That is what the LORD says, "Turn to me now, while there is time. Give me your hearts" Joel 2:12a

Ash Wednesday is the beginning of the season of Lent. During this time, Christians pray, fast and give. As an individual or family, I encourage you to begin this season with a mindfulness of what Christ has done for us. God loved us so much that He sent His own Son to die as a sacrifice so that through His blood, we are forgiven and made right with God.

The ancient prophet Joel calls on us to repent; to turn around and place our eyes on God and follow God's commands. We are told to give God our hearts. Take a minute to think about what giving our hearts to God means and what it might look like.

How can we give our hearts to God? One way is to observe Lent.

Pray - Developing a habit of personal prayer combined with corporate prayer creates a complete prayer life.

Fast: Consider giving something up that has value in your life. Fasting is spiritual and physical purification. The desire for the thing we have given up reminds us of our desire for God.

Give: Charitable giving is an ancient practice. Giving puts the needs of others before our own. The cross teaches us compassion. The sharing of material goods with others is the first step in Christian giving.

For more ideas check out:

• 40 Things Kids Can Give Up For Lent

• What To Give Up for Lent - Ideas

• 10 Things You Can Do As a Family For Lent & 10 Things Your Family Can Give Up for Lent