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Today is Ash Wednesday…and the beginning of Lent. Ash Wednesday marks the first day of Lent. Its also known as the Christian season of preparation before Easter (40 Days prior to Easter). For many Lent is a time when Christians prepare for Easter by observing a period of fasting, repentance, moderation and spiritual discipline. This time is a time that is set aside to focus on Jesus and his suffering and sacrifice (life, death, burial and resurrection).
Not all Christians observe the season of Lent, however, since I have known about it I usually pick something to give up. If Jesus can give his Life for me, surely I can give up some of the things I really love for Him.
In the past I have given up things like…Facebook, Hamburgers, Chipotle, Social Media Altogether, Meat on Certain Days…
Here are other ideas of things people give up each year…
This year I am giving up meat for two days a week, and sweets. Over the last year to two years, I have become addicted to sweets. I decided to give this up not only during Lent but I need to continue this after Lent is over. So my plan is to put myself in position to make healthier choices. I also plan to give up meat two days a week…this is to help me also with making better choices and because I eat meat with each meal.
Along with fasting, you are expected to meditate on the scripture and pray.
“We come to Lent for refreshment. We fast – be it from a comfort or a thing, an action or an indulgence – to receive.
We give up that which we do not need to live, to gain that which we cannot live without: more Jesus.”
Scriptures of Repentance and Mourning…
2 Samuel 13:19; Ester 4:1; Job 2:8; Daniel 9:3; and Matthew 11:21
Will you be participating in Lent this year?
