By T.J. Burdick, Catholic Exchange - Lenten sacrifices are such a sliding scale both physically and spiritually that, sometimes, it’s hard to figure out our true motive for making them. Do I fast to lose a couple pounds or to build up my spiritual reserves (Mt. 17:21)? Do I pick up a Lenten devotional because that’s what everyone else in my parish is doing or because I truly desire holiness? Do I give a little bit more to my tithe so that I can get more back on my tax refund or because my diocese can fund our local soup kitchen?... The answers to these questions, of course, are deeply personal. They are also complex, paradoxical, even.