One Body - A Fragrant Aroma

"There is one body and one Spirit, just as also you were called in one hope of your calling; one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all who is over all and through all and in all." Ephesians 4: 4 - 6

Lent is a Teutonic (Germanic) word which originally meant spring, but in the liturgical Christian traditions came to be the name of the 40 weekdays (Monday - Saturday) leading up to Easter. The origins of Lent as a Christian tradition are not clear. Some believe the season was begun in some form by the Apostles. History does show that it evolved into its current 40 day form by the fifth century.

What is clear is that Lent is meant as a time for Believers to set-apart in preparation for the celebration of Jesus' resurrection on Easter.

Having participated in various Christian traditions, I know firsthand the different ways in which Lent is observed. I even have been in churches which do not recognize Lent. For me, Lent has become an opportunity to join with the worldwide body of Christ: ". . . so we, who are many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another" Romans 12:5.

In whatever way I choose to observe Lent, whatever I do or don't do, for however long, I am joining brothers and sisters in Christ, our prayers, fastings, and good works combining into a worldwide offering of sacrifice and praise.

As we serve God in this way, I believe He works in us individually and as a body to build us up in the grace and knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ, "manifesting through us the fragrant (sweet) aroma of the knowledge of God in every place. For we are a fragrance of Christ to God among those who are being saved and among those who a perishing;" 2 Corinthians 2: 14 - 15.