LENT

I was asked recently why our church does not advocate the observance of Lent. I have to be honest. I am not an expert on the subject. Lent wasn’t talked about in the church where I grew up and it’s not been a tradition in any of the churches where I have pastored. As a child, the only friends I knew that celebrated Lent were my Catholic friends. I understand the concepts and principles involved and I realize it is gaining in popularity in today’s church culture, but it’s simply not something I have officially led as a local church emphasis.

The Lenten season consists of the 40 days prior to Easter in order for believers to prepare their hearts to celebrate Christ’s resurrection. Essentially, the person practicing lent gives up something they would ordinarily do during the 40 days. I’ve heard of people abstaining from caffeine, sweets, television, computers, chocolate, Pepsi, and cigarettes.

My understanding of Scripture is that the Old Testament practices and traditions are no longer required, but, at the same time, disciplining ourselves is always a good thing if done for the correct motive and purpose. For that reason, I would encourage the practice of lent by giving something up of value during this period to spend more time focusing on the true value of Christ. I see great opportunities here to build family traditions, celebrate Christ together, and personally build a person’s character in Christ.

Since I believe we are no longer bound by the Law, but live by grace, if a person wants to practice Lent, I think they should write their own rules based on what they want to accomplish and how disciplined they need to be. The key, however, is more about taking something on rather than giving something up. And for certain, if one is celebrating Lent in an effort to merit some extra measure of grace or favor from God, then clearly they have misconstrued the entire concept. The end goal is to take on more of Christ through giving up something of value. This is actually a good discipline to practice throughout the year.

However one celebrates or doesn’t celebrate Lent, we should all take time to prepare our hearts for Easter and remind ourselves of the sacrifice our Lord gave on our behalf. That has to be good for all believers.