What is Lent? From a Christian Perspective
As Lent approaches, I thought it could be helpful to share what Lent is and how you can observe it, if you choose to do so. If you are anything like me, you likely did not grow up celebrating Lent, so this season may feel unfamiliar if it’s new to you. I remember thinking Lent was only a Catholic celebration and was confused why so many Christians were celebrating it. But as I’ve grown in my faith, I’ve come to see how the liturgical calendar can be a wonderful way to shape our yearly calendar around Jesus' birth, ministry, death, and resurrection.
What is the history of Lent?
Lent has been observed as far back as the 4th century, around the time of the Council of Nicaea (and possibly earlier). It is a season on the Christian liturgical calendar that is a time of fasting and prayer to help prepare our hearts to remember the sacrifice Jesus made on the cross. This is a 40-day time period that does not count Sundays, so it ends up being 46 days before Easter (or 6.5 weeks).
Why is it 40 days?
Forty is a significant number in the Bible. For example, Moses was on Mount Sinai for 40 days and 40 nights in God’s presence receiving the Ten Commandments. It rained for 40 days and 40 nights when Noah was on the ark. Lastly, and most importantly, Jesus fasted for 40 days and 40 nights while preparing for His public ministry.
What do you do for Lent?
Traditionally, you would give something up like food or an activity to help remind you of your dependence on God and redirect your focus to the Lord all season long. Today, people choose many different things including social media, food, coffee, or other pleasurable things.
The most important thing is to draw close to God and remember Jesus’ sacrifice. It’s a wonderful time to deepen your relationship and gratitude for the Lord.
This is not a time to brag about what you are giving up. For example, if you are boasting or giving something up just to hit a weight loss goal, you have missed the heart and reason for the season.
Do you have to celebrate?
No you don’t. Lent is not commanded in the Bible. This is not going to make you more loved or accepted in the eyes of God. There is nothing we can do to earn God’s favor or grace because Jesus has accomplished it all. This is simply an opportunity to focus your heart and mind on the Lord and reflect on His sacrifice as you prepare to celebrate His glorious resurrection.
There should be no guilt if you don’t celebrate and no pride if you do. Just see it as an opportunity to spend intentional time drawing near to the Lord.
How can you celebrate Lent?
You can do a traditional fast where you give up food or something significant that would truly be a sacrifice so that you have many reminders throughout your day to stop and pray to the Lord.
This season should draw you closer to the Lord and remind you of your need and dependence on Him. Thank Him for His sacrifice, repent of your sins, and bring your petitions to Him.
Pray often.
Stay in Scripture.
Study the life of Jesus in the Gospels.
Do a family Bible study together.
We have three Easter Bible studies you can use during Lent to help you make this time intentional for your entire family.
Ultimately, whatever you do, do it for the glory of the Lord and not yourself.
Matthew 6:16-18
16 "And when you fast, do not look gloomy like the hypocrites, for they disfigure their faces that their fasting may be seen by others. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward. 17 But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, 18 that your fasting may not be seen by others but by your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.”
