The best place to start a conversation on Lent is first to ask, what exactly is it? Basic, general answer: Lent is a 40-day period before Easter every year, during which some folks (traditionally Catholic and some Protestant traditions) undergo an extended fast. It was established in the 4th century, and since then, participants will eat sparingly, give up a certain food, favorite activity, etc. The basis for this is the idea of repentance (complete with sackcloth, ashes, and fasting, found in places like Esther 4, Jeremiah 6, Daniel 9, and Mathew 11), for the sake of turning from sin and seeking forgiveness, and to display devotion and focus on Christ.
On a personal level then, in preparing our hearts we realize the depth of our sin, and thus appreciate God’s sacrifice and love; we reflect upon the selflessness and necessity of the crucifixion; we celebrate the amazing redemption accomplished in the Resurrection; we rest in God as sole provider of all our needs. As Advent is meant to prepare our hearts to reflect upon and rejoice in the incarnation of God the Son at the beginning of His life, so is Lent meant to prepare our hearts to reflect upon and rejoice in His resurrection and the hope of our eternal life.
Coming next: why do people give things up? And examining the motives behind that...
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