“And Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan and was led by the Spirit in the wilderness for forty days, being tempted by the devil. And he ate nothing during those days. And when they were ended, he was hungry.”
At the beginning of his earthly ministry, Jesus was led by the Spirit into a season of prayer and fasting. This time of preparation helped to focus his mind and heart on a three year journey to the cross. Similarly, the church has historically observed the season of Lent as we approach the celebration of Easter. Lent is a season marked by a somber tone of reflection and repentance. Recognizing the great joy that comes with the resurrection, Lent first calls us to feel the weight of our sin that nailed Jesus to cross.
This season begins with a worship service on Ash Wednesday. Traditionally symbolizing mourning or grief, the service is marked by somber songs and prayer culminating in a symbolic placing of ashes on our foreheads. The ashes represent an outward expression of repentance for our sin. Our service will be Wednesday, March 2nd at 7:00pm and we’d really love for you to attend. You can find more details here.
Along with committing to special times of prayer throughout the season, many Christians choose to “give up” or “fast” from specific things. For example, you might fast from caffeine or social media to place your attention more squarely on crucifixion and resurrection. In times of temptation to “break the fast” we learn to turn to God and rely upon his strength to endure. As we start Lent, we will have a guide that challenges us with a different fast during each week of the season. As a church, we will commit to prayer and fasting during this season so that our minds and hearts may be compelled to Love Jesus, Live like Jesus, and Lead other to Jesus.
Get your guide for Lent on Sunday.