Why bother?  I know that’s a frequent thought.  Maybe it’s your thought.  Allow me to answer that with three great reasons. 

1. Lent will build a genuine anticipation of, and excitement about Easter.  Like everything else that comes around annually, Easter can too easily become just a tradition.  But if someone coming back from the dead doesn’t generate anticipation, it’s time for a reality check, right?
2. Lent will create conversations about faith and following Jesus.  Not because you have ashes on your forehead for one day, but because you’re intentionally changing your habits, and those closest to you WILL figure that out, and WILL want to know why.  It’s a natural way to open up conversations about something that truly matters.
3. Lent will give you an added capacity to listen to God’s voice in your life.  Amidst all the noise and demands, it’s sometimes REALLY hard to hear God.  The daily reminders and practices of Lent help us tune into God, even if it’s just for a season.

For more info about Lent, including suggestions on how to make it work for you, check out my comments from last year here.  Then join me in making this a season of anticipation, of conversation, and of communication with our heavenly Father.

-Pastor Mark

P.S. I’m going to give up TV watching as well as phone/music/radio when traveling in my truck. Additionally, I’m trying a YouVersion reading plan called, “Lent for Everyone.”  You can find details about it here.

P.P.S. Yes, I know Lent started yesterday (March 5^th), but I don’t think anyone (including God) will mind if you start a day late.