Lenten Sacrifice

.

It is customary, Lord
to give something up
during the season of Lent
What would you have me do without?
I who have so much
Chocolate?
Cream cakes?
Cigarettes?
Sweets?
Swearing?
The list is endless
and I could give up all those things
for the span of 40 days
quite easily and almost painlessly
But what difference would it make
other than making me feel 'holier'
that my friend who makes no such sacrifice

What would you have me do without?
I who have so much
Selfishness?
Conceit?
Envy?
Pride?
I fear before I ask
that the answer might be 'yes'
and the giving up
would be all too real, Lord
it would be difficult
painful
sacrificial
a real cross to carry for 40 days
and more?

- John Birch

.