Lent & Its Meaning

On February 18th we entered the 40 days of Lent season. It lasts through April 2nd leading up to Easter this year which is April 5th. The practice of Lent has ancient roots in early Christianity, dating back to the first centuries after Christ’s death and resurrection. The earliest Christians practiced fasting in preparation for Easter, even if it was for only one or two days. The main purpose was to focus more intentionally on Jesus and remembering the incredible price He paid for our salvation.

Lent has traditionally been marked by prayer, fasting, and charitable giving. As Southern Baptists we give to the North American Mission Board through the Annie Armstrong Easter Offering, which sends funds directly to our missionaries in North America. Our goal this year is $7500.

Some churches today still observe a schedule of fasting on certain days during Lent, especially the giving up of meat, sweets, and other types of food. For instance, some years I have given up all soft drinks – which I dearly enjoy – only to drink water or tea. What I have discovered is that every time I crave a soft drink, I think about the reason I am giving up this beverage and focus on the suffering and death of Jesus.

It is amazing how much this helps me get in focus and prepare for Easter. Most Christian churches that observe Lent use it as a time of prayer, repenting for failures and sin as a way to focus on the need for God’s grace. It is really a preparation to celebrate God’s marvelous redemption at Easter. I encourage everyone in these next few weeks leading up to Easter to spend more time in prayer, giving to the AAEO, and consider fasting in some way. Please pray daily for God to send us the right man as our new senior pastor. When we gather here Easter Sunday, April 5th , let us all commit to truly experiencing Christ’s resurrection in a powerful way.

Your servant, Phillip