Lent 2009 - I Can Repent 365 Days a Year and So Who Needs Lent?
The Christian calendar can be most helpful in sharpening our focus upon God and his work within us and in the world. During the 40 days of Lent Christians devote themselves to fasting and praying with an emphasis on repentance and renewed reliance upon God. (From Ash Wednesday to Easter is 46 days, but the six Sundays are not considered lenten days as each Sunday is a celebration of the resurrection of Jesus.) There is a popularly held view moving people to disregard Lent: “Why should I fast and pray for 40 days on the church calendar when I can fast and pray 365 days of the year? Why should I focus on repentance during Lent when I can repent 365 days of the year?” This particular view has the potential of encouraging a Christian lifestyle bereft of fasting, prayer, repentance, and reliance upon God. Continue reading »
