February 16, 2021 (Tuesday)
Today is “Fat Tuesday,” so called because of old traditions of eating rich foods on the day before Ash Wednesday, which is the first day of the Lenten Season. The words, “Fat Tuesday,” are the English translations of the French words, “Mardi Gras.” Festivities emphasize the “carnival” aspect that is popular in many countries.
It’s easy to see how churches can support “Ash Wednesday” and the 40 days (Sundays excluded) of fasting and prayer before Easter, when people rededicate their lives to Christ and intentionally live with moderation and self-denial. It’s difficult, however, to understand how Mardi Gras carnivals and their sensual excess has anything to do with genuine faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. “Should we keep on sinning so that God can show us more and more of his wonderful grace? Of course not! Since we have died to sin, how can we continue to live in it?” (Romans 6:1-2 NLT). (This year’s low temperatures (24-38) may put a damper on the celebrations).
As we approach Lent, and the emphasis upon Jesus Christ, we may not be a member of a church that observes Lent, which calls its members to confession of sins and loyalty to the Savior, but we can join in spirit with them. We can confess our sins to the Lord. We can rededicate our lives to Him. We can join with Christians anywhere in proclaiming, “Jesus is Lord!”