Finding Delight amist the limitations

Okay, so we are moving into third week of Lent. We are approaching the mid-point and I don’t know about you but I am amazed at how my body is adjusting to the changes I’ve made. (In the Springer family we have given up a variety of things—no caffeine, chocolate, processed foods, added food coloring…. Now don’t think we are being martyrs! In fact most of this is because of a new diet restriction Grace has been put on, but that is an entirely different story).

As a family, we are learning how to cook all over again as we figure out what foods we can and can’t eat. Most people’s responses when they hear about our diet restrictions offer words of solace and almost sympathy as they immediately focus on the limitations of this diet. However, I am thankful and even take delight in this change. Sure it has been difficult, sure I would enjoy not to cook at least three full meals a day—but through it I have been able to see a fullness and variety of foods that I had had never experienced before.

And as time has passed, I’m also noticing how much my body isn’t craving things that it used to. In fact it is pretty amazing how adaptable I am becoming. I have actually looked forward to eating things such as fresh bell peppers and quinoa! And each night, I have noticed I am thinking less and less about making cookies and cakes to finish off our meals. In fact, I would say each day I am thinking less and less about what I gave up and instead thinking more about what I am able to enjoy!

And isn’t that what giving up things is all about? Quite naturally our focus shifts from a inward focus of what “we are missing” and instantaneously our focus shifts outward to simply enjoying the moments, the presence…or more importantly savoring all of what God has created us to experience.

And this made me think—how often do we tend to stick with what is familiar and comfortable that we miss out on the fullness of God’s beauty and grace? How often do we settle for what is familiar rather than pushing ourselves to experience new things?
We often talk about having desert experiences because through them we are able to reach the mountaintop, however I’m challenged today to see the joy and beauty amidst the desert. We don’t need to wait until Easter or the end of this Lenten season to experience the fullness of God’s presence. He is already here and probably more prevalent if you are ready to simply look from a new perspective! What can you more fully experience because of what you gave up?