Ever stare into the refrigerator knowing you want something... but unable to identify what you want? Perhaps there are other hungers in your life, too.
It goes without saying that there is a lot of hunger in the world. Certainly, there is hunger for basic nourishment. I believe we are called to try to alleviate hunger in the world. No one should ever have to go to bed with an empty belly. Many of us make an intentional effort to focus on this type of hunger during Lent and often make special donations to feed the hungry.
However, today I want you to reflect on a different type of hunger. We all have a hunger inside. What do you hunger for? What is missing in your life? Do you long for something you can name? Or is your longing indistinct and frustrating?
Sometimes I wander into the kitchen at night and just open the refrigerator or the pantry and stand there and stare inside. I want something, but I can't always put my finger on what it is I want. Sometimes I know I want something sweet. Other times I want something salty. Most times I have no idea. I usually end up settling for something that ends up being unsatisfying.
Lent is an excellent time to figure out what it is you hunger for. Do you long for a creative outlet? Do you hunger for a passionate relationship or for renewed passion in your existing relationships? Are you wandering about from job to job, relationship to relationship, or task to task and yet feel unsatisfied?
Often we know something is missing, but we can't quite put our finger on what it is that we want. Reflect for a time today on what it is you hunger for, and then ask God to open the doors that will lead you to true satisfaction. Then resolve to stop using your resources and precious energies on those things that bring you no satisfaction, and focus on the thing that you really hunger for.
Teresa Angle-Young is providing articles about the Christian season of Lent and ways we all can join in the practice of Lent. She is a pastor who is simply seeking God, loving neighbors, and trying to follow Jesus.
