I found out quite late that yesterday was Ash Wednesday -
that is the flag-off ceremony for Lent, if you were not aware.
To educate those that don't know, Lent is supposed to be a
period of fasting and sober reflection; a time where excesses are cut off etc.
One of my relatives died around this period many years ago and we had to
postpone her burial till after Lent. It's not that you can't bury Catholics
during Lent but you can't par-teeh...And my people wanted to par-teeh (Please
don't let me start my tirade on the whole par-teehing thing...). One is
expected to do things in moderation.
While participating in the National Youth Service scheme, I
learnt a hymn that had these lines "I'll be a true soldier, I'll die at my
post". As I reflected on the lines, I realised that I don't just want to
die at my post; I also want to live at my post. I don't want to do whatever I
like while I'm living then rush to my post to die, lol.
In my opinion, that's what many do during Lent. They indulge
in unwholesome behaviour at other times and try to atone for it during Lent.
This can't be what Jesus died for, can it? I like the idea of fasting, sober
reflection and living in moderation. My point is, please don't restrict it to
Lent. The 'sacrifice' of Lent will not atone for the wickedness of the other
periods.
Jesus talked about taking up our cross DAILY. He was not
talking only to Catholics; it concerns you and I. Living in moderation is a
Biblical injunction. The Bible admonishes us to follow peace with ALL men
(including irritants) and holiness without which no man can see God.
Please let me know you read this by telling me the scriptures
that support the ideas propounded in this post, lol.
Have a blessed and productive day.
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