As against the Christmas season, which is considered to be a time of celebration, Lenten season is often regarded as a season of mourning. This may be due to the fact that Bible offers a number of evidences where communities (Israel, Nineveh etc.) and individuals (David, Mordecai et al. ) mourned and fasted for days and nights. But, I do believe that the mood of Lent is not to mourn, but to celebrate, because the whole intention of this season is to turn away from our sins and to turn towards God. And, of course, to turn towards God is a matter for delight and not lament. Therefore, this year let us CELEBRATE LENT.
Further, it is important that we celebrate lent CREATIVELY. Our fasts often have a tendency to orient towards rituals like giving up food or certain forms of entertainment, which of course is beneficial spiritually. But, as Clare Ukken says, there are many other creative ways by which we can welcome Jesus’ healing touch and be united with Him in His passion, death and resurrection: fast from anger and hatred; fast from judging others, fast from discouragement, fast from complaining, fast from resentment and bitterness; fast from spending too much money for oneself, fast from selfishness etc.
Therefore, my hope is that this year’s Lent will become a very special occasion for all of us, as we try to celebrate it creatively.
