We are in the Lent season. Last Monday marked the beginning of the ‘Great Lent’ for Orthodox Christians.
What is the Great Lent?
The Great Lent commemorates the 40 days Jesus spent in the desert following his baptism and prior to his beginning his official ministry. For Catholics it’s a 40 day Lent (it begins on Ash Wednesday) while for the Orthodox Christians the duration of Lent is 50 days. Palm Sunday and Good Friday are part of the Lenten season. The Lent ends on Easter Sunday with the celebrations of Jesus’ resurrection.
What is the significance of Lent?
Lent is a period of self denial. It’s a span of time where you give up something you like and try to live without it. It’s not always the easiest thing to do. Many people fast, people abstain from meat, fish, milk etc. But these are just the physical side of Lent. It’s a period of time when you try to be closer to God through prayers, abstinence and charitable deeds. Apart from these, one is supposed to reconcile with ones enemies, confess the sins and become a new being by the end of this Holy period.
What are the other aspects of Lent?
Lenten season gives us an opportunity to introspect ourselves, our relationship with others and our relationship with God. It’s not only about giving up your food but also about saving that money for charitable purposes. It’s not only about experiencing hunger but also about thinking for the millions without food and basic necessities. It’s not about showing others how pious you are but about strengthening your personal relationship with God. It’s all about submitting ourselves to God, taking a stock of our lives and transforming our lives for the better.
Have a blessed Lent!!!
