Allision Bertholf and her ladies Bible study class have decided to practice the tradition of Lent this Easter season. Lent begins on Ash Wednesday (March 5 of this year) and covers a period of six weeks before Easter Sunday.
While the practice of Lent is a sacred tradition among many Christians, it is not explicitly found in Scripture. However, the emphasis of Lent on prayer, repentance, and self-denial as a means of spiritual preparation is clearly connected to the teachings of Christ and his followers.
The truth is that Baptists, as a rule, don’t tend to observe Lent. This isn’t good or bad, it simply has never been a part of Baptist tradition and practice.
But that is what I love about SIBC! Because we have believers from so many evangelical backgrounds, we have the opportunity to learn from one another, and to learn about traditions and practices that can add to our own walk with Christ.
That’s why this Sunday, March 9, I have asked Allison to share with our congregation about the commitment of her class to observe Lent this Easter season. It’s a new experience for Allison, who grew up, and remains a faithful Southern Baptist. Frankly, she’s excited about it, and so are the members of her class. I’m excited about it as well. That’s why I have asked her to share.
Regardless of whether we decide to observe Lent one thing is for sure – We all need to take time to reflect on the meaning Easter, and the call of Jesus Christ to “FOLLOW ME!”
I look forward to hearing Allison, and I look forward to seeing you this Sunday at SIBC.
In Christ,
Pastor Dan
Dear Pastor Dan!
I am writing to you to share my concern and to ask for a prayer request. Recently, around the globe there has been a noticeable decline in morals, promulgated by certain entities. As a result, deviations from millennia-held traditions are being observed in many areas of life, including family. Some mass media are promoting perverted views on relationships between genders. What was once deemed immoral, improper, and promiscuous, is now being put on a pedestal. And, worst of all, in the name of “equality”, in some regions of the world the belief in God is being married to belief in evil. I firmly believe that one appropriate action to strengthen traditional cultures and marriage, is through prayer.
Hence, I would like to ask for your prayers in this matter!
Thank you,
Yours Sincerely,
-R