I am completely and utterly addicted to coffee. It's my lifeline. It gets me through the day- anywhere from 1-5 cups. If I don't have it I get wicked headaches. Not to mention that coffee tastes just plain amazing. Lattes, cappuccinos, caramel macchiatos, I love it all.
Last week I was spending some time with God and thinking about the beginning of Lent. I wasn't really going to give something up for Lent, mostly because I couldn't think of anything. I didn't want to be one of those Christians that gives up sweets because, well, "I shouldn't eat them anyway and it's really not that hard for me to give up." If I was going to give something up it was going to be something that was challenging for me. It needed to be a sacrifice. And then a single thought popped in my head. Coffee. Are you kidding me?! I cannot give up coffee, I love it too much... No... That's way too hard.
"Margaret, do it for Me." ...I started feeling completely convicted.
Then I started thinking about what Jesus gave up for me. His life. If Jesus could give up his life for me, someone completely unworthy, then I certainly could give up coffee for him. So thus begins the journey. 40 days without coffee- but also 40 days that I have a chance to reflect on the ultimate sacrifice that Jesus made on the cross. I don't think I understand the gravity of what Jesus did on the cross for me, but during these 40 days I'm on a journey to find out. Every time I want to reach for that cup of coffee or I'm plagued with a wicked caffeine headache I will reach out to Jesus. I will reflect on the word sacrifice and thank Jesus for giving up his life for me.
9 comments:
Girl, I respect you SO much for this! I'm hardcore addicted to coffee too. I drink about the same amount as you each day. Giving it up would be SO difficult, but awesome for listening to God!! You have such a great perspective! I know you'll be so blessed through this.
wow. that is a gutsy choice. I totally support you in this, you can do it! talk about a growing experience.
go margaret go!! you can do it :) I am the same way- i like when lent actually is something that has an impact, not just like, chocolate! haha :)
Ha! We are doing the same thing! I have been fasting coffee for almost two weeks now! It's super hard the first few days, not gunna lie to you, but it's all worth it. I have been seeing things more clear and God has spoken to me about many things. It's worth giving it up. Just pick up another vice, like chewing gum instead. I unfortunately gave up soda too, so I am drinking lots of water and sucking on lots of Lifesavers! Good luck! :-)
Love this. Love your dedication. Personally, for Lent, I gave up giving up things. ;)
Respect is a great word for your choice. I usually only drink my coffee in the morning. Then it's Sweet tea or water. Do you drink anything else with caffeine that might help with the headaches? They tell me they are tough!
I'm glad I managed to convince you! We'll get through this together, I'm trying to substitute for more water and energy smoothies :)
I felt like I had to do this too this past summer. I had been drinking coffee everyday since I was 13 and I LOVED it so much. I feel your pain. One day (after I surrendered to do it), I woke up and didn't want it. That had never happened to me before!!! It was totally God. I know He will do amazing things in your heart during these days. It is so beautiful that you are willing to do this for Him. Blessings, Jennifer
My professor in college created a poll where we got to vote on what she gave up for lent, and the winner was coffee! It was awesome to see how well she did at giving up something that was such a sacrifice for her.
I know you can do it!
Post a Comment