I have been a long-practicing Catholic and like many, “given something up for Lent.” Yet, when I read scripture, (such as Romans 6:10) where Christ died one time as the ultimate sacrifice, am I taking away from his sacrifice by developing my own?
A: Great question. The idea of “giving up for Lent” goes back to the 4th century and was inspired by Jesus’ time of self-denial during HIS 40 days in the desert. Specific to the question, it would depend on context. If the 40 days of denial is done with respect to what Christ went through (in a much greater test of course), then I see it as a keen reminder of the sacrifices of our Risen Lord. However, if it is done as a “sacrifice”, yes, we must remember that Christ requires no further sacrifice for us. HIS sacrifice covers all.
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