Mardi Gras and Carnival emphasize the practice of using up fats and meats before Lent. Hence the name, “Fat Tuesday.” Because of the traditional need to use up these foods, many Christians around the world have the tradition of eating pancakes or other sweet foods.
Pancakes are a popular option in the United Kingdom, often coinciding with pancake runs. Traditionally, individuals would hear the tolling of the church bells to remind them to attend confession (which also reminded them to fry some pancakes!). Many churches in America also follow this tradition by offering a pancake supper for congregations, as a time to enjoy breakfast foods and fellowship.
Other festive options include French toast and the iconic King Cake with its purple, green, and yellow colors representing justice, faith, and power, respectively. Though the cake might be more recognized for its appearance, the practice of making a King Cake connects this day back to Epiphany, when liturgical churches celebrated the visit of the Magi (or three kings) to offer Christ gifts in worship (Matthew 2:11). The symbolism remains today with the inclusion of a small plastic baby toy baked into the cake, which symbolizes Jesus. Whoever finds the baby in their slice receives the title “King” like one of the Magi and must host the next party.
Regardless of the foods we eat today––whether pancakes, omelets, gumbo, or a piece of King Cake––we can allow the feasting and fellowship to remind us of the goodness of the Lord. It is that goodness and love that mark the Lenten season we are about to enter. As Romans 5:8 says,
“God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners.” (NLT)
Photo Credit: ©GettyImages/Svetlana Monyakova
