What is Lent?
The early followers of Jesus fashioned the season of Lent as an intentional time of spiritual practice and devotion to prepare for the Resurrection of Jesus at Easter, as well as for the baptism of new believers. Thus, Lent is a 40-day period of learning, study, self-examination, and renewal - a time to journey with Jesus in the wildernesses of our lives in order that we might cultivate a lively faith for the good of all creation.
During this time, many choose to take up spiritual devotions and practices such as fasting, scripture reading, exercise, or serving the poor. The point is not to suffer for suffering's sake - the point is to draw nearer to God through spiritual renewal and service to and with those whom Jesus loves. |
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Some Resources for Keeping a Holy Lent
- 40 Ideas for Lent by Rachel Held Evans
- Signup for Daily Lenten Devotions from the Society of St. John the Evangelist
- Learn about the Saints through "Lent Madness!"
- Lenten Resources for Families with Young Children at Grow Christians
- Another Family Study from the United Methodist Church
- Daily Morning Prayer App for iPhone or Android
- The Thorne Sparkman School of Religion