THE SEASON OF LENT




An important season in the life of a Christian has just begun. It is not a season related to weather but rather a time of reflection as a follower of Jesus. It is the season of Lent.

Lent is an important season in the life of a follower of Jesus. Many people think about the things they will give up, but let us also consider what we will give back to God during this time.

There are two major seasons of importance in the life of a Christian. One is Advent, the time leading up to the celebration of the birth of Jesus. And we have entered the other season, Lent, the 40 days (excluding Sundays) prior to Easter Sunday. Lent is a time of self-examination and introspection of our spiritual lives and a time of repentance to prepare for Easter. These are, of course, things that should mark believers' lives throughout the year, but Lent is a time in which we give particular focus to this aspect of life.

GIVING SOMETHING UP

One practice that is commonly associated with Lent is fasting. Again, this is a spiritual discipline that should be a part of our lives all year long but is often neglected. Many people will fast during Lent, even if they do not fast the rest of the year. Often this is not a traditional fast, in which one will abstain from food for a period of time, but it takes the form of "fasting something" during the 40 days of Lent. People often speak of what they are "giving up" for Lent. The idea is that they will deny themselves (fast) something that is of value to them during the whole of the Lenten season. It may be chocolate, sweets, television, social media, coffee, or any number of other things. The thought is for this sacrifice to be offered as a means of seeking God more diligently. Every time one doesn't eat sweets or drink coffee, or whatever the "fast" maybe, it is a reminder that the purpose of their abstaining is to seek God.

GIVING BACK TO GOD

Fasting is an extremely important spiritual discipline. I want to encourage everyone to fast, and not just during Lent. It is important and helpful for many reasons. It has been a regular practice in my life for over 40 years, which is the vast majority of my Christian life. I do not want to discourage fasting of any type. However, I suggest that we consider what we might add to our lives this Lent, not simply what we may subtract. As we have considered what we will give up for God, let us also consider what we will give to God.

  






Reference: 

https://www.123rf.com/photo_118980976_good-friday-lent-season-and-holy-week-concept-a-religious-cross-and-palm-leaves-on-purple-background.html

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