For Christians, Lent is a period of self-restraint, marked by fasting, repentance, prayer and self-control. Luxury or rich foods, such as meat and dairy are often avoided by those taking part. Abstention from personal “bad habits” such as watching television or eating too much sugar is also commonly practised. The observance starts on Ash Wednesday and lasts until Easter Sunday, as Christians imitate the 40 days Jesus spent fasting in a desert before being blessed by John the Baptist.
Fasting is a good thing and God is pleased when we repent of our sinful habits. However, repenting of our sins is something we should do every day of the year and not just during the 46 days of Lent.
(The views expressed by the author in the article are his/her own.)
