Mardi Gras (Fat Tuesday)

February 28, 2017 (Tuesday)

Fat Tuesday
Mardi Gras
Reprinted from March 8, 2011
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. For many, the days before Ash Wednesday are days of reveling.
In New Orleans, revelers have been celebrating for days with parades involving numerous floats and many people. Today is the biggest day of all. Pagan themes, hedonistic behavior on all sides, crowded streets, and much more go together to create the impression that folks are having a good time.
Such celebrations take place in many countries. Galveston has had its own Mardi Gras for years, and it’s growing in popularity.
It’s easy to see how churches can support “Ash Wednesday” and the 40 days (47 if the Sundays are included) of fasting and prayer (culminating on Easter Sunday), 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 religion.
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!”