What is LENT? ~ Do True Christians Observe This?

[Bible Speaks]

What is LENT? ~ Do True Christians Observe This? 

The 40-day fast of Lent is said to commemorate the 40-day fast of Christ. Yet, Jesus never commanded his disciples to commemorate his fast. Also, since Jesus fasted following his baptism and not before his death, the fact that some religions observe Lent in the weeks preceding Easter may seem strange. 

However, a 40-day fast in the early part of the year was common among ancient Babylonians, Egyptians, and Greeks. The so-called “Christian” custom was evidently borrowed from them. 

Futhemore, notice the connection between Mardi Gras and Lent. According to History.com: "Though Mardi Gras technically refers only to Fat Tuesday, the Mardi Gras season actually begins on Epiphany, a Christian holiday celebrated on January 6 that is otherwise known as Three Kings Day or the Twelfth Day of Christmas. 

In Brazil and many other countries, this period between Epiphany and Fat Tuesday is known as Carnival. Whichever name you prefer to use, the revelries of Mardi Gras last until midnight when Ash Wednesday ushers in 40 days of Lent." 

Too, "during the Middle Ages," according to Worldreligionnews.com, "the Tuesday before Ash Wednesday was called Shrove Tuesday because all were required to go to confessional and get guidance on their penances to perform during Lent. 

Shrove Tuesday is also called Fat Tuesday or Mardi Gras, marking the end of Carnival." Hence, the day after Mardi Gras, on Ash Wednesday, the first day of Lent, one receives a cross mark on the forehead with ashes as a reminder for the need for penitence and as a form of public penance. Lastly, regarding fasting, the Bible warns against adopting “false humility.” (Colossians 2:20-23) 

Jesus’ illustration of the proud Pharisee who felt morally superior to others because of his regular fasting leaves no doubt that God rejects such an attitude. (Luke 18:9-14) 

It would also be a mistake to publicize the fact that you fast or to fast because another person tells you to do so. According to Matthew 6:16-18, Jesus counseled that fasting should be a private matter, between you and God, and that you should not announce it to others. Thus, does Lent adhere to these Bible principles? - Bible Speaks -