I just discovered that Lent is an old English term for Spring which covers the season of preparation for Easter. The tradtonal aim is help believers rehearse the life of Jesus through our own prayers and actions, as a seasonal spiritual exercise which may draw us closer to God.
I've always been rather hazy -lazy- about this. Going to services isn't much help but some writers very worth spending time with. I remember poring over a series of talks for Passion week given by one of my favourite writers - Tom Wright.
Then there is the business of fasting. I am realising belatedly in my life that this practice can be an experience deepening faith; not for it's own sake but in the sense that in givig up something one takes up something else of more value in drawing closer to God. So I have on occassion given up TV for Lent (though I'm not certain that I used that time particularly fruitfully).
This year I have determined not to buy any books (quite an effort for me!)but to read the ones waiting to be read. Managed the first part well so far but not made much headway on the second.
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