Return to your God, hold fast to love and justice and wait continually for your God. Hosea 12:6

I think one of the reasons Martin Luther posted his 95 theses was because he was hungry. Not because his monastery had a lack of food. But there were times he was expected to fast for long periods. Perhaps this wasn’t his biggest issue with the Catholic church but it is why today, we, as Lutherans, aren’t required to give up anything for Lent (although it is still encouraged in some circles).

It’s a common question at school or your place of business, “What are you giving up for Lent?” As if there’s a competition to see who can give up the most difficult thing, who can suffer the most for six weeks and come out with bragging rights at the end. When asked, I always say I’m giving up lima beans and brussel sprouts (neither of which I eat anyway, but don’t tell anyone).

When you decide to give up something like fast food (one of my many vices) are you giving it up for your own health, or God, or both? By giving up those delicious burgers and fries for six weeks does this mean you love God more than anybody else does? No. Lent is supposed to be a time of preparing, just as Advent is before Christmas. The purpose of giving something up is not a bad idea in theory—it is supposed to help us keep our eyes on Jesus—but when it ends up being a contest, the intent has been changed. Lent is the time we should return to God.

As a woman living alone in her first apartment, there are many food items I should give up, such as eating out to save on money, or eating Top Ramen to save my arteries. If I decided to give these up, I would no longer be focused on God—I would only be concentrating on the items I couldn’t have.

Nowhere in the New Testament does it say: “On Friday, thou can only eat fish, or that thou must give up something for Lent.” Lent did not exist, although Fasting has been done since the beginning of time. And it can be a marvelous thing when done in the proper context of constant prayer in full connection with God.

If that is what you are called to do, then by all means, go for it. On the other hand, if you see that you are doing it for all the wrong reasons, stick to moderation when it comes to your worst food habits, get in a good small group for growth and discipleship during Lent, and find time for prayer. And all will be well with your soul. In essence, return to your God.

Laura Johnson is the alternative newspaper editor in Sioux City, Iowa. In her spare time she attempts to avoid fast food restaurants and find time to write for herself. Easter is her favorite holiday.