Recently, as I was searching for a nearby location that is offering the corona virus vaccine, I came across The Big Y, a supermarket in Kingston. I had never heard of the place before. It got me thinking about “the big WHY” of Lent. Why is Lent so important? Why are the Lenten disciplines of fasting, prayer, and good works so important?

I was reminded of a Lenten homily I preached some years ago in which I spoke of Lent as the season of RE for all Christians. Yes, Lent is a time to RE…..

RE PENT: Turn away from sin and believe in the gospel.

RE MEMBER that you are dust. You are vulnerable and you need Jesus.

RE EVALUATE your relationship with the Lord. Am I closer to Jesus today than I was a year ago?

RE FORM your life in the spirit of Jesus. Fast from whatever distractions or preoccupations stand between you and the Lord.

RE THINK the importance of prayer. Spend some quiet time listening for the soft, still voice of the Lord. Know that He is always with you.

RE DISCOVER the satisfaction of giving your time, your talent, and your treasure to those in need. Explore possibilities of doing charitable work for others.

RE CONSIDER your attitude toward those whom you have a hard time loving? Are you Christ-like in your attitude? Do you need to make amends with someone during this season?

RE COMMIT to being a disciple of Jesus, not just an admirer.

RE JOICE! Lent leads to Easter. Death to selfishness and sin leads to new life in Christ. Dare I say: HAPPY LENT!

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A bit of Humor: Since the weather has turned colder, a man decided to install a temporary enclosure in his back yard with some funky music and flashing lights. To paraphrase Shakespeare, now is the winter of our disco tent.