How Should We Approach Lent?

It is that time of year where we as Christians come together and prepare to celebrate the Resurrection of Christ.  Many Christians look at this season as time to give up something to in return grow closer to God. It is a time for fasting and reflecting on the sacrifice of Christ’s body on the cross.  I have come to wonder in the last few years if Lent has become more about bragging about what one gives ups, or a diet  plan for seasoned believers?  I truly have no issue with people who participate in lent and believe that it is a good thing to do.  But I also believe that maybe we forgotten about how to go about it, the reality is lent is not in the bible.  No where do we find instructions on lent or that we are to do lent.   Yet it has found itself on the church calendar.  It is my understanding that it started early in church history but it appears that no one seems to know when or how. 

As I said before I find that Lent can be and should be a helpful part in our walk with Christ, now since it is a season of fasting let us take a look at what Christ tells about fasting.  In Matthew 6:16-18 Christ says this’ “when you fast, don’t make it obvious, as the hypocrites do, who try to look pale and disheveled so people will admire them for their fasting. I assure you, that is the only reward they will ever get. But when you fast, comb your hair and wash your face. Then no one will suspect you are fasting, except your Father, who knows what you do in secret. And your Father, who knows all secrets, will reward you.”  What lessons can we take from what Christ told the people about fasting?  First is that we should not be going around telling everyone that we fasting or what we have given up.  Lent season is not a contest to see who can give up the most.  This was a common practice among the religious types when Christ walked the earth they would walk around and let people know that they were fasting.  There are still some people out there who do the same thing, they want to receive praise and glory from people.  Make sure that you are not bragging to others about what you are doing. 

Make sure that whatever you give up is going to bring you closer to God.  Don’t say I’m giving up sugar since I need to lose a few pounds anyway.  If you decide to give sugar then do because you want to be reminded of the sacrifice that Christ made on the cross.  Each time you want to want to grab a cookie and you don’t eat one, remember the sacrifice and thank God for His love.  When you are having that headache from sugar or caffeine withdrawal and you will have it, remember the cross and the beatings Christ took for your sins and praise God for your salvation.  Maybe you have decided to give up television, then make sure that the time you would have spent watching T.V. is spent studying God’s word and praying.  Remember fasting is about growing closer to God.  It is not about bringing glory to us but it is about bringing glory to God.  If you decide to Fast this Lent make out a plan, let those close to know about it, not to brag but so they may help you do it.  If you decided to give up candy or caffeine, don’t make a big deal about it to everyone.  Let us make this Lenten season about God.