fat tuesday

Today is Mardi Gras, which is french for Fat Tuesday

Today marks the day before the Lenten season begins

Now, I have talked with some people on what they believe the reason to be behind why we fast and why we don't eat meat and I have heard some different opinions, so this is just my opinion.

During Lent, believers give up a certain luxury as a form of penance. Lent is said to last 40 days (though if you count it out on a calendar it is over 40 days unless you don't count Sundays and depending on which day you consider Lent to end (Holy Thursday, Good Friday, etc.)) to reflect the 40 days Jesus spent fasting in the desert and was tempted... like we will be tempted.
One is also supposed to fast on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday only consuming two very small meals.

We also are not to eat meat on Fridays.

By giving up a luxury and not consuming meat on Fridays, it is a way to take a step back, remember why you are doing it and focus on something else... something greater.

I have heard that years upon years ago EVERY Friday was a day of fasting to always remember. Now it is just 6 Fridays out of the year.

Yet, many will still complain that they have nothing to eat.... and really that is not the purpose.
So as participants of the Lenten season, let's try to remember why we are doing what we are doing and not focus on what we cannot have:

“And when you fast, do not look gloomy like the hypocrites, for they disfigure their faces that their fasting may be seen by others. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward. But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, that your fasting may not be seen by others but by your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you."
Matthew 6:16-18


Sooo to lighten this post up a bit I will show you I am spending my Fat Tuesday.
With this guy. Meet Paczki (basically a polish doughnut)








Also joining the party...



And maybe some cookies...

I am giving up all sweets for Lent (if you couldn't tell). With my major sweet tooth, not having any baked goods or candy will be a daily reminder for me.

Does anyone else participate in Lent? If so, what do you take from it? What do you give up/participate in?

For something incredibly fun be sure to check out the girl in the red shoes giveaway