by Rev. Dr. Aric Fenske
For Christians, the season of Lent has historically been a season of repentance and increased devotion. By looking into our own sinful hearts, our faith in Christ is strengthened as we recognize our desperate need for the salvation He earned for us on Good Friday and Easter morning.
In addition to spending more time meditating upon the Word of God, it is common for Christians to practice other disciplines during the 40 days of Lent, such as increased time for prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. These are done, not to earn Christ’s forgiveness, but to refocus our hearts and minds on where they belong—on Christ and our neighbors.
For example, almsgiving, which is the practice of giving money to the poor or needy, helps to build godly virtue in us by detaching us from our worldly goods, which then encourages us to trust more in the Lord’s provisions and turns our attention away from our own needs and toward our brothers and sisters in need.
The practice of almsgiving goes hand in hand with the practice of fasting. Skipping meals or refraining from certain things builds self-discipline, reminds us of our reliance on God, and frees up extra time for prayer and meditation, along with extra money which can be given to those in need.
At Lutherans For Life, we recognize those needy ones as those who are most vulnerable: the unborn, women facing unexpected pregnancies, the disabled and mentally ill, the dying, and all those who cannot speak up for themselves.
During this Lenten season, as you seek to grow in your life of faith, we encourage you to take up the practice of almsgiving and remember these brothers and sisters in need.
Help us “equip Lutherans and their neighbors to be Gospel-motivated voices For Life” through your financial gift.
Please partner with us as we set aside a small amount each day of the 40 days of Lent to help with the mission of Lutherans For Life.
By setting aside a small amount together, we can have a significant impact on those who need our help the most.
To help make a profound difference in the lives of many and support our 40 Days campaign, you can donate in several ways:
If you would like to reach out to Dave Probst, Director of Development, about giving opportunities, please contact him at dprobst@lutheransforlife.org or 812.603.7970.