Easter is the most important Christian holiday, honoring the resurrection of Jesus Christ three days after his crucifixion. It signifies the foundation of the Christian faith, representing victory over death and sin. It is not just one day filled with colored eggs and chocolate bunnies, but it is a 50-day period of time beginning with the 40-day Lenten season of reflection.

This is where we currently find ourselves…at the beginning of Lent. We don’t celebrate the Lenten season, but we observe it. Some fast which teaches us dependence. When we willingly set aside something we enjoy, we are showing we need God more than we need what we temporarily sacrificed.

Repentance is also central to Lent. It is a time to confess our sins, forgive others, and release issues by which we have been burdened. By clearing away all those distractions, we make room for renewed joy.

Acts of kindness and generosity are also an important part of Lent. Serving others reflects God’s unconditional love for us and shifts our focus away from ourselves to those in need.

By observing Lent in this fashion, by the time Easter has arrived, the hope is our hearts will be willing and open, grateful and, ready to celebrate the victory of the resurrection with deeper faith and renewed hope. Thanks be to God for His greatest gift to us!

Patty