I gave nothing up for "Lent". Not that Lent is a bad idea. Nothing against it. But, Lent is a man-made church tradition that was never instituted in the Bible. It's more a guildeline than a rule, and remains an optional thing, in my opinion. What the New Testament does teach is that the Christian is to "take up their cross daily", and not just make some special sacrifice during a specified 40-day period before Easter. Christianity is a lifetsyle, and not something you try for a limited time only. Again, not bad-mouthing Lent at all, but just stating the fact that Lent is not something you'll specifically find instituted in the Bible.

Don't disagree at all. Sacrifice is certainly not a bad thing. There's a lot of things not mentioned in the Bible that are perfectly OK -- like AC in church buildings in Summer! There is much liberty in non-doctrinal issues (e.g., music styles, video projection systems, service programs). For the Christian, however, the Bible is the be all and end all. You must have a standard somewhere, and the Bible is that standard in terms of doctrine. And remember, the Bible was penned by man, but states very clearly that the authors wrote under the guidance of God. So, at least for Christians, the Bible is not just another book, but is really God's direct words to His children. If Lent is not mentioned there, it does not mean that Lent is a bad thing. In fact, anything that brings one closer to God can be a really good thing. Also, I'd be happy to point out the Pope that "Lent" is not in the Bible, but I'm sure he already knows that. But for sure, the spirit of Lent is there; in fact, that sacrificial spirit tends to permeate nearly every page of the Bible -- God's Sacrifice for us, and our need to sacrifice for God.

Given the great thread generated in this post, I thought you may be interested in reading more HERE, HERE & HERE. (While one or more are titled about general fasting, they do include Great Lent) Just an FYI.

Harriette Jacobs

I gave up some possessions, Easter Decorations and an electric lawn mower, unfortunately, not by choice. Seems like we have thieves in this neighborhood, too. Jesus forgave one thief and not the other as he hung dying. Dear thieves, I saw you selling my Easter things before I even realized they were stolen. Jesus may forgive you, but I don't think my children will, at least for a long time. You two recognized me and I, you, so don't even think about coming back here to "shop" on my property again, because I now realize why you both looked panicked and why your vehicle looked familiar to me. Shame on you both! I can't imagine why such an attractive couple as yourselves would stoop so low. Are your souls as dark as the skies when Jesus died on the cross? Is your integrity as shaken as the earthquake that rent the curtain in the palace as he gave his last breath? Have you no conscience to ask the Lord for forgiveness as the "good thief" did? Will you make amends so that my childrens' hearts are no longer broken by your evil deeds? You tore from them items which were given them by deceased loved ones. We moved here to get away from criminals and here you are again. Do you rationalize what you did like Herod and Pilate? We did not bring this on ourselves; you did. There is no excuse for what you did. I hope Easter brings a new beginning for you and hope for my children. I wish what was stolen would be returned so we are not forced to prosecute. If I have willingly given up anything for Lent that is between the Lord and myself. In sadness and hope, a loving mother and concerned Christian citizen.