Each year, Christians observe the six weeks leading up to Easter as the season of Lent.  More specifically, it stretches from Ash Wednesday until Easter (March 5 to April 20 this year).  But that’s 46 days!  Yet we refer to Lent as 40 days because we don’t count the Sundays.

Why not?  Lent is a penitential season, wherein we lament our sinfulness and remember Christ’s suffering on our behalf.  Traditionally, many Christians have practiced fasting during Lent; that is giving up something enjoyable during the season.  But Sundays are always a celebration of Christ’s resurrection–a foretaste of heaven’s banquet!  Therefore, fasting was not practiced on Sundays.

That’s why Lent has 40 days of fasting, but takes 46 days to accomplish.

Now, whether you give up something during Lent is entirely up to you.  It’s a good, traditional practice, but it is not a commandment. It has some practical benefits too, because it encourages you to be more disciplined.  But don’t treat this tradition like a commandment.  And certainly don’t make it a vow to God!

Jesus said, “Do not take an oath at all, either by heaven, for it is the throne of God, or by the earth, for it is his footstool… Let what you say be simply ‘Yes’ or ‘No’” (Matthew 5:33-37).

So here’s how to do it.  Pick something you enjoy which you plan to deny yourself during Lent.  In the past, I have picked things like soft drinks, and social media.  Tell a spouse or friend your intent.  I find I have more success if I set up a bit of peer pressure for myself.  And then, do your best! 

When you deny yourself, you will feel it.  It will not be comfortable.  That’s a good time to remember what the Son of God suffered when he took on flesh and blood so he could bear your sins and be your Savior.  And when you feel it, rejoice!  Remember that God loves you so much that He sent His beloved Son to pay for your sins on the cross.

And if you break your fast before Lent is over, no worries.  In that case, remember, “Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights…” (James 1:17).  Therefore, give thanks to God for all the good, enjoyable things He has provided you, most especially your salvation and eternal life.  If you want to resume your fast, do so.  If you don’t, then don’t.  Either way, to God be the glory.  Amen.

Yours in Christ,
Rev. Patrick Cox