I was recently asked a question: Why do non-Catholics observe Lent? I’ve never heard of anyone but Catholics observing Lent until recently.
That is a really good question and here’s my answer:
The reason I chose to observe Lent this year is because I like the basic concept. I have a hard time giving up my computer time in the mornings, so I gave my morning computer time up to the Lord. It’s my gift to Him during these 40 days leading up to Easter.
As Christians, every Sunday is a celebration of the resurrection. Most of us don’t think about that each week. We usually wait until Easter. By setting aside these 40 days from Ash Wednesday (the day to think about our sin and repent) to Easter, it helps me to focus on the fact that I am a sinner saved by grace, that Jesus died for me, and that He rose from the dead.
Each morning, I turn away from my computer, and dwell on His gift to me instead. I’m reminded that everything we do we should do for the Lord. All my hope lies in Him. It’s been wonderful.
Aside from Ash Wednesday, the Lent season also observes Holy Week. The week where they had their last supper, Jesus was betrayed, beaten and crucified.
One cool thing I found out is that it includes Holy Saturday. Have you ever wondered why Jesus died on Friday and arose Sunday? Could it be He rested on the Sabbath day? Friday sundown to Saturday nightfall (about 40 minutes after sunset) is the Jewish Shabbat or Sabbath. Easter ends the Lent season with the celebration of the resurrection of Jesus. It really shouldn’t be any different than any other Sunday which should be celebrated, but it’s become the norm to only celebrate the resurrection at Easter.
I can’t speak to why other non-Catholics choose to observe Lent, but I would think it is for similar reasons. I wrote about my decision here.
I’m hoping to continue thinking of every Sunday as resurrection Sunday after these 40 days. I’m also hoping to learn more about the Jewish celebrations, customs, etc. because Jesus is a Jew. God’s chosen people are Jews. I want to know more about Israel and Bible times. As I learn more, I will learn to walk more like those Christians, my brothers and sisters, who went before me.
I’m rambling. 🙂 Just some thoughts.