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March 04, 2009 >> 03:44:25 PM

Lent

'What are you giving up for Lent?' Such is the conversation among those who practice the traditional season of self-denial.  It has given rise to the popular belief that Lent is only about deprivation of good things.  The idea of Lent is built upon the Biblical account of the 40 days Jesus spent fasting in the wilderness after his baptism by John (Matthew 4:1-11). 

Lent begins on Ash Wednesday (see previous post) and is forty days long (excluding Sundays which are mini-feast days in celebration of the Resurrecton).  It is traditional to give up luxuries during this time, often this includes meat (hence the fish fry), chocolate, alcohol, soda (or all caffine), tv, internet, video games.  The sacrifice is as unique as the individual doing the fast. (I tried to give up chemistry homework in high school, it didn't go over so well).  The purpose of giving up something is to remember that every aspect of life is dependent on the gracious provision of God.  It also allows for simplifying life from unnecessary things so that God is worshipped with fewer distractions.  A modern twist on 'giving up something' is to add something (which normally necessitates giving up something else so there is room) such as reading the Bible, spending more time in prayer, etc. Lent ends with the celebration of Easter and Resurrection Life.

Lent is a season of somber reflection on the fallen state of humanity, both universally and individually.  It is a time to confess how far we have strayed from a loving obedience to the will of God.  It is a time to remember that we are weak and helpless apart from the saving mercies of the Lord.  And it is a call to remember the high cost of that love, made evident in the Incarnation of Jesus Christ.

Resources
Wikipedia
United Methodist Resources
The Voice
Lutheran Church - Missouri Synod 

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