The Meaning of Lent: A Season of Spiritual Renewal

A time for reflection, repentance, and drawing closer to Christ

Ash Wednesday - Journey into Lent

As winter gradually yields to spring, Christians around the world enter the sacred season of Lent—a 40-day journey of spiritual preparation leading to Easter. But what exactly is Lent, and why do so many believers find this ancient practice meaningful in our modern world? This article explores the rich tradition of Lent and how it offers a pathway to spiritual renewal in our distracted age.

What is Lent?

Lent is a 40-day season (excluding Sundays) beginning on Ash Wednesday and concluding on Holy Saturday, the day before Easter. The name "Lent" comes from an Old English word meaning "spring season," aptly capturing the theme of new life and growth central to this period.

During Lent, Christians traditionally engage in practices of prayer, fasting, and almsgiving as a means of spiritual preparation for Easter. The purple colors displayed in churches symbolize both penitence and the royalty of Christ.

The Historical Roots of Lent

The practice of setting aside 40 days for spiritual preparation before Easter dates back to the early church. By the 4th century, Lent had become a common practice throughout the Christian world. The number 40 holds special significance in Scripture—from the 40 days of rain during Noah's flood to Israel's 40 years in the wilderness, from Moses' 40 days on Mount Sinai to Elijah's 40-day journey to Mount Horeb.

Most significantly, Lent mirrors Jesus' 40 days of fasting and prayer in the wilderness before beginning his public ministry. During this time, Jesus confronted temptation through prayer and Scripture, establishing a pattern that Lent invites us to follow.

The True Purpose of Lent

Contrary to popular misconception, Lent is not about earning God's favor through sacrifice or impressing others with our spiritual discipline. The prophet Isaiah addressed similar misunderstandings in his day, when religious observances had become disconnected from genuine transformation:

"Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen: to loose the chains of injustice and untie the cords of the yoke, to set the oppressed free and break every yoke? Is it not to share your food with the hungry and to provide the poor homeless with shelter?" (Isaiah 58:6-7)

The true purpose of Lent is to clear away distractions and deepen our relationship with Christ. It's a season for honest self-examination, repentance from sin, and renewed commitment to following Jesus. Through intentional spiritual practices, we create space for God to work in our hearts.

Lenten Practices for Spiritual Growth

1. Prayer: Deepening Our Conversation with God

Prayer forms the foundation of Lenten discipline. Jesus himself regularly withdrew from the crowds to pray (Luke 5:16). During Lent, we're invited to deepen our prayer life through consistent, intentional practices.

Consider setting aside specific times each day for prayer, perhaps using the Psalms as guides. Explore contemplative prayer practices like lectio divina (sacred reading) or centering prayer. Some find it helpful to create a prayer corner in their home with meaningful symbols that aid focus.

Jesus taught, "When you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen" (Matthew 6:6). This invitation to private, authentic communion with God stands in stark contrast to performative spirituality.

2. Fasting: Creating Space for God

Fasting helps us recognize our dependence on God rather than earthly comforts. By voluntarily giving up something good, we acknowledge that God alone is essential. Jesus assumed his followers would practice fasting, saying "When you fast" rather than "If you fast" (Matthew 6:16-18).

Traditional Lenten fasts involve abstaining from certain foods, particularly meat on Fridays. Contemporary approaches might include fasting from social media, streaming services, shopping, or other habits that consume our attention. Whatever form it takes, fasting creates space for God to work in our hearts.

3. Almsgiving: Practicing Generosity

Generosity toward others reflects God's generosity toward us. Jesus teaches, "Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you" (Matthew 5:42).

During Lent, consider how you might share your resources more intentionally—whether through financial giving, volunteering time, or offering skills to serve others. Many churches have special Lenten offerings that support local and global ministries.

4. Scripture Reading: Rooting Ourselves in God's Word

When Jesus faced temptation in the wilderness, he responded with Scripture (Matthew 4:1-11). During Lent, immerse yourself in God's Word through daily readings, perhaps following a Lenten devotional or studying a particular book of the Bible.

Some Christians commit to reading through one of the Gospels during Lent, focusing on Jesus' journey toward the cross. Others explore the prophetic literature that speaks to themes of repentance and restoration.

Making Lent Meaningful in Everyday Life

The practices of Lent aren't meant to be confined to church buildings or private devotions. True Lenten observance transforms how we live in the world. Here are practical ways to integrate the spirit of Lent into daily life:

• Practice simplicity: Declutter your home, simplify your schedule, reduce consumption

• Cultivate silence: Turn off background noise, drive without radio, begin and end each day in quiet

• Seek reconciliation: Mend broken relationships, offer forgiveness, make amends

• Embrace service: Look for practical ways to serve your community, especially the vulnerable

  
  

The Journey to Easter

As we observe these forty days, we journey with Jesus toward Jerusalem, the cross, and ultimately the empty tomb. Lent prepares us to experience more deeply both the sorrow of Good Friday and the joy of Easter morning.

In the words of Paul, "We are therefore Christ's ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ's behalf: Be reconciled to God" (2 Corinthians 5:20). This reconciliation—this restored relationship with our Creator—stands at the heart of the Lenten journey.

The liturgical symbols of Lent—ashes, purple cloth, bare altars—will eventually give way to Easter lilies and celebrations of resurrection. But may the reality these symbols represent—our need for God's mercy and grace—remain with us. As we observe these forty days, may we turn away from sin, embrace the gospel more fully, and walk more closely with Christ.

A Lenten Prayer

Lord God, as we begin this Lenten journey, give us the courage to examine our hearts honestly, the wisdom to recognize our dependence on you, and the grace to follow you more faithfully. May this season draw us closer to you and transform us more into the likeness of your Son. Amen.

What Lenten practice might be most meaningful for you this season? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments below.