Lenten Reflections

During the season of Lent, which began on Ash Wednesday and ends on Easter Sunday, many people change their eating habits. Some may

give up sweets or meat, while others may engage in some form of fasting. All of this may carry some benefits, but I think for Christians the Lenten season should be more than another opportunity to become a vegan or to lose weight.

Why observe Lent?

The forty days leading up to Easter are an opportune time for prayer and fasting and drawing closer to God. It is a time when we remember the great sacrifice that Jesus made on our behalf. He left His splendid home in heaven and came down to earth to die on a cruel Roman cross so that we could spend eternity with Him in heaven. Just thinking about it is enough to make us give up all of our bad habits and re-dedicate our lives to Him. Lent is a time when we attempt to empty ourselves and come bare before the cross to find cleansing and healing. As Jesus suffered and died on Calvary, so we too should be willing to suffer and die (to self) with Him.

Lent should be a period of austerity that prepares us for the grand celebration of Easter. This is the day we commemorate Jesus' resurrection from the dead. Contrary to what some religions teach, Jesus literally died on the cross and He literally rose from the grave on Easter Sunday morning (Matthew 28: 1 - 10).

What should we reflect on during Lent?

Our Lord taught us many lessons while He was here on earth, but during the brief period from His arrest to His crucifixion and resurrection, He showed us many examples that we should follow if we are to be His disciples.

Lenten reflections will continue next week.

If you and your family are looking for cards, gifts and decor to celebrate the Easter season, why not check out the link below? There is something for everyone.