What is Lent?

Have you noticed the television commercials produced by Hallow recently? Whether you are Catholic or not, it’s encouraging to see actor Mark Wahlberg and Jonathan Roumie (lead actor of The Chosen series who plays the character of Jesus) stop the Superbowl (and each of us daily as we watch primetime TV shows), to pray during Lent.

What is the significance of Lent? Lent is defined in the Christian Church as the period preceding Easter devoted to fasting, abstaining from indulging in negative behaviors, and turning away from sin (doing things our way instead of God’s). It is done in commemoration of Christ’s fasting in the wilderness for the 40 days where he defeated Satan’s temptations (Matthew 4). In the Western world it runs from Ash Wednesday to the Saturday before Easter Sunday and includes 40 weekdays.

Lent prepares us to celebrate Jesus’ death on the cross (to pay the penalty for our sins) and to rejoice in His resurrection (guaranteeing us life eternally with Him in heaven if we place our faith in Him).

Whether you choose to give up chocolate, coffee, or sweets for Lent or not, we can take a moment each day to reflect on the fact that Jesus gave up His life for us. We can call the God of the Universe Father because of Jesus’ willingness to sacrifice His life for us. Not only are we Jesus’ sisters and brothers but He sent His own Spriit to live in us so we can do the things He did to touch and care for those we meet daily. We contain God!

As we prepare to celebrate His resurrection which promises us a life in heaven with Him forever, let’s stop, realize, and appreciate all He went through to make this possible…and be grateful.

Let’s take a moment each day to turn our faces upward and say, “Thank you, Lord! Thank you!”

Remember, “And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.” ( 2 Cor. 9:8) It’s His promise. Take it to heart and believe. He stands ready to respond to your fasting and prayers today and every day.