Shrove Tuesday

Today is "SHROVE TUESDAY!" Do you know what that means?

Shrove Tuesday is held on the day preceding Ash Wednesday. It signals the beginning of Lent. The name is derived from 'shrive' which refers to the ritual of confession for sins leading into the season of Lent.

It is observed by many church traditions around the world. There is no biblical mandate requiring observation of this, it is a matter of personal conviction. However, concepts like confession, feasting and celebration are beneficial for believers.

Essential to this day is the practice of confession of sins to God and others. It allows believers to acknowledge their sinfulness and need for God's grace, which is given to them through the person and work of Jesus Christ. So this day is a day of spiritual preparation and celebration.

As a day of celebration, it is the last opportunity to do so before the solemn Lenten season begins. Lent is marked by a 40 day fast from certain foods and practices. Therefore, Shrove Tuesday is the last day to feast on foods traditionally prohibited during the fast.

Shrove Tuesday has a variety of rituals and customs associated with it, popularly known as "Pancake Day" because observers eat pancakes made from the rich foods not permitted during the Lenten fast.

While expressions of Shrove Tuesday vary from culture to culture, Christians continue to observe it with confession and absolution, in addition to feasting and celebration.

It is a reminder that God's people are entering the Lenten season of fasting and self-denial. It prepares believers for Lent by allowing time for reflection and spiritual renewal before entering the solemn Lenten season.

Will you have pancakes for dinner tonight?