Lent is nearly at an end and you might know Christians who are already observing it. Why do they put a cross on their foreheads? Why do Christian fast during this time? How long does Lent last? These are some of the common questions asked about Lent.
When Does Lent Start and End?
Lent officially starts on Ash Wednesday and ends on Easter Sunday. Every year, Ash Wednesday starts on a different date. This year, 2018, it began on February 14. The observance lasts for six weeks, which loosely equates to 40 days.
Why these dates?
Good question. There are specific reasons why Lent begins on Ash Wednesday, ends on Easter, and then lasts for 40 days. The reason it starts on Ash Wednesday is because this marks the first day Jesus started His spiritual preparation by going to the desert and fasting for 40 days and 40 nights. Thus, Ash Wednesday has been regarded as the day for fasting, prayer, and repentance.
The reason why it ends on Easter Sunday is that this is the day Jesus was resurrected from the grave after the crucifixion. Of course, the reason why it lasts 40 days is that Jesus went through the preparation for 40 days as well.
What is the purpose of Lent?
The ultimate purpose of Lent is preparation. As Jesus spiritually prepared for his crucifixion for 40 days and nights, man is also preparing for Easter during this time. One of the reasons why Christians fast during Lent is to mimic what Jesus went through. Lent is the time of the year when Christians are really focused on penance, repentance, and prayer, along with giving up certain luxuries to depict Jesus' sacrifice.
Should you observe it?
The observation of Lent differs from one Christian to another, and perhaps, will vary from one church to another as well. However, observing Lent is more of a personal choice nowadays. While getting a mark on your forehead on Ash Wednesday and fasting are proper observances, you must still focus on what you need to achieve this Lent – your journey to Easter.
Spend this time to reflect and repent. Reflect on how you have been the past year and how to repent for the sins you committed. At the same time, focus your heart and mind on Jesus. Also, your church will likely devote the six Sundays to talking about Jesus' suffering, preparation, and resurrection. Take this time to understand further what Jesus went through and the reason why He sacrificed so much.
Lent is just six weeks in a year where you focus on God, which is just a little bit of sacrifice compared to what Jesus gave to us. If you have been observing Lent these past years, prepare more this 2018. And if you have not observed Lent yet, why not give it a try? You will be surprised at how much you can grow as a Christian and build a stronger relationship with God.
