Ash Wednesday inaugurates a season of fasting for many Christians. Nowadays those fasts vary widely; perhaps you aren't reading this post because you are abstaining from social media for Lent. Still, the classics endure for a reason, and now scientists are exploring how cutting back on food affects our bodies. The latest study found that fasting had several health benefits including weight loss, lower blood pressure and healthier blood sugar levels. Or perhaps more precisely, a "fast-mimicking diet" provided those … [Read more...] about Science Corner: Get Healthy Fast
fasting
Why Should You Celebrate This King?
A point often overlooked when we talk about Lent is its celebratory nature. Throughout the week we remember our complete need for healing, but doing so makes our rejoicing all the more honest. During the week we are reminded that without the Light we're lost, but we remember that “Sunday's a-comin'!” On Sunday we celebrate the resurrection. We celebrate the God who brings the dead to life and calls nonexistent things into existence. But what might a celebration for partakers in the ‘kingdom of God' look like … [Read more...] about Why Should You Celebrate This King?
Shoot Christians Say: Lent and Ash Wednesday
Lent is Church language. For countless jaded Christians the word implies little more than hypocrisy and self-righteousness. For others it's that time of year to give up coffee or baked goods for a few weeks. When some think of it, this might pop into their heads: “It seems like I remember my sin enough without smudging it on my face and going without my favorite drink for a month and a half.” I invited a friend to the Ash Wednesday service with a local Catholic congregation and this was his response: “Nah man. … [Read more...] about Shoot Christians Say: Lent and Ash Wednesday