by Alma L. Tingcang
Originally, “Lent” was nothing more than the English name of the season between winter and summer, the season when the snow melts and the flowers bloom which is called spring.
But to the Christians, Lent is a time of soul-searching and repentance by observing a period of fasting , moderation and spiritual discipline. The purpose of which is to set aside time for reflection on Jesus Christ – His sacrifice, His life, death, burial and resurrection.
By observing the 40 days of Lent, the individual Christian imitates Jesus’ withdrawal into the wilderness for 40 days.
In the Philippines, the Lenten season began on February 22, which is “Ash Wednesday”, when pastors mark the forehead of Christians with ashes as a reminder that we are created from dust and to dust we shall return. It will end on April 7, the day before Easter Sunday.
In most churches, decorations are purple which is the royal color to prepare for the coming King.
Here are some perspectives on Lent given by religious leaders such as pastors and priests:
| “Lent is the most abused religious activity by some people. This season is supposed to be the best time for husbands to love their wives and family, the time when thieves change their lives, for politicians to stop using the people and their money to win during elections, time for miners and loggers to stop destroying this earth. It is so ironic to see all of these people attend masses for other people to see! But why is it that immorality is still escalating? Perhaps, nobody is reflecting . . .” - Father Joseph Ramos of Dinas, Zamboanga del Sur. “It’s the greatest epic battle throughout history…and Jesus won…” this is according to Rev. Alvin Flores, a minister of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Rev. Zeus Familiaran, Resident Minister of Pagadian City Alliance Church has this to say on Lent, “It is a moment of reflecting what Jesus has done for humanity. He taught people what to live for in life. That love, kindness, forgiveness, humility, and compassion are far greater than silver and gold. For these godly characters will last as treasures in heaven, while silver and gold will pass away. Also, He taught humanity how to do it, and that is by serving one another in the spirit and manner with these virtues. However, Jesus went beyond all these by dying on the cross. His Death is the greatest expression of all these virtues because He loved us. Only His death on the cross can defeat sin that prevents us to become and perform these Christ-like virtues. Jesus’ resurrection however proved that even death cannot conquer and has no power over Jesus. Therefore, His resurrection has also given us the power to live a Christ-like life.” “Lent is a 40-day period of prayer and fasting that leads to the death and resurrection of Christ,” according to Fr. Jun N. Maglangit. Each of us may differ in our views on Lent but one thing is sure, it reminds us of God’s great love for mankind that he gave His only son Jesus Christ to die at Calvary’s cross for our sins. He paid much too high a price for you and for me! May this be our reflection for the season and stimulate us to holy living. (ALT/PIA9-Zambo Sur) |
