Lent Season

I always wondered the importance of observing the “Lent Season”. Why is lent so important that some people insist of fasting during this period. Some go through total fast and some partial fast. The definition of fasting it self may differ base on various interpretation and exegesis of the scripture. In my opinion, fasting is the total form of abstinence from food. But beyond the act of abstinence from food, fasting means more to me. It is a time of reflection and waiting upon the Lord to seek His will and fulfilling His purpose in our lives. Fasting must be accompanied by relatively more time spent on prayer and meditation God’s Word. But why is it at “Lent Season”? The observation of the Lent season is solely historical and a tradition of the Church. It does not have any biblical base to its practice. I am shocked to see many lay people or even Pastors holding a very high view of the lent season and consider it to be a “holy” month. They insist the church to have mass and services through out the month and people are strongly encouraged to fast. These requirements are never Biblical in its essence. This is a German influence after the reformation period that has slowly become the tradition of many churches over the years (mainly observed by main line churches). The word “Lent” it self derives from a German word. This season of the year has been set a side for each believer in Christ to ponder upon His suffering for all of mankind and to evaluate our life and spiritual journey in the light of Christ suffering in a more discipline way through fasting and constant prayer.

I am totally in agreement with the purpose of observation; however I tend to disagree with the methods employed. Why should we be too rigid of the particular 40 days? We tend to give value to number and dates when we observe certain period as sacred above the other. I strongly feel, that a life of a believer should always reflect the suffering and glory of Christ – not only restricted to a season. Thus we should not restrict or confine our time of reflection in our spiritual journey only to “lent” by being rigid in observing the ritual behind it, but, live a reflective life in all seasons for the glory of the risen Lord.
Happy Easter and God Bless us all.