone so excited makes me want to pull out my card making supplies and start making notes for as many people as I can. Thank you for this idea!
Absolutely love this idea!
Sometimes I feel like I am the only one out their who still very much enjoys the joy that a handwritten note can bring.
May God bless you in this effort and shine on the receipients.
I love this idea. I usually give something up. Last year it was TV I was thinking facebook this ayear!! Thankk you. Blessings.
Hey Karen, great post about keeping the Lent season fresh and inspiring! This year I am taking on re-abolishing slavery alongside churches worldwide with the “Not for Sale Campaign”. Although I am giving up my lunch money (as a donation to fight human trafficking), I am taking on a healthier perspective of what the word ‘freedom’ means for humanity worldwide.
I don’t typically give something up for Lent. But have been thinking about a particular reality show starting with “The Real Housewives. . .” which has absolutely nothing to do with being a real housewife!
I love the idea of taking on a new project and I enjoy writing notes of encouragement but often don’t follow through when God prompts. In fact, I wrote down some names on my church bulletin just this last Sunday. I would love to take that challenge on – and maybe I can write notes when I would be watching the aforementioned worthless television program. Thanks for the challenge Karen!
While self-sacrifice has it’s place, you have hit on something so key to our daily walk with God. He calls us to live out our faith, to take Jesus to others. That isn’t really accomplished when people announce, and later wring their hands over, what they are giving up. May mailboxes be full this season with handwritten love. May phones ring, just because. And may people linger with one another, truly listening to what is said… and what is not.
I was actually planning to do the same thing! So glad I saw this post to remind me it was a good idea
Wonderful devotional! I normally give up something for Lent, but last year started praying about what God wanted to grow in me. This year I am giving up my traditional after dinner snacking (which normally includes a bowl of ice cream) and have decided to replace that time with exercising and meditating/reflecting on Gods word… Perhaps God will nudge my husband to join in with me in a devotional or two…or even a evening of tae-bow or yoga, lol… So yes, I am giving my time to God this year and to my marriage. My Prayer is not only to strengthen my relationship with the Lord and “grow” in me some new habits, but also that God will use this/me to be an example and light for others.
It’s amazing how God works, a friend shared this with me today and it is definitly (sic) an opportunity for confirmation and encouragement…I too have had concerns about Lent–raised as a BaptiCostal( thats my version of SouthernBaptist/Assembly of God influence in my life) I just really do not understand the need for giving up something for Lent…but the Lord has been dealing with me on the “doing”…I, too, have been getting out old stationary/post cards etc, to WRITE to shut ins, send thank you’s to people who have touched my life in a special way, encourage a teenager who is depressed, a pastors wife who is burdened–on and on and on…
I, too, love Proverbs 31–and have shared this with all brides,,,Thanks to You for the ministry of Proverbs 31
THis is an awesome idea.
I am Catholic and yes, grew up with the traditional exposure of sacrificing and giving up things we enjoy for lent. However, I too have started this practice of doing something for others and also encouraging my family . I have alot of stationary that doesn’t get used anymore due to emailing and facebooking now ! I am going to hunt for it today and start using it throughout lent ! Gracias, Linda in HOuston.
I have never given up something for lent. Growing up, I always saw some “give up” something to say that they did it, but yet, I never witnessed how it made them focus more on God during those 40 days. I never understood… The last several years, I have done like you have described…take on something, whether it be digging deeper in scripture, or sharing an encouraging word with some one else, etc. I love your writing notes to people! What a great idea! I may just have to join you!
I love this idea! I too have always been intrigued by lent, but never understood it. Some of my friends have started giving things up to prepare for Easter. I love the idea of taking something on. This year I’m taking on more intentional prayer – I’m creating a binder and praying specifically every day. I’m going to add the notes of encouragement – what a great idea!
Love the idea of taking something on instead of giving something up, rather trading time time spent selfishly for time spent impactfully.. Thanks for the idea.
Wonderful idea – I believe a little encouragement goes a long way!! And there is something special about receiving a letter in the mail
Thank you for writing this blog post! God has used it in a powerful way to show me what He wants me to do for Lent. I even wrote a blog post about it. Please check it out here http://jonlovesjen.blogspot.com/2012/02/taking-on-something-for-lent.html
what a great idea… i love the art of the written word and I love writing notes (the journalist in me?!). I was raised Catholic, went to Catholic school and was knew nothing but Catholic! I still observe Lent and am always more successful taking on rather than giving up! This year, i hope to purge some material belonging that will better benefit another each day of Lent. Selflessness is tough for anyone and Lent is the perfect time to exercise that lesson no matter what you choose to give up or take on. I pray that God will bless all of us as we strive to become more like Him this Lenten season.
karen love your idea and all that it will do for us who did not grew up with this in our lifes .
but i must i was shown by my mother to give of our selfs is the best gift we can give to God !
S o i too will take this idea and do my very best to give of my time or shoul i say of the time that is given to me from GOD !
THANKS ! BLESSINGS TO YOU !
Love this idea! Who doesn’t love getting a personal note in the mail? Starting to write one right now!
This is so GOD!! I was just thinking this morning that instead of giving up something for Lent, I wanted to take on something. I LOVE this idea and YES, I will join you on this endeavor!!
Karen,
I decided to do the same. I am waking 30 minutes earlier to spend time in prayer and then reading my scriptures from my several daily bible plans. In addition I have decided to exercise at least 10 minutes or so each day. Since my body is a temple it is time for me to treat it as such. I have good eating habits, but I am not exercising on a regular basis.
