Thought of the Day !!

Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted there by the devil.  For forty days and forty nights he fasted and became very hungry.

                                               Matthew 4:1-2 (NLT)

Today is Ash Wednesday, which begins the season of Lent within the Church.  Lent is a forty day time of reflection of one's self.  During this time we have the opportunity to participate in the spiritual discipline of fasting.  When we do, we can follow our Lord's example in the wilderness where he fasted for forty days and forty nights.

Fasting is typically thought of as going without food for a certain amount of time.  It seems that Jesus did this since the scripture says that he "became very hungry".  But during Lent people give something up that is important to them.  This could be certain foods or drinks or activities or anything else that would cause us them suffer for Christ's sake.  This is also a form of fasting.

If you choose to give something up for Lent, then you need to take something up as well in its place.  Take up more time spent with God and more time reflecting on His ways for your life.

One more thing.  Lent is the 40 days prior to Easter beginning with Ash Wednesday.  This does not include Sundays.  Sundays are considered joyful celebrations of the Lord.  Since they are celebration days, fasting is not a part of them unless you so choose.

To learn more about Ash Wednesday and the season of Lent, attend an Ash Wednesday service near you today.  Ours at Bakers Chapel UMC will be at 6:30 this evening.  Hope to see you there.

In the love of Christ,
greg