Tonight at midnight begins the first day of Lent also known as Ash Wednesday. In Christianity, Lent is a time of penance, prayer, preparation for or recollection of baptism, and preparation for the celebration of Easter. Many people celebrate Lent during the 40 days prior to Easter. I am a Southern Baptist and traditionally we do not recognize Lent as a part of our calendar. Having grown up in a Baptist church that is more liturgical, I do recognize Lent as a time for me to reflect on the love and grace of God that gives me eternal life thought I do not deserve it. There is a Lent study guide that I find very helpful. You can follow it on a daily basis here.
Many people chose to give up something for Lent instead of fasting of all food. Some fast for the entire 40 days, some give up some favorite food or beverage. Some try to be nicer people or go to church more. This Lent I am going to be obedient to the Holy Spirit and am going to give up a particular habit related to food. What it is does not matter. God and I know what it is and He knows how hard this will be for me. Romans 6-8 tells us that we can not continue in sin. I have a particular sin that keeps me from being my best for the cause of Christ. I have confessed it time and time again. For Lent, I am going to spend time daily in prayer and reading the Word so that I can use these 40 days to study how to overcome this sin. Hebrews 4: 14-16 says,
My habit is a habit that has developed over 25 years. It will not be an easy habit to overcome but Christ that says He has overcome the world. Draw near to the throne of grace with me over the next 40 days as we prepare to celebrate the greatest gift a Father has ever given His children, eternal life.
14 Since then we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. 15 For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. 16 Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.
thats wonderful you are celebrating Lent.
Is this your first Lenten Fast? It will be a first for me.
Deb
p.s. I found you through Missey's blog replies. Thanks for your thoughts about her here. I didn't know her but her death has moved and touched me.
Posted by: Deb | March 03, 2006 at 04:58 PM