WHAT IS LENT?
Lent is a season of forty days, not counting Sundays, which begins on Ash Wednesday (March 6th) and ends on Holy Saturday (April 20th). Lent comes from the Anglo Saxon word lencten, which means “spring.” The forty days represents the time Jesus spent in the wilderness being tempted by Satan and preparing to begin his ministry.
Lent is a time of repentance, fasting, and preparation for the coming of Easter. It is a time of self-examination and reflection. In the early church, Lent was a time to prepare new converts for baptism. Today, Christians focus on their relationship with God, often choosing to give up something or to volunteer and give of themselves for others.
WHAT IS A DEVOTIONAL?
A devotional is a publication that provides a specific reading for each day. Christians use devotionals as a way to grow closer to God and learn more about the Christian life. They are not meant to be read in one sitting; they are designed for you to read a bit every day and pray on the passages.
This devotional offers you a Bible verse and reflection for each of the 40 days of Lent.
Thanks to the good folk of Hillside Community, Sanctuary UCCc and a few good friends for the reflections in this devotional.
Please call us or stop by if you would like a printed copy!
1. CENTER YOURSELF
Sit quietly for 30 seconds or so to calm your mind and settle your spirit.
Take a few deep breaths and get comfortable.
2. READ THE QUOTED VERSE(S)
Each day’s reflection begins with a few lines of scripture. Take a moment to read the passage through once or twice. If you feel so inclined you may want to find the passage in your Bible
and read the surrounding lines to see it in its larger context.
3. READ THE REFLECTION
As you read the day’s reflection, ask yourself, “How do these words connect with my life?”
4. PRAY
To end your quiet time, say a short prayer either aloud or to yourself.
