Holiday Time

As I'm working out coverage regarding an airline crash that happened this morning, a reporter on television said...."this is a busy time as this is the holiday season..." and I smiled.

Lent and the Easter season, in general, marks my favorite time of year(no seriously, flying home for Easter was serious business in undergrad). Not only are there not a barrage of corny songs on the radio, but the its a holiday season that requires patience, dedication, and discipline all of which culminates nicely into a glorious Easter celebration (read: party).

Confused? Here's a quick run-down. Today is.....

What is Ash Wednesday?

*Ash Wednesday- Marks the beginning of Lent
*Lent- 40 day period before Good Friday
*Good Friday- The day Christ was crucified
*Easter- The day Christ resurrected

Why the ashes on the forehead?
In the Bible a mark on the forehead is a symbol of a person's ownership. By having their foreheads marked with the sign of a cross, this symbolizes that the person belonging to Jesus.

Why use ashes?
1. Because ashes are a biblical symbol of mourning and penance
2. They also symbolize death and remind us of our mortality.

You may have overheard people chatting about what they are 'giving up for Lent.' That is a part the Lenten season. Equally important is what are you adding to your spiritual life? The list of things that I'm giving up this year are actually too numerous to post...BUT it should be well worth it by Easter.

I am adding prayer and devotion (like actually doing them....every day....) to my Lenten schedule.

Let the season begin!