By the Way: Lent is the season of self discipline

By Rev. Kristy Reimers-Loader on February 17, 2024.

Are you bored? Listless? Can’t decide what to order in for supper? Too many channels on TV? Do you ever wonder how some people always seem to be active and motivated to realize their goals? One possible answer: Self-discipline.

Experts point to the good that can come of being able to push yourself, maintain motivation, and get things done, no matter how you might be feeling in your body, mind, or soul. By the way, did you know Lent started this past Wednesday?

Traditionally in this 40-day period – the Sundays aren’t counted – Christians are encouraged to practice self-discipline by foregoing their ordinary pleasures in favour of focusing on penitence, spiritual reflection and special devotions in anticipation of Easter. ‘But,’ you might be saying, ‘that doesn’t sound like a lot of fun.’

Well, that depends… If being able to put off indulging yourself for a little while for the sake of reaching your goals and enjoying your life even more in the future sounds appealing, then self-discipline might be the skill to master.

Self-discipline has many benefits, including feeling happier, stronger, and more peaceful. Think of it as believing in your ability to be your best self and pursuing that as a goal. Plus, your relationships with others will improve, and you’ll be more resilient in responding to setbacks when they happen in your life.

Millions of Christians can testify to the transformative power of Lenten discipline. Why not make Lent your model for self-discipline as part of your journey to physical, mental, and spiritual health and wholeness? P.S. – I’m nowhere near to mastering this myself, but we’re all works in progress, friends, so let’s be gracious while we’re at it.

Rev. Kristy Reimers-Loader, priest in the Anglican Church of Canada

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