During the forty days leading up to Easter, most often called Lent, Christians all over the world commit to sacrificing earthly pleasures. Because Easter falls on March 31 this year, that means today, February 13, is our first day.
Most are seeking to separate themselves from the physical nature of their lives, purposefully turning their thoughts instead toward their spiritual nature — to Christ in particular. If this sounds like something you’d like to be a part of, here are five areas you might consider for your journey:
- Pray. Pray however God’s Spirit leads you, whether in formal prayer or in short bursts. Just focus on drawing closer to His still, small voice.
- Deny yourself. Whether you choose to fast from food or something else you enjoy, each time you miss it, allow that time to remind you to turn your thoughts toward God.
- Repent. Ask God to reveal your innermost thoughts to you. Where it’s appropriate, ask for His forgiveness, and ask Him to change your heart.
- Give. Give whatever you can to those in need, whether by volunteering your time and talents or money.
- Read God’s Word. YouVersion offers Reading Plans specifically designed for this special time of reflection:
- Lent for Everyone includes a daily reading from the book of Matthew and a devotional from noted Bible scholar N.T. Wright. From Lent for Everyone. 53 days
- Devotions for Lent offers daily devotionals and Scripture readings that focus on Christ. From Holy Bible: Mosaic. 46 days
- 40 Days of Lent takes you through all four Gospel accounts (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John) of Jesus’ last week of earthly ministry. From Journey Church. 40 days