The Lenten season within Christianity began Feb. 17 with the observance of Ash Wednesday. Now, there was a time in my life when I absolutely hated the thought of Lent beginning because with Lent it meant our school lunch menu would be fish every Friday. When one dislikes fish and seafood as much as I do, it is easy to see why Lent would not exactly be a favorite.

However, as I have gotten older and learned the history and evolution of the season of Lent, I have ended up really liking the season of Lent, (I still don’t like fish though). The United Methodist Book of Worship explains, “Historically, Lent began as a period of fasting and preparation for baptism by converts and then became a time for penance by all Christians.” The historical connection to fasting and preparation for baptism by converts helps me remember the importance of the Christian faith to those who follow the way of Christ. One’s baptism was such a significant event and pointed to a changed reality, and that meant one had to prepare for it. Lent wasn’t convenient, like stopping at the drive-thru of your favorite fast food restaurant. Instead, Lent was like a meal one had to prepare for: arrange for all of the ingredients, and ready the utensils.

As I was reflecting on this in worship on Ash Wednesday, I was reminded how our world doesn’t really have to face preparation for many things. Everything is at our fingertips and can be had quickly.  We can pick up dinner from a fast food place or even our local grocery store which has, in some cases, eliminated preparation all-together.

The internet and much of technology allows for instant connectivity. I have to admit, I really would have liked this back when I was in college. Then I wouldn’t have had to plan in advance when I would talk to my girlfriend, (who is now my wife). The idea of having to spend so much effort and time just to prepare to do something doesn’t encompass our lives today like it would have in the past.

I am thankful for the season of Lent because I am reminded how sometimes we do need to prepare for things.  We grow in the time of preparation. Preparation causes us to have to take time and reflect. Finally, I believe taking time to prepare helps us enjoy the thing we are preparing for more.

Even if one does not observe Lent or even if one is not a Christian, I think the historical roots of Lent can speak to us all. What if all took time to prepare from scratch at least one of our meals for the week? Would we appreciate the food more? What if we forced ourselves to prepare our menu for the week in advance and purchased all the food needed? Would it free up more time?