The Lenten Season

“Son of Adam , remember you are dust, and to dust you shall return” Yesterday was Ash Wednesday, the first day of the Lenten season.  Many Churches and Christians will partake in Lent this year.  It is a time in which an increased emphasis is placed on penitence and fasting. During this time Christians will usually abstain from a substance (coffee, sugar, meat), or from an activity (watching television, internet use).  The purpose of abstaining is to devote ourselves to Christ more fully; to empty ourselves of distraction, so as to focus on Christ; to create a greater dependence upon Him. The Lenten season prepares our beings (heart, mind and soul) for Easter.  It also is meant to mimic and remind us of Christs 40 days in the desert.  He fasted during that period and withstood the temptations of the flesh.  We too, through Christ, endure temptation and by His grace can overcome.  The Lenten season reminds us of how weak we are but, as it leads up to Easter, reminds us that we have a Savior who has overcome.