Sure, It’s “Ash Wednesday”—But Why, Exactly, Does My Neighbor Have a Big Ol’ Smudge on His Forehead?
"...what may surprise many...is the fact that Lent is being examined and increasingly embraced by members of...the United Methodist, African Methodist Episcopal, Presbyterian, and moderate Baptist traditions." In a moment, the smudge. But to begin with: Lent---which begins on February 6 this year, or "Ash Wednesday"---is the season on the Christian calendar marking the severe 40-day testing of Christ in the wilderness. Lent has evolved a great deal since its ancient beginnings---much too much to permit a detailed treatment here. But in short, this season of reflection has traditionally encouraged observers to focus sincerely on the following: fasting, or other forms of self-denial; prayer; reconciliation with God and man---believed to be achieved largely through work in the previous two categories; and