Lent Findings Round 1

Don't be confused with lint findings - I haven't been digging out the dust bunnies from under the couch cushions! haha

Seriously though, found some interesting and encouraging things on Wikipedia regarding Lent. Check this out:

The traditional purpose of Lent is the preparation of the believer — through prayer, penitence, almsgiving and self-denial — for the annual commemoration during Holy Week of the Death and Resurrection of Jesus, which recalls the events linked to the Passion of Christ and culminates in Easter, the celebration of the Resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Sounds right up my alley! I'm all about prayer, penitence (repenting of sin), almsgiving (what I took from the definition I read is giving to others from your material possessions), and self-denial ("take up your cross and follow me" Matthew 16:24). All in which to celebrate the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ!!!

Also, found this section interesting:

Converts to Christianity followed a strict catechumenate or period of instruction and discipline prior to baptism. In Jerusalem near the close of the fourth century, classes were held throughout Lent for three hours each day. With the legalization of Christianity (by the Edict of Milan) and its later imposition as the state religion of the Roman Empire, its character was endangered by the great influx of new members. In response, the Lenten fast and practices of self-renunciation were required annually of all Christians, both to show solidarity with the catechumens, and for their own spiritual benefit. The less zealous converts were thus brought more securely into the Christian fold.

Hard to think of terms of the "legalization" of Christianity isn't it? We're so used to our religious freedom. Our ability to choose, or reject, whatever beliefs and ideals we want.

I'm getting more excited about this journey!