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Ash Wednesday, observed on February 18th, 2026, marks the beginning of Lent for millions of Christians worldwide. The day is characterized by the practice of receiving ashes on the forehead in the shape of a cross, a visible symbol of repentance and mortality.

Regent University’s Dean of The School of Divinity, Corné J. Bekker, D.Litt. Et Phil., explained the scriptural significance of ashes to CBN News. “In the Bible, ashes represent two things. It represents repentance and our own mortality. And so when you look back in scripture, when Jonah preached to Nineveh, the king repented in sackcloth, and in ash,” he said. Bekker further noted Jesus’ own reference to repentance in ashes, recalling his words to the cities of Chorazin and Bethsaida. “Putting it on our forehead is a countercultural declaration that we are in need of God’s grace and power.”

Lent is a 40-day period of spiritual preparation leading up to Easter, a time for Christians to engage in practices such as fasting and prayer to deepen their relationship with God. Bekker emphasized the importance of fasting, stating, “Fasting is an extraordinary biblical practice that will do two things for us. Firstly, it helps us to curb our human appetites. And the second thing that it will do, it creates space for God. It creates spiritual hunger so that we can run after him.”

The Lenten season culminates with Palm Sunday, commemorating Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem, and continues through Holy Week, leading to the celebration of Easter, which marks the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Bekker described Sundays during Lent as “like a little Easter,” emphasizing that Lent is “ultimately not about misery, but about anticipation. We are looking forward to the Resurrection of Jesus that speaks about how we’re being set free and our own resurrection.”

While fasting from food is a common Lenten practice, Bekker suggested that individuals should seek guidance from God regarding what to relinquish during this time. He recommended supplementing any sacrifice with increased prayer, worship, and scripture reading.

Guangzhou, a vibrant metropolis in southern China, is renowned for its rich culinary heritage. A recent nine-day trip offered a deep dive into the city’s diverse food scene, from traditional dim sum to innovative modern creations. While a complete recounting of every bite proved impossible, a selection of standout experiences provides a glimpse into the gastronomic delights Guangzhou has to offer.

The city’s reputation as a food lover’s paradise is well-deserved. Beyond the well-known Cantonese staples, Guangzhou presents a dynamic blend of flavors, influenced by its history as a major trading port and its proximity to other culinary regions. This exploration focused on experiencing both iconic establishments and local favorites, revealing the depth and breadth of Guangzhou’s culinary landscape.

One highlight was a visit to 鲍师傅 (Bao Shifu), famous for its Seaweed Floss Cream Buns. According to a February 14, 2026, Instagram post, these bite-sized buns are “incredibly light and fluffy, where the sweet cream pairs so well with the savoury pork floss and seaweed.” The post also noted the affordability of the buns compared to similar offerings in Singapore. Instagram

Dim sum, a cornerstone of Cantonese cuisine, was another focal point. Guangzhou is often cited as a dim sum haven, rivaling even Hong Kong. A February 1, 2026, Instagram post detailed a review of several popular dim sum chains, with 炳胜公馆 (Bingsheng Mansion) receiving particular praise. The post described Bingsheng Mansion as one of the “top-tier” dim sum restaurants in the city. Instagram

The timing of the trip coincided with the Chinese New Year celebrations, which ran from February 4 to March 3, 2026, marking the Year of the Horse. Travel of China This period brought with it unique markets for flowers and traditional Cantonese celebrations throughout the city, adding another layer to the culinary experience. The city was described as having “milder temperatures and a more diverse cultural history than Beijing and Shanghai,” offering a unique atmosphere for experiencing Chinese heritage. Travel of China

Beyond specific dishes, the trip also encompassed exploring the city’s broader cultural context. Guangzhou is hosting the 57th China International Furniture Fair in two sessions in March 2026: March 18-21 and March 28-31. China International Furniture Fair The Canton Fair, a major import and export event, is also held twice yearly in Guangzhou, with spring and autumn sessions divided into three phases. Canton Fair These events highlight Guangzhou’s role as a significant economic and cultural hub.

The culinary journey extended beyond the restaurants and markets, encompassing street food stalls and local eateries. While a comprehensive list wasn’t possible, the experiences highlighted the diversity and accessibility of Guangzhou’s food scene. The city’s ability to blend tradition with innovation makes it a compelling destination for food enthusiasts.

Looking ahead, Guangzhou continues to evolve as a culinary destination. The ongoing Chinese New Year celebrations and the upcoming furniture and trade fairs will likely draw further attention to the city’s vibrant culture and diverse offerings. As Guangzhou continues to grow and modernize, its culinary traditions are expected to remain a central part of its identity.

What are your favorite Guangzhou food experiences? Share your recommendations in the comments below and help others discover the city’s culinary treasures!

As the liturgical season of Lent begins, reflections turn to the biblical account of Jesus’ temptations in the desert – a narrative offering enduring lessons on resisting adversity and reaffirming faith. This period of preparation, spanning forty days, invites introspection and a renewed commitment to spiritual growth as Christians approach the central celebration of the year: Easter. The journey through Lent culminates in the Paschal season, extending for fifty days and concluding with the solemnity of Pentecost.

The start of Lent, marked this year on February 18th, 2026, serves as a reminder of the constant presence of temptation in life, and the possibility of overcoming it through faith. This season isn’t merely a historical observance, but a call to personal transformation, mirroring Jesus’ own journey of spiritual preparation. The forty days echo significant periods of testing and preparation in biblical history, including the forty days of the flood, the Israelites’ forty years in the wilderness, and Moses’ forty days on Mount Sinai, as well as Jesus’ own forty days of fasting before beginning his public ministry.

Each Sunday within Lent acts as a milestone, encouraging continued reflection and commitment throughout the week. This period is a time to acknowledge the brokenness of the world – the separation from God, from one another, and from inner peace – while simultaneously embracing a message of hope and renewal. The challenges of international conflict, social injustice, and personal struggles are acknowledged, but are framed within a larger narrative of grace and redemption.

The Call to Spiritual Renewal

The core message of Lent, as articulated in this reflection, centers on the invitation to deepen one’s relationship with God through focused spiritual practices. This includes a renewed engagement with scripture, specifically through daily readings from the liturgy, and a commitment to prayer and adoration. The emphasis is on a personal encounter with the divine, fostering a sense of order, harmony, and reconciliation within one’s life. This call to spiritual renewal extends beyond individual practice, urging empathy for those suffering from hunger and need, but advocating for systemic solutions rather than temporary fixes.

Jesus’ rejection of worldly power and temptation, as depicted in the Gospel accounts, serves as a model for Christians. He eschewed the path of ostentation and triumph, instead embracing a ministry of service. This invites believers to be witnesses to the Gospel in their daily lives, even in unassuming ways, demonstrating the fruitfulness of their faith through acts of service. The emphasis is on embodying the spirit of Christ, rather than seeking recognition or acclaim.

The Church’s Role and Historical Context

The reflection also touches upon the historical relationship between the Church and worldly power. It acknowledges a period following the time of Constantine, Pipino, and subsequent emperors, where the Church gained significant influence over culture, social action, and politics. While this period brought success, it also carried the risk of triumphalism. The text contrasts this historical reality with the present, acknowledging a perceived decline in the Church’s influence, but reaffirming its essential role as a “ferment” or “leaven” in the world – a force for positive change rooted in faith and humility. The Catholicus.eu article highlights this journey as a path of conversion, death to sin, and rebirth in Christ.

Embracing the Spirit of Lent

the message emphasizes the transformative power of Christ. He is presented as the fulfillment of human ideals, the foundation of hope, and a source of strength for those who are wounded or defeated. The contrast between the “new Adam,” filled with the Holy Spirit and guided by God’s word, and the original Adam, who succumbed to temptation, underscores the possibility of renewal and liberation. By following Christ’s example – listening to and obeying God – believers can embark on a path of healing and transformation, becoming “new men and women” in faith. The Maranatha.com.es article emphasizes that Lent is the path to Easter: the passion, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

As Lent unfolds, the invitation remains to embrace these teachings, allowing them to shape personal growth and deepen one’s connection to faith. The season serves as a reminder that spiritual maturity is a continuous process, requiring ongoing commitment and reflection. The next significant moment in this journey will be the observance of Holy Week, leading to the celebration of Easter and the renewal of hope that it represents.

What are your thoughts on the significance of Lent in today’s world? Share your reflections in the comments below, and please share this article with others who may uncover it insightful.