Lent
- Heidi Eva Jones
- Mar 2
- 4 min read
Volume 15 Issue 2
Greeting in His Name,
I had an0ther topic in mind for the month of February but after celebrating Ash Wednesday I thought that it would be appropriate to write about Lent. I know that all of Christendom does not celebrate this old church tradition, but I think the information below can be used for any context and time of the Christian year. So, with that being said, today's blog is entitled LENT. I hope you find some inspiration, conviction, and queries.
shalom and love,
heidi
Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of Lent, a 40-day season before Easter, not counting Sundays. During this time, Christians reflect on their mortality, sins, and how letting go of self leads to new life in Christ. As we enter this season, consider what this time means for you personally. What are the areas of your life where you sense the need for renewal or a fresh start? How might reflecting on your own journey help you grow in faith and hope?
Ash Wednesday is not found in the Bible, but the Old Testament describes people using ashes to show repentance or mourning. Ashes represent humility, sorrow for sin, and human mortality. For example, after the prophet Nathan confronted King David about his sin, David expressed deep remorse and repentance. In Psalm 51, he prays for forgiveness with a contrite heart, and 2 Samuel 12:16 describes David fasting and lying on the ground, a traditional act of mourning often accompanied by wearing sackcloth and ashes. This act shows how using ashes is a powerful symbol of turning back to God. Consider also the stories of Esther, Job, Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Daniel.
Ash Wednesday and Lent focus on turning back to God. The 40 days of Lent remind us of Jesus' time in the wilderness, when He fasted to prepare for His ministry. For many Christians, Lent is a time to reflect, avoid distractions, and grow closer to God while preparing for Easter, which celebrates Jesus’ resurrection.
The story of Jesus’ temptation in the wilderness appears in Matthew, Mark, and Luke. After His baptism, Jesus fasted for 40 days. During that time, Satan tempted Him three times, trying to use His hunger and weakness. Jesus stayed strong, answered with Scripture each time, and did not give in. His victory shows us that we can also rely on God’s Word and strength when we face challenges.
The Three Responses of Jesus:
Luke 4:4; Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone.’” - Give Up
The origin of this phrase is rooted in the Old Testament. In Deuteronomy 8:3, Moses reminds the Israelites of their trust in God during their 40 years in the wilderness. God provided manna, a miraculous food, to teach them that their survival depended not just on physical food but on obedience to God's word. This period was a test to humble them and to make them realize that their well-being was inextricably linked to God's provisions and commands.
Satan tried to turn Jesus’ hunger into weakness, but Jesus countered every attack with Scripture. This shows that true sustenance comes from God’s spiritual nourishment above all else.
Luke 4:8; Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Worship the Lord your God and serve him only.’” - Give Away
This verse highlights the importance of dedicating oneself solely to God, as stated in Deuteronomy 6:13, "You shall have no other gods before me." This teaching points to the core principle of worship and service to God, as Jesus affirms during his temptation by Satan.
Luke 4:12; Jesus answered, “It is said: ‘Do not put the Lord your God to the test.’” - Give To
This quote comes from Deuteronomy 6:16, where Moses warns the Israelites not to test God as they did at Massah. There, the Israelites doubted God’s care and demanded water. This teaches us to trust God’s faithfulness without asking Him to prove Himself. It also shows Jesus as the obedient Son who fulfills the law and succeeds where Israel failed.
Closing:
On Ash Wednesday and throughout Lent, many people choose to set aside (Give Up) comforts like sweets, coffee, or social media, as well as habits like gossip or complaining. The purpose is to let go of something familiar and use that sacrifice to focus more on spiritual growth. If you are unsure what to give up this year, take time to pray and reflect on your daily life. Consider what may distract you from God, what habits pull your attention away from what matters, or which behaviors you want to change. Ask God for guidance in identifying what holds you back from deeper faith and let that shape your choice. This process helps you choose something meaningful, making Lent more personal and impactful.
Through these small sacrifices, people seek to connect with the heart of their faith and its deeper meaning. Lent is not only about giving things up, but also about giving generously (Give Away) by making space for acts of kindness and opportunities to serve others.
Many also embrace new, uplifting habits during Lent, such as daily prayer, quiet reflection, or reading spiritual books. By offering (Give to) God their time and attention, they nurture their souls and use Lent as a season for personal renewal and preparation for Easter’s celebration. You might also consider joining a church prayer group or participating in shared activities with others in your faith community. Gathering together encourages mutual support and deepens the sense of belonging, helping everyone grow in faith throughout the Lenten journey.
Have a wonderful Lenten Season!
LIFE QUOTE
“Every sin strikes at the honor of God, the being of God, the glory of God, the heart of God, the joy of the Spirit, and the peace of a man's conscience; and therefore a soul truly penitent strikes at all, hates all, conflicts with all, and will labor to draw strength from a crucified Christ to crucify all."
-Thomas Boston
Let Us Laugh!
Why can’t muggers catch Catholics during Lent?
They fast.
Hope to see you Next Month....
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