Like most things in life, there seem to be two extreme positions concerning Lent. On the one hand, some see it as a sinful manmade innovation that should be avoided by all true Christians. Others see it as an essential part of Christian life.

And, like most things in life, I think the correct answer lies somewhere between the extremes. Romans 14 clearly states that observing special days is a matter of conscience, with room for diversity in the body of Christ. As far as the general concept of fasting, I’m all in favor of it. Admittedly, my beliefs outpace my practice in this area. I think fasting should be a normal part of Christian life. (I did a week-long series on fasting last May)

As far as the Christian calendar, I personally feel that the Christian calendar is a bit contrived, forcing special days to fall on certain days of the week to fit church tradition. I would be more comfortable with some form of the Jewish calendar, working Christian observances into the seasons as seen fit. Easter would be naturally linked to Passover, for example. Why not follow a biblically-based calendar rather than one based on a pagan calendar? Admittedly, the modern Jewish calendar is not exactly the same as that in the Bible, but a lunar-based calendar would bring us closer to the rhythms of the first century, should we wish to approach that.

I have nothing against the observation of Lent, if you choose to go that route, but I’ve seen nothing in that particular observance that leads me to want to practice it.