When I was a child my family used to celebrate Lent but as I grew up and we changed churches we never did. I like the idea of doing something for 40 days that could bless someone else as well as myself too. Beautiful idea Karen, even if I do not win the giveaway I think I will do the note cards anyway.
I love this idea! I’m going to do this, too. I have started sending more sympathy cards and birthday cards. This would help me to continue what I’ve started and what a blessing for those receiving the card. Love this!!!!
My best friend observes Lent, and I was considering it this year. I love the idea of Adding something instead of subtracting. I would love the note cards to start teh letter writing.
I’m “giving up” weighing myself on the scale (I’m a daily weigher). And I’m adding memorizing a verse every week. I’d love to write notes to people as well. I think it would be a fun use of my time and help me remember to be thankful for those in my life.
This is going to be the first year ever that I’ve given up anything for Lent. My church growing up did not celebrate Lent in this way. I’ve been inspired by Chris Seay book, “At the Place Table”. Now it looks like I’m also going to “add” something for Lent as well.
I am a stamper/card maker/crafter and I absolutely love the idea of writing someone a note for each day in Lent. Thank you so much for the inspiration!! God bless!!
I love the idea too! I’ve been wanting to write more notes of encouragement to people in our lives..this would be perfect! Thanks so much for the giveaway!!! Even if I don’t win – thanks for the inspirational idea!!
I grew up in a Catholic home but we moved from NY to AR and I married a Baptist…twice!
Now, my 2nd husband and I attend an Assembly of God church. I remember having to eat fish on Friday during Lent but as I got older into my teen years my parents stopped going to church and I didn’t get back in church until after I got married the first time.
I don’t observe Lent anymore but thought this idea you have is an AWESOME idea…I have family in NY and VA that I need to catch up on my writing to and will do that during this time. Who knows who God will touch with these letters except God. He gives us the words to say even when we don’t realize the words are coming from HIM! So, YES, count me in!!!
Be blessed everyone..God loves you!!
In my 29 years I’ve always been curious too… just not something you hear about often in the baptist circles I’m associated with. I’d love to be a part of this and try out the letter writing.
I did the “Love Dare” Challenge book for lent a few years back — it was set up as 40 days, so it seemed the perfect fit. Just recently discovered the “Respect Dare” Challenge which is really meant for the wife to do for the husband. So, for Lent this year, I will the “Respect Dare” Challenge for my husband, Jim. (And, I will also do the note cards as well, I love that idea!!)
What a great idea for Lent 2012. I love to use Lent as a time to share the Easter story over a prolonged period with my grandkids. We use Easter Resurrection eggs to retell the Easter story, I read them stories focused on Jesus, His ministry, death, and resurrection, and this year, we will be working on some encouraging Bible memory verses focused on the power of the cross of Christ and the blood of Christ. Such important truths for all of us and a sweet way of leaving a spiritual legacy for an eternity. Have a blessed season of Lent! (P.S. I LOVE your font for these comments!
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Wonderful idea!!!!
Thanks. I am praying that you continue in your journey to encourage others through handwritten notes. They are special and so are the people you write them for. Sometimes people get caught up in the worries of life thinking that “they” don’t matter…depression and dark thoughts come around them. Wow. What an impact we could have if everyone chose to write a simple THANK YOU each week!!! Start simple and Give God the GLORY, Praise and HONOR. Amen.
I am one of those catholic families. I give up a bad habit every lent and replace it with prayer. I also add something during lent like extra prayers for others, increasing my donations to local food banks, etc but I have to say I absolutely adore the idea of writing notes each day for someone do this year I will include this in my Lenten journey as well. Thanks for the idea
How ironic. I was just discussing picking something up for Lent with my pastor and told her that I was planning to reach out to people by sending them cards. Coincidence? I think not!
–SueBE
What a wonderful idea! I really do believe that our words can mean so much. We can truly build others up with an encouraging word (just as we can tear down with our words)
I use email and Facebook to encourage others, but I think a hand written note in the mailbox could mean so much more.
I have never participated in Lent but I love your idea. With all the technology so easily available to us the hand written notes have almost gone away. I think taking the time to write a handwritten notes says alot.
Oh my goodness! What a FAB idea!!! I SO want to do this. I have done the giving up something, like gum, soda, certain tv show, etc. Haven’t done it lately, but would LOVE to do the writing thing. I have been looking for ways to be more of a witness and this is IT!! Thank you SO much for this post. I am SO sharing this on my FB wall. Think about all the people this would encourage if each one of us wrote 40 people! WOW! What an influence! Thank you and GOD Bless!!
)
My husband and I were just talking about doing something to incorporate this season into our family with our kiddos. Our denomination doesn’t necessarily celebrate Lent, but we love the idea of giving up or adding something that represents remembering Christ and his sacrifices and helps us draw closer to him.
Love the idea of the notes…and that’s something even an 8 year old and an (almost) 5 year old could do as well!
Love this idea – would love to join you!
I don’t recall the observance of Lent as a child, but I now work for a church that has several ways to “go deeper” during Lent. I plan to attend a Lenten class on the final words of Christ. I am so excited!
What a beautiful idea! Thank you Karen! ~Lyn
We have never really participated in Lent. However, this year, after reading ‘A Place at the Table’ by Chris Seay, our family will be eating rice and beans for dinner one night a week for the rest of the year. The money we save will be donated to Compassion’s Water of Life systems. You can read more about what we are doing here: http://blessedtobeahomemakingmom.blogspot.com/2012/02/feeling-little-hungry.html
I love it! We are a family that loves to send and receive handwritten mail. We will definitely love to incorporate this idea into our day. I am off to google how to explain Lent to my family now!
