"This is the day..." (Psalm 118:24)

​   What is today?  Fat Tuesday, Shrove Tuesday, Mardi Gras!  They all point to the same day before the beginning of Lent (which starts tomorrow with Ash Wednesday).
 
    On this day there is the custom of using all the fats in the home before Lent in preparation for fasting and abstinence.  Perhaps some of you have participated in special events on this day in past years.  And maybe you are doing the same this year.  Which is fine.
 
    I don't mean to wreck any customs or traditions you have.  But I'm wondering if all these holidays and special events really are just a way to remember and commemorate what we can do EVERY day.  For every day is a gift from God.  Every day is a day to confess sins, repent, and to know that God forgives and gives us renewal and strength for another day of living in God's grace and love!
 
   As Psalm 118:24 tells us, "This is the day the Lord has made.  Let us rejoice and be glad in it."