Excerpt from Romans 2:1-11

"Therefore you have no excuse, whoever you are, when you judge others; for in passing judgment on another you condemn yourself."

Reflection by Lillian Daniel

In our family we have a rule: Nobody can tell anybody else what they should give up for Lent.

You can imagine how we came up with such a rule. "So let's all go around the table and talk about what we're thinking about doing for Lent," quickly turned into, "I'll tell you what Dad should give up for Lent!"

Everyone's an expert about other people's spiritual welfare.

"Why give up sweets? You're already skinny."

"Cursing doesn't hurt anybody. What about global warming?"

"If you give up shopping and spending, it hurts the economy."

"You said you were giving up sweets, but I saw you eating ice cream straight out of the container after you thought we were all asleep!"

By now we are well into Lent and the things you gave up may be tempting you. Perhaps they already have. The good things you decided to do and add to your life may have proven harder to fit in than you thought.

But remember, whenever we try to get closer to God, it's only natural for the competition to show up. If Jesus had to fight off the devil's temptation in the desert, you know you'll have to as well.

Don't let other people's comments or judgments slow you down or discourage you. You know what you need to do for Lent, and God is still eager to help you do it.

Prayer

Jesus, give me strength when the devil tempts me with ridicule and criticism. I'm trying to follow you instead. Amen.

About the Author Lillian Daniel is the senior minister of the First Congregational Church, UCC, Glen Ellyn, Illinois. She is the author, with Martin Copenhaver, of This Odd and Wondrous Calling: the Public and Private Lives of Two Ministers.

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