I have never given anything up for lent…but I am going to go to Target now and do this… Thanks so much for sharing this thought. I think many will appreciate the little thoughtfulness.
I love your idea! I’m in. Does lent start today?
Love this! I did the same thing 2 years ago and the benefits of it still get mentioned. I will be giving up 1 hour of sleep to have 1 hour of prayer and study before my day starts. Blessings on you all.
I did not grow up in a religious family. We never went to church and I remember going to church only a handful of times with a caregiver I had. Of course we celebrated Easter in the sense that my folks hid eggs and treats and we went on our hunt. That was the extent of it. I’ve only recently found my faith and proclaim Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior, and this will be my first year observing Lent and the Easter Season in the traditional sense. I didn’t know what to give up, and I stumbled across an article yesterday about this very same thing and decided to memorize a verse each day during Lent. That is what I will be giving on this, my very first Lent with God in my heart.
Last year was the first time I did not give up something. I chose to read more of God’s word daily. I was a different person after lent. I am closer to God and happier than I have ever been. God bless you and your journey with HIM! nancy kirk
What an amazing idea! I was Catholic until I was about 6 or 7 and we always gave up meat on Fridays but I was too young to understand. As a Christian teen, I always tried to “give up” something, but it was pretty meaningless. As an adult, well, I just haven’t given it too much thought. I LOVE the idea of making a meaningful change. You’ve inspired me!
I’ve always meant to give something up for Lent, but I’ve never actually done it! I would love to join you in whatever plan you have!
I love this idea! We all need a little extra encouragement, don’t we?! My notes will include a scripture verse, prayerfully chosen for each recipient!
I’m observing a more traditional celebration this year, but in years past I’ve added things instead of taking them away. Reading your post has gotten me thinking it’s not too late to add something this year.
I really do love this idea. I will and be excited to get my whole family involved
Thank you for your idea. I like a good challenge, especially when prizes are involved. I usually use fb or the computer as a reward for myself after several poopy diapers or a challenging trip to the bus stop. Now I will stop to do one more thing first. (wahm doing home child care)
I love this post! I was wondering what I could give up… But I will take something on instead. Love the idea of writing snail-mail cards!
Thanks for your inspiration!!
I am Catholic and have always celebrated traditionally but this year a friend and I have decided to help another mom! We all have children with Autism but this one particular mom has 3 boys with Autism and her husband went to be with the Lord last year after a long battle with cancer. She is struggling and hurting and has no alone time. She desperately needs quiet time with the Lord. Please keep this mom in your prayers.
WOW! you hit the nail on the head with this blog post. I was raised Protestant Christian and we didn’t do Lent. My hubby was raised Catholic but was not a practicing Catholic. So you can imagine what that must have been like in our house. Well now I go to a Nazarene Church that I love and it kind of has a mixture of both. This past Sunday was the first time my hubby attended church with my daughter & I (since we started going 2yrs ago). My heart is filled with great joy! We will do Ash Wednesday service tonight. We will not give up anything but start reading 40 minutes a day the bible.,40 Days with Jesus Devotional and praying. We will spend our 40 days of Lent growing closer to God as my hubby is now on his faith journey path. This past Monday, I bought him his first Christian Bible. God is so good!
nicolepipkin{AT}gmail{DOT}com
Think that I will try your idea and add something as some people never have a nice word said to them.
Thanks for the great idea… I never celebrated Lent growing up, as such, but now our church family does a coorperate fast that is similar, just a different time frame. I think will use your idea then…
We never observed Lent as I grew up, so it was a little weird to me when my youngest decided he wanted to “join in” too at the age of 5. A neighbor’s child mentioned it to him, and he thought we were missing out. Now that he’s a teenager, Lent means “Catholic Fish” which is not meant to be mean, just that the small local Catholic Church has awesome fish dinners. I think I’ll share this with him today–maybe we can start a new tradition at our house. Thanks for the idea.
I love the idea of taking something on. What a cool idea. I like the thought of writing someone a note of encouragement. I have been writing a cherished friend who is in a local rehab and it has helped her (per her words not mine) more than I will ever know. We are not far apart but we chose to write as it is deeper than just a chit chat which she is limited too. We get to dig down deep and share our hearts. Love your idea and would love to jump on board.
Have a great week!
I Love Your Idea & have never celebrated Lent But This Gives Me A Way to relate to it! I have Many People to Thank for their prayers & writing a Note to them Is Something I can do. Thank You for this inspiration & would Love to Get Help with getting started.
Handwritten notes are becoming a lost art. I think this sounds like a great family project! I can visualize involving my 2 daughters I know how much I love to get a handwritten note and it will be a blessing to others to receive them. Thanks for the great idea.
Great idea to send notes for encouragement. I’ll join the challenge.
This is a great idea! Thanks so much for the encouragement. Growing up in a catholic family we observed lent. But as I grew up I realized I never really grasped the true celebration. Now as a Christian I don’t focus on the lent season, my desire is to always sacrifice my wants for what God wants for me. But, to add or take on something so unique for lent is an amazing experience. With all of technology it’s way to easy to just push send. I know there will be 40 personally touched people that I haven’t touched for a while.
Thanks so much for this.
