How to Observe the Lenten Season While Under Quarantine

The Lenten season is here!  How can we, Christians, keep up with the traditions we usually do during Lenten in the midst of this Enhanced Community Quarantine? Come, let us count the ways.

1. READ THE BIBLE.

Whether you have been doing this for a long time, or you have just started, now is the perfect time to open your Bible and explore it. During this season, you may particularly read the Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, John), and be reminded of the great love and sacrifice that Jesus Christ did for you and me at the Cross.

2. FAST AND PRAY.

For some Christians, abstinence from food during Lenten season is customary.  Why not make prayer and fasting a family tradition?  Gather the family and pray together for the urgent concerns of our nation.  We suggest these prayer points:

• Ceasing of the COVID-19 outbreak
• Safety of every family
• Healing and restoration of the infected
• Strengthening of faith every Christian
• Salvation of mankind from the plague and disease

3. BINGE-WATCH ON Everything About JESUS.

During the Holy Week, several movies and programs highlighting the life and ministry of Jesus are televised or shown via the internet. This may be a wonderful opportunity for our families to watch and discuss the story of Jesus together.  Not only will it help strengthen our knowledge about God’s Word, it may also foster a closer relationship among our family members.

4. SHARE YOUR REFLECTIONS AND REALIZATIONS ONLINE.

From the start of the Enhanced Community Quarantine, people have been actively involved in internet and social media platforms to communicate, express opinions, and gather information. Churches are also conducting Facebook Live masses and worship services. We may choose to do the same.  Rather than filling our Facebook timeline with rants, why not share about biblical reflections?  Let us take advantage of the gift of technology to speak out about our faith.

5. BE A JESUS CHRIST’S AMBASSADOR.

The real essence of Holy Week is to remember the sacrifice of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of the sins of mankind. We are called to become an extension of His great love to the world.  May we use the Lenten season to remember His selfless sacrifice by being His ambassador of generosity, peace, and kindness.  Let us share what little we have with those who do not have anything.  Most of all, let us share the hope that is found in the Word of God.

Prayer
Lord Jesus Christ, help me to show and extend Your love to others in these difficult times.  May this pandemic be a reminder that we can still choose to be like You, even when things around us are beyond our control. May this Holy Week remind us that You have loved us first and that You are always good. May we seek to please You in everything that we do. Amen.