Answer:
Lent is a period of fasting, moderation, and self-denial traditionally
observed by Catholics and some Protestant denominations. It begins with Ash Wednesday and ends with Easter Sunday.
The length of the Lenten fast was established in the 4th century as 46
days (40 days, not counting Sundays). During Lent, participants eat
sparingly or give up a particular food or habit. It’s not uncommon for
people to give up smoking during Lent, or to swear off watching
television or eating candy or telling lies. It’s six weeks of
self-discipline.
Lent began as a way for Catholics to remind themselves of the value of
repentance. The austerity of the Lenten season was seen as similar to
how people in the Old Testament fasted and repented in sackcloth and
ashes (Esther 4:1-3; Jeremiah 6:26; Daniel 9:3).
However, over the centuries Lenten observances have developed a much
more "sacramental" value. Many Catholics believe that giving something
up for Lent is a way to attain God’s blessing. But the Bible teaches
that grace cannot be earned; grace is “the gift of righteousness”
(Romans 5:17). Also, Jesus taught that fasting should be done
discreetly: “When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for
they disfigure their faces to show men they are fasting. I tell you the
truth, they have received their reward in full. But when you fast, put
oil on your head and wash your face, so that it will not be obvious to
men that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen”
(Matthew 6:16-18). Jesus’ command to “wash your face” seems to conflict
with the practice of rubbing ashes on one’s face on Ash Wednesday.
Fasting
can be a good thing, and God is pleased when we repent of sinful
habits. There’s absolutely nothing wrong with setting aside some time to
focus on Jesus' death and resurrection. However, repenting of sin is
something we should be doing every day of the year, not just for the 46
days of Lent.
If a Christian wishes to observe Lent, he is free to do so. The key is
to focus on repenting of sin and consecrating oneself to God. Lent
should not be a time of boasting of one’s sacrifice or trying to earn
God's favor or increasing His love. God’s love for us could not be any
greater than it already is.
Recommended Resources:
Logos Bible Software and
A Hunger for God by John Piper.
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