KAMPALA – Christians in Uganda and over the world will on Wednesday, March 6 begin the Lenten period.
Lent is the 40-day annual fasting period that starts on Ash Wednesday, marked by Christians all over the world who are preparing for Easter.
The days are held in commemoration of Jesus who spent 40 days in the desert fasting while being continually tempted by the devil.
People remember Christ’s sacrifice by fasting or giving up luxuries as a means of reflection and repentance. Catholics start the period by marking their foreheads with ashes, as a symbol of outward expression of the need to begin again.
Nowadays, people typically chose to give up vices relating to diet or lifestyle.
Lenten tips
By Fr. Andy Lee
March 6, 2019: (Ash Wednesday)
Read: Joel 2:12-13
Now, now – it is the Lord who speaks – come back to me with all your heart, fasting, weeping, mourning. Let your hearts be broken, not your garments torn, turn to the Lord your God again, for he is all tenderness and compassion, slow to anger, rich in graciousness, and ready to relent.
A moment of silence to meditate on the Word of God
Reflect:
• Where have I wandered in my life that God is looking for me and calling out, “Come back to me”?
• Why does my heart need to be broken? What is the meaning of this expression?
• Have I ever experienced God as all tenderness and compassion, slow to anger, rich in graciousness and ready to relent? If never, why not?
Pray: God of mercy and compassion, your love is eternal and your forgiveness is unconditional. May these 40 days of Lent be an opportunity for me to experience the tenderness of your love by turning away from my sins and returning to you. Amen.
“God never tires of forgiving us; we are the ones who tire of seeking his mercy.” Pope Francis
