BUSHENYI – Tomorrow is Ash Wednesday, the day on which we begin the period of fasting (Lent) as Christians. Lent takes 40 days that correspond with the 40 that our Lord spent in the wilderness fasting while he was being tempted. In the 40 days, we don’t include Sundays. We consider each Sunday part of Easter – the day of celebration of the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Lent, primarily, is a time when we fast and spend a good time in prayer as we make a spiritual reflection on our lives. We give more time and attention to things of the spirit and less to those of the flesh like fun and indulgence.
As a church, we do not give or follow strict rules concerning the dos and don’ts during the lent season. For instance, we encourage fasting, but due to individuals’ varying health issues, we advise that you use your discretion and do nothing against your health or medical obligations. You can, for instance, take one meal instead of two or three, or leave certain foods.
Also, take more time to read the Bible and pray as an individual, as a family, or even together as a church.
According to Is. 58:6-7, it is also a time we should do more in areas of benevolence and generosity: exercising justice, feeding the hungry, supporting the poor to get shelter and clothes, and not turning away from relatives. I encourage you to engage in those and similar activities.
The Lord promises a reward or outcome for carrying out such activities. He says, “then….
– Your light will shine brighter.
– You will get healing.
– Your righteousness will go before you.
– God will be glorified.
– Your prayers will be answered and you receive the Lord’s help.
– The Lord will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land.
– Your flame will be strengthened.
– Your people will be blessed, and
– You will become a ‘Repairer of Broken Walls’ (Is. 58:8-12).
We have agreed that in all WAD churches, we shall hold a series of teaching during the Holy Week (from Palm Sunday to Good Friday), so Christians can know what happened on each day before Jesus’ crucifixion and death. We encourage all of you to attend in your respective churches when that time comes.
Services will be running between 5 and 7 pm, on each of the Holy Week’s day. Those churches that prefer morning time will inform their congregations accordingly.
Have a blessed and fruitful Lent Season!
