Lent is the season of soul-searching and repentance. Lent originated in the very earliest days of the Church as a preparatory time for Easter, when the faithful rededicated themselves and when converts were instructed in the faith and prepared for baptism.
Lent lasts for 40 days, which represents the 40 days that Jesus wandered in the wilderness fasting and being tempted by Satan. During Lent, some give up something that they may really like to do, or something they really enjoy and have often. Examples of what people give up for Lent include video games, candy, pop, television, etc.
I asked a student how he felt about lent, and if he was giving anything up, he replied, “I really enjoy the lent season because it provides me with a challenge like how Jesus was challenged. Though what I am doing is not as hard, I will still do my best. I am going to give up pop for the lent season.” This is the mindset for most people who go through lent. They want to challenge themselves in a way that they can try to glorify God.
Ash Wednesday is the first day of lent. The Sunday of the Passion or Palm Sunday begins the last week of Lent, known as Holy Week. During this holiest time of the church year, the worship services relive the final week of our Lord's human life. Holy Week includes Maundy Thursday, when Christians observe Christ's "Last Supper," the institution of the Sacrament of Holy Communion, and the command to serve one another in love. Good Friday honors the imprisonment, trial, and death by crucifixion of Jesus.
Not everyone celebrates lent, but for those that do, it is a meaningful 40 days in which they celebrate Jesus’ life.
By: Andrew Mason
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