I really love this idea..and I think the ideas of doing the Love Dare or Respect dare are awesome….I too have never participated in lent, but have always been intrigued by it. I am going to start today with the notes of encouragement..as well as waking early to do a new devotion I was recently given. Thanks so much<3
I like your idea to write thank-you notes. I’ve just about given up writing those because I can go to their FB page and talk my friends or go on Chat. But I know how much I appreciate it when someone goes out of their way to write one for me. I feel like if you always try to do good and write letters and thank-you notes when you should, you end up feeling better and so does the one receiving it.
,. Maybe I’m saying to always be on the lookout for someone who needs and deserves a special note of encouragement and send one if the holy spirit nudges you to do so. Thanks for reminding me.
I have both given something up and done something extra over the years… I started blogging through a promise to myself to write a reflection every day of Lent. This year I’m giving up chocolate biscuits and cakes, reading fiction (that is a real sacrifice) and following the 24-7 prayer movement’s Lenten initiative.
Great idea! Getting encouraging mail instead of bills, so good!
I love this idea! I have gone through cancer treatment, and notes of encouragement I received in the mail were so uplifting. I think note writing would be a perfect “add-on” for me. Thank you!
Would like to join in giving something for lent
I like the note writing idea. I have so many good intentions – hopefully this will help the intention become an action.
I LOVE THIS IDEA!! I grew up Catholic and observed Lent. I have been giving up something for Lent since I was 6 years old. I did not eat meat on Ash Wednesday and every Friday during Lent as well as during Holy Week. I practiced this up until a couple of years ago, when I truly came to Christ. That was when I realized that it isn’t so much as the giving up something as it is reflecting on what Christ has done for us. I have since focused on making sure that my two boys grow up really understanding what Christ has done. This year our family is doing something different every day for Lent- raging from singing Praise/Worship Songs to doing something nice for someone to reading the Easter story,etc… This way, when Easter comes around we can really celebrate Easter for what it is.
I will use your idea of writing notes since I have been looking for a way to use this time of the year to tell non believers the Good News. (and what great timing since last week I also found a pack of 8 cute blank note cards at Target)
Your idea is great. I know people love to get real mail.
I love this idea! We’ve never practiced (celebrated?) Lent, but it’s always intrigued me. I’m giving up pop and breads. I need to change my focus, however, from dropping a few pounds to using it as a way to get closer to God. I’m not inherently a note writer, but I think I’ll at least send a few during this season in order to focus on those most important to me.
I have been having a difficult time trying to decide what to give up for Lent. I started a Lenten bible reading plan today that I am choosing to do every morning in addition to my daily bible reading. I encourage those who do not have YouVersion on their mobile phone to add this app. My two favorite versions are NLT (New Living Translation) & NIV(New International Version). I love your note idea & wil have to do that this year.
I love this! I’m going to start a tally of notes I send – I may not be able to send one each day (since I already missed today) but I love the commitment of sending 40 notes for the 40 days of lent. There is such power in the handwritten word.
Love your idea of writing notes. My husband & I decided to do the 40 days of solidarity with the poor (Chris Seay via Lysa Terkheurst) the idea is you give up your normal eating by eating the things the poor of a certain country would have access to and sending the additional money you say to missions for the poor!
Thanks
sorry for the errors! I meant to say give the money that you SAVE to missions for the poor! and I know I spelled Lysa’s last name wrong! Sorry!
Just in the last few years have I learned about Lent. Your idea is a wonderful one. There is a box of cards on my desk at this moment. This year I will write a note of encouragement or affirmation for others. Thanks, Karen!
Karen,
I have never observed Lent in the past. But in the last few days I have been interested in finding out more about it. I have visited two blogs today and both have been discussing Lent.
I am praying about what I should give up. I like the card ideal. This would be very encouraging to the receiver and a blessing to the sender.
I love it! I also grew up in a church not observing Lent, but now attend a Methodist church which does. I chose the same path as you this year – my husband and I are keeping a gratitude journal. We both recorded blessings before leaving for work this morning. Peace to you this Lenten season.
My kids and I are memorizing one bible chapter this year. The one we picked has 40 verses, so we will memorize one verse each day. Hopefully by the end of Lent we will be able to recite the entire chapter!
I love your idea, as a child I grew up in the Episcopal Church and was encouraged to give up something, usually sweets, for lent and I always failed to complete it and felt guilty by Easter time. Now, I “take up” something instead. Like being more diligent in my Bible reading. I have recently been listening to a Joyce Meyers CD that challenges it’s listeners to be kind, in some way, to one more person each day. That is what I am going to do–be extra kind, to bless, one extra person each day. It may entail writing them a note so I guess I will be taking up your challenge as well. God Bless you today and always!!
I have never “celebrated” Lent, really never knew what it was as a child, just something the Catholics did. I do like the idea tho of giving up something and using that something whether its something material or time to do something to turn the giving up into giving. I love this idea of the notes. In a day of tweets, fb and email, I really think getting a real note in the mail, that took someone some time, energy and resources would be very meaningful, not only to the receiver but also the giver, we have to really take time to think about who and what we are writing and put our thoughts into words that can help someone else. Thank you, I hope you get some notes yourself during lent! (ps I love this font, what is it?)
I was not raised in a church family that celebrated Lent and even to this day, Fat Tuesday, Ash Wednesday, and Lent catches me by surprise. So reading your blog caught me by surprise and without much thought I say, “Yes! Count me in.” Love, love, love sending snail mail and of course receiving it. I will also commit to more purposeful prayer for a few specific people in my life. I have done this before for 30 days at a time, at random times of the year. Coordinating with the Lenten season and writing notes seems to fit, so this I will do. Would love accountability check-ins, so you are more than welcome to email me to ask how I am doing (or maybe you’ll do that on your blog, not that I’m able to read everyday).
