Ash Wednesday Service, Wednesday, February 13th
7pm at Church of the Living Christ
Next Wednesday marks the beginning of the Lenten season with Ash Wednesday (February 13). Lent is a 40 day period invented by the ancient church in remembrance of the 40 days Jesus was tempted in the wilderness. (See Matthew 4:1-11) Ash Wednesday is actually 46 calendar days before Easter, but since Sundays are not counted as “Fast Days” Lent begins on Wednesday which then makes Lent 40 days long.
Lent traditionally has been a time of repentance and introspection. In our church I would encourage you to make use of Lent. Some people “give something up” for Lent, as a regular reminder of God and His works in our life. I’ve heard of people giving up chocolate, pop, or even pizza, and have found the experience rewarding. Others have added something during Lent, like a daily Bible reading or a specific prayer time. In either case Lent can be of benefit to the believer as we exercise spiritual discipline to prepare our hearts and consider the power and meaning of the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Lent can be a tool. It is not to be something that separates the super spiritual from the rest of us. Again I encourage you to consider some kind of Lenten practice during the weeks leading to Easter. God does reward all who seek Him.