From Ben – 5 March 2017

Have you noticed that the shops are already full of Easter eggs and hot cross buns? It did not take the retailers long to cash in on yet another religious holy time. I have also noticed that there is quite a lot of talk about lent. Lent is an event recognized by the more traditional side of the Christian church. People deprive themselves of predetermined privileges or types of food or entertainment until Easter. The general idea is to prepare body and soul to take part as meaningfully as possible in the holy week (Easter). I have never seen Biblical evidence where we are called to participate in this type of abstinence. In many ways, it is the invention and religious rules of the church in history.

Having said that, I still think there is merit in preparing our hearts and lives for Easter. Not that we set up our own system of self-deprivation, but rather spiritual improvement. What about setting a time to read the 4 gospel accounts of the cross or to read a devotional book on the cross, or to meditate and pray a little each day focusing on all that Christ has done for you in his death and resurrection? I am not advocating we start a lent ritual, but I am encouraging you to put extra time into preparing yourself for the most meaningful Easter you have ever had. Significantly there are about 40 days before Easter. 40 days has always been God’s period for preparation.