Thanks for your suggestion and all the encouragement from the folks who responded before me. Blessings for your day!
Love it! Unfortunately it seems to be a dying art. I still send handwritten notes and thank you’s and have my kids do the same thing, especially since all of our family lives out of town/state.. I have notes I’ve received that I keep and read over again as they make me feel loved and special. Although I don’t observe lent, I will do this for the next 40 days! Thanks for the idea and prompt to do so Karen!!
I’ve never celebrated lent, nor attended a church that did, however, I appreciate the traditions of less modern churches (I didn’t get married in my home church b/c I wanted pews and stained glass – I wanted every aspect of the ceremony to glorify God and draw others closer to Him). I love writing notes of encouragement, and also have been wanted to send some CDs with favorite songs which contain deep, theologically sound lyrics. This is the perfect “kick in the pants” to get me doing so!
What an awesome idea!! Something I truly struggle with–writing notes!! I love to give words of encouragement, but I find it hard to make time to write!! I will join you!!
Lisa
Excellent idea! Here it is the first day of Lent and I hadn’t been able to put my heart on what I was supposed to do (not do!?!) yet. This will also add to my prayer life, as I will be praying daily for who to send that day’s card to. Have a blessed day!
I will take on patience.
I grew up Catholic like so many others here and must admit that I never really grasped the concept of Lent, even though I fasted every Friday and gave up chocolate every year. Needless to say I started each Lent on fire but fizzled out long before Easter ever arrived. A few years back the pastor at the non-denominational church I now attend spoke on using the Lenten season to prepare your heart for the upcoming celebration of Jesus’ Resurrection. He spoke on using the time to practice different Spiritual disciplines, whether adding to or giving up. I must say, it has added a whole new dimension to this season and a whole new appreciation for Resurrection Sunday. Thank you for speaking on this topic this morning, it was a good reminder to get over my busy life and spend some time with Jesus.
That is a TRULY excellent idea! Thank you!
Absolutely lovely concept–which I am planning to do along with you. It has always seemed to me that the ‘giving up something’ never really makes a heart impact. Giving always does!
Karen, what a great idea! Thank you for impressing upon me to reach out with words of encouragement each day of Lent. Love and blessings, Caroline
When my mom was alive, she was an avid note sender. Card encourager. Even into her last monthes with dementia, she crafted notes. They may have not made a lot of sense but she was so used to encouraging people……..it stayed with her into her illness. I have always wanted to be like her in that practice……but time gets in the way. I LOVE your idea. I’d like to give up some of my time and add something to my life for lent. I’m in! Thank you for this idea.
I have never practiced giving up something for lent. This is a good idea you have and I plan on writing notes and spending more time in bible study and prayer during this time. Thanks!
What an awesome idea. I never would have thought that I could give my time and it would be giving something up. Love your blog
I’m in for the notecards. What a great idea!
I have not participated in lent in previous years, however, this year I was going to. I like this idea. I have wanted to do this at other times but something always seems to take its place. I am going to do this for Lent this year instead of giving up something. Thank you for the idea.
Kathleen
Karen
I love This, I have never celebrated Lint, but I have started lately writing a mailing more notes to people. I hate the fact that everything is done email all the time now days. although up until a few months ago when my Daughter went off to Lincoln’s ChalleNGe, a school through the National Guard to get her GED I would use email instead of writing, but at this school the kids have no access to Computers, TV, I-pods or Cell phones. So the only way for them to commutate with their family and friends on a regular biases is to write letters, or notes. They can only call once a week and that is only if they as a team did not get disciplined some time during that week. So even since she came home in December I have been tiring to send one or two notes out a week. Would love to do more for Lint and bless more people. On the note of Blessing people Our churches Third Service (called Beyond) just did that a couple of weeks ago they went out in the community in groups with money they had pulled together as a group and bought Gas, Groceries, Prescriptions and other things for random people.
We were never really raised to celebrate Lent but taught to give instead by taking Jesus beyond 4 walls I love the idea of the notes! I have been doing a thought for the day with my Zcholdren and Grandchildren for a couple of years now to share the scriptures with them.
I have never celebrated lent, I am not in a denomination that does that. I do however like the idea of doing something for lent and notes of encouragement are a great one.
I simply love your idea!!! I have never participated in lent before, but decided to do so this year. I am particpating in an online Bible study on the book Made to Crave and learning to turn to God instead of food. After reading an article on Lent a few weeks ago I decided to participate in Lent this year and give up the one thing that I love to indulge in more than anything–soda. I am doing ok so far–first day. I told myself today that I don’t want to give up soda and replace it with something else that isn’t good for me. Your idea has given me a great replacement for my unhealthy indulgence. I am going to write my first note today and keep moving forward through Lent. I think this is just the thing that I needed to get back on track with connecting with the ones I love. Thank youfor sharing this great idea with the world!!
I do not observe lent and never have, but I absolutely love your idea of taking something on! Writing notes would be perfect for me too, because I have WONDERFUL people in my life who mean a whole lot to me. However, I am terrible at passing along my feelings – I always think, “I should send her a text, or tell her thanks next time I see her,” but I always seem to forget. May accept this challenge even if I don’t win the giveaway! Thanks Karen!
I don’t belong to a church that observes Lent. So I don’t give up something because I “have” to, I do it because I want to! I find it is a good disciplinary thing for me to do! I try to spend time in the Word in place of whatever it is I’m giving up.
I never really celebrated lent, only recently found out could give up something besides food, which already very limited on what can eat. I really like the idea of giving up my time, and writing notes is something I can do even on the days I am stuck in bed!
Karen,
I have felt a tug from God recently to write notes to people so I am going to take on the challenge of writing at least one note to someone during Lent this year. Karen, thank you so much for your ideas and sharing what God lays on your heart. I look forward to reading them! May God continue to bless your ministry.
Nancy
We don’t observe lent so I have never given something up. But I really like the idea of taking something on. A note a day is a wonderful idea!
This year I am giving up fried foods (I’m a southern gal, so this can be difficult!) as a way of saying that I am tired of feeding this body God has given just junk, that I can fill up on God, not french fries. I am so taking something on, I’m memorizing a verse pertaining to trusting God, every week (I’m horrible at memorizing, so this is huge for me!).
Karen, I absolutely love this idea! We are currently doing the Mercy Triumphs by Beth Moore study at my church and this idea goes hand in hand with the them LIVE IT! Thank you so much for the simple idea of writing a card to someone. I cherish it!
I have never really done much in the way of giving something up for lent, however last year I did give up fast food. Now this past September I started a diet (lost 80 pounds so far) and haven’t had any fast food in almost 6 months! Funny how your perspective changes. I have been thinking alot about this exact thing…I need to be more intentional with communication with friends. I can’t let it just be Christmas letters anymore! Thanks so much for your constant inspiration, words of wisdom and qentle nudging which I know is from God!
To be honest, I don’t know much about the why behind the observance of Lent. I grew up watching my Catholic friends observe it and talk about giving something up… but I’ve never taken the time nor had a specific opportunity to learn just exactly what it’s all about.
That said – I like the idea of taking something on… and have decided to take on this idea of sending a note to someone each day. I used to send cards and notes to friends & family on a regular basis, but as my kids got older and life got busier – I don’t do it like I used to! And you are so right – it is the giving up of time and some money while also giving of yourself!
I’m going to write the first note and get it ready to mail NOW! Thanks, Karen!
I have never given anything up during the lent season. Over the last few days I have seen many different ways to enjoy the season without giving up, but giving differently… of time. I really like the idea of sending notes, but also in taking the time to be with GOD daily before anything else. This is something that I need even more throughout the year, not just during the Easter season. Also, the prayer candlesa and rocks with the specific names and items that you want to pray for… love it! Thanks for your encouraging notes and ideas on how to share your faith.
i also love this idea and plan to do it. Thank you for the idea and if you send me your snail mail, you can find out how I’m doing. I am in NC…….anyone else? We could be writing buddies to keep each other on task?
I like this idea. I’m not ready to commit to every single day, but feel that even a weekly note to a friend or acquaintance, or thoughtful gesture each week is on my radar.
Working full-time can either make a woman crazy trying to keep up with everything, or can force one to be more willing to accept God’s grace when she is unable to do everything. I am going with the latter this year. It goes against society’s pressure to be the perfect working mom. It stands in the face of the guilt that I heap upon myself, or the shame that the enemy throws my way.
I choose to throw the shame back at the enemy, and embrace grace, as I ask God what to do with this challenge.
Blessings to you!
Karen,
My daughter annd I are also taking something on for Lent – rather than giving something up -or in addition to giving something up. I love to send notes to friends, and I think I’ll “copy” your idea. I’ve also determined to spend more time journaling and reading/meditating on the Word.
I love this idea! Just yesterday I posted a list of some 40 day challenges including sending out 40 cards of encouragement. When I saw this link over on the Proverbs 31 facebook page, I was so delighted to read that someone else was thinking like I was! It is such a blessing to get a handwritten card from someone in the mail or hand delivered, in this day of instant messaging and email it has become somewhat impersonal. That was one of my main reasons for wanting to send out cards, to get back to the more personal basics of life. I have never celebrated lent, being that I was not brought up in a church group that did it. But a few days ago I heard something on the radio that made me think about making some good habits during these 40 days. Adding something that will benefit me spiritually and in the process show the love of God to those around me. Thanks for this post!! May God Bless you!!
I was just thinking about this today. I was trying to think of something to give up for Lent and starting thinking that adding something would be better. Wasn’t sure what to do to honor God and his sacrifice for me but think this is a great idea. I know so many people who could use a kind hello and to be reminded that God loves them and is right beside them. Bringing some sunshine into someone’s life would be a loving thing to do. Love this idea!
Karen,
love your blog today, I actually heard the same message today at my ash wednesday service here in Iowa. I had never really heard anyone talk about what more can you add/give instead of giving up something for 4o days. I am truly inspired!!
Thanks!!
I grew up in the country in a Baptist home. Our closest neighbors were deer and raccoons, and being Baptist we didn’t observe Lent. I did always wonder why some of the kids at school had “black stuff” on their heads each year, but never got an answer, other than “that is something Catholics do”. I love your idea of doing something instead of giving something up. I would like to take on your challenge to write a note of encouragement each day of Lent this year. I have some note cards here in my office I use to write “Thank You” notes on when someone helps out in the Church Office, but will use them to write the “Lent Notes”.
Lent was never a part of my life growing up…always wondered what it was and why anyone would choose to give up candy or some other equally tantalizing thing. However in the last few years our youth group has spent some time studying and observing lent which has found it’s way in to our home. This year my hubby and I both decided to add rather than subtract so appreciated this post today!
Love your article. I am not a traditional Lent observer, but I have given up some unhealthy habits and added in some healthy ones. Honoring God with my body is my Lenten focus this year!
Hi Karen, love this idea! Have not participated in giving up stuff for lent – not something my family practiced. This year, I seem to be drawn more to lent and the observance of it. So, how fitting to take something on vs giving something up. Puts it in a more positive light. At the beginning of this year I had decided to send out more handwritten notecards – I really enjoy cards. This is a great way of blessing others, especially during lent. I’ll share this with our w.o.w church group which meets tonight. Blessings! ~Jodie
LOVE IT!!!
I never really understood lent. To me it always appeared to be (and sometimes still seems to be), something people have done for show.
I love your idea of starting something new, as I have heard it takes 40 days for something to become habit. I have already asked my accountability girls to keep me on track for sending one note a week (which I have been a failure at…..). This is a fantastic idea!!
I have never actually given up something for lent, but I do really like your idea of picking up a new thing for lent. I have a few things that have been weighing on my heart to have more self-control over and I have been thinking about giving up my cup of coffee over the month of March. I think finding something to do for others would be another great step in the right direction. Thank you so much for your ideas!
I love the idea of adding something to my day instead of giving something up as well. I have done so before, and this year have decided to spend 15 minutes reading the Bible each day too. I really like your idea of writing a letter to someone everyday too!
Ohhhhh Karen!! It was so random but planned by God that I clicked on your link from my Proverbs 31 Facebook update! I sell Thirty One Gifts for my home business and simply thought reading the updates for Proverbs 31 Ministries would be a cool tool to use as inspiration at my parties! Last year, I was diagnosed with a rare disorder while pregnant with my 3rd child. I was told I would not survive the pregnancy. However, my daughter was not really affected with the problem and was developing fine. We continued the pregnancy and we both made it!! The months to follow and for nearly a year, I was in recovery and in and out of the hospital. The ENCOURAGEMENT from my family, friends and church was something I knew I would never be able to pay back! I have already been doing your Lent project but, not as consistently as I would like. Your challenge is EXACTLY what I’ve been praying for and I am going to join you, no matter what!! Thank you for this message and the opportunity to encourage someone, anyone… EVERYONE!! Yay! God Bless You!
I have never observed lent but would love to .I love your Idea.
Karen,
I love this idea, probably because I love getting cards in the mail. Just knowing someone took time to purchase the card and write me. That is a beautiful gift…your words! I am gonna “borrow” this idea!
I didn’t grow up with Lent being celebrated but for the last 3 years I have been giving something up. I love your idea of adding something in instead! Thank you!
I really like the idea of adding a positive versus subtracting a negative.!
I’ve never participated in Lent. I love the idea of taking something on, rather than giving something up. I enjoy sending cards of encouragement. I think it’s time to be more intentional about taking the time to do that.
I love this post! Thank you! I had decided to add something as well this year…….trying to commit to walking at least 2 miles a day. But your post made me think about adding something to someone else……..so I think I will add writing a note for 40 days as well…….thanks for the suggestion!!!
I have never given up something for Lent. The church I attend doesn’t encourage it…although they encourage reading and studying the Word, especially leading up to Easter. This year, I thought maybe I should but nothing seemed to “fit”. I just read your blog and am excited to try to do this….Giving of my time or encouragement to someone else seems like a great thing to do. My waistline could use 40 days of fast, and I think it great that folks sacrifice for this time period….but this just feels “right” for me. Thanks so much for this inspiration!!
Thank you for the encouragement! I have never observed Lent either, but love this idea.
I have often wondered about what to give up for Lent, and have never done it. I do however like your idea of adding something – Bible reading and prayer daily BEFORE other activities, especially the computer! I know how blessed I have been when receiving a note card and would love to bless others.
That is perfect! I’m joining you! Thanks for the fantastic idea!
I blogged about Lent myself today. I live in a large Catholic community and it’s a huge deal here. I didn’t grow up practicing it myself.
I think I’ll start a new tradition too. Taking something on!
I completely understand the not understanding Lent as a child. Then I married a Catholic. We tried to focus on the things that are the same in our religious areas (I’m Methodist) As we went through the first few years of Lent, I struggled with remembering that it was Friday – no meat. But I also questioned my husband about the traditions and he didn’t know why they did what they do. So on to the internet I went in search of answers. I found that Lent is 40 days, not counting Sundays, but that the exact length of Lent (total days) has changed over the years depending on who was in power. Just search the words Christian Lent or Lent and you will be amazed at what comes up. But I love the idea of getting involved!
Thank you for posting this today! And while my current church does not celebrate Lent this way, I grew up Catholic, and it’s just a part of who I am. I had given up the giving up part of Lent for several years now — I decided that there really wasn’t much that I overindulged in that would be enough of a sacrifice over Lent., so I decided to try to do things that would allow for spiritual and personal growth. I went through “The Purpose Drive Life” one year, another year just focused on my spending habits, another year on more quality time with God. This year, I decided on hand-writing one note a day to my friends and family. I love that you had the same idea too! God Bless you on your Lenten journey!
I really love this idea. I am terrible at giving up things at Lent!! Just terrible. But I love the idea of giving my time to others. I know I can do that. And I am always trying to be better at that so this will help me be even better.!
Karen; Thank you for such a wonderful idea. I saw it on a friend’s facebook posting earlier today and decided this was a Lent lesson I could do.
At dinner tonight, I shared the idea with my 16 year old twin daughters. They loved it too! They are sitting at the kitchen table right now planning out who they are going to write to each day. On our way home from the grocery store we stopped at Dollar General and bought note cards and colored pens. (We live in a tiny town and shopping opportunities are few and far between.) Our daughters have been raised going to church with us and both joined our church and were confirmed a few years ago. They are active in youth group and are anxiously raising money for their mission trip this summer . . . So needless to say, I am very proud of them. They are intelligent and beautiful young ladies. But lately, we have been experiencing some issues of selfishness . . . natural for teens, of course, but not something we like seeing. So this ‘thinking of others’ letter-writing campaign for Lent comes at a perfect time.
Thank you again for such a perfect idea!
Julie B
Ligonier, Indiana
I would love to do the 40 days 40 notes! I was brought up Lutheran but have been attending a FourSquare church for many years. I never gave up anything for Lent until a few years ago, then I gave up candy and all kinds of chips and cheetoes, etc. for six weeks. It felt good to know I actually did it before God.
I LOVE this idea. I never understood the whole “giving up something for Lent” but did it sometimes anyway. That was in the days I was still trying to “earn” my way to heaven. At age 28 when I discovered that nothing I did or did not do could earn me a place in heaven because Jesus had already paid my “entrance fee”, I felt so liberated in many ways. One of the ways was that I could show my love for Him in many ways, & observing a man-made event was not necessary. We practice Advent as preparation for Christ’s birth: it seems we should do something as preparation for His resurrection! But denial of something I like (chocolate, cokes, etc.) did not really seem to me the way to prepare.
Since reaching out in love to others, even those who are not the “loveliest”, is the thing Jesus did, it seems to be a great way to prepare for Easter. The art of communicating through hand written notes has nearly vanished, so what a great way to reach out & give the love of Christ to others! I”m going to get out my note cards & stamps, make the time to put some thought into this, and prepare for the greatest event of all time – the resurrection of the Living God, Jesus Christ!
How awesome that you wrote this blog today! I grew up in a typical Catholic family and we always gave up something during Lent. Just yesterday I told my husband that I want to do something in Jesus’ name rather than give up something. I love your idea, Karen!!
I love this idea, but I think I might change it up a little bit. I’ve been SWAMPED at work and hardly seeing my kiddos so I think I’m going to make it a point to give both kids and my DH at least one note each per week… stealth notes in their backpacks or lunchboxes. And HOPEFULLY after our big meeting tomorrow where I present the report I’ve been working onfor over a month… I’ll have more time as well. God Bless!
Thanks for sharing this great idea! The Catholic church is stressing more and more these days to “give up” something that will “give to” others, such as your idea of giving up some time to write to others.
I first have to say, that desk is adorable, ohhhh I want one. Gotta get myself to some yard sales, sheesh.
Your lenten sacrifice is awesome! Oh what rewards that will reap, what blessings you will extend. That’s just lovely Karen.
Down to the last hour, I decided (after I fought to find something, ANYTHING, else) to give up drinking as much coffee as I normally do. I’m having only 1 cup a day, instead of my usual at least 2-3 a day.
That would be nice to win the note cards. I have a friend that is taking her vows to be a nun this year and she would be the recepient of my writing on those.
I am Catholic and for years I have been adding things instead of giving up. In fact, I just got back from Ash Wendesday Mass and our pastor reminded us to add things and not just give up chocolate. I have also kept ajournal and prayed for whoever the Holy Spirit put on my heart for the day. I ended up praying for some interesting people that I would never have thought of on my own!
This is a wonderful idea! I don’t do anything for Lent but this I would do. I would love to get a special note from a friend so I’m sure others would in turn enjoy receiving a note and this seems to be something that is less frequently done with texting, emails, etc… Thank you for the idea.
I have been wanting to so something like this. Thanks for the motivation!! I was looking at the clearance valentines/ words of encouragement to hand out to random people.. My sister in Christ came over yesterday for coffee and she was saying she felt like she should give a card to her doctor that seemed down at her last appointment. I encouraged her to do so. I do not observe lent but i am so willing to take on the spread of encouragement! God Bless.
What an awesome idea!! I have not celebrated Lent before but have felt led to do so this year. So, I am giving up my soda. Maybe the writing of the notes will help keep my mind off the Diet Pepsi
and of course I will be led to pray for those I am sending the notes to. Blessings to you!!
I am definitely doing this!! As I read all the previous comments, I am struck at how such a wonderful God inspired idea will touch so many hearts. If each person who has commented sends out 40 cards of thank you’s and encouragement, that’s a lot of blessed hearts and souls ministered to!
Thank you!
What a beautiful idea, a wonderful way to stay in touch in such a good way! I love it when I get “real” mail! Thank you – will have to write a note to someone!
Every year I give something up for lent by taking something on. This year I am giving up “self” and taking on random acts of kindness.
What a tremendous idea!
The truth be told…I was just wondering what all this lent business is myself… I see people talking about what they want to “give up” and my first thought is hmmmm…I would be happy to give up doing laundry…exercise (not that I do a whole lot of that anyways) or sushi (yick). Note writing to encourage is one of my favorite activities and I love your idea to give to others by giving up your time 
Karen, thanks for the wonderful idea. While we are to be the hands of feet Jesus ongoing, what an idea to elevate that further at Lent to keep ourselves focused on others. In the day of digital, letter writing is becoming a lost art. In our hurried, Starbucks world, taking the time to show our appreciation to others in a letter is a previous gift.
As always I heart you and your obedience to our Father.
Love this! I just received difficult news about my own health (breast cancer) and this is a perfect opportunity for me to let people know they are loved and what they really mean to me RIGHT NOW. While I expect to come through this new adventure just fine (God’s peace is ever present!), I will have time to love on others as they have loved on me through the years. Wonderful idea I wish I’d acted on each time I was prompted. Thank you Karen!