Retort to the short answer: Self-denial, in theory, isn’t practiced for its own sake.

Long answer: The denial of the flesh in, say, fasting for Lent, serves the end of heightening the awareness of the spirit, to draw the one fasting closer into communion with G-d. Fasting in particular is a time of intense physical purification, which correlates with spiritual sanctification. Each process leaves us aware of our own weakness, and yet lightened of our dependencies, our passions, our cravings.

We deny ourselves for the sake of intercession, or for sanctity in a feast day, or to prepare ourselves to receive the Eucharist, or to restore our awareness of co-suffering with Christ. I suspect you need to know you’re doing it, otherwise you’re probably not. On the other hand, Yeshua taught that if other people can see you’re denying yourself, then you’re also probably not. It’s not for show, really.

Summary of the long answer: Self-denial for the sake of self-denial is irrational.

As for being commissioned to compose an original piece, I have to say, that sounds mighty interesting. The church that I belong to is actually in the final stages of completing our very own church building – we’re hoping to occupy the building this summer – 2010. We will be having a dedication service likely in the fall (September?) and the choir will be involved with that. What kind of price would you request to compose a piece? Could we supply you with a Bible verse(s) for you to work with? Perhaps you could email me privately? doulanic@gmail.com