In this episode of Cage Free Theology, Clint and Will address the question that surfaces every spring: Should Christians observe Lent? Clint shares his personal journey from growing up in the Catholic church—complete with "smudge" crosses and failed attempts at giving up Coca-Cola—to finding spiritual freedom in evangelical Christianity. The duo explores the historical roots of Lent, dating back to the second century, while contrasting modern "virtue signaling" with the biblical call for private devotion. 

Whether you’re curious about the origins of Ash Wednesday or looking for meaningful ways to anticipate Resurrection Sunday without the man-made rules, this episode offers a balanced, biblical perspective on self-discipline and the rhythm of the Christian life.

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👇 Jump to moments (chapters):
0:42 – Growing up Catholic and the "Coke addiction" fast
2:01 – From Fat Tuesday to Ash Wednesday: the Lent timeline
4:51 – Does Lent predate the Roman Catholic Church?
6:37 – Liberation vs. Tradition
8:53 – Jesus’s warnings on public fasting in Matthew 6
11:11 – Healthy ways to prepare for Easter
12:54 – An alternative to formal Lenten structures