Lent is, for Christians, a time of spiritual preparation for
the coming of Easter; more important to some Christians than to others. It is a time of reflection, a time of Bible
study and prayer, a period where as Christians we are consciously preparing to commemorate Christ’s
crucifixion and resurrection in Jerusalem: preparing to remember again and
celebrate all that Jesus the Christ has done for us.
Fasting has long been a tradition in Lent, though these days
rather than fasting people usually either give something up or do something new
and positive that they haven’t done before.
It isn’t something I’ve ever done with any success. I lasted two days one year giving up bacon
for Lent and a fairly impressive two weeks giving up meat. I nearly succeeded in not drinking any
alcohol for the whole of Lent whilst at college training for ministry and then
accepted a glass of wine without thinking about it whilst I was a guest in
somebody’s home.
As you will know if you read my last blog post, this year I have decided to do something that is both a
giving up and a positive step. Apart
from posting links to any blogs I write, I’m giving up Facebook for Lent. This is not to suggest that Facebook is in
any way bad, or something that Christians should avoid: indeed it is essential that
there is a strong Christian witness and presence on social media. I have made the decision because I realised
just how little reading I get done these days, especially theological reading
and I’m sure the time I’m spending on Facebook is at least partly to blame.
So, I’m coming off Facebook for Lent and using the time
gained for theological study and reflection: something I hope will not only be
of benefit in my own Christian discipleship but that will also benefit the
congregations I am privileged to serve.
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