Lent is a time of soul-searching and repentance. It prepares us for the celebration of Christ’s death and resurrection. During lent we seek the Lord in prayer by reading scripture and practicing self-control through fasting.
WHEN IS LENT?
The days of lent are supposed to represent the 40 years of wilderness wanderings by the Israelites after the exodus from Egypt (Numbers 33:38 and Deuteronomy 1:3) and the Temptation of Jesus after he spent 40 days fasting in the wilderness (Matthew 4:1-11; Mark 1:12-13; Luke 4:1-13). It’s considered to be the 40 days between Ash Wednesday and Good Friday (except Sundays).
WHAT DO PEOPLE DO DURING LENT?
1. Some people fast during the 40 days. When we fast or give something up for those days, the idea is that we are to replace that thing we are giving up for more time spent with the Lord. This teaches us to be more dependent on the Lord. To have a deeper intimacy with him. And to humbly repent from sin and recognize our need for a savior.
When people think of fasting they think of going without food. But fasting can really be anything that you give up for an extended period of time. Such as tv, social media, sugar, or alcohol.
When I waitressed at the restaurant my parents owned we would have this one customer that I remember would come in every day during Lent and would ask us not to put any meat on her plate. She wanted to eat something else because she said she was fasting for Lent.
2. Some people just pray and read the bible more. For example, instead of eating a meal, they would read the bible. Or instead of watching tv, they would pray.
3. Then there are others that will go to an Ash Wednesday service along with the holy week worship service at their local church.
WHERE DO WE SEE LENT IN THE BIBLE?
Fasting –
Matthew 6: 16-18 - "And when you fast, don't make it obvious, as the hypocrites do, for they try to look miserable and disheveled so people will admire them for their fasting. I tell you the truth, that is the only reward they will ever get. But when you fast, comb your hair and wash your face. Then no one will notice that you are fasting, except your father, who knows what you do in private. And your father, who sees everything, will reward you."
Joel 2: 12-13 - "That is why the Lord says, "Turn to me now, while there is time. Give me your hearts. Come with fasting, weeping, and mourning. Don't tear your clothing in your grief, but tear your hearts instead." Return to the Lord your God, for he is merciful and compassionate, slow to anger and filled with unfailing love. He is eager to relent and not punish."
Repenting –
Mark 1: 15 - "The time promised by God has come at last!" he announced. "The kingdom of God is near! Repent of your sins and believe the Good news!"
God’s Forgiveness –
Isaiah 43: 25 - "I yes, I alone, will blot out your sins for my own sake and will never think of them again."
CONCLUSION
So in conclusion lent is practiced by anyone who wants to deepen their relationship with the Lord, practice self-control, and recognize their need for a savior. We don’t have to participate in Lent to have a closer walk with the Lord. But it is a nice time to reflect on our Savior’s death and resurrection.
If you would love to follow me please subscribe to my email list in the box that says “join the rest” so that you can receive my weekly posts in your inbox and please share this with your friends. Thank you for helping me in sharing the gospel with the world.
*All verses were taken from the New Living Translation unless otherwise